Wed Mar 26 07:53:35 UTC 2025: ## Mohanlal’s Sabarimala Prayers for Mammootty Spark Controversy

**KOCHI, INDIA** – A controversy has erupted in Kerala following the revelation that superstar Mohanlal offered prayers at the Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple for fellow actor Mammootty, a Muslim. The incident, which occurred on March 18th, saw Mohanlal include Mammootty’s birth name and star sign in a prayer request. A receipt from the Devaswom office confirming the prayer went viral, sparking a heated debate on social media.

While some lauded the act as an example of communal harmony, others criticized the offering of Hindu prayers for a Muslim individual, arguing it violates Islamic beliefs. Influencer and former editor O Abdullah even called on Mammootty to apologize if he had requested the prayers.

Mohanlal, however, has defended his actions, stating that the prayers were offered after Mammootty experienced a minor health issue and that prayers are a personal matter. He clarified that he offered prayers for Mammootty and his family. He dismissed the controversy during an interview with NDTV, emphasizing his close friendship with Mammootty, with whom he’s worked on over 50 films. Fellow actor Prithviraj Sukumaran corroborated Mohanlal’s statement, noting this wasn’t an unusual occurrence for either of them, though this time it became public knowledge.

The leak of the receipt has also led to speculation, with Mohanlal suggesting a Travancore Devaswom Board official may have been responsible. The board, however, denied any wrongdoing, stating the leaked receipt was a devotee’s copy.

Meanwhile, recent health concerns surrounding Mammootty, including unsubstantiated rumors of a cancer diagnosis, have been dismissed by his team. They attributed his break from filming to Ramadan fasting.

Read More