Vrishchikam Month: A Season of Devotion and Discipline

September 11, 2025 , , ,

 

Vrishchikam, the eighth month in the Malayalam calendar, marks the beginning of the Mandala Kalam, a 41-day period of austerity and worship, especially dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. It’s a time when temples across Kerala come alive with festivals, music, and spiritual observances.

Spiritual Significance

  • Begins with Vrischika Sankranti, when the Sun enters Scorpio (Vrischika Rashi)—a time believed to recharge spiritual energy.
  • Associated with discipline, purification, and inner transformation.
  • Marks the start of Mandala Vratham, observed by devotees of Sabarimala Ayyappa Swamy.

Rituals & Rules

  • Mandala Vratham:
    • Begins on Vrishchikam 1 and continues for 41 days.
    • Devotees wear mala (sacred garland) and follow strict celibacy, vegetarianism, and daily puja routines.
    • Dress in black or blue, symbolizing humility and detachment.
  • Vrischika Sankranti Rituals:
    • Snana (holy bath) at sunrise
    • Surya Puja and Vishnu Puja
    • Daan (charity)—especially food, clothes, and money to the needy

Major Festivals

Festival Name

Date (2025)

Highlights

Mandala Puja

December 27, 2025

Culmination of 41-day vratham at Sabarimala

Vrischikolsavam

Nov 28 – Dec 6

Grand festival at Poornathrayeesa Temple

Vrischika Mahotsavam

Nov–Dec

Celebrated at Oachira Parabrahma Temple

Temple Visits & Celebrations

  • Sabarimala Temple:
    • Open throughout Vrishchikam for Mandala Kalam
    • Lakhs of devotees undertake pilgrimage with strict vratham
  • Sri Poornathrayeesa Temple, Thripunithura:
    • Hosts Vrischikolsavam, featuring Panchari Melam, Kathakali, and Ezhunnallippu
  • Oachira Parabrahma Temple, Kollam:
    • Celebrates Vrischika Mahotsavam, linked to the legend of Akavoor Chathan and the divine bull

Post a Comment

No comments

Subscribe to: Post Comments ( Atom )