The Kerala High Court has taken a proactive stance regarding the preservation of the world-famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, directing its Executive Committee to submit a concrete timeline for the renovation of the temple's 'Moolavigraha' (Principal Idol).
A Division Bench comprising Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice MB Snehalatha emphasized that the restoration work must proceed without further delay, noting a "disconnect" between the Expert Committee and the Executive Committee that has hindered progress so far.
The intervention by the High Court follows a petition raising serious concerns about visible defects in the 'Moolavigraha' of Lord Padmanabha. The idol, which is of immense spiritual and historical significance, requires delicate restoration.
Earlier, the Court had directed the Administrative Committee to update it on the selection of materials and the consent of the ‘shilpis’ (traditional sculptors) required for the specialized work. However, proceedings were temporarily slowed down due to the grand 'Lakshadeepam' festival and the 'Murajapam' rituals held recently at the temple.
When the matter came up for hearing on Monday (February 9), the Counsel representing the Chief Thanthri informed the Court that the Thanthri had already defined the necessary processes and a timeline for the restoration.
Despite this, the Court observed that the work had not progressed as expected even though the 'Murajapam' festival concluded nearly a month ago. The Bench remarked:
“We are of the view that this is only because there appears to be some disconnect between the Expert Committee and the Executive Committee. We, therefore, order that the Executive Committee will have a meeting with the Expert Committee on a continuous basis if possible and create a timeline for the works and process that needs to be completed.”
To ensure accountability, the High Court has mandated the Executive Committee—of which the Chief Thanthri is a member—to deliberate with the Expert Committee and draft a comprehensive report. This report must detail:
- Every specific task involved in the restoration.
- The exact materials to be used.
- A strict step-by-step timeline for completion.
The Court has granted the committee ten days to submit this report.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of Kerala's rich cultural and architectural heritage. The Principal Idol is unique, constructed using a special mixture known as 'Katusarkara Yogam' (a traditional medicinal and herbal paste) rather than pure stone or metal. Renovating such an idol requires specialized knowledge that only a few traditional artisans possess.
The High Court’s insistence on a timeline reflects the urgency of preserving the sanctity and physical integrity of the deity, ensuring that the structural defects do not worsen over time.
By directing the two committees to work in tandem, the Kerala High Court aims to bridge the communication gap that has stalled the project. The legal community and devotees alike are now looking toward the next hearing, scheduled in ten days, to see the roadmap for the restoration of one of India's most revered idols.
Case Title: R Rajasekharan Pillai v. State of Kerala and Anr.
Case No: WP(C) 7039/2025