LDF, BJP Clash Over TDB’s Plan for Global Ayyappa Devotees’ Meet at Sabarimala

Quick Summary

• the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) plans to hold an international conference of Ayyappa devotees at Sabarimala in September.
• Devaswom Minister V.N. vasavan projected the initiative as a step to place Sabarimala on the global pilgrimage map.
• Opposition has arisen from various Hindu organizations, including BJP and VHP, alleging that the conference undermines traditions and could be misused for propaganda purposes.
• BJP accused the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government of exploiting Ayyappa devotees economically while recalling protests from 2019 when LDF implemented a Supreme Court decision allowing women of all ages into Sabarimala temple.
• Congress has not yet announced its position on this proposal.

Published – August 11, 2025.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The planned international conference at Sabarimala raises sensitive issues about balancing spiritual traditions with contemporary interests like global visibility and tourism. While proponents frame it as an possibility to elevate Sabarimala’s religious profile internationally, critics argue that it could dilute sacred customs or be used politically.With memories of the divisive 2019 protests resurfacing, this move risks reigniting old tensions surrounding faith-related policies in Kerala.

The broader implications lie in how governments navigate between modernization efforts and respecting deeply rooted societal beliefs. For India, such controversies around pilgrimage sites highlight underlying challenges-balancing constitutional principles like gender equality against cultural norms without alienating stakeholders. As Kerala heads toward local body elections later this year,any misstep here might polarize voters further rather than foster inclusivity or consensus building.

Read more: Click Here