Thiruvananthapuram: Claiming the Global Ayyappa Sangamam was a success, Travancore Devaswom Board president PS Prasanth nevertheless expressed regret over raising clenched fist while chanting 'Sharanam' during the event.

“Our assessment is that the Global Ayyappa Sangamam achieved its goal. We have no need to respond to political controversies. From the beginning, we had the full support of around 29 community organisations, including the NSS and SNDP. That is why the event was successful,” Prasanth said.

He added that the alternative gathering held at Panthalam was turned into a political and protest event. “They themselves should evaluate what that gathering contributed to the development of Sabarimala,” he said.

Regarding the clenched fist slogans and calls of “Sharanam” during the Sangamam, he said, “I am deeply pained by that. I am a devout believer. It happened unknowingly. However, I regret it. It shouldn’t have happened even if it was unintentional.”

“There have been many unwanted slogans and provocations over the women’s entry in Sabarimala. Those people are mocking me. There are plenty of videos on YouTube showing Swamis calling ‘Sharanam’ with clenched fists,” he added.