Hate speech complaint filed against sage for calling Vavar extremist during 'counter' Ayyappa meet in Kerala

A R Pradeep Varma, a member of the Pandalam royal family and CPM area committee secretary, has filed a hate speech complaint with Pandalam Police against Sree Rama Dasa Mission head Swami Shantananda Maharshi. The complaint concerns remarks made by Maharshi about Vavar Swamy during the Sabarimala Samrakshana Sangamam (counter Ayyappa meet by Sangh Parivar-affiliated groups against Kerala government's event) on Monday.

Varma alleged that Maharshi portrayed Vavar Swamy, associated with Lord Ayyappa, as a Muslim extremist and a violent individual. The remarks were made deliberately to disturb the peaceful atmosphere in the state, his complaint said. He added that, as a member of the royal family, he was well aware of the traditional relationship between Ayyappa and Vavar. Both the Palace and the temple have overseen the Sabarimala pilgrimage while acknowledging this relationship, reflecting the secular traditions of Pandalam.

Other political and youth leaders lodge complaints

KPCC media panellist V R Anoop filed a complaint, asserting Maharshi's remarks were intended to incite religious hatred and stir tension between communities. DYFI block committee acting secretary N C Abeesh has also submitted a separate complaint against Maharshi.

The complaints are filed under provisions related to inciting religious animosity and disturbing public harmony. Complainants warned that the remarks could damage Hindu-Muslim harmony in Pandalam and urged authorities to take strict action.

Sabarimala Samrakshana Sangamam draws large crowd

The Samrakshana Sangamam, organised by Sangh Parivar-affiliated groups and Hindu forums, was held in Pandalam to counter the Kerala government’s Global Ayyappa Sangamam at Pamba. The event, themed Faith with Development, saw participation from BJP leaders including Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Tejasvi Surya, and Kummanam Rajasekharan.

Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai criticised Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, citing the Bhagavad Gita and alleging misuse of laws and temple platforms. Organisers claimed attendance exceeded the government event, reflecting strong devotion and potential electoral influence for the BJP. 

CM’s Vavar remark

It may be noted that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, during the government event, said Sabarimala transcends caste and religious boundaries, with devotees from all faiths undertaking the pilgrimage. He noted the shrine’s secular nature, citing that the Harivarasanam lullaby was composed by atheist Devarajan Master and sung by Christian singer Yesudas. Pilgrims also pass through the ‘Vavar Nada’, a mosque dedicated to Vavar, believed to be Ayyappan’s companion.

Vijayan emphasised that Sabarimala’s inclusive character must be showcased globally, requiring improved facilities to attract devotees from around the world.