Guruvayur Devaswom to discuss renaming of ‘Kodathi Vilakku’ following court directive

The Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee is set to meet to deliberate on the Kerala High Court's directive to rename the 'Kodathi Vilakku' ceremony. This event, featuring the ceremonial lighting of lamps at the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Swami Temple during the annual temple festival, has been a significant offering at the temple. The Vilakku is organized by the Sree Guruvayurappan Ekadashi Court Vilakku Celebration Committee, which includes members of the Chavakkad Munsiff Court Bar Association.

The High Court's Devaswom Bench, comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan and K.V. Jayakumar, expressed concerns that the current name 'Kodathi Vilakku' might unintentionally suggest an official endorsement by the judiciary. The court suggested a name that would preserve the perception of institutional neutrality. The petition was filed by Rajeswari, the administrator of Gurubaba Ashram, Guruvayur, who argued that the Kodathi Vilakku continued despite the court's ban in 2022.

She also sought a ban on other similar events at the temple. In 2022, Justice A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar had advised judicial officers in Thrissur not to directly participate in the event's organization. However, the court felt that the term 'Kodathi Vilakku' was inappropriate as it gave the impression of a connection between the courts and the event's organization.

The Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee chairperson, A. V. Gopinath, stated that a decision on the new name would be made in consultation with the festival organizing committee, ensuring compliance with the High Court's order.