Sabarimala

Sabarimala: The Abode of Lord Ayyappa

Sabarimala is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in India, located in the Western Ghats mountain range in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala state. It is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a Hindu deity who is considered to be the epitome of dharma, valor, and purity. Sabarimala temple is open for pilgrimage only during the five-day Mandalapooja festival in November-December and the Makaravilakku festival in January.

History of Sabarimala

The history of Sabarimala is steeped in legend and tradition. According to one legend, Lord Ayyappa was born to Lord Shiva and Mohini, the enchantress form of Lord Vishnu. He was raised by the King of Pandalam and became a powerful warrior who defeated the demoness Mahishi. After his victory, Lord Ayyappa is said to have meditated in the Sabarimala hills, where he attained moksha.

Significance of Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a unique pilgrimage center in many ways. Only male devotees between the ages of 10 and 50 are allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. This is because Lord Ayyappa is believed to be a celibate deity. Devotees who undertake the pilgrimage to Sabarimala must observe strict austerities for 41 days before visiting the temple. They wear black clothes, abstain from non-vegetarian food and alcohol, and practice celibacy. The journey to Sabarimala is itself an arduous one, with pilgrims trekking through dense forests and hills.

Festivals of Sabarimala

The two main festivals of Sabarimala are the Mandalapooja festival and the Makaravilakku festival. The Mandalapooja festival is a 41-day festival that culminates with the darshan of Lord Ayyappa in the sanctum sanctorum. The Makaravilakku festival is celebrated on the first day of the Malayalam month of Makaram (January). On this day, a huge bonfire is lit on the Ponnambalamedu hill, which is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Ayyappa.

Sabarimala Temple Architecture

The Sabarimala temple is a beautiful example of Kerala temple architecture. The temple complex consists of three main structures: the sanctum sanctorum, the chuttambalam, and the namaskara mandapam. The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Lord Ayyappa, which is made of black stone. The chuttambalam is a circular hall where devotees can perform puja. The namaskara mandapam is a rectangular hall where devotees can offer prayers.