Unnikrishnan Namboothiri (42), the new chief priest of Sabarimala, hails from Cherpulasserry Kaaralmanna Thekkumparambathu Mana, which is reputed for its Agnihothram tradition.
The priest asserts he is confident from his own personal experiences that the merciful Sabareesan will never forsake his devotees.
*Have you ever been listed among the chief priests of Sabarimala earlier?
I have made it to the preliminary list of candidates for the post of chief priest six times. Thrice I entered the list for Malikappuram chief priests.
*How did you feel when the fortune eluded you so many times?
I believe that nothing happens without the knowledge of Ayyappa Swami, the defender of devotees. I was able to be in the list because of the Lord’s kindness to me. Getting into the list at Malikappuram for three times was another blessing. Many who applied for the office do not make it.
*What message does this incident give to the devotees?
Pray, at least once in a day; the Lord will definitely answer our prayers. I am sure that the Lord will not abandon us. I say this from my own personal experience. Do we need any other proof than this one?
*How did you become the chief priest of Cherpulasserry Ayyappan Kovil?
I became the chief priest there in 1999. I was only 25 years old then. For 17 years, I have served as a chief priest. I was chosen for all these reputable positions by drawing lots. I believe that Ayappa Swami blessed me because I have put my whole self in performing poojas. I was chosen as the chief priest of Sabarimala on the first day of the month of Thulaam at 8.20 am. The announcement came exactly at the time of opening the ‘nada.’ I consider it as a good omen.
*Isn’t it a blessing of Guruvayoorappan too?
I was appointed as the chief priest of Guruvayoor on April 1, 2010. I was 35 years old then. I was chosen at my first application. I believe it as a blessing from Lord Krishna.
*What do you feel when you come to Sabarimala from Guruvayoor?
I stand with my heart full of prayers along with the devotees who throng here with tearful eyes. I pray that Abhayavaradan deign to protect them all.
*How is Thekkumparambathu Mana related to Agnihotram?
My father’s elder brother Subramanya Somayajippad was a reputed performer of Somayaga, renowned in Kerala and outside. Many Somayagas and Athirathras have been held under his governance. In 1953, a Somayaga was conducted at our Mana with him as the director.
*Your relationship with Sabarimala?
Ever since my childhood, I used to perform rigorous ascetic practices during Vrishchikam. I have learned these practices from my father Vasudevan Namboothiri. He had been very keen on adhering to the minutest details in performing rituals - like garlanding, kettu nira and Sabarimala pilgrimage. Even today, pilgrimage to Sabarimala is a celebration at our Mana. The encouragement of my father and Jathavedan Namboothiri, son of Subramanya Somayajippad, are invaluable. I believe that my chief priesthood at Sabarimala is a blessing from the Lord for my pilgrimages to the sanctuary of Ayyappa for the last 32 years with no break at all.
