Actor Dileep Visits Sabarimala Following Acquittal

PATHANAMTHITTA: Noted actor Dileep visited the revered Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple early this morning. His visit to the sacred shrine comes shortly after a court acquitted him in the high-profile actress assault case, a development that has drawn significant public attention.

Dileep arrived at Sannidhanam, the temple complex, in the early hours. Following his arrival at the PRO office, he proceeded to the Tantri’s (chief priest) office. He was dressed in traditional black mundu and shirt, signifying his devotion.

Breaking from the customary path, the actor entered Sannidhanam via the staff gate, bypassing the sacred Pathinettam Padi (18 holy steps). He also performed the darshan without carrying the Irumudikettu, the traditional offering bundle carried by pilgrims to Sabarimala. He was accompanied by only a few close friends during his pilgrimage.

In a related development, Dileep was recently excluded from the coupon distribution inauguration ceremony of the Ernakulam Shiva Temple festival. The temple administration committee made this decision following widespread protests against their initial invitation to the actor for the event, highlighting the ongoing public sentiment surrounding the legal proceedings he faced.