Pathanamthitta : PN Mahesh from Enanallur Puthilath Mana in Pathanamthitta is chosen as next Melsanthi(head priest) at Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala He is currently the head priest at Paremecauv temple in Thrissur. PG Murali was selected as chief priest at Mallikappuram. He is native to Thrissur’s Vanadakecaud.
The selection was made by draw of lots at Sannidhanam overseen by the Travancore Devaswom Board officials Adv K Anantha Gopan and others. 17 priests were shortlisted for the draw. The lots were picked by two children belonging to the Pandalam royal family.
The Sabarimala temple opens for its annual two-month-long Mandalam - Makaravillakku pilgrimage season next month. The appointments are valid for one year.
