The Kerala High Court has taken serious note of suspected irregularities in the booking of Padi Pooja at the Sabarimala Temple and ordered immediate steps to safeguard related records. The direction came on February 26, 2026, during proceedings held in Kochi.

Acting on findings submitted through a vigilance inquiry, the court directed the Chief Vigilance and Security Officer, a Superintendent of Police, to take custody of all documents related to Padi Pooja bookings. The officer has been instructed to produce the records before the court in a sealed cover “to ensure their integrity and to facilitate proper judicial scrutiny.”

The vigilance inquiry reportedly uncovered instances of unauthorised transfers of Padi Pooja bookings. According to the findings placed before the court, some bookings were allegedly made using false addresses and later transferred to other individuals for financial gain. The court was also informed that certain persons who had secured bookings did not turn up on the scheduled dates. When asked to produce valid identity proof, they failed to appear before the vigilance officer, raising further suspicion about misuse of the system.

Describing the findings as “disturbing,” the bench observed that, “If true, such conduct is abhorrent and is to be deprecated.” The court’s remarks indicated its concern over both the alleged malpractice and its impact on the sanctity of temple rituals.

The Padi Pooja is a significant ritual performed at the 18 sacred steps, known as Pathinettampadi, of the Sabarimala temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The ceremony takes place on select days after the murti undergoes Pushpabhishekam, a ritual bath with flowers. During the pooja, the steps are decorated with flowers and silk cloth, and traditional lamps are lit on each step. The ritual lasts about an hour and concludes with the aarathi performed by the chief priest (thantri) in the presence of the assisting priest (Melsanthi).

There are five such poojas conducted every month, and they are considered highly sacred among devotees. Because of their religious importance, the demand for booking these rituals remains very high.

During the hearing, the court was informed by the temple’s Executive Officer that bookings for Padi Pooja have already been made up to the year 2045. Taking note of this, the court observed, “The very fact that bookings extend nearly two decades into the future underscores both the demand for the ritual and the need for a transparent and strictly regulated system.”

The court stressed that the long queue of advance reservations makes it even more important to maintain transparency and fairness in the process. It noted that any manipulation or misuse of bookings could affect genuine devotees who wish to participate in the ritual.

To prevent possible tampering, the bench ordered that all records, including details of how bookings were made up to 2045, must be secured immediately. The documents are to be examined by the court to determine whether any irregularities occurred and whether corrective action is needed.

The matter has been posted for further hearing on March 4, 2026. The court is expected to review the sealed records and consider the next course of action after examining the vigilance findings.