Key Takeaways:
- Sabarimala temple reopened for the annual Sabarimala Makaravilakku festival with rituals led by Tantri Mahesh Mohanar and Melshanthi E.T. Prasad.
- Mallikappuram Melshanthi Manu Nampoothiri led the procession; devotees climbed the 18 holy steps after the lamp was lit.
- The Mandala festival had concluded earlier; darshan is scheduled through 19 January with final rituals on 20 January.
Sabarimala reopened its gates on Tuesday as preparations advanced for the annual Makaravilakku festival, authorities confirmed. The ritual lamp was lit in a brief ceremony that marked the start of the temple’s festival period and allowed devotees to begin the traditional climb to the sanctum.
Sabarimala Makaravilakku festival begins with traditional lamp lighting
The morning ceremony at Sabarimala was conducted under the supervision of Tantri Mahesh Mohanar. Melshanthi E.T. Prasad performed the principal duties and lit the lamp that signals the resumption of darshan during the festival season. Mallikappuram Melshanthi Manu Nampoothiri led a procession that opened the path for devotees.
Following the lamp lighting, Ayyappa devotees climbed the customary 18 steps to complete their darshan. Temple officials said the event proceeded without incident and in accordance with ritual protocol. The Mandala festival had concluded earlier, and officials noted the transition to the Makaravilakku observances was carried out in a planned sequence.
Timetable and final rituals as festival progresses
Authorities provided a schedule for devotees: Makaravilakku falls on 14 January, and darshan will be available through 19 January until 11pm. On 20 January, final ceremonial rites will be conducted, including a visit by the representative of the Pandalam royal family. After those rites are completed, the temple will close its access at 6.30am.
Temple management urged pilgrims to observe the rules and maintain decorum at all times. Security measures and crowd management plans remain in place to ensure safe passage on the traditional route and at the hill shrine. Officials asked devotees to follow guidance from temple staff and local authorities regarding timings and movement during peak hours.
Devotee turnout and local arrangements
Sabarimala traditionally draws large numbers of pilgrims for Makaravilakku, and local authorities have made logistical arrangements for accommodation, medical support and transport. Officials said teams were on standby to assist elderly or ailing pilgrims and to manage any emergencies. Environmental and sanitation teams are also active to keep the area clean throughout the festival period.
Religious leaders reiterated that the festival is a time for devotion and collective observance. The early rituals that opened the temple set the tone for the days ahead, as thousands make their pilgrimage to witness the Makaravilakku and complete their vows.
As the festival progresses, temple authorities will continue to update devotees on schedules and any operational changes. Pilgrims planning to visit in the coming days are advised to check official notices and follow instructions issued at the hill shrine.
