Sabarimala Temple

Overview

Sabarimala is a Hindu journey focus situated at the Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghat mountain scopes of Pathanamthitta District, Perunad grama panchayat in Kerala. It is one of the biggest yearly journeys on the planet, with an expected 10 million devotees going by each year. Sabarimala is accepted to be the spot where the Hindu god Ayyappan thought subsequent to slaughtering the capable demoness Mahishi. Ayyappans temple is arranged in the midst of 18 slopes.The temple is arranged on a ridge at a height of 468 m (1,535 ft) above mean ocean level, and is encompassed by mountains and thick woods.The thick woodland, (Periyar Tiger Reserve), around the temple is known as Poomkavanam. Temples exist in each of the slopes encompassing Sabarimala. While useful and in place temples exist at numerous spots in the encompassing ranges such as Nilackal, Kalaketi, and Karimala, leftovers of old temples make due right up til the present time on remaining slopes. Sabarimala is connected to Hindu journey, transcendently for men of all ages. Sabarimala travelers can be distinguished effortlessly, as they wear dark or blue dress. They dont shave until the consummation of the journey, and spread Vibhuti or shoe glue on their brow. Females who bleed (normally between the periods of around 12 and 50) are not permitted to enter the temple, since the story credited to Ayyappa  the ladies in the menstrual age bunch. This is on account of Ayyappan is a Bramhachari (abstinent). The temple is open for love just amid the times of Mandalapooja (roughly 15 November to 26 December), Makaravilakku or “Makar Sankranti” (14 January) and Maha Vishuva Sankranti (14 April), and the initial five days of every Malayalam month.

Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, devoted to Lord Ayyappa, is the most acclaimed and noticeable among all the Sastha temples in Kerala. The temple is arranged on a peak (around 3000 feet above ocean level) named Sabarimala in Pathanamthitta area, which is interesting in numerous regards. The uniqueness assembles its voice, as the temple is interested in all, independent of standing, belief or religion. There is a spot close to the temple; east to Sannidhanam, committed to the Vavar (a sufi and companion of Lord Ayyappa) which is called Vavarunada, an exemplification of religious amicability. Another intriguing actuality is that it is not open consistently. It is open for love just amid the times of Mandalapooja, Makaravilakku and Chitra Vishu. Certain traditions are to be entirely watched if one needs to attempt a journey to Sabarimala. A traveler going to the Mandalapooja ought to watch severities for 41 days. Amid this period, the explorer ought to go without indulgence from non veggie lover sustenance and fleshly delights. Explorers set out in gatherings under a pioneer, and every convey a material pack called Irumudi kettu containing conventional offerings. Not at all like certain Hindu temples, Sabarimala temple has no limitations of rank or statement of faith. The temple is interested in guys of all age bunches and to ladies who have either passed their richness age and those before achieving the phase of pubescence. The most straightforward course is by means of Chalakkayam, by which one can achieve the banks of the stream Pamba by vehicle.

Pamba is the fundamental ending indicates in transit Sabarimala. From here one needs to trek 4 to 5 kms to achieve the temple. Subsequent to the beginning of time, the old place where there is Kerala has been a shelter for seekers of the everlasting truth. Like whatever remains of India, it is saturated with custom and is home to a million places of worship, of all shapes and sizes. A most critical explorer site of Hinduism in this miniscule South Indian state is Sabarimala. The managing divinity at Sabarimala is Dharma Sastha/Lord Ayyappan/Ayyanaar, a standout amongst the most loved gods among the Hindu pantheon of divine beings. Each year a large number of Indians, regardless of rank, doctrine or religion throng the minor complex to have darshan of Lord Ayyappan. Consistent with the Hindu theory of "thathvamasi" (that thou craftsmanship), at Sabarimala, Lord and his aficionado collective specifically, sans middle people. Legend has it that the temple at Sabarimala was worked by Parasurama, the warrior-sage who recovered the Land of Kerala from the ocean. Sabarimala is one of the five "panchashastha" temples raised by the capable yogi to shield Kerala from dangerous components, the others being Kulathuppuzha, Aryankavu, Achankovil and Erumeli. At Kulathuppuzha, the Lord is loved as a baby kid, at Aryankavu as an immature nearly marriage and at Achankovil, he is delineated as a "grihasthashrami" with his wives, Poorna and Pushkala. Sabarimala was known in other 2 distinct names in pre-memorable times. One is Madanga Mala as the sage Madanga was staying there. The other name of the spot is Potalaka which gets from "Pottu" and Ulaka. Pottu implies light in antiquated Tamil and Ulaka implies place. The references of this spot are in the old sacred writings beginning from Ramayana who came to meet the Sabari, the tribal fan of Ram and educate of Swamy Madanga.

About The Temple

The Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala is one of only a handful few Hindu temples in India that is interested in all religions.Here, the accentuation is on secularism and public amicability. Sabarimala maintains the estimations of balance, clique furthermore the unity of the human soul; all men, independent of class, statement of faith or race are equivalent before Lord Ayyappan and apparently, to commute home this, the explorers thronging the temple complex location each other as Ayyappa Swami. Legend has it that the Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala is laid out as per the directions of the Lord himself. Thus, Malikappurathamma is on the left of the Sannidhanam, and the Lords assistants, Vavar and Kadutha stand vigil at the foot of the pathinettu thrippadi the most noteworthy 18 stages in Hinduism, prompting the sanctum sanctorum. As Lord Ayyappan was raised by the King of Pandalam as his child, the temple at Sabarimala is looked upon as a feature of the Rajas area. Whats more, pioneers are required to get his authorization before continuing to Sabarimala. One of the Kings agents sits on a raised stage with the illustrious emblem at the base of Neelimala. The Ayyappa followers offer him a token entirety and get vibhuthi consequently. The 3km rising up the Neelimala is the steepest and the most troublesome in the entire journey.In transit to Sabarimala, the explorers visit Erumeli Sree Dharma Shastha Temple to hold Petta Thullal and in addition Vavurs mosque, additionally at Erumeli. To enter the temple complex at Sabarimala, the aficionados need to climb the 18 stages or the pathinettu padikal; when contrasted with other noticeable temples in Kerala such as Guruvayoor, the hallowed place on Sabarimala is generally little. The temple remains on a level, more than 40 feet high and offers astounding perspectives of the encompassing mountains and the valleys underneath. Saturated with relic, it was modified after an enormous flame in 1950. Presently, the complex on Sabarimala involves a sanctum sanctorum bearing a copper-plated rooftop with four brilliant finials at the main, two mandapams, the belikalpura lodging the sacred place, and the "kodimaram" or the banner staff. The Ayyappa icon inside of the Sannidhanam and revered by millions, was initially cut out of stone, however the present picture of the divinity is an excellent symbol of Ayyappan in panchaloha, an amalgam five metals and around one and a half feet tall.

Homakundam

In the past days, an expansive homakundam or a hallowed pit blazed continually before the Sannidhanam. The flares were nourished by the coconuts/neithenga tossed in by pioneers, in the wake of offering the ghee inside of them to Lord Ayyappan. It is held that as the coconuts smolder in the conciliatory flame, the explorers experience a ceremonial purging, both of the soul and the body.

Bhasmakkulam

The holy place of Malikappurathama is around 100 meters far from the Sannidhanam. Bhasmakkulam/Ash tank is arranged between these two sacred spots. Pioneers overcoming the laborious trek to Sabarimala take a tip in the consecrated waters of this tank for otherworldly purging furthermore in memory of Tapaswini Sabari who entered a fire to end her mortal life. Sabarimala is named after her. Bhasmakkulam is over and over depleted and loaded with crisp water, because of the millions who bathe in it.Kaduthaswamy and Karuppaswamy stand at the base of the Pathinettampadi (18 stages) and are the gatekeepers of the Sannidhanam. They are dwarapalakas, guaranteeing that the heavenly steps are not dirtied by travelers who dont experience the rigors of the 41-day forbearance and abstinence. Likewise they protect the devout from the dull spirits of the encompassing backwoods. It is held that Kadutha was a valiant warrior who helped Pandalamraja (Lord Ayyappans non-permanent father) beat his most despised foe Udayanan. Before long subsequently, Kadutha went with the Raja to Sabarimala to remake the Ayyappa temple and in the end developed so appended to the Lord that he spent his remaining days in the temple and the connecting woods. Adjoining the Pathinettupadi is the hallowed place of Vavurswami, why should accepted have been a nearby partner of Lord Ayyappan. Vavur was a Muslim and a few renditions of his relationship with Ayyappan endure. Initially a warrior, Vavur was vanquished and stifled by Ayyappan; later he was the fate of one of the nearest friends of the Lord. It is broadly trusted that Ayyappan himself educated Pandalamraja to assemble a mosque for Vavur at Erumeli and a place of worship at Sabarimala. A few myths endure with respect to the centrality of the Pathinettu thripadikal or the 18 heavenly steps, however every one of them stretch the significance of the number, 18. By prevalent thinking, the initial 5 stages imply the five indriyas or the faculties (eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin), the accompanying 8 the ragas (tatwa, kama, krodha, moha, lobha, madha, matsraya, and ahamkara), the following 3 the gunas (satwa, rajas and thamas) trailed by vidya and avidya. Climbing these would take the devotees closer to self-acknowledgment. The demonstration of intersection the 18 stages are sacred to the point that no one can mount them without undertaking the thorough 41 day fast and conveying the irumudi. It is likewise broadly expected that the pathinettu padikal symbolize the 18 puranas; others trust that they hint the 18 weapons with which Lord Ayyappan demolished insidiousness.An Ayyappa enthusiast crosses the Pathinettaam padi just twice amid his visit on Sabarimala - for entering the temple and to go downhill. Before climbing or sliding the strides, travelers break coconut as an offering to the strides. One needs the hallowed Irumudi on head while going up or down the 18 stages keeping in mind diving the strides the enthusiasts move down in reverse confronting the sanctum sanctorum.

The Pilgrimage

Old Hindu sages trusted that occasional fasts or vrithams refine the human personality and body. By sticking to a grim lifestyle and watching tapas in body, psyche and discourse, man rises above his natural impediments and improvements, so says the Bhagavad Gita. A devotee yearning for a darshan of Lord Ayyappan must be immaculate both rationally and physically and for this, he is relied upon to watch a required fast (vritham) of 41 days that as a rule starts on the primary day of the Malayalam month of Vrischikam in mid November. An explorer who is on his first outing to Sabarimala is known as a Kanni Ayyapppan.The 41-days fast highlight the essentialness of gravity and forbearance in the lives of those looking for a complete merger with the Ultimate. An aficionado needs to comply with a few regulations and directs in the event that he is to mount the pathinettu padikal and enter the temple on Sabarimala. The aficionado leaves on the 41-day vritham after he picks up consent from his guardians and Guru. Next, a propitious day is altered for the beginning of the vritham and on the eve of the said date, he offers poojas to the family god and makes a heavenly bunch with yellow fabric containing 1.25 cash units and presents it to the family god along these lines picking up his/her endorsement to start the vritham.

The Sacred Mala

As a prelude to the genuine journey, the competitor wears a beaded mala/wreath for the most part of tulsi or rudraksham to highlight his renunciation of material enticements. Larger part of the enthusiasts start wearing the mala from the primary day of Vrishchikam. Wearing the festoon on a Saturday or upon the arrival of asterism of Uthram, only preceding the principal day of Vrishchikam is viewed as favorable, for it is held that Dharma Shastha or Lord Ayyappan was conceived on first Vrishchikam on a Saturday, the asterism being Uthram. The event of these three elements around the same time is an uncommon wonder. Henceforth any one among the trio is picked. The enthusiast gets his mala from a Guruswami, one who has been to Sabarimala over and over a few times. The custom is commonly led in the regions of a temple or some other sacred spot.

As he wears the blessed mala around his neck, the pioneer swears absolute dependability to Lord Ayyappan with whom he recognizes himself totally. He surrenders his considerations, words and deeds to the effective god and starts to lead the severe existence of a plain.

On the primary day of the fast, the traveler stirs early, showers and offers poojas to the family god, navagrahas (the nine planets) and the blessed mala. He then continues to the temple with his Guru from whom he gets the mala in the midst of the droning of saranams.

Like Lord Ayyappan, the renunciant, the fan is relied upon to avoid every single social activitie and drench himself in requests to God, poojas, bajans, visits to the temples, cleaning temples, bolstering poor people, taking care of poor people/wiped out and listening to otherworldly addresses. Entirely chaste, he devours just satvic sustenance and is taboo from having meat, intoxicants like mixed drinks, medications and betel leaves, and smoking.

Scrubbing down in the pre-day break hours, standard utilization of vibhooti, sandalwood glue took after by reflection and singing melodies about Lord Ayyappan turn into his piece of his every day routine for 41 days. No shaving is permitted and the aficionado implores Dharma Shastha by droning his name no less than 108 times. He ceases from harming anyone either physically or verbally and recognizes other Ayyappa enthusiasts with the Lord himself. When some individual embraces the 41-day fast, he should go about it unobtrusively without much ado so as not to bring about any disservice to his gang.

The Ayyappa swami does not oil his hair or body and dependably conveys with him a tulsi leaf to avoid malice and enticements. He dozes not on the informal lodging no footwear to ensure his feet.

Aazhi pooja / Vellamkudi

The Aazhi pooja is a vital occasion connected with the journey to Sabarimala. It is pretty much a festival that symbolizes the fulfillment of a renunciant's outlook. The pooja is performed on a propitious day before the sacred trek really starts. This custom is likewise called Vellamkudi, Daham Veppu or Padukka. Vellamkudi in the nearby Malayalam dialect implies the demonstration of drinking water and Daham Veppu, extinguishing one's thirst. Individuals long for fulfillment of their different material yearnings as a consequence of their undue connection to the body. Such unquenched thirsts are hindrances in their journey for God-acknowledgment; once they are evacuated, the devotee encounters preeminent delight. By driving a profoundly situated life for a few days, the Ayyappa bhaktha accomplishes an extensive level of purging, both rationally and physically and this comes full circle in Aazhi pooja.

An uncommon pandal is raised for this reason. Energizes for aazhi (fire blast) are put away in stacks before the pandal and camphor is utilized to begin the flame. As the aazhi bursts and tongues of flares go higher, the admirers circumambulate it droning 'Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa.' Rice chips, dried rice and bits of coconut are tossed frequently into the seething flame. The flares are accepted to be Lord Ayyappan himself and the articles flung into the flame speak to common longings which are destroyed by Lord Ayyappan who is the epitome of genuine insight. In some cases, the Ayyappas, blissful and neglectful of their environment stroll on the aazhi, out of reverential enthusiasm.

Before long subsequently, poojas are performed and camphor smoldered. Blazing of camphor abandons no follows; it in this way, implies downright obliteration of the useless longings of the hopeful.

Kettunira

Another critical part of journey to Sabarimala is the planning of the travel pack which is termed irumudi kettu. Just the individuals who watch the 41-day vritham are permitted to convey it and without the irumudi, the Devotee can't climb the pathinettaam padi at the Sannidhanam. The pack is reminiscent of Lord Ayyappan's excursion to the backwoods for tigress' milk; it has twin takes, the Munmudi (the front segment) and the Pinmudi (the back pocket), notwithstanding an opening in the center. The pooja articles and offerings to Lord Ayyappan are set in the front sack while the traveler's close to home possessions are pressed in the back pocket.

Irumudi ties the admirer with the loved. It is such a solid tie, to the point that the fan and the dedicated are no more two distinct substances yet a solitary entirety. Munmudi contains Mudra packs, generally 2 or 3 in number, which hold things for vazhipadu (offering) at the Sannidhanam like:

Coconut loaded with ghee for Abhishekam (additionally called Neithenga), 2 to 4 coconuts (vidalai thengai), Beetel leaves, beetel nut, coins (kanikkappanam), Jaggery (achuvellam), cashewnuts, raisins, dry ginger, poha (slight and thick variety)Cardamoms, dates, nectar, avil ( beaten rice), kadhi chakkar, Dried turmeric, turmeric powder, pullover piece, kumkum, vibhooti, shoe glue Sambarani, camphor, agarbathi (incense stick), rosewater,lemon, rice and dal.The front bit of the Irumudi speaks to the great demonstrations of the aficionado and the back one his wrongdoings.

To set up the ghee coconut (neithenga) for abhishekam, a medium measured coconut is chosen. Its external shell is cleaned and cleaned utilizing a cleaning paper. A gap is made in one eye of the coconut with a directed instrument toward void the water inside; the opening is then shut with a stopper of suitable size. It is later, loaded with ghee amid kettunira. The vidalai thenga are broken at customary interims amid the genuine journey - one each at Erumeli and Sharam Kutti and two upon pathinettam padi (the sacrosanct 18 stages at Sabarimala). The jaggery, cashewnuts, raisins, cardamom, nectar and dates are utilized to make Panchamrutam for the Neivedya; with jaggery, dry ginger and cardamom, another neivedya termed panagam is additionally arranged.

Articles for the traveler's close to home use are kept in the pinmudi; these incorporate things for use from the day of beginning of the voyage after Kettunira till return. The second sack contains a few snacks and different fixings, for example, rice and heartbeats for sustenance that is readied amid the trip.

It is the Guruswami who readies the irumudikettu and spots it on the leader of the aficionado. The trip to the Ayyappa temple on Sabarimala is constantly led in gatherings. The customary course to the hallowed place covers Erumeli, Kalaketti, Azhutha, Karimala, Pampa and inevitably Sabarimala. The Ayyappa swami who climbs the Patinettampadi 18 times plants a coconut sapling on Sabarimala.

Merriments at Sabarimala

The journey season in Sabarimala begins from November 14 and reaches out to January 19 till Makara Vilakku. Amid this period, a large number of Ayyappa hopefuls unite on the little temple complex from all over India. Additionally the temple is open for brief spells amid certain Malayali celebrations like Onam and Vishu. All as the year progressed, month to month poojas are offered at Sabarimala, typically amid the first of week of each Malayalam month (which really falls amidst every English month); the altar is open for the initial five days of consistently.

Young ladies who have not yet accomplished pubescence and elderly ladies who have achieved menopause are permitted section into the temple. Men are required to walk shoeless, mull over the floor with their hair and nails uncut and avoid liberality amid their 41-day vritham and trip to Sabarimala.

Makara Vilakku

The most critical celebration at the Ayyapppa temple on Sabarimala is Makara Vilakku. It is a seven-day celebration, starting upon the arrival of Makara Sankranthi, the day when the sun is in summer solstice. By, the icon of Dharma Shastha was cherished in the temple on this day. The yearly merriments of Makara Vilakku recognize this sacrosanct occasion.

The gems to embellish the icon amid the festivals is acquired from Pandalam Palace a stately parade that begins from Valiya Koyikkal Sastha Temple at Pandalam, three days preceding Makara Sankranthi. The cases containing the sacrosanct gems are borne by a prophet; the parade achieves Sabaripeettam at night on Makara Sankranthi and is directed to the Sannidhanam to the backup of lights and music. By chance, a kite shows up in the sky right now and drifts around the crates, as though to defend the valuable store involving a jewel diadem, gold arm ornaments and accessories implanted with valuable diamonds, Lord's swords, silver bolts and pictures of elephant, stallion and panther designed out of gold.

Another highlight of this celebration is the presence of Makarajyothi that leaves a permanent impact on the millions who view it.The poojas and customs connected with Makara Vilakku are performed on the Manimandapam (hallowed stage) adjoining the Devi's place of worship. A photo delineating Lord Ayyappan on the back of a tiger is put on the platform.

A while later, Malikappurathamma is mounted on an elephant's back and taken in a parade of light bearers, drummers and buglers to Pathinettampadi (18 blessed steps). The parade stops suddenly as the Vettavili (call for chasing) is given out and returns, circumambulating the fundamental temple. Makara Vilakku closes with the custom called 'Guruthi', offering made to conciliate the god and goddesses of the wild. None stays inside of the temple and its regions after the 'Guruthi'.

Other imperative celebrations celebrated at the temple incorporate Onam, Mandalapooja and Vishu Vilakku. Sree Dharmasastha Temple at Sabarimala is arranged inside of the Hold Forest range in Perinad town at Ranni Taluk in Pathanamthitta District in Kerala.The temple is situated in a valley encompassed by thick Forest Hills on all sides.

Pamba

Where the enthusiasts scrub down at the conversion of the three rivers (Triveni ). This is made by the Lord as parallel to the Ganga ( "Dakshina Ganga" ). All pioneer ought to take a dunk in the Pamba waterway prior and then afterward trekking the sacred sabarimala. The explorers ought to likewise perform "Pitru tarpanam" (offering to ones withdrew souls) at Pamba before the trekking.

Triveni Sarasthadom is around 6 kms. Street transport offices are accessible just up to Pampa (Triveni) on the southern bank of Pampa stream. There are two extensions over the waterway at Triveni, one is pucca solid footbridge and the other is a motorable scaffold. Movement through the last scaffold is not allowed amid celebration seasons.

On the upper side of the north bank of the waterway places of worship of Sree Mahaganapathy. Sree Rama, Sree Anjaneya and goddess Parvathy are arranged. There is a major Nadapandal nearby the altars where the travelers take rest subsequent to revering these places of worship.

From Pampa temple premises, foot of the Neelimala slopes is at a separation of around 200 meters toward the western heading of the temple. Neelimala is an exceptionally soak slope. There are two courses from here to climb Neelimala. One is the old customary course of climbing the slopes through the straight and extremely soak way by means of Appachi medu, Sabaripeedom and the other is a pathway through the slants of Neelimala with lesser angle yet around one more kilometer long known as Swamy Ayyappan Road developed by Sri Subramaniam Trust.

Both these Roads meet at Mara Koottam (past Sabaripeedom in the primary course). There after the street again bifurcates one through saramkuthy and the other through the lower slants of saramkuthy slopes and meets again close to the nada pandal at sabarimala. Amid crest season the pioneers are permitted to continue to Sabarimala temple through Saramkuthy street and return through the lower street. For maintaining a strategic distance from charge because of overwhelming surge and additionally to encourage smooth going of explorers as of late a metro has been developed.

About The Deity

The Ayyappa icon inside of the Sannidhanam and venerated by millions, was initially cut out of stone, however the present picture of the god is a delightful symbol of Ayyappan in panchaloha, an amalgam five metals and around one and a half feet tall.

Ganapathi Kovil

Lord Ganapathi sits south-west of the primary temple; the Ganapathi symbol at Sabarimala is ordinarily alluded to as Kannimula Ganapathi. What's more, one of the uncommon offerings to this divinity is 'Ganapathi homam.'

Malikappurathamma

This little temple on a hillock houses the altars of Devi (Malanada Bhagavathi) and Kaduthaswamy notwithstanding a trident and a light. Devotees offer unique pujas and coconuts which as opposed to basic practice, are not broken, but rather simply moved onto the ground. The entryway of the hallowed place dependably stays shut and different offerings exhibited incorporate betel leaves, turmeric powder, silk material, saffron and cash. Kanikka, weapon shots and lit lights are the offered by the admirer to satisfy Malanada Bhagavathi.

The places of worship of Nagaraja (the lord of snakes) and Nagayakshi (Snake goddess) are on the right half of the temple of Malikappurathamma. Uncommon pujas including sarppa paattu are offered here to mollify the snakes and shield aficionados from the hurtful impacts of snakebites.

Kaduthaswamy and Karuppaswamy stand at the base of the Pathinettampadi (18 stages) and are the watchmen of the Sannidhanam. They are dwarapalakas, guaranteeing that the sacred steps are not contaminated by explorers who don't experience the rigors of the 41-day forbearance and abstinence. Additionally they protect the devout from the dim spirits of the encompassing woodlands.

It is held that Kadutha was a valiant warrior who helped Pandalamraja (Lord Ayyappan's non-permanent father) beat his most despised foe Udayanan. Before long subsequently, Kadutha went with the Raja to Sabarimala to reproduce the Ayyappa temple and inevitably developed so joined to the Lord that he spent his remaining days in the temple and the abutting woods.

At the point when sage Parasurama set up a temple for Lord Dharma Sastha, there were no rooftop or compound dividers. He introduced just the symbol of Lord. After His incarnation, Dharma Sastha developed for the sake of Ayyappan and performed atonement to converge in the symbol. He converged in the icon with a Chin Mudra symbolizing the union of Jeevatma (mortals) with Parathma the everlasting.

Erumeli Sastha Temple

Erumeli Sastha temple, a vital meeting place enroute the journey to Sabarimala is exceptionally renowned. There is additionally a mosque close by. Ayyappas goes to Sabarimala in the wake of adoring at these two spots, which appears of an image of Hindu Muslim solidarity. The pioneers more often than not go to Sabarimala after pettathullal-a custom at Erumeli. The journey to Sabarimala without pettathullal and worship at aforementioned temples are not viewed as customary. Erumeli temple rests around 38 kiliometers south of Kottayam. The closest railroad station is Kottayam.

Pandalam Valiyakoyickal Temple

By, the King of Pandalam found an infant lying in the banks of waterway pampa. As the King had no beneficiary to succeed, the tyke was considered as a divine being given blessing and was in this manner named Ayyappa. So the child was raised as a ruler. One of the real occasions connected with the Makaravilakku celebration is the parade of the Thiruvabharam (heavenly adornments) of Lord Ayyappa from the Sastha temple at Pandalam. The closest town and railroad station is Chengannur (12 km). Different well known Sastha temples identified with Mandalakalam are Kulathupuzha Sastha temple, Achancoil Sastha temple and Aryankavu Sastha temple.

Legends and Stories

The Jewel Casket is carried on head from the genealogical home of the regal group of Pandalam to the Shrine on the day. A Garuda, the Brahaman kite, takes after this adornments conveying parade, floating about in the sky, After these decorations are worn on the Lord the winged animal circles the temple in the sky three times and vanishes. Energized by this sight the enthusiasts start to serenade "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa". A Star never found in the sky shows up upon the arrival of Makarajyothi day before the locating of the Jyoti. A Jyoti is seen for a little time on the peak demonstrating the vicinity of Swami Ayyappan gracing his enthusiasts.

The time came when Rajasekharan the ruler of Pandala, embraced father of Ayyappan likewise commended as Manikandan needed to part with the Lord. He said to his dad that He had chosen to go to the wilderness and that the lord would need to come to Him crossing slopes and rough unrefined courses. The lord communicated his sentiments of failure and requested direction. Ruler let him know that Garuda the awesome bird and vehicle of Lord Vishnu would escort him amid such visits.

The lord, amid such adventures would sit in transit crying Aiyo Appa a statement of sentiment great exhaustion. These two words joined and the name Ayyappan appeared, by story. Indeed, even today, when trimmings are being conveyed to the hallowed place from Pandala place, a hawk is unmistakably hovering over the gathering as an escort.

The Ayyappa icon inside of the Sannidhanam and venerated by millions, was initially cut out of stone, however the present picture of the god is a delightful symbol of Ayyappan in panchaloha, an amalgam five metals and around one and a half feet tall.

Significance

Each year, millions join upon Sabarimala regardless of position or ideology, with wreaths and irumudis, serenade paeans to Lord Ayyappa, bathe in blessed stream Pampa, and scale the eighteen stairs, wanting to get a look at Lord Ayyappa, the Dharmasastha.

The most appealing component of the Sri Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple is its mainstream attributes. Vavar, Ayappa's lieutenant, was a Muslim and is worshiped by a large number of aficionados. This common character of the temple makes it a standout amongst the most went to journey locales in India. The prevalence of the temple is such that it holds various records for the most went to journey site. Enthused devotees throng in thousands and serenade together 'Swamiye saranam Ayyappa'.

Cultural beliefs

Ayyappa was found on the banks of River Pampa. He was embraced tyke to Pandala King(Rajashekhara) and cured the almost totally senseless of Teacher's(Guru) child. Because of underhandedness controls of his stride mother, he went to woods and executed demoness Mahishi and came to kingdom riding on tiger for giving milk of tiger to his stride mother. After that he went to thick woodland and vanished. Upon the guidelines of Ayyappa, King fabricated sanctuary for Ayyappa in Sabarimalai. Sabarimalai implies Sabari-the give of Ayyappa and malai-the slope. Sabari, the follower of Ayyappa had turned into a slope for the spot of stay for Ayyappa.

There is otherworldly connection existed between Lord Ayyappa and Lord Saturn. In the wake of watching inconveniences brought about by Lord Shani to his devotees he recommended Ayyappa deeksha for 41+ days(mandalam) as solution for every one of the inconveniences of Lord Saturn. These 41+ days Lord Ayyappa enthusiasts encounter every one of the challenges to please Lord Saturn and achieve Lord Ayyappa Temple by wearing dark fabrics as the image of Lord Saturn.

At the point when Ayyappa learning war battling tactics (Kalari Vidya) under master panicker Instructors girl "Nila" fell in love with Lord Ayyappa and requested that wed her. In any case, Lord asylums to wed her by clarifying his misson as Bramhachari(bachelor) to execute evil spirit Mahishi.

Scientific Reasons

Humans show much interest in wearing colorful cloths in daily life. But, devotees of Lord Ayyapa wear unattractive black cloths.Exact reason is people will wear Ayyapa Mala in winter season(especially Karthika Masam) and black cloths will absorb heat and protects the body from cold climate. And black cloths will hide the people from wild animals at night when they travel in sabarimalai forest for seeing Ayyappan. Black color is favorite color for Lord saturn by wearing black cloths the Lord will be pleased and blessed the devotees.

People wear rudrakshas,Spatika, Tulasi, Sandal wood, Coral,Lotus beads as jewellery around the neck at the time of Ayyapa Deeksha. Rudrakshas will control anger and lowers Blood pressure. Tulasi beads lowers extra heat, Sandalwood beads will remove unwanted thirst from the body, Spatika(Crystal) beads will absorb toxins from the body, Coral beads makes uniform blood flow in body, Lotus beads will eliminate skin diseases from the body.

People will wear this Ayyapa Mala and continue it for 40+ days and reach Ayyappa temple in Kerala state. These 40+ days called as Mandala Deeksha and it is compared to 27 stars + 12 Zodiac signs + 9 Planets = 48 days. Internal meaning states that people who wear Ayyapa Mala need to overcome all the effects of stars, zodiac signs, planets and reach the lord with pure devotion. Many of the Ayurveda treatments also have a span of 41+ days. Devotees take deeksha for 41 days and start for the yatra to sabarimalai and return home with the mala and in total it would cover 48 days.

People who wear Ayyappa Mala will be respected by  all human beings by calling with the name of God as 'Swamy'. They bow to the people who wear Ayyappa Mala. This practices will remove Ego in one and shows the world in equal manner. People in deeksha shouldn't apply oil to hair, should not shave and lead simple life by quitting all bad habits in these 41+ days period which explain about leaving ego, pride and victory over them with self control. People need to wake up at 4AM in the morning which is called 'Bramha muhurta' where the brain cells can perform in higher magnitude and fills our body with new life force.

By litting camphor, the smoke arose from camphor will clear our sinus this is the main reason devotees worship Lord Ayyapan twice a day by litting camphor. Cold water baths have many medicinal benefits in winter and explains leaving worldly comforts by controlling mind to see the Lord.Leaving spicy,hot and salty tastes and eating nature food(sattvic food) which is easily digestible will raises immunity power and controls the mind and thought process. Preparing food by self and omitting outside food will explain good hygiene protecting from various contagious diseases which spreads in winter.

Walking with bear foot without using sandals will acts as treatment of acupuncture and controls blood pressure. It adopts the procedure before climbing the hill at sabarimalai temple. Sleeping on floor will relieve various ailments in body due to earth’s magnetic force.Performing Japas and Bajans with group of devotees and attending to meals offered by devotees will makes the person socially active by giving equal importance to people irrespective of caste, religion, race and social status.

Interesting Facts

• Lord Ayyappa was born to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu (Mohini Avatar) hence he is called as "Hariharasutan".
• He born wearing Mani( Jewel stone or bell) around his neck hence he is called as "Manikanta".
• The 18 steps to reach god are considered as Holy steps and indicates five senses, eight desires,3 behaviors, knowledge and ignorance. Act of crossing these steps is considered as sacred and bestows with self-realization.
• According to Buddhism, Ayyappa is form of Dharma-sastha.
• The original idol at sabarimalai temple was installed by Lord Parasurama.
• Sabarimalai hill was the place where Sabhari lived and Lord Rama visited.
• Makar Jyothi is a star which is worshiped by devotees as the form of Ayyappa on Makar Sankranthi day.
• Makara Vilakku is sacred fire which appears on the top of hills near by the temple.
• Thiruvaabharanam are the sacred gold ornaments of Ayyappa which are carried to temple before Makar sankranthi(around jan12th every year) and taken back to Pandalam temple after finishing of pilgrim season.Garuda (holy eagle) is the guardian of the ornaments.
• Sabarimalai temple officially uses K.J.Yesudas famous singer voice for 'Harivarasanam' song which was recited before closing the temple every day.'Ayyappa Suprabhatham' is another song used as wake up song for Lord.
• 'Nirajanam', Abhishekam with Ghee, Chanting Ayyappa names by taking Ayyappa Manadala Deeksha is sacred to get rid of bad influences of Lord Saturn. Hence he is called Shaneeshwaran Ayyappan.
• 'Irumudi' is the travelling kit of devotees which keeps worship articles such as ghee coconuts, sandal, vibhooti, jacket pieces with the wishes written on it.
• 'Aravana-payasam' is a sweet which is favorite to the Lord.
• 'Arddhasana' is the yogic sitting posture of the lord explaining he have no wife nor sons to sit on his laps. Some says it the posture of meditation with consciousness and observance. As Ayyappa, he is a bachelor but, as Manikanta he has 2 wives called Poorna and Pushkalamba.
• Names Of devotees according number of times they wear Ayyappa mala Kanni Swamy,Kathi Swamy,Ganta Swamy,Gada Swamy,Peru Swamy,Jyothi Swamy,Surya Swamy,Chandra Swamy,Trishula Swamy,Vishnu chakra Swamy,Shankadhara Swamy,Nagabharana Swamy,Srihari Swamy,Padma Swamy,Sri Swamy,Sri Sabari(Rathigiri) Swamy,Omkara swamy,Narikela Swamy(Guru).Only Guru can give mala to other devotees.

Rare facts

The travelers go up 'Neeli Malai', scale 'Appachi Medu' and reach Sabari Peetam. The principal, second and third year pioneers bringing toy bolts, toy clubs and toy swords are requested that store them at a spot, where a tremendous pipal tree stood.It is a decent numerous years since the tree has tumbled down.That was the tree which the Lord's bolt struck when he shot it to demonstrate the ruler Rajasekhara, the spot for the development of his sanctum as he had delighted in. That place past, the travelers stroll up to Sabarimalai, move up the Holy Eighteen Steps and achieve the Divine Presence.

Daily Puja Timings

Morning Puja

The Usual Puja Timings are as follows when the temple is open:
Temple opens at 03: 00 am.
Nirmalya Darshan is at 03:05 am.
Mahaganapati homam is at 03:15 am to 11:45 am.
Neyabhishekam from is at 03:15 am to 11:45 am.
Usha Puja (Morning puja) is at 07:30 am.
Uccha Puja (Afternoon Puja) is at 12:30 pm.
The Temple closes afternoon at 01:00 pm.

Evening Puja

In the evening Temple opens at 03:00 pm.
Deeparadhana (Evening puja) is at 06:30 pm.
Pushpa Abhishekam is at 07:00 pm.
Athazha Puja is at 11:00 pm.
Harivarasanam is at 11:30 pm.
The Temple closes for the day at 11:45 pm.

Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Calendar 2016 – 2017

The Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala is open for darshan only during certain specific periods in a year. Below are the dates on which the Sabarimala AyyappaTemple will remain open during 2016 – 2017. The temple is open for monthly pujas for five days from the first of Malayalam month on all months in year. Other days when the temple is open are for Sabarimala Shrine festival, Vishu, Ayyappa Idol installation anniversary puja, Onam puja, Sri Chitira Attam Thirunnal, two months during the Mandalam Pooja season (November – December) and finally during the Makaravilakku Puja (January) season.

January 2016 at Sabarimala

January 15, 2016 – Makaravilakku Puja
Temple open on all days till January 20, 2016
Temple closes at night on January 20, 2016

February 2016 at Sabarimala

February 13, 2016 to February 18, 2016 – Kumbha Masa Puja(The temple remains open for five days during the period.)

March 2016 at Sabarimala

March 13, 2016 to March 18, 2016 – Meena Masa Puja
March 13, 2016 to March 23, 2016 – Sabarimala Annual Temple Festival
March 23, 2016 – Painguni Festival and Special Arattu Puja

April 2016 at Sabarimala

April 10, 2016 – April 18, 2016 – Vishu and Medam month Puja and Darshan
April 14, 2016 – Vishu Kani Darshan at the Temple
April 18, 2016 – Vishu Festival Ends

May 2016 at Sabarimala

May 14, 2016 to May 19, 2016 – Edava Masa Puja(The temple remains open for five days during the period.)

June 2016 at Sabarimala

June 13 – Ayyappa Idol installation anniversary puja
June 14 – Ayyappa Idol installation anniversary day
June 14, 2016 to June 19, 2016 – Mithuna Masa Puja(The temple remains open for five days during the period.)

July 2016 at Sabarimala

July 15, 2016 to July 20, 2016– Karkidaka Masa Puja
The temple remains open for five days during the period.There is also a Niraputtari in this month and the date is decided by the Travancore Royal Family.

August 2016 at Sabarimala

August 16, 2016 to August 21, 2016 – Chinga Masa Puja(The temple remains open for five days during the period.)

September 2016 at Sabarimala

September 16, 2016 to September 21, 2016 – Kanni Masa Puja (The temple remains open for five days during the period.)
Sepember 12, 2016 to September 16, 2016 – Onam Puja.
Sepember 14, 2016 – Thiru Onam Puja

October 2016 at Sabarimala

October 16, 2016 to October 21, 2016 – Thulam Masa Puja (The temple remains open for five days during the period.)
October 29, 2016 to October 30, 2016 – Sri Chitira Attam Thirunnal

November 2016 at Sabarimala

November 16, 2016 – Mandala Kalam Starts – Shrine open for 41 days
Temple open on all days from November 15 evening.

December 2016 at Sabarimala

Temple open on all days till the night of December 26, 2016 on all days.
December 26, 2016 – Sabarimala Mandala Puja – Temple closes in the evening
December 30, 2016 – Temple opens for Makaravilakku.

January 2017 at Sabarimala

January 14, 2017 – Makaravilakku Puja
Temple open on all days till January 20, 2017
Temple closes at night on January 20, 2017.

On the above days the temple usually opens at 04:00 am and closes at 01:00 am and then opens again at 04:00 pm and closes at 11:00 pm.Neyyabhishekam takes place from 04:30 am to 11:30 am.During the peak seasons the timings might be altered to accommodate the large number of devotees.

Accessibility

Airport

Devotees can reach Thiruvananthapuram, Cochin and Nedumbassery via Air and from that point achieve Pampa by BUS/CAR/Personal Vehicle.

Railways

Devotees can touch base at Kottayam and Chengannur by Railway (Broad gage) and Punalur (Meter gage) and from that point by Bus to Pampa.

Road

Different Routes and Distance

Erumeli to Pampa Sarasthadam - (by means of Peroorthodu, Kalaketti, Azhuthayaar, Kallidam Kunnu, Azhuthamedu, Inchiparakotta, Kariyilamthodu, Karimala, Valiyanavattm-by stroll through rocky timberland. 47 KMs. (This is the sacred customary course)

Vandiperiyar(KK Road) to mount Estate(Vehicle) 8 KMs.

Mount domain to Sabarimala by walk. 11 KMs. (This course prohibits Pampa) (Now a days not very many travelers visit through this course. Prior to the opening of the Chalakkayam course great number of explorers utilized this course).

Temple Address

Sabarimala Temple,
Thriveni Bridge, Sabarimala,
Kerala, India, Pincode – 689713.