Mandala Puja at Sabarimala: A Sacred 41-Day Pilgrimage

September 11, 2025 , , ,

 

Mandala Puja is one of the most significant rituals at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, marking the culmination of a 41-day austerity period observed by devotees of Lord Ayyappa. Alongside Makara Vilakku, it forms the spiritual backbone of the temple’s annual calendar.

Mandala Puja 2025 Date

  • Begins: First day of Vrishchikam (Malayalam month) – November 16, 2025
  • Ends: Mandala Puja Day – December 27, 2025

Spiritual Significance

  • Mentioned in various Puranas, Mandala Puja is believed to transform destiny, fulfill desires, and deepen spiritual connection.
  • The ritual symbolizes discipline, devotion, and inner purification.
  • Devotees chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” throughout the period.

Austerity Rules (Vratham)

  • Begins with wearing the Mala (sacred garland).
  • Follow strict celibacy, vegetarian diet, and abstain from worldly pleasures.
  • Dress in black or blue to signify equality and simplicity.
  • Daily prayers, temple visits, and chanting are essential.

Temple Rituals

  • Neyyabhishekam (ghee offering) and Kalashabhishekam performed by Tantri.
  • Idol adorned with Thanga Angi (golden attire).
  • Evening Athazha Puja and Harivarasanam mark the temple’s closure.
  • Thiruvabharanam procession begins before Makara Vilakku.

Women Devotees

  • Only girls below 10 and women above 50 are permitted.
  • They are respectfully referred to as Malikapuram, symbolizing purity and devotion.

Pilgrimage Tradition

  • Many devotees also visit Guruvayur Krishna Temple after Sabarimala darshan, completing a spiritual circuit.

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