Pandalam (Pathanamthitta, Kerala): A dramatic turn of events unsettled Vishu morning darshan at the Valiya Koyikkal Sree Dharma Sastha Temple on Wednesday, after the kaanipponnu (offering gold) from Lord Ayyappa’s Thiruvabharanam went missing during ritual viewing hours.

The Thiruvabharanam had been brought to the temple and adorned on the deity for Vishukkani viewing, with darshan opening at 4.30 am.

Around 6 am, a devotee allegedly took possession of the kaanipponnu—depicting Ayyappa in an equestrian form—after claiming to be a member of the Pandalam royal family.

The ornament had been handed over for ritual viewing. The individual reportedly left after taking it, triggering concern during the ongoing darshan. 

Amid a probe into the incident, the person returned the kaanipponnu, claiming it had been taken under the impression that it was “kaineettam”, the customary offering given to devotees on Vishu day.

Ritual practice and handling of the ornament

Traditionally, the kaanipponnu is given to members of the Pandalam royal family visiting for darshan, to be touched on the eyes as part of the ritual. It remains inside the sanctum and is handed over by the priest specifically for this purpose.

The Thiruvabharanam, usually kept at the Pandalam Srambickal Palace, is handed over to the Devaswom Board to adorn the idol on occasions such as Vishu. After special darshan hours—from 4.30 am to 9 am—the ornaments are returned and secured as per established practice.