TDB decides to stop procurement of ghee from outside for Sabarimala temple

A view of the Sannidhanam of Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala. | Photo Credit: Leju Kamal The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has decided to stop the procurement of ghee from outside for the Sabarimala temple.TDB Commissioner K. Jayakumar confirmed that such a decision has been taken, but added that it had no connection with the ongoing controversy over Milma ghee procurement at the temple.The TDB will instead use the ghee donated by the devotees for the temple’s use.“We had taken the decision two weeks ago when we prepared the indent for the items needed for the year, we decided not to purchase ghee from outside,” Mr. Jayakumar said.According to him, the temple receives a huge quantity of ghee. It has a number of uses; the preparation of the Aravana and for burning the lamps included.On Wednesday, Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan had ordered a probe by the Secretary (Devaswoms) in consultation with the TDB into the alleged irregularities in the procurement and transportation of Milma ghee to Sabarimala. The Secretary has been directed to submit a report urgently on the matter.Since the issue pertains to the quality and integrity of materials supplied for use in Sabarimala and has the potential to affect public confidence in the administration of the temple, the issue requires immediate attention, the order said. Published - July 30, 2026 10:42 pm IST