Mon Feb 23 14:12:16 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Priest Suspended at Mambazhathara Devaswom Temple Following Theft Allegations
The Story:
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has suspended Madhusudana Sharma, a priest at the Mambazhathara Devaswom of the Aryankavu Sub-Group, effective February 23, 2026. The suspension follows a Devaswom Vigilance inquiry into allegations that a two-sovereign gold necklace, received as an offering, was stolen from the temple. The board meeting held on Monday, February 23, 2026, resulted in the decision to suspend Sharma after the inquiry found him guilty and recommended disciplinary action.
Key Points:
- Priest Madhusudana Sharma suspended from Mambazhathara Devaswom.
- The suspension was decided by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).
- Allegation: Theft of a two-sovereign gold necklace offered to the temple.
- Devaswom Vigilance inquiry found Sharma guilty.
- The board meeting leading to the suspension was held on February 23, 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- The Travancore Devaswom Board is taking allegations of theft and mismanagement seriously.
- Internal vigilance mechanisms within the TDB appear to be functioning, leading to the detection and action against the accused.
- This event could impact public trust in the management of temple offerings and the integrity of temple personnel.
First Piper 