Lord Ayyappan: The Complete Guide to the Divine Deity of Sabarimala, Kerala
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- Jan 22
- 18 min read
Updated: 21 hours ago
Introduction to Lord Ayyappan
Ayyappan (also known as Ayyappa, Dharma Sastha, Manikandan, and Hariharaputra) is one of the most revered Hindu deities, worshipped primarily in South India, particularly in Kerala. He embodies truth and good conduct and is described as the son of Shiva and Mohini (the feminine incarnation of Vishnu), thereby forming a bridge between Shaivism and Vaishnavism. As a result of his divine birth, he is a singular god who represents the combined powers of both Vishnu and Shiva.
The name Ayyappan is derived from the two Tamil and Malayalam words "ayyan" and "appan" which literally means father, thus he would be referred to as a father-lord. He is also known as Hariharaputra, which means the son of Harihara (Hari represents Vishnu and Hara represents Shiva). The Sabarimala Temple, located in Kerala, is a shrine dedicated to Ayyappan and attracts millions of pilgrims each year, making it one of the most prominent pilgrimage destinations in the world.
The Divine Birth of Lord Ayyappan
The Legend of Mahishi
The demoness Mahishi, sister of Mahishasura, sought revenge against Goddess Durga for killing her brother. She performed very difficult penances to gain a wish from Lord Brahma, who told her she would only be killed by a child born from both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. This made her very confident, as she thought that couldn't happen according to the natural laws of the cosmos, and thus she terrorized the entire universe while causing the gods to suffer greatly.
The Sacred Union
Lord Vishnu took the form of the female goddess named Mohini to protect the universe from Mahishi's evil deeds. Because of the beauty of Mohini, Lord Shiva fell in love with her, and together they gave birth to a son named Hariharaputra (Ayyappan). As the combined son of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, Ayyappan had the powers of both gods and was created to restore dharma and defeat evil.
Lord Ayyapan – The Divine Child of Destiny
Infant Ayyappan was found on the banks of the Pampa River by King Rajasekhara of Pandalam while he was out on a bird hunt. The king was a childless man, having prayed to Lord Shiva to give him an heir, and he was incredibly happy to be able to adopt this child of God. The child also had a golden (bronze) bell (mani), which hung from his neck (kandan), so therefore he became known as Manikandan.
Lord Ayyappan: Life, Mission, and Victory Over Evil
Lord Ayyappan is a significant deity in Hinduism, revered as a symbol of dharma, discipline, and spiritual strength. He represents the union of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva (Hariharaputra), and the way he lives his life and what he represents reflect the victory of righteousness over evil and ego.
Divine Origin of Lord Ayyappan
Lord Ayyappan (Manikandan) exhibited incredible intellect and superhuman powers from an early age while he lived as a prince at the Pandalam Palace. Lord Ayyappan (Manikandan) was extremely talented at martial arts as well as ancient scriptures, and his guru was shocked by the heights of both his genius and divine gifts. When it was time for Lord Ayyappan (Manikandan) to offer his guru dakshina, he used his gifts to grant his guru's blind and mute son the ability to see and speak; this was an indication of Lord Ayyappan (Manikandan)'s divine nature.
The Queen's Plot Against Lord Ayyappan
Following the adoption of Manikandan (Lord Ayyappan), the Queen subsequently gave birth to a biological son named Raja Rajan. When the King decided that he would crown Manikandan (Lord Ayyappan) as his heir, the Queen was persuaded to plot against Manikandan (Lord Ayyappan) by her crafty Diwan (Minister). Acting out her charade of being very sick and claiming that only tiger’s milk could cure her, she hoped to have Manikandan (Lord Ayyappan) killed in the treacherous jungles where he would have to go to find the tiger’s milk.
The Battle with Mahishi
Lord Ayyappan took up the challenge of the mission, entered the forest, and battled with the demoness Mahishi in a great fight before he was victorious. Knowing he was destined for this purpose by God Ayyappa, he accomplished his task to save the Divine and re-establish Dharma. Mahishi, defeated by Lord Ayyappan (Manikandan), reverted to her true form of beauty, wherein she desired to marry Ayyappa. However, as a celibate god committed to Dharma, Ayyappa rejected her and destroyed her.
The Triumphant Return of Lord Ayyapan
Lord Indra and the other gods changed themselves into tigers and tigresses to escort Lord Ayyapan back to his father’s kingdom. Lord Ayyapan rode into the palace on a tiger, followed by a herd of tigresses. The whole kingdom was astounded, and the king knew that his adoptive son possessed divine powers.
The Establishment of Sabarimala Temple
The Divine Instruction
After the completion of his earthly mission, Lord Ayyappan revealed his true identity as an incarnation of God and fulfilled the wish of the King to construct a temple in his honor. To show this, Ayyappa shot an arrow, which landed on Mount Sabari and indicated the location where the temple's shrine was to be built. This sacred location is now known as Sabarimala, where the Deity idol was sculpted and installed by Lord Parashurama during Makar Sankranti. The temple is situated in the magnificent Western Ghats of Kerala, surrounded by eighteen hills and dense forests. This makes Sabarimala a spiritually rewarding experience, but it also poses certain difficulties and challenges for pilgrims.
The Sacred Sabarimala Pilgrimage
The 41-Day Vratham (Mandala Deeksha)
There must be a 41-day preparation called Mandala Vratham (Ayyappa Deeksha). This 41-day period is an important spiritual period where those who undertake the pilgrimage vow to live a Sattvic lifestyle while being disciplined and devoted, and until the end will practise spiritual austerity.
The significance of the 41 days: The 41 days represent a spiritual rebirth, symbolised by the 40 weeks of gestation in a mother’s womb. It is during these 41 days of Deeksha that the devotee will be purified to enable him to commune with Lord Ayyappa.
Mala Dharana (Wearing the Sacred Garland)
The Mala Dharana (wearing of the mala) is the first part of the Vratham. The mala can be made from either Tulsi or Rudraksha. It must be worn before starting the Vratham. Ideally, the best mala should be placed on the body by a Guruswami (someone who has gone to the Sabarimala temple 18 times minimum) or the mala has to be placed on a person by their mother and father and/or from a temple.
Vratham Guidelines & Practices
Dietary Restrictions:
Maintain a vegetarian Sattvic diet
Avoid all meat, fish, eggs, and intoxicants
Refrain from using onions/garlic (these items are deemed to have aphrodisiac qualities)
Do not smoke or chew betel leaf
Consume only freshly prepared, home-cooked food
Steer clear of pre-packaged goods
Daily Practices:
Bathe early in the morning after sunrise as well as at sunset, and follow this with a small pooja and chanting of Saranams
Apply Vibhuti (sacred ash), Kumkum, or Chandana to the forehead before sleep and upon awakening
Sleep on the floor without using a pillow
Go barefoot (except during work, where this may be impractical)
Do not cut one's hair or nails throughout the period of the Vratham
Follow Brahmacharya and practise celibacy
Spiritual Discipline:
Pray and meditate every day
Recite "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa" regularly (at least 108 times)
Participate in Ayyappa Bhajans and temple congregational worship
Demonstrate patience, restraint from anger, and avoidance of harsh language
All male devotees should be called "Ayyappa" or "Swami."
All people, regardless of religion or caste, should be treated equally
Dress Code:
Traditionally, black, blue, or saffron-colored attire is worn by devotees. Blue has become the most common color worn by devotees to indicate affiliation with Lord Ayyappa as (Neela Megha Shyamala), and black is worn by devotees for the purpose of mitigating the malefic effects of Saturn (Sani Dosha).
Preparing the Irumudi Kettu
The Irumudi Kettu is a small bag used while on pilgrimage that contains two separate compartments. The Munmudi, or the first compartment, contains all offerings to a deity, whereas the Pinmudi, or the back portion, contains personal items used throughout the pilgrimage.
The contents of the Munmudi:
Neithenga (Large Coconut, filled with Ghee) for Abhishekam
4 broken Coconuts (Vidalai Thenga)
Items that make up Panchamrutam (Jaggery, Cashew nuts, Raisins, Cardamom, Honey, Dates)
Camphor & Incense
Turmeric & Kumkum
Preparation of the Ghee Coconut:
Select a medium-sized coconut and thoroughly clean and polish it. Open one of the "eyes" of the coconut (the small hole). Empty out the water and plug the "eye" with a cork. Fill with only pure ghee during Kettunira (the ceremony just before leaving).
The Pilgrimage Journey
The festival of Erumeli Petta Thullal is a ceremonial dance. It tells of Lord Ayyappa's triumph over Mahishi, who represented evil. This date also marks the start of the pilgrimage's completion. Devotees apply sandalwood paste and ash to their bodies, wear orange berries attached to a leaf, and perform a ceremonial dance.
The Vavar Swamy Temple is where pilgrims offer their respect to Vavar. He was a Muslim warrior who was a close associate of Ayyappa. The Vavar Temple indicates harmony and oneness between different religions.
Devotees go to the Pampa River and take a dip in the river. This is said to cleanse them both spiritually and physically, removing their sins and purifying their spirits, before making the ascent to the temple.
The trek consists of an 8 km trek from Pampa to Sannidhanam (the sanctum). This trek goes through dense forests where the devotee learns that there are always going to be challenges in life, which should be faced with courage, slow and steady.
The Sacred 18 Steps (Pathinettampadi)
The eighteen holy steps to the Sabarimala temple are considered to be one of the most revered aspects of this pilgrimage. When first built, these steps were granite, but in 1985, they were changed to Panchaloha, a mixture of five metals: gold, silver, copper, iron, and tin.
Rules for Accessing the Steps • Only those who complete the 41-day vratham will be allowed access to the steps. • Devotees must carry the Irumudi on their heads while climbing the steps. • When climbing the steps, a devotee must begin with their right foot. • While climbing the steps, a devotee must chant the song, Pathinettam Padi. • A devotee will be permitted to use the steps two times during the pilgrimage; once when climbing and once when returning. • When descending the temple steps, devotees must walk backwards, facing the temple.
Spiritual Symbolism of Each Step
In brief, devotees' fundamental nature is explained through a continuum of experiences from the moment they enter the temple and across its four main segments.
The first five stages represent the "Panchendriyas" or the Five Senses: Sight, Sound, Smell, Taste, and Touch.
The next eight stages represent the "Ashtaragas" or the Eight Negative Emotions of Kama (Desire), Krodha (Anger), Lobha (Greed), Moha (Attachment), Madha (Pride), Matsarya (Unhealthy Competitiveness), Asuya (Jealousy), and Dhumbha (Boastfulness).
The next three stages represent the "Thrigunas" or the Three Qualities of Sathva (Purity), Rajas (Passion), and Thamas (Inertia/Dullness).
Finally, the last two stages represent "Vidya" (Knowledge) and "Avidya" (Ignorance).
By conquering the 18 aspects of human existence mentioned above, devotees can reach a realm where they are free from worldly attachment; thereby helping them to attain the required level of purification that allows them to experience the Divine Darshan or Presence of Lord Ayyappa.
Alternative Interpretations:
The 18 steps also symbolize:
The 18 Puranas (ancient Hindu scriptures)
The 18 weapons Lord Ayyappa mastered
The 18 hills surrounding Sabarimala (with the temple on the highest)
The 18 chapters of the Bhagavad Gita
Becoming a Guruswami Those who successfully ascend the Pathinettampadi eighteen times may plant a small coconut palm at Sannidhanam and assume the title of "Guruswami." Each Guruswami serves as a guide to novice Ayyappa devotees (Kanni Ayyappas) during their initial pilgrimage, instructing them on the rituals and behavioral standards they must observe. Temple Festivals and Important Dates
Mandala Pooja
The Mandala Kaalam, or Mandala pilgrimage season, lasts for 41 days, starting from November 18th (Vrishchikam 1st) through December 13th (Dhanu 11th) in the Malayali calendar. The conclusion of the Mandala vratham (vow) and the Mandala Pooja are celebrated during this time as well.
Makaravilakku (Makara Jyothi)
The most important event at Sabarimala takes place on January 14th, when the Makar Jyothi appears in the sky as a brilliant light over the temple entrance. This star appears three times and is believed to be a sign of divine favour. The Lord's idol is decorated with exquisite gems during this celebration.
Ulsavam
The festival lasts for ten days, starting from the day of raising the Temple Flag (Kodiyettam) at the beginning of the Malayalam month Meenam (March-April). Special poojas are performed, including Ulsavabali and Sree Bhootha Bali.
Ayyappa Jayanthi
The Divine Birth of Lord Ayyappan is celebrated globally every year on the full moon day (Panguni Uthiram) of the month of Panguni, which falls between mid-March and mid-April. There are numerous special abhishekams (prayer ceremonies) and special prayers performed.
Sacred Mantras and Prayers The Universal Ayyappa Mantra "Om Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa"
For devotees of Ayyappa, this mantra is the most important one to recite. 'Om' represents the eternal and universal sound of Brahman. 'Swamiye' conveys the concept of total surrender to your Supreme Lord. 'Saranam' means offering your shelter or safe place to your God. As a whole, it is a mantra of total surrender to Lord Ayyappa.
Other Important Mantras
Ayyappa Gayatri Mantra:
Om Bootha Nathaya Vidhmahe
Bava Nandhanaya Dheemahe
Tanno Sastha Prachodayaath
Hariharaputra Mantra:
Om Hariharaputraya Namah
A mantra honoring Ayyappa as the divine son of Vishnu and Shiva.
Dharma Sastha Mantra:
Om Dharmashastave Namah
Praising Ayyappan as the protector of dharma and righteousness.
108 Sarana Gosham
Devotees recite 108 different Saranams (Surrenders) to Lord Ayyappa, each of which emphasizes a unique aspect of Lord Ayyappa’s Divinity. The Recitation of the Saranams begins with:
Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Harihara Suthane Saranam Ayyappa
Kannimoola Ganapathi Bhagavaane Saranam Ayyappa
This practice is very powerful, as the Recitation creates great devotion and a strong spiritual bond between the devotee and Lord Ayyappa.
Loka Veeram Slokam
This is a powerful prayer chanted before beginning any Ayyappa worship:
Loka Veeram Mahaa Poojyam
Sarva Rakshakaam Vibhum
Paarvathee Hridayaanandham
Saasthaaram Pranamamyaham
Translation: "I bow to the hero of the world, the highly worshipped one, the protector of all, the one who brings joy to Mother Parvati's heart."
Full 108 Ayyappa Saranam (Saranam Ghosham)
Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Harihara Suthane Saranam Ayyappa
Kannimoola Ganapathi Bhagavaane Saranam Ayyappa
Sakthi Vadivelan Sodharane Saranam Ayyappa
Maalikappurathu Manjamathaave Saranam Ayyappa
Vavare Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Karuppanna Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Periya Kadutha Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Cheriya Kadutha Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Neelimala Thevane Saranam Ayyappa
Sabari Girisudane Saranam Ayyappa
Manikanda Saranam Ayyappa
Dharma Sastha Saranam Ayyappa
Kaliyuga Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhoothanatha Saranam Ayyappa
Kaliyuga Prathyaksha Deivame Saranam Ayyappa
Annadana Prabhuve Saranam Ayyappa
Apathbandhane Saranam Ayyappa
Rakshasamhara Moorthiye Saranam Ayyappa
Asuraripu Saranam Ayyappa
Veeradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Vana Priyane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakta Vatsalane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhava Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Moksha Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhava Bhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthajana Rakshakane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Pradhane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Harane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhaya Vimochane Saranam Ayyappa
Bhakthabhishta Varadane Saranam Ayyappa
Om Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Download the PDF of 108 Ayyappa Sarana Ghosham
Iconography and Symbolism
Physical Depiction
Ayyappan is normally portrayed as a young man riding or standing next to a Bengal tiger while carrying a bow and arrow. In addition to this, in certain portrayals, he may be depicted holding a sword and riding either an Indian elephant or a horse. Other representations depict Ayyappan in a yoga position, legs crossed and tied together with a yogapatta belted around his waist, along with a bell hung around his neck.
Symbolic Elements
This article will analyze the symbols used to convey Ayyappan's characteristics in light of these ideas.
The tiger symbolizes strength, bravery, and dominion over primal urges in tamed animals. Therefore, Ayyappa riding a tiger symbolizes that he has conquered his desires and excessive pride.
A bell worn around Ayyappa’s neck symbolizes the sound of Om (the energy of the universe) being heard and the emergence of spiritual consciousness.
The bow and arrow in the hands of Ayyappa represent his focus and ability to stay on track when trying to eliminate any evil from a distance.
His posture represents that Ayyappa is in the process of meditating, mastering himself, and attaining tranquillity, all of which lead to spiritual enlightenment.
The colors black and blue are also associated with Lord Shani (the original meaning of Saturn), making Ayyappa an excellent guardian for people who suffer from the effects of, and are under the influence of, Sani Dosha.
Religious Significance and Philosophy
Unity of Shaivism and Vaishnavism
Ayyappa is also called 'Hariharaputra,' showing the unity of the two different forms of Hinduism: Shaivism (the worship of Shiva) and Vaishnavism (the worship of Vishnu). Ayyappa's existence proves that both forms of Hinduism are meant to be together and represent two sides of the same god/truth.
Equality
The Sabarimala pilgrimage highlights and symbolizes equality among all people because, as pilgrims, they are all treated as equals by Ayyappa. Overall, they are addressed by Ayyappa or as 'Swami.' Therefore, all pilgrims are considered to be brothers. Pilgrims from different cultures, religions, and castes come to Sabarimala and show their devotion to Ayyappa.
Interfaith Harmony
As part of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, pilgrims worship at the Vavar Swami Mosque, a symbol of interfaith respect and a place of worship dedicated to Ayyappa's Muslim friend. The pilgrimage embodies the fundamentals of faith through interfaith respect.
Celibacy and Dharma
Lord Ayyappa is celibate and represents total devotion to dharma. He chose to seek enlightenment by avoiding pleasures associated with the physical body in order to teach others about self-discipline, focus, and doing what is right.
Benefits of Ayyappa Worship
Advantages of Spirituality:
• Mindsets and the bodies of individuals can be purified through an effective method known as a 41-day vratham. • To develop discipline in an individual that produces lasting changes through positive habits and self-control. • To experience a spiritual awakening that creates a path to higher consciousness. • To experience peace of mind through reduced levels of stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts. • Lord Ayyappa protects us from all evil, negative influences through an individual’s worship of Him.
Benefits of Materialism:
• To enhance one’s health through a Sattvic way of living. • To be successful in one’s endeavors due to having the blessings of following the righteous path. • To have family harmony due to our acts of devotion to Him. • To have offenses removed from one’s path through Lord Ayyappa’s hindrance removal.
Lord Ayyappa’s Control over the Influences of Saturn:
Lord Ayyappa is known for His great powers over the malefic and negative effects of Shani (planet Saturn). Through the worship of Him, He can relieve us of the suffering that results from an inopportune planetary position. This includes suffering associated with Sade Sati (the seven-and-a-half-year period of Saturn) and the planet Saturn’s afflictions.
Sacred Traditions and Women’s Devotion
In the past, women of childbearing age (roughly 10 to 50) were not allowed to enter the Sabarimala temple due to Lord Ayyappa's vow of celibacy and faith to practice only spiritual discipline. However, since late-20th-century India, the ban on menstruating-aged women has been challenged and debated through legal and social pressures. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India ruled that the prohibition on female visitors to Sabarimala was discriminatory and therefore should be lifted; however, the matter remains complicated because it may involve issues of tradition, religion, the right of individuals to freedom from discrimination, women’s rights, and the social practices governing women's behaviour.
Women may already participate in the worship of Ayyappa:
• All women who are below the age of 10 and after menopause have always been permitted • Women may observe vratham in their homes for the time being • Women assist their male relatives/devotees in their attempts to make the pilgrimage • Women may visit other temples of Ayyappa outside of Sabarimala • Female devotees perform poojas or mantras as part of their practices
Lord Ayyappan in Modern Times
Worldwide Presence
Ayyappa temples today span continents, including:
• India – mainly in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana • United States – multiple temples located in Texas, California, New York • Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Gulf Region – expanding numbers of devotees
Annual Pilgrim Statistics
Ayyappa devotees from around the world make the pilgrimage to Sabarimala each year; during the peak season, between 40 to 50 million pilgrims participate in this historic religious event, ranking alongside the Kumbh Mela as one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Cultural Influence
Lord Ayyappa has had a tremendous impact on South India's culture: • Hundreds of bhajans (devotional songs) have been composed about him • Numerous movies and documentaries feature legends about him • He inspired many charitable organizations to provide social services based on Lord Ayyappa's teachings • Many communities come together during the Mandala season • Each year, countless devotee groups provide blood donations and other charitable support to their fellow devotees
Practical Guide for First-Time Pilgrims (Kanni Ayyappas)
How to Prepare for Irumudi
Preparation Timeline
3 Months Prior to Journey: • Find Guruswami to mentor you • Learn about vratham rules and expectations • Start mental and physical preparation
41 Days Prior to Journey:
• Observe Mala Ceremony on a specific day • Follow strict vratham protocols • Practice sleeping on the floor without a pillow • Continue to pray daily and repeatedly chant
1 Week Prior:
• Prepare Irumudi kettu contents
• Arrange to get to Kerala with enough time
• Collect all offering items
• Let family know you're making the trip
Night Before the Journey:
• Complete Kettunira Ceremony • Pack everything to be placed inside Irumudi kettu properly • Ask for blessings from your Guruswami and/or family
Items Needed to Bring on Trip:
• Two sets of clothing (black/blue/saffron) • All contents needed for Irumudi kettu • Trial toiletries (no scent) • Flashlight and basic first aid kit • Drinking water & light snack for trek • Prayer book with mantras and/or songs
Etiquette for the Journey
• To continuously chant "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa"
• Assist those traveling with you (other pilgrims), especially the elderly and children
• To keep the forest clean and the temple area clean
• Follow all protocols of the temple closely
• Respect local customs and local traditions
• To show love and kindness to all of creation
Suggested Ritual for Mala Removal After the Pilgrimage
• At home, before your pooja place, take off the mala after you offer harathi with prasadam and distribute it to family • Remove the mala in front of your Guruswami with proper ceremony • Bring home sacred ash and prasadam from the temple • Continue daily prayer and devotion • Tell others about your experience and inspire them to take this journey • Make plans to return for the yatra each year or whenever Lord Ayyappa calls
Ayyappa Temples Beyond Sabarimala
Large Ayyappa Temples
Achan Kovil Temple in Kerala – This temple is known as the birthplace of Lord Ayyappa and has its own special rituals.
Aryankavu Temple in Kerala – This temple is one of the oldest temples in the Kerala region and has beautiful architecture as well as being peaceful.
Kulathupuzha Temple in Kerala – This temple is known as (Vadakku Sabarimala) Northern Sabarimala, where devotees worship the Child Ayyappa.
Pandalam Palace in Kerala – This was actually where Manikandan was raised.
There are many historical artifacts inside the palace. Hari Hara Kshetram Temple in Texas, USA – One of the only temples outside of India that has been through the sanctified process of having 18 holy steps. It has also been a place for people of North America to worship.
Conclusion: The Eternal Message of Lord Ayyappan
The teachings and life examples set forth by Lord Ayyappan will be timeless sources of both wisdom and inspiration for modern society. Lord Ayyappan's birth is an example of how many different spiritual paths may come together as one. He demonstrated how powerful it can be to follow a disciplined lifestyle based on righteousness and self-control. His followers can come from all ethnic backgrounds, as well as from all kinds of social, economic, and religious divides.
Going on pilgrimage to Sabarimala Temple is more than just a physical trip to a temple; rather, it is an inner journey for your soul to reach its fullpotential with the supreme being (God). The doing of the 41 days of prasadam, the taking of a long hike through the forests, and the climbing of the 18 sacred steps will show you what it takes to achieve your goal - to be an accomplished spiritual seeker.
Lord Ayyappan's teachings on dharma (moral and proper conduct), equality, and spiritual discipline in relation to today's world of materialism and complexities caused from human indecision or immorality still apply today. Three of the most important lessons you will learn from being a devotee of Lord Ayyappan are that true strength is not so much in taking control over another person as it is to know how to take control over yourself, that true wealth is defined as your spiritual journey or growing spiritually through positive actions while you serve others, and that your greatest goal in life is to live a just life while serving your fellow humans.
"Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa" - This simple yet powerful phrase provides the foundation of an eternal search for the ultimate truth of your inner spiritual self through surrendering and devotion to Lord Ayyappan.
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