Sat Jan 10 07:34:19 UTC 2026: # Sabarimala Priest Hospitalized After Arrest in Gold Theft Case

The Story:

Kandararu Rajeevaru, the senior Tantri (chief priest) of the Sabarimala temple, was rushed to the General Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on January 10, 2026, after exhibiting signs of physical distress while in judicial remand at the Special District Sub Jail. Rajeevaru had been arrested on January 9, 2026, in connection with the ongoing Ayyappa Temple gold theft case. Prison officials reported that he complained of fatigue, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, and dizziness.

Following a preliminary examination by prison doctors, Rajeevaru was escorted to the hospital under heavy police escort. He reportedly walked into the hospital without assistance and underwent an ECG test. The event drew significant media attention, with numerous journalists and television cameras present at the hospital.

Key Points:

  • Kandararu Rajeevaru, the Sabarimala senior Tantri, was hospitalized on January 10, 2026.
  • He was in judicial remand following his arrest on January 9, 2026, related to the Ayyappa Temple gold theft case.
  • He complained of physical fatigue, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, and dizziness while in jail.
  • Doctors at the Sub Jail recommended he be taken to the General Hospital for further examination.
  • He was escorted to the hospital under heavy police protection.

Key Takeaways:

  • The arrest and subsequent hospitalization of the Sabarimala chief priest in connection with a gold theft case is a sensitive and potentially explosive issue in Kerala.
  • The swift reaction of prison authorities to Rajeevaru’s health concerns indicates a heightened awareness of potential liabilities.
  • The significant media attention underscores the public interest and potential ramifications of the case.

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