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Thiruvananthapuram: A new controversy has emerged at the Sabarimala temple, which is already under investigation for a gold heist, as a Devaswom Vigilance inquiry has revealed that a film was shot in violation of restrictions at the sacred site and its vicinity.

The inquiry report, presented by Superintendent of Police Sunil Kumar from Devaswom Vigilance, indicates that filming for a feature movie occurred over several days in Pampa and surrounding areas.

Notably, the report highlights that filming took place on the auspicious day of Makara Vilakku at a hilltop site near the Sabarimala temple complex.

These findings contradict previous statements made by the film's director, Anuraj Manohar, who claimed that no filming occurred at the Sannidhanam.

The director had previously faced legal action related to this incident.

The vigilance report clarifies that while filming did take place in restricted areas, there is no record of any police authorization for the shoot.

This lack of documentation raises significant concerns regarding procedural errors and potential breaches of established regulations governing activities at the pilgrimage site.

The vigilance report, which includes video evidence of the filming, has been officially submitted to K. Jayakumar, the President of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).

In light of these developments, the Board has requested legal counsel from its attorneys regarding the next steps.

The TDB President has instructed the legal team to prepare a comprehensive report detailing the specific violations that occurred during the filming.

The issue gained public attention after reports and visuals surfaced, alleging that filming had occurred in breach of restrictions at Sabarimala, particularly during the Mandala–Makara Vilakku pilgrimage season, when strict controls are enforced to maintain the temple's sanctity and facilitate the movement of pilgrims.

Sources from the Devaswom Board have indicated that no further actions will be taken until legal advice is received.

Once the legal team presents its findings, the Board is expected to determine whether to pursue penal, administrative, or legal actions against those involved.

This controversy has once again highlighted the difficulties faced by temple authorities in enforcing regulations at Sabarimala, especially during a period of heightened scrutiny and serious allegations.