New chief priest for Sabarimala temple selected

E N Krishnadas Namboodiri was today selected as the new 'Melsanthi' (Chief Priest) of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple.

S Kesavan Namboodiri was selected as the 'Melsanthi' for the adjoining Malikappuram Devi temple.

The selections were made by draw of lots from two panels of shortlisted candidates, temple officials said.

Krishnadas Namboodiri, presently the priest at Pavakkulam temple in Ernakulam, is a native of Panjal in Thrissur district.

The chief priests for the temples are selected for a year ahead of the pilgrimage season beginning next month.