The Sabarimala Mandala pilgrimage, a significant religious event in Kerala, concluded on Thursday, drawing over 32.50 lakh pilgrims to the sacred temple.
Highlights of the Pilgrimage
- The Mandala Pooja was performed between 12:00 pm and 12:30 pm on Thursday, marking the culmination of the 41-day annual pilgrimage.
- The temple closed for the day with the traditional singing of Harivarasanam and will reopen on December 30 at 5 pm for the Makaravilakku festival, which is scheduled for January 14.
Record Attendance
- By December 25, a total of 32,49,756 pilgrims visited the temple, marking an increase of 4,07,309 from the previous year’s count of 28,42,447 for the same period.
- Among these, 5,66,571 pilgrims utilized the spot booking facility, with 5,000 slots reserved for December 25 and 26.
Notable Events and Arrangements
- On December 25, the Thangaanki procession reached the Sannidhanam (the temple sanctum), attracting a large number of devotees. By noon on December 26, 19,968 pilgrims arrived through the virtual queue and spot booking, including 4,106 spot bookings.
- The Pullumedu route saw an increase in footfall, with 74,764 pilgrims taking this path compared to 69,250 last year during the same period.
Looking Ahead
The temple is set to reopen on December 30 to prepare for the Makaravilakku festival, a major event that draws lakhs of devotees from across the country.
The successful completion of the Mandala pilgrimage, with record-breaking numbers, highlights the continued spiritual significance of Sabarimala and the meticulous arrangements ensuring darshan for all devotees.