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Kanthapuram faction to protest against lack of representation in Keralam Waqf Board

Kerala Muslim Jamaath claims that justice has been denied to their Sunni faction, which manages a significant portion of Waqf properties across Keralam

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 5:17 am

Keralams Waqf board chairperson terms Centres mandate on non-Muslim members anti-Muslim

Newly appointed chairperson M.C. Mayin Haji says his immediate priority is to resolve the 600-odd cases pending before the board. He says he intends to revive the boards welfare activities that have declined due to reduced grants

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 5:17 am

New bridge ends seven years of isolation for tribal hamlets of Munderi in Malappuram

Residents of Vaniyampuzha, Iruttukuthi, Kumbalappara and Tharippapotti hamlets had relied on bamboo rafts to cross the Chaliyar after the old bridge collapsed

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 5:16 am

Regime change in Delhi will happen by voting only, says Prakash Raj

Addressing a protest gathering seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar at Kozhikode beach, the actor says the regime will be changed through votes, not like Bangladesh, Nepal or Sri Lanka

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 5:08 am

Gothrajyothi meet brings together 300 Adivasi farmers in Wayanad

The initiative aims to integrate the traditional knowledge of Adivasi farmers with modern science to improve livelihood security

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 5:08 am

Foundation stone laid for animal shelter in Wayanad

The facility enables authorities to evacuate animals in advance when disaster warnings are issued and provide them with fodder, water, and basic veterinary care

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 5:08 am

36 new wildlife records put Keralams Peechis biodiversity in the spotlight

Survey across three sanctuaries documents 395 bird, butterfly and odonates species, including 24 endemics of the Western Ghats

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 4:57 am

Keralam Forest department removes fences, iron bars blocking movement of wild elephants in Chinnakkanal

The decision came out of talks held between forest officials, tribal residents, and peoples representatives at the Panthadikkalam tribal settlement under the Devikulam forest range, following the death of a tribal farmer

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 4:54 am

Work on first phase of new KSRTC bus terminal at Karikkamuri to begin soon

Tender awarded for 9.23 crore; the first phase will have dedicated bus bays, with provision for future vertical expansion; the new terminal is expected to address the long-standing problem of waterlogging at the existing bus stand

The Hindu 19 Oct 2026 1:14 am

ED to seek Dubai's help via letters rogatory in probe against ex-Kerala CM, kin

ED's investigation centres on allegations that CMRL paid Exalogic Rs 2.78 crore under the guise of IT consultancy and related services despite allegedly receiving no corresponding services. The agency has alleged that the payments formed part of a wider arrangement involving illegal gratification to Vijayan during his tenure as chief minister. The allegations have not been established in court.

The Economic Times 19 Oct 2026 12:39 am

Army's Southern Command troops rehearse combat roles, desert manoeuvres

Digital Desk | Pune, Oct 18 (IANS) The Southern Command of Indian Army showcased operational preparedness and combat effectiveness in the desert terrain in an integrated exercise, an official said on Sunday. The #BattleAxeDivision and #BlackMaceBrigade unleashed their mechanised might across challenging desert terrain sharpening battlefield manoeuvres, rehearsing combat roles and synchronising operations, the Southern Command said in a post on social media platform X. The #IntegratedOperations showcased speed, precision and seamless coordination among combat elements, reinforcing #OperationalPreparedness and combat effectiveness, it added. Earlier, the General Officer Commanding led discussions with officials of the Indian Coast Guard, Maharashtra Police Chief Sadanand Vasant Date and Maharashtra Home Department on emerging security challenges, focusing on boosting civil-military synergy. In a message on X, the Southern Command said, Strengthening a Whole-of-Nation approach to security, HQ Maharashtra Gujarat & Goa (MG & G) Area convened a joint conference under the aegis of the General Officer Commanding, reinforcing coordinated preparedness for emerging security challenges. Bringing together senior stakeholders including DGP Maharashtra, Principal Secretary (Home), ADGP (Int), IG (Sec), FOMA, AOC MAO and DIG Coast Guard, the deliberations focused on Rear Area Security, swift mobilisation and integrated contingency response during war-like situations. The engagement strengthened Civil-Military synergy, inter-agency coordination and collective operational readiness, the post on X said. Meanwhile, the 5th Annual Joint Bilateral Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 between the Indian Army and the Australian Army is scheduled to start on Monday and last till November 2 in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. The aim of Exercise AUSTRAHIND is to promote military cooperation between India and Australia through enhancement of interoperability in conduct of joint sub conventional operations in semi-urban environment in semi-desert terrain under Chapter VII of the UN mandate. The exercise focuses on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning and joint tactical drills. Exercise AUSTRAHIND enables the two sides to share their best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures of conducting tactical operations. The exercise will also facilitate developing bonhomie and camaraderie between soldiers of both the sides.

bhaskarlive 18 Oct 2026 11:20 pm

ISL: Ajaraie Stars as NorthEast United FC Drub Kerala Blasters

NorthEast United FC secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC in an Indian Super League match. Alaaeddine Ajaraie scored a brace, with Antonio Moyano and debutant Aman CK also finding the net for the Highlanders. Kerala Blasters managed a single goal through Yansane.

Rediff 18 Oct 2026 11:14 pm

NorthEast United defeat Kerala Blasters 4-1 to top ISL table

The News Mill

The News Mill 18 Oct 2026 11:12 pm

Panel studying availability of elephant fodder in conflict-hit region in Idukkis Devikulam range, say officials

Allegations were earlier raised that authorities are attempting to restore a wild elephant corridor in Chinnakkanal

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 11:07 pm

NorthEast United Triumphs Over Kerala Blasters with a 4-1 Victory in ISL Clash

NorthEast United FC defeats Kerala Blasters 4-1 in a thrilling ISL match, with Alayeddin Azarai scoring twice. NorthEast United Triumphs Over Kerala Blasters with a 4-1 Victory in ISL Clash

Daily Kiran 18 Oct 2026 10:39 pm

Two-year-old boy dies of suspected malnutrition in Alappuzha

As per doctors, he was acutely anaemic' and appeared malnourished as his weight was 7.6 kg, whereas the normal weight for his age would be closer to 12 kg

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 10:23 pm

MSM Unify India acquires majority stake in KlickEdu, RJ Vision

MSM Unify India has acquired majority stakes in Kerala-based KlickEdu and Gujarat-based RJ Vision to expand its presence in healthcare education, workforce development and competitive-exam preparation. KlickEdu plans to develop allied healthcare colleges in India, while RJ Vision aims to reach 30,000 students across Gujarat over the next three years. The financial details of the acquisitions were not disclosed.

The Economic Times 18 Oct 2026 9:55 pm

CM Satheesan announces blue economy hub in Keralams Aroor, inaugurates bridge

The inauguration, however, witnessed dramatic scenes, with Public Works department (PWD) Minister P.K. Basheer and former CPI(M) MP A.M. Ariff sparring over credit for the project, while former Vaikom MLA C.K. Asha left the venue in protest after not being given an opportunity to speak before the Chief Minister and other Ministers left the dais

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 9:14 pm

CM Satheesan announces blue economy hub in Keralams Aroor, inaugurates bridge

The inauguration, however, witnessed dramatic scenes, with Public Works department (PWD) Minister P.K. Basheer and former CPI(M) MP A.M. Ariff sparring over credit for the project, while former Vaikom MLA C.K. Asha left the venue in protest after not being given an opportunity to speak before the Chief Minister and other Ministers left the dais

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 9:14 pm

Bodies of three Malayalis killed in Germany building fire to reach Keralam on October 20

Investigations are under way regarding the arson attack on the apartment building in the city of Bochum; preliminary findings indicate that the tragedy stemmed from a personal enmity between the flat owner and a Romanian national who is currently in police custody

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 9:02 pm

Weather tomorrow, October 19: Heavy rain warnings for Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh & Telangana till October 24; check city-wise IMD forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across southern India from October 19 to October 24, 2026, with isolated heavy to very heavy rain likely in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are also expected in several regions. Here is the state-wise weather forecast, including rainfall warnings, affected dates and the IMD's fishermen advisory for the southwest Arabian Sea.

The Economic Times 18 Oct 2026 8:52 pm

Ranji Trophy: Sachin, Azharuddeen rescue Kerala on opening day

The former hits his 16th First Class hundred while the latter remains unbeaten on 72 as the two add 141 for the sixth wicket; Odisha medium-pacers exploit the seamer-friendly conditions early on

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 8:12 pm

Political, organisational work must evolve with changing times: Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal

He was inaugurating the two-day Leaders Meet organised by the IUML Thrissur district committee at Nakshatra Emerald hotel in Guruvayur on Sunday

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 8:08 pm

IUML Keralam chief Sadikali Thangal downplays row over Waqf board reconstitution

Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal says that at all Muslim organisations have been given representation in the board and those left out could be considered for membership in other bodies

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 8:01 pm

Home Minister sends anti-drug message over wireless, urges public to embrace Operation Toofan

State-level JOTA-JOTI 2026 concludes in Thrissur; thousands of students connect with Scouts across India and abroad through amateur radio and the Internet

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:54 pm

KSSP to take up campaigns on public health in Keralam

High morbidity, a rise in lifestyle diseases and a growing elderly population are driving up medical treatment costs in Keralam, seminar participants say

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:52 pm

Traffic gridlock on Sabarimala route sparks protest as pilgrims are stranded for hours

Officials attribute the chaos to ongoing road works along the Nilackal-Pampa stretch and an inadequate number of KSRTC buses to handle the pilgrim rush

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:44 pm

ED trying to malign Pinarayi through publicity stunts, alleges Keralam LDF convener

T.P. Ramakrishnan questions agencys urgency in a case before Supreme Court; also targets government over KIIFB projects and private wine sales

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:38 pm

Water safety: Mathilakams swim mission enters 11th year

Panchayats drive for complete water literacy has equipped nearly 1,500 people with swimming skills and confidence over a decade

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:13 pm

Water safety: Mathilakams swim mission enters 11th year

Panchayats drive for complete water literacy has equipped nearly 1,500 people with swimming skills and confidence over a decade

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:13 pm

Parents of SMA-affected kids in Keralam seek political support for their concerns over generic drug

Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan has written to Health Minister K. Muraleedharan urging him to address the concerns related to the efficacy of the new medicine

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:08 pm

Parents of SMA-affected kids in Keralam seek political support for their concerns over generic drug

Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan has written to Health Minister K. Muraleedharan urging him to address the concerns related to the efficacy of the new medicine

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:08 pm

Kollam gets its first exclusive Aadhaar Seva Kendra

This modern facility marks the sixth exclusive Aadhaar Seva Kendra to be established in Keralam

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 7:05 pm

6,199 Booked for Drunk Driving in Keralam Police Drive

Ernakulam rural recorded the highest number of cases, with 710 people booked, followed by Thiruvananthapuram rural with 497 and Kottayam district with 456

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 6:55 pm

Keralam Govt Cancels Bakerys Licence To Sell Horti Wine

Excise Department also changed the concerned Abkari Deputy Commissioner, C K Anilkumar, who handled the application to grant the licence to a bakery in Chalakkudy, Thrissur

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 6:48 pm

Bridge Inauguration: Keralam Minister, Ex-CPIM MP Spar Over Project Credit

Minister Basheer faced booing from some attendees when he began his speech without mentioning the name of AICC general secretary and Alappuzha MP K C Venugopal

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 5:08 pm

Excise department order allowing bakery to stock, sell hortiwine lands UDF government in controversy

Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan flagged the unconsulted order as Excise Minister M. Liju revoked the licence, while the CPI(M)s M.B. Rajesh called the governments reversal a political stunt

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 4:53 pm

NorthEast United FC vs Kerala Blasters FC Live Streaming, Telecast: When, Where To Watch ISL Match On TV, Online?

The Highlanders host Kerala Blasters after winning their opening matches, with both sides targeting another three points.

NDTV 18 Oct 2026 4:30 pm

Foreign forces backing vote theft campaign, alleges Telangana BJP chief

Rao said there was a growing sense of nationalism among the youth, which, he claimed, was reflected in recent student union elections in Punjab, Kerala and Hyderabad

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 4:29 pm

Tourism infrastructure threatens to push elephants out of Mattupetty grasslands in Keralams Munnar

Proposed infrastructure in Munnars natural feeding grounds could disrupt access to forage and water, heightening humanelephant conflict; conservationists seek immediate halt and independent ecological assessment; KLDB maintains its plan comply with responsible tourism and does not disturb topography

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 4:23 pm

Keralam Govt Seeks Report on Sale of Horti Wine Through Bakeries

Horti wine is an alcoholic beverage produced through the fermentation of tropical fruits and agricultural products

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 4:06 pm

Keralams first export consignment under India-New Zealand FTA flagged off

The shipment is among the first consignments from the country in preparation for the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:42 pm

Asphyxiation of two fishers: rights panel seeks report from District Collector

Deaths have renewed concerns over the safety of fishing boat workers, particularly those required to enter confined storage compartments

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:42 pm

No valid documents: Bangladeshi national held in Kozhikode

Police said the 44-year-old had been staying in Mundupalam in Kozhikode city for nearly four months as a tree cutter

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:36 pm

Kerala Holiday Alert: Schools and Banks Closed for Durgashtami on October 19?

Is Kerala observing a public holiday for Durgashtami on October 19, 2026? Find out if schools, colleges, and banks are closed, and get the latest updates on exam reschedules and government office operations across the state.

CareerIndia 18 Oct 2026 3:33 pm

Keralam High Court directs release of 9.73 crore for 225 victim compensation claims

The court also directed the secretaries of the respective District Legal Services Authorities to collect all required documents from victims while their cases were pending before the court to avoid delays in processing and disbursing compensation

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:25 pm

CBI nabs Kozhikode native involved in cyber fraud

The arrest recorded on October 17 is linked to a cyber fraud case reported in July 2024, in which a Thrissur-based complainant allegedly lost 1 crore after being deceived by individuals posing as FedEx officials and cybercrime police personnel

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:24 pm

Wayanad township: 149 houses in second phase nearing completion

An anganwadi, a health centre, a market, public toilets and internal roads are expected to be ready by the end of the year

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:20 pm

Wayanad township: 149 houses in second phase nearing completion

An anganwadi, a health centre, a market, public toilets and internal roads are expected to be ready by the end of the year

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 3:20 pm

Over 500 Spas in Keralam Raided, Five Arrested

The special inspection drive called 'Operation Spa' was conducted on the instructions of ADGP (Law and Order) P Vijayan. The highest number of raids carried out and arrests made were in Kozhikode city

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 1:29 pm

Illegal spa racket under scrutiny as police widen crackdown in Kozhikode city

A late evening flash inspection conducted by Kozhikode city police on October 17 has led to the closure of 20 such illegally operated units besides issuing of closure notices to six others

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 1:12 pm

Illegal spa racket under scrutiny as police widen crackdown in Kozhikode city

A late evening flash inspection conducted by Kozhikode city police on October 17 has led to the closure of 20 such illegally operated units besides issuing of closure notices to six others

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 1:12 pm

Indias first woman Surgeon General fought for a place in science

Indias first female Surgeon General and medical pioneer whose work laid the groundwork for the modern Kerala model of health

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 12:43 pm

Sexual assault on woman rider: Police nab suspect in Kozhikode city

The police registered a case on the basis of the womans complaint and examined CCTV footage from the scene and neighbouring areas. The footage helped investigators identify the suspect, while a technical examination conducted with the cyber cell assisted in tracing him, the police said

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 12:33 pm

Kerala HC seeks Centre stand on plea challenging blocking of BitChat messaging app

Bitchat, by GitHub, is an open-source messaging app that works over Bluetooth, with no internet needed

The Hindu Businessline 18 Oct 2026 12:33 pm

Keralam Devaswom Minister Flags Gaps in Sabarimala Pilgrimage Preparations

After the review meeting, the CM said that all arrangements related to temple rituals and prasadam were under the control of the Devaswom Board

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 12:07 pm

Samastha AP Aboobacker Faction Slams Keralam Govt Over Waqf Board Reconstitution

It accused the government of going back on its assurance to provide due representation to Samastha in the reconstitution of bodies such as the Waqf Board and the Hajj Committee

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2026 12:03 pm

Kerala HC temporarily halts further construction at beach near Vizhinjam by VISL

A bench of the Kerala HC says there is ambiguity with regard to the work being carried out by Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) and Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd (AVPPL)

The Hindu Businessline 18 Oct 2026 11:51 am

UDF government advancing RSS agenda, defends KIIFB projects in Kannur: Pinarayi Vijayan

CPI(M) is playing a significant role in national politics by uniting democratic and secular forces against what it describes as the RSS agenda pursued by the BJP led Union government, said Pinarayi Vijayan

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 11:49 am

Kerala HC orders halt to construction at Vizhinjam beach over missing environmental clearance

Kerala High Court has mandated a temporary halt to construction work at Pulinkudy beach. The court found ambiguity regarding clearances from the Union Environment Ministry for the project. A joint inspection is ordered with participation from statutory authorities and the petitioner. The ministry is expected to file an affidavit clarifying the situation regarding environmental clearances. The case has been postponed for further proceedings until November 25, 2026.

The Economic Times 18 Oct 2026 11:38 am

B. Madhusoodana Kurup passes away

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 11:36 am

New Melsanthis selected for Sabarimala, Malikappuram temples

The two priests were chosen through a draw of lots on October 18 from panels shortlisted by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB)

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 10:53 am

El Nio could intensify stress on Keralams forests and wildlife

According to the Forest Survey of India, Keralam reported 49 large forest fire incidents so far this year, compared with 52 in 2025. The amount and distribution of northeast monsoon rainfall will be crucial in determining water availability in forests and the extent of water stress on wildlife

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 9:04 am

DA news: Assam, West Bengal, Telangana, Sikkim, Kerala Check full list of states with dearness allowance hikes in 2026

From Assam to Bihar, Kerala, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Sikkim, West Bengal and more we check the full list of states that announced DA and DR hikes for employees and pensioners in 2026. 

Livemint 18 Oct 2026 7:55 am

Southern Latitudes: Scenes from Madras & Trivandrum exhibition in Thiruvananthapuram traces the birth of modernism in south India

Curated by Tensing Joseph, the exhibition showcases the emergence of modernism in Keralam and south India through more than 140 works by 30 artists, with paintings from pivotal figures such as KCS Paniker, CL Porinchukutty and Kanayi Kunhiraman, among others

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:08 am

Meterless autos leave passengers at drivers mercy in Kozhikode

Drivers allegedly disconnect fare meters and demand arbitrary fares from passengers; night surcharge reportedly levied after 9 p.m., though rules permit it only from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:07 am

Meterless autos leave passengers at drivers mercy in Kozhikode

Drivers allegedly disconnect fare meters and demand arbitrary fares from passengers; night surcharge reportedly levied after 9 p.m., though rules permit it only from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:07 am

Makeover matters least in Nedumbassery car-hit case, say legal experts

Criminal law experts say CCTV visuals, forensic evidence and witness statements would play a crucial role in deciding the fate of the case, as the identity of the accused is already widely known

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:07 am

Stalled cricket stadium project at SSUS likely to be revived

The project was put on hold due to concerns about clarity of financial gains for the varsity and the long-term transfer of the six-acre land to a private entity

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:06 am

Poshakamrutham scheme launched in Ernakulam

The project aims to identify children up to 12 years of age who are suffering from malnutrition in Scheduled Tribe areas in the district through medical examinations and provide them with vitamin supplements and food kits

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:06 am

More deadlines missed in Chander Kunj rebuild as AWHO opposes takeover of apartments

AWHO ignored the Collectors notice to begin the takeover on October 12 and filed a writ petition before the Kerala High Court challenging the Collectors order

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 5:06 am

IISER researchers make solid material that releases two fuel gases

The team developed a compound called magnesium hydridomethylzincate. When it was heated in solution to 100 C, it released hydrogen, and when its crystals were heated in the absence of a solvent at 80-110 C, it released both hydrogen and methane

The Hindu 18 Oct 2026 1:23 am

Confident NorthEast United face Kerala test at home

The Times of India 18 Oct 2026 12:17 am

Odisha seek revival against Kerala after Gujarat setback

The Times of India 18 Oct 2026 12:11 am

KWA administrative fee on water tankers hits civic bodys water supply hard

Along with water charges, tanker operators have to pay administrative fees, and the increased cost is affecting drinking water supply through tankers, says Panampilly Nagar councillor Antony Painuthara. Health standing committee chairperson Seena Gokulan demands that the charges be rolled back.

The Hindu 17 Oct 2026 10:28 pm

Keralam govt. increases DA, DR from 35% to 37%

The Hindu 17 Oct 2026 10:19 pm

Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Abhishek slams a century but Kerala not yet out of the woods

The openers maiden ton the highlight of day three even as the visitor struggles at 269 for six; Jharkhand will look to make the touring team bat again

The Hindu 17 Oct 2026 10:06 pm

Weather tomorrow October 18: IMD forecasts heavy rain, thunderstorms across southern states; check latest state-wise updates

Weather Tomorrow: IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across parts of southern India, with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the affected regions. Rain is expected to continue in several areas through October 23. Fishermen have also been advised to exercise caution along parts of the Arabian Sea coast.

The Economic Times 17 Oct 2026 10:00 pm

MVD, police detect 159 offences, impose 8 lakh fine in special drive

The offences detected included driving without a licence, evasion of road tax, non-payment of insurance, and illegal vehicle modifications, according to the RTO (Enforcement), Ernakulam.

The Hindu 17 Oct 2026 9:35 pm

Keralam: Sabarimala Temple opens for Thulam month rituals; CM Satheesan offers prayers

The Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple opened on Saturday for the Thulam month rituals, with Chief Minister V D Satheesan and several other dignitaries visiting the hill shrine to offer prayers. In the presence of Tantri Kandar Brahmadathan, head priest Prasad E D opened the sanctum and lit the ceremonial lamp. The sacred fire was subsequently lit in the Aazhi, below the 18 holy steps. Devaswom Minister K Muraleedharan, Travancore Devaswom Board President K Jayakumar, Keralam State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar and MLAs Pazhakulam Madhu and C V Shanthakumar were among those who reached the Sannidhanam for darshan. Despite heavy rainfall, thousands of devotees gathered at the shrine to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa. The temple will open for devotees at 5 am on Sunday, the first day of the Thulam month. The selection of the new Melsanthies (chief priests) for the Sabarimala and Malikappuram temples will also take place on Sunday through a draw of lots. The selection process for the...

devdiscourse 17 Oct 2026 9:12 pm