Kerala Devaswom Board chief apologizes for clenched-fist slogan at Ayyappa Sangamam

Thiruvananthapuram: Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president P.S. Prasanth has apologized over the controversy surrounding his clenched-fist gesture during the chanting of “Swamiye Sharanam Ayyappa” at the Global Ayyappa Sangamam near Sabarimala.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Prasanth said the act may have been unintentional but should not have happened. “I am a believer myself. If such a thing occurred, it may have been unintentional. Even then, it should not have happened, and I feel sorry about it,” he said.

The clenched-fist salute, often associated with Communist and socialist movements, sparked criticism after Prasanth used it while addressing the gathering at Pampa on September 20. Defending his action, he pointed out that similar gestures had been made by devotees in the past, citing online videos as evidence.

The TDB chief’s apology was seen as an effort to ease tensions and underline the spiritual character of the event. The board maintained that the Sangamam was a success, highlighting the participation of nearly 29 community organizations, including the Nair Service Society (NSS) and SNDP Yogam.

Rejecting allegations of political intent, Prasanth said the focus of the Sangamam was purely spiritual. “Our assessment is that the Sangamam fulfilled its objectives. We need not respond to political controversies,” he said.

Taking aim at a parallel convention held in Pandalam, he dismissed it as a political event and questioned its contribution to Sabarimala’s development.

The TDB has continued to describe the Global Ayyappa Sangamam as a significant platform uniting devotees worldwide, despite the row over the manner of sloganeering.