Sabarimala Rituals Explained – Major Poojas & Offerings to Lord Ayyappa

 

Major Pujas at Sabarimala Temple

Neyyabhishekam

  • Most sacred offering to Lord Ayyappa using ghee-filled coconuts
  • Begins at 4:00 AM and continues till Ucha Pooja (1:00 PM)
  • Pilgrims collect ghee after bathing in Bhasmakkulam, and offer it at the Sree Kovil
  • Symbolizes the merging of jeevatma (ghee) with paramatma (Lord Ayyappa)
  • Empty coconuts are offered into the aazhi (sacred fire)
  • Adiyashistam Neyyu is available for those without coconuts

Padi Pooja

  • Worship of the 18 holy steps (Pathinettampadi)
  • Performed on select evenings after Pushpabhishekam
  • Steps are decorated with flowers, silk cloths, and lamps
  • Concludes with aarathi by the Tantri

Udayasthamana Pooja

  • Worship from sunrise to sunset
  • Includes 18 poojas, 15 before noon, and 45 Kalasabhishekams
  • Conducted from Nirmalyam to Athazha Pooja
  • Seeks fulfillment of devotees’ wishes

Kalasams & Special Rituals

Sahasrakalasam

  • Ritual using 1000 sacred pots filled with divine elements
  • Performed as per Tantric and Agama Shastras
  • Invokes blessings for universal well-being

Ulsavabali

  • Dedicated to Bhoothaganams (divine attendants)
  • Begins with Paani sound, followed by Ulsava Bali Thooval (sprinkling cooked rice)
  • Includes Thidambu procession of the deity
  • Held during annual festival

Abhishekams & Offerings

Pushpabhishekam

  • Floral shower on Lord Ayyappa
  • Flowers used: Lotus, Chrysanthemum, Arali, Tulsi, Jasmine, Bilva leaves
  • Advance booking required; cost: ₹10,000

Ashtabhishekam

  • Eight sacred items used:
    • Vibhuti, Milk, Honey, Panchamrutam, Tender Coconut Water, Sandalwood Paste, Rosewater, Water
  • Symbolizes purification and devotion

Kalabhabhishekam

  • Strengthens the chaithanya (spiritual energy) of the deity
  • Includes Kalabhakalasa Pooja and Kalabhakalasabhishekam with sandalwood paste
  • Performed during Ucha Pooja

Laksharchana

  • Chanting of 100,000 divine names in group worship
  • Concludes with Brahmakalasam Abhishekam before Ucha Pooja

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