The annual Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season commenced today, drawing hundreds of devotees to the revered Lord Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala. Dressed in traditional black attire, pilgrims began arriving early Monday morning, eager to offer their prayers as the Malayalam month of ‘Vrischikam’ began.
Newly appointed melsanthi, E.D. Prasad Namboothiri, officiated the opening ceremony amid the resonating chants of Lord Ayyappa’s hymns. As the temple doors opened at 3 a.m., hundreds of devotees queued in anticipation, some waiting several hours to glimpse the idol.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) witnessed significant activity before dawn as pilgrims, both local and from afar, gathered in large numbers. TDB officials reported an early commencement of the pilgrim influx, highlighting the temple’s enduring religious significance.
During the opening, tantri Kantararu Mahesh Mohanaru led the ceremonies, accompanied by Devaswom Board Secretary P.N. Ganeswaran Potti, Sabarimala Executive Officer O.G. Biju, and other officials. The long queues extended across the nadapandal and sopanam, a sight emblematic of the temple’s historical appeal.
Upon the opening of the sanctum sanctorum, rituals including Nirmalya Abhishekam, Ganapathi Homam, and Neyyabhishekam followed swiftly. These sacred rites reaffirm the dedication of the devotees who converge here from all corners of the nation and beyond to worship Lord Ayyappa. The temple will operate on a daily schedule, closing at 1 p.m., reopening at 3 p.m., and finally closing at 11 p.m. with the chanting of “Harivarasanam”, the sacred lullaby.
The temple had initially opened on Sunday evening ahead of the anticipated two-month pilgrimage season. This significant event is expected to attract pilgrims from across the globe, reaffirming Sabarimala’s stature as a foremost spiritual destination in India.
On Sunday, the installation of newly appointed melsanthis at both the Sabarimala and Malikappuram temples was observed. In light of the expected heavy rush, the TDB has set a limit of 90,000 pilgrims each day. This includes 70,000 who can access the temple through a virtual queue system, while an additional 20,000 may secure entry through spot bookings.
The meticulous management of pilgrims illustrates the TDB’s commitment to maintaining the sacred environment of the temple while catering to the overwhelming faith of countless devotees. As the pilgrimage progresses, enhanced facilities and arrangements will likely play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless experience for all visitors.
