Vrishchikam Month: A Season of Devotion and Discipline
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
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