Sabarimala Temple Scandal: Star Actors Under the VACB Lens

It seems even the brightest stars in the Malayalam film industry aren't immune to the long arm of the law, especially when a revered pilgrimage site is involved. In a significant turn of events, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has recently recorded statements from none other than cinematic legends Mohanlal and Dileep. This isn't for a movie script, mind you, but rather a very real and serious probe into alleged corruption surrounding the installation of a new gold-plated flag mast – or 'dhwajastambham' – at the hallowed Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple back in 2017.

Mohanlal, who had generously contributed a sum of Rs 20 lakh towards this ambitious project, provided his statement to the VACB officials via video call from Chennai. It's an interesting detail, highlighting how even with distance, authorities are keen to gather all necessary information. The investigation, helmed by DySP V Gopakumar, is meticulously piecing together the events that led to the flag mast's controversial installation and subsequent collapse. One can only imagine the kind of questions posed to someone of his stature about such a sensitive matter.

Not long after, actor Dileep also found himself giving a statement, with officials visiting his residence in Kochi. While the original anonymous complaint specifically mentioned Mohanlal and "others," it's clear the scope of the inquiry has broadened to include all individuals who might shed light on the funding and contracting processes. When two of the biggest names in an industry are being questioned, it certainly underscores the seriousness with which this case is being pursued.

The crux of the complaint revolves around allegations of significant irregularities in the flag mast's installation. Shockingly, the newly consecrated dhwajastambham collapsed shortly after its ceremonial dedication, causing damage not just to itself, but also to parts of the temple's roof and structure. This wasn't just a minor mishap; it was a deeply unsettling event for devotees and a major blow to the temple's sanctity. The complaint went further, suggesting that the contractors tasked with this renovation project had close ties to Mohanlal and the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) officials who were in charge at the time.

This isn't the first step in the investigation, of course. The VACB has already been diligently examining documents retrieved from the Travancore Devaswom Board, which oversees the temple. They've also recorded statements from various TDB officials, past and present, including former president Prayar Gopalakrishnan. It's a comprehensive look into every facet of the project, leaving no stone unturned, as it should be when public funds and sacred spaces are involved. The whole saga certainly serves as a stark reminder of the rigorous scrutiny that accompanies any major project, especially those linked to deeply cherished religious institutions.