Mahesh P.N. of Puthillathu Mani at Muvattupuzha, Kerala, was on October 18 selected as the Melsanthi (head priest) of the Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala. Murali P.G. of Poongattu Mana at Vadakkakadu, Thrissur, was selected as the head priest of the Malikappuram Devi temple.
The selections were made by drawing lots from a panel of candidates shortlisted by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). The duo will take charge on November 15, 2023 on the eve of the commencement of the annual Mandala-Makaravilakku season at Sabarimala.
