A.V. Unnikrishnan Namboodiri, 58, of the Mangalathu Azhakathu Mana at Kodakara, near Chalakudy, will be the Melsanthi (head priest) of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple for the next one year beginning November 16.
Anish Namboodiri, 38, of the Varickom Illom at Mainagappally in Kollam is the next head priest of the Malikappuram Devi temple.
They were selected through a draw of lots at the respective temple sopanams on Tuesday morning.
Soorya Anoop Varma and Hrudya Varma, child nominees of the Pandalam Palace, drew the respective lots.
Unnikrishnan Namboodiri has been the head priest at the Azhakom Durga Devi temple at Kodakara for the past several years. Talking to The Hindu over the phone, Mr. Namboodiri said this was the third time he had applied for the post of Sabarimala Melsanthi.
Anish Namboodiri said this was the first time he attended the interview for the Malikappuram Melsanthi.
The Melsanthis will assume charge at an installation ceremony at the respective temple sopanams on November 15 evening when the Ayyappa temple opens for the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrim season that begins the next day.