Sat Jan 10 07:34:19 UTC 2026: ### Sabarimala Chief Priest Hospitalized Amidst Gold Theft Investigation
The Story:
Kandararu Rajeevaru, the senior Tantri (chief priest) of the Sabarimala Ayyappa 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. Mr. Rajeevaru had been arrested on January 9, 2026, in connection with an ongoing investigation into the Ayyappa Temple gold theft case. Prison officials reported that he complained of fatigue, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, and dizziness.
Following a preliminary examination at the sub-jail, a medical team advised transferring Mr. Rajeevaru to the General Hospital for further evaluation. Despite his condition, he reportedly walked into the hospital casualty from a government vehicle, escorted by police. Doctors recommended an ECG test.
Key Points:
* Kandararu Rajeevaru, Sabarimala’s chief priest, was hospitalized on January 10, 2026.
* He was in judicial remand at the Special District Sub Jail following his arrest on January 9, 2026, for alleged involvement in the Ayyappa Temple gold theft case.
* He reported fatigue, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, and dizziness.
* Doctors at the General Hospital recommended an ECG test after a preliminary examination.
* The arrest and hospitalization are generating significant media attention.
Key Takeaways:
* The hospitalization of a high-profile religious figure under investigation raises questions about his well-being and the conditions of his confinement.
* The gold theft case is clearly a sensitive issue given the media presence at the hospital.
* The incident may further inflame tensions and public sentiment surrounding the temple and the ongoing investigation.
First Piper 