Kantara Chapter 1 Actor Jayaram Receives ED Summon In Alleged Sabarimala Gold Theft Case

Jayaram,

known for playing King Rajasekhara in Kantara: Chapter 1, has been named in the ongoing Sabarimala gold theft investigation. As per the latest development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned him for interrogation. A month ago, the Kochi unit of ED registered an ECIR (Enforcement Case Information Report) under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Jayaram recorded his statement with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) before being summoned by the ED. According to reports, the ED has issued summons to 12. The gold theft case was lodged in October 2025.

Jayaram summoned by ED

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has asked Jayaram to appear on February 17 in the gold theft case connected with Unnikrishnan Potty, the primary accused. As per reports, temple artefacts, including gold-covered copper plates, were used for a private religious ceremony in 2019, which was allegedly organised by Unnikrishnan Potty. Jayaram is being investigated for his alleged role in the ceremonies and financial connections with the primary accused.

SIT questions Jayaram

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) that questioned Jayaram at his Chennai residence, also asked him about his participation in such rituals and how many times he has been a part of them. The case revolves around two incidents. One is the reported removal of gold from the Dwarapalaka and the Sreekovil doorframes at the Sabarimala temple. The SIT has arrested 12 people, including two former Travancore Devaswom Board presidents, B Murari Babu and S Sreekumar. Jayaram hasn’t been named as an accused. It is limited to questioning his participation in the puja. During the earlier SIT examination, his statement is expected to provide additional information.

Who is Jayaram?

Jayaram, born Jayaram Subramaniam, has worked in the Malayalam, Tamil and Kannada film industries. After his debut with Aparan, he worked in multiple blockbusters and won the Padma Shri award in 2011. Last year, he featured in Mirai and Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1.

Who is Unnikrishnan Potty?

Unnikrishnan Potty is a Bengaluru-based Malayali businessman and former temple priest. He was accused of conspiring to steal gold during maintenance works of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. The Kollam Vigilance Court granted him statutory (default) bail as the SIT failed to file the charge sheet within the stipulated 90-day period. Reportedly, the ED would be summoning him for further investigation.