Fresh controversy has erupted in Kerala after Shantananda, president of the Sri Ramadasa Mission, made derogatory remarks about Vavar, the Muslim companion of Lord Ayyappa, during a Hindutva-backed event held in Pandalam, Pathanamthitta district a region closely linked to Sabarimala tradition.
Addressing the gathering, Shantananda claimed that the shrine dedicated to Vavar at Sabarimala was a recent addition, stating, “Vavar was a Muslim invader, a terrorist who came to attack Ayyappa.” He further argued that Vavar, being a Muslim, should not be worshipped and suggested that “Vapuran” should be revered instead.
The remarks sparked widespread condemnation, with critics accusing the priest of distorting the historical and spiritual syncretism that Sabarimala is known for — where Lord Ayyappa is traditionally believed to have befriended Vavar, symbolising Hindu-Muslim unity.
The event was inaugurated by BJP leader and former Tamil Nadu state president K. Annamalai, who used his speech to criticise the Chief Ministers of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Pinarayi Vijayan and M. K. Stalin. His presence added a political edge to the already tense atmosphere.
Following the speech, a case was registered against Shantananda after a complaint was lodged by A.R. Pradeepa Varma of the Pandalam royal family. He was booked under sections related to promoting enmity between religious groups and hurting religious sentiments. Congress media spokesperson Advocate V. R. Anoop had earlier filed a separate complaint over the incident.
The statements have drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum, with many calling it an attempt to communalise a revered pilgrimage site that has long stood as a symbol of religious harmony.
