The Sabarimala temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is located in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. Sabarimala Temple is not only one of India’s popular pilgrimage destinations, but it is also one of the most visited temples in India. It is the second largest shrine located in the 18 hills of the Western Ghat ranges of Pathanamthitta District. According to mythology, it is believed that he was born out of the union between Lord Shiva and the mythical Mohini, who is also regarded as an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Ayyappa is also called as ‘ Hariharan Puthiran’ which means the son of both Hari or Vishnu and ‘ Haran’ or Shiva.
There are various interesting facts and Sabarimala stories associated with the temple that are worth reading. Here are a few you will love!
- The practice of celibacy by the devotees has been in place for 1500 years:
Would you believe it if we told you that Lord Ayyappa, the deity worshiped at Sabarimala Temple, is a Brahmachari and a celibate? The history of Sabarimala temple reveals that the male devotees are opposed to the idea of letting the women belonging to the menstrual age group between 10 and 50 years to enter inside the temple. Devotees have observed this rule in the temple for the last 1500 years.
- The temple is situated in the exact location where Lord Ayyappa killed the demon Mahishi:
The temple is linked to Lord Ayyappa’s history because it is supposed to have been built on the location where he killed Mahishi, a buffalo-faced demon and sister of the demon Mahishasura.
- The temple is surrounded by 18 hills and has 18 steps of stairs:
Even if you have visited the temple, you might not have noticed that the temple is surrounded by 18 hills. There are 18 stairs to climb to reach the Sabarimala Temple. The first five steps are representative of the five senses. The next eight steps represent the eight negative traits, which include lust and anger. The three Gunas are represented by the next three steps. The last two steps represent knowledge and ignorance, respectively. It says that by climbing these 18 steps, devotees can become separated from their material desires. This mystery about the number 18 has made Sabarimala Temple even more interesting.
- The temple got its name from The Ramayana:
You’ve probably heard of the Ramayana character Shabari. According to mythology, Shabari lived among the 18 hills where the temple is located, leading to the temple being known as Sabarimala Temple
- Devotees need to follow a strict fasting ritual before entering the temple:
The rituals are quite strict and followers must strictly follow the fasting rituals. All the devotees who are to visit the famous Hindu shrine of Lord Ayyappa are expected to follow a strict 41-day fasting prior to the pilgrimage. This fasting ritual is known as Vratham. For example, devotees have to consume only vegetarian food, practice celibacy, sleep on the floor, and avoid cutting nails or hair. In addition, they should wear a blue or black dress.
- Pilgrims follow the ritual called Neyyabhishekam:
Pilgrims have to do a significant ritual known as Neyyabhishekam, which includes pouring sacred ghee on the idol of Lord Ayyappa. The ritual represents the soul’s union with the divine. The ghee is carried by devotees in handwoven cotton bags known as Pallikettu or Irumudi.
- Dakshina is worth crores of rupees:
Sabarimala Temple is one of India’s richest temples. Another lesser-known fact about the Lord Ayyappa Temple is that the estimated dakshina is around Rs. 52,00,000.
- The Temple Has An Official Song:
Every day before the temple closes a melodious song is sung. It has 108 words and 8 stanzas. This song was sung by Shrinivas Iyer in front of Shri Ayappa for many years. The tradition is continued by people who visit the temple and not a single day goes without this song being sung. The song is called ‘Harivarasanam’
- World’s Largest Pilgrimages.:
Being one of the largest pilgrimage destinations in the world, the temple is visited by one hundred million pilgrims every year. It is no doubt one of the most popular religious tourist destinations in India and the world.
- Prasadam:
It is the food which is first presented to Lord Ayappa and then to the devotees after all the prayers and rituals are complete. The food is distributed to all the devotees who visit the temple. Aravanapayasam and appam which are prepared using ghee, rice, jaggery and sugar are served as prasadam in the temple. The prasadam that is served is a local delicacy that is enjoyed by the people of Kerala and is eaten by all devotees, priests and vendors nearby.
Conclusion:
These are some of the facts about Ayyappa Temple, one of Kerala’s most famous destinations for pilgrimage.Visiting the temple is worthwhile as it brings people closer to God. If you are looking for tranquility and the blessings of Lord Ayyappa, go to Kerala and witness the power of faith.
