Pathanamthitta: A new generation from Chengannur’s Thazhamon Madom is set to take over the tantric duties at Sabarimala. Kandararu Rajeevaru, the reigning tantri, is stepping down, and his son, Kandararu Brahmadathan (30), will assume the position. Brahmadathan, son of Rajeevaru and Bindu, holds a postgraduate degree in law.

Generational shift completed
With Brahmadathan joining Kandararu Maheshwararu and Kandararu Mohanaru as a tantri at Sabarimala, the generational transition will be completed. The two families of Thazhamon Madom traditionally alternate the tantric rights at Sabarimala each year.

The annual change of the post of tantri occurs during the Chinga Masam, beginning around August 17. This year, the Chinga Masam pujas will commence on August 16. That evening, the Melshanthi will open the temple doors in the presence of Kandararu Brahmadathan. Although stepping down from full charge, Kandararu Rajeevaru will still participate in the Sabarimala ceremonies.

Brahmadathan, who previously worked in the legal department at Deloitte, resigned a year ago to focus on tantric duties. He began studying pujas at the age of eight. Last year, during June and July, he joined his father to gain a deeper understanding of the rituals performed in the temple. Brahmadathan expressed his gratitude to his gurus for their blessings, which helped him become a full-time tantri.