Explained | Mohanlal’s ‘Usha Puja’ at Sabarimala temple for Mammootty’s health sparks row, here’s WHY

Mohanlal’s Sabarimala Puja row: Days after Malayalam superstar Mohanlal performed ‘Usha puja’ in Sabarimala for his actor-friend Mammootty, it has sparked a controversy as few people pointed out that Mammootty faith doesn’t permit worshipping any other God, but Allah, reported News18.

According to the report, Mohanlal visited Sabarimala on 18 March before the release of his Prithviraj Sukumaran directorial L2: Empuraan on 27 March.

Why the controversy?

After Mohanlal’s visit, Mammootty’s birth name, Muhammed Kutty, and his birth star ‘Visakham’ were written on a puja offering receipt which went viral. According to the report, the receipt was offered by the Devaswom office, which hinted that Malayalam superstar Mohanlal performed the Hidnu rituals for his Muslim friend Mammootty.

Several reports also claim Mammootty is currently being treated for cancer, however, his team have dismissed them all.

Receipt leaked?

Following the controversy, Mohanlal alleged that someone from the Devaswom Board must have leaked the receipt.

In its response, the Travancore Devaswom Board on 25 March stated he portion of the receipt which was issued to the devotees was leaked on the Internet. “It could be due to a misunderstanding that Mohanlal made such a statement. Hopefully he will correct it," News18 quoted the Travancore Devaswom Board statement. The board further claimed that staff member will only have the counter foil with them.

Mohanlal questions why the controversy:

Questioning the basis of controversy, Mohanlal said that Mammootty is like his brother. “What’s wrong in praying for him? He is doing well. He had a minor health issue, but that’s normal for everyone. There is nothing to worry about." He referred the matter as ‘deeply personal’

What is ‘Usha puja’ in Sabarimala?

Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is a Hindu religious temple situated on a hilltop (about 3000 feet above sea level) named Sabarimala in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district. Though it is open to people belonging to all religions.

In the temple premises, there is a place in the east of Sannidhanam, dedicated to Vavar.

According to beliefs, the devotees who perform ‘Usha puja’ or the morning worship – after opening of the sanctum sanctorum, around 7:30 am – Lord Ayyappa fulfils their wishes. The ‘Usha puja’ includes offerings like Neyyabhishekam (pouring ghee) and other rituals.