Source: beta.thehindu.com
SABARIMALA, INDIA, October 17, 2009: G. Vishnu Namboodiri, 45, and K.V. Madhavan Namboodiri, 39, were selected the new Melsanthis (head priests) of Lord Ayyappa Temple and Malikappuram Devi Temple respectively at Sabarimala through a draw of lots held at the respective temple sopanam on Saturday morning.
Sabarimala Sannidhanam has been witnessing heavy rush since Friday afternoon as devotees from different parts of south India began to camp at the holy hillock to witness the draw of lots.
The newly selected head priests will be serving the respective temples for the next one year period from November 16, first day in the Malayalam month of Virischikom when the 41-day annual Mandalam festival season begins at Sabarimala.