Thiruvananthapuram, 08 Feb (H.S.):The Kerala Forest Department has issued a notice to film director Anuraj Manohar for allegedly conducting an unauthorised film shoot near Sabarimala during the Makaravilakku festival day, one of the most sensitive and crowded periods of the pilgrimage season. The director has been directed to appear before officials at the Plappally Forest Station for further inquiry.
According to forest officials, a case had earlier been registered following complaints that filming was carried out in the Pampa region without obtaining mandatory permissions.
Authorities stated that the crew is suspected to have trespassed into protected forest areas, prompting action under sections related to illegal entry into reserve forests and disturbance to wildlife habitats.
The case falls under the jurisdiction of the Ranni Forest Division.
The department is also examining whether the shooting took place beyond the Pampa river, possibly within parts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, a highly protected ecological zone. Officials are assessing whether any environmental damage or disruption to wildlife occurred during the filming process.
Sources said the Forest Department had previously sought explanations and details from Anuraj Manohar and members of his crew. After obtaining legal advice, the department proceeded with formal legal action.
Separately, the Travancore Devaswom Board also received complaints that filming had taken place at Sabarimala despite permission being denied. Board president K. Jayakumar subsequently instructed the Devaswom Vigilance Superintendent to conduct an investigation into the matter.
However, Manohar reportedly clarified that the shoot was conducted only in the Pampa area and not inside the core Sabarimala temple premises.
The incident has sparked concerns over regulation enforcement during the pilgrimage season, when strict environmental and security protocols are typically in place to protect the fragile forest ecosystem and manage heavy pilgrim traffic. Further investigation is underway.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
