The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has announced a key decision regarding the entry of women into Kerala’s Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. To preserve centuries-old customs and traditions, the board has decided that women will no longer be allowed inside the temple. TDB officials emphasized that they support the age-old practices followed for decades and intend to continue these longstanding traditions. An affidavit challenging the Supreme Court’s 2018 verdict will be filed by March 14, following the board’s meeting on Monday, March 2.
For decades, women were prohibited from entering Sabarimala, with only girls under 10 and women over 50 permitted to visit the shrine. While the Supreme Court had previously opposed this restriction, its 2018 ruling allowed women of all ages to enter the temple. The TDB, however, has stated its opposition to this ruling, citing the need to safeguard the sanctity of the temple and uphold ancient traditions. Board officials noted that there is no internal disagreement regarding the decision to continue the traditional entry restrictions.
The 2018 verdict allowing women of all ages to enter Sabarimala triggered nationwide protests and multiple review petitions in the Supreme Court, which are currently under consideration. The controversy over women’s entry has remained a highly sensitive issue in Kerala and across India, drawing attention from devotees, political leaders, and legal experts alike.
By reverting to its traditional stance, the TDB has once again brought the debate over women’s entry into Sabarimala to the forefront. The board’s move underscores the ongoing tension between preserving religious customs and adhering to judicial directives, highlighting the complex interplay between faith, tradition, and the law in India.