Devotees flocked in large numbers to the revered Lord Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala on Monday, kicking off the much-anticipated Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. This significant event aligns with the first day of the Malayalam month ‘Vrischikam’ and highlights a rich tradition observed by thousands.
Clad in traditional black attire and bearing the sacred irumudikkettu, pilgrims from Kerala and various states queued for hours to seek blessings. The temple’s doors opened early in the morning, officiated by the newly appointed melsanthi (chief priest) E.D. Prasad Namboothiri, amid the melodious chants of Lord Ayyappa’s hymns resonating throughout the temple complex.
The auspicious opening unfolded in the presence of tantri (head priest) Kantararu Mahesh Mohanaru, as per an official announcement from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). Officials reported that the pilgrimage influx began even before dawn, setting up a vibrant atmosphere filled with expectations.
Secretary of the Devaswom Board, P.N. Ganeswaran Potti, along with Sabarimala Executive Officer O.G. Biju and other key officials, witnessed the ceremonial opening. When the shrine opened at 3 a.m., queues extended far beyond the nadapandal (covered walkway) and sopanam (holy steps), reflecting the devotion of countless pilgrims eager to enter the sanctum sanctorum.
Upon the temple’s opening, a series of rituals commenced, including Nirmalya Abhishekam, Ganapathi Homam, and Neyyabhishekam, rich in spiritual significance. The temple follows a strict schedule, closing at 1 p.m., reopening at 3 p.m., and finally concluding the day at 11 p.m. with the singing of “Harivarasanam,” the sacred lullaby dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
The ceremonial opening took place the night before, preparing for the two-month pilgrimage season deemed a sacred time. This year, anticipation remains high as the TDB expects the number of pilgrims to be substantial from across the globe.
To facilitate the smooth flow of worshippers, the Travancore Devaswom Board capped the daily limit at 90,000 pilgrims, dividing this figure into a virtual queue system with 70,000 allocations and 20,000 for spot booking. This measure aims to manage the expected surge while ensuring safety and adherence to rituals.
The Mandalam-Makaravilakku season at Sabarimala is not just a pilgrimage; it serves as a cultural phenomenon, uniting devotees in their shared faith and traditions. With the temple filled with joy, chants, and offerings, Sabarimala stands as a beacon of hope and spirituality for numerous devotees this season.
