What Altered President Murmu’s Travel Plans to Sabarimala Temple?
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Synopsis
President Droupadi Murmu has adjusted her travel itinerary due to inclement weather, landing in Pramadom instead of Nilackal. This high-profile visit to the Sabarimala temple includes traditional rituals and restricted access for other pilgrims.
Key Takeaways
- The President's travel plans were altered due to adverse weather.
- She landed in Pramadom instead of Nilackal.
- Accompanied by Minister V.N. Vasavan, not the Governor.
- The visit includes traditional rituals at Sabarimala.
- Entry for other pilgrims is restricted during her visit.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 22 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu has made adjustments to her travel itinerary due to adverse weather conditions. After taking a helicopter from the state capital, she landed at a stadium in Pramadom, Konni on Wednesday. Initially, the helicopter was supposed to land at Nilackal, but due to the severe weather, it landed at Pramadom.
Additionally, in a shift from previous arrangements, Kerala Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar was not on board; instead, State Devasom Minister V.N. Vasavan accompanied President Murmu.
Upon arrival in Pramadom, she was greeted by local MP Anto Antony, along with legislators and senior officials.
Her convoy then proceeded to Pamba, the base of the Sabarimala temple.
At Pamba, after wearing the traditional 'irumudikettu' (sacred offering bundle), the President will make her way to the Sannidhanam (temple) in a special vehicle, escorted by police in a Gurkha vehicle.
While all pilgrims typically trek to the temple located atop the hill from Pamba, President Murmu will ascend in her designated vehicle.
At the temple, she will climb the sacred 18 steps while carrying the 'irumudikettu' and offer her prayers to Lord Ayyappa.
She will be welcomed at the Kodimaram Chuvadu (flag post area) by the chief priest, Tantri Kantar Mahesh Mohanar, who will perform a poornakumbham ritual in her honor.
After her scheduled darshan around noon, the President will rest at the guest house at Sannidhanam before returning to Thiruvananthapuram in the evening.
Later, she is expected to attend a dinner hosted in her honor by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar at a luxurious hotel in the state capital.
In light of this significant visit, entry for pilgrims to Sabarimala has been restricted. Devotees will not be allowed beyond Nilakkal until the President concludes her visit. As a mark of respect, the Travancore Devaswom Board plans to present the President with a carved idol of Lord Ayyappa made from kumbil wood.
President Murmu is set to return to New Delhi on October 24.
Point of View
The adjustments in President Murmu's travel plans underline the importance of flexibility in leadership roles, especially during unforeseen circumstances. This visit not only reflects her commitment to cultural traditions but also highlights the respect for the sanctity of the pilgrimage, ensuring the safety of all involved.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did President Murmu change her travel plans?
President Murmu changed her travel plans due to inclement weather conditions that affected the helicopter's landing site.
Who accompanied President Murmu on her visit?
State Devasom Minister V.N. Vasavan accompanied President Murmu instead of Kerala Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar.
What is the significance of the 'irumudikettu'?
The 'irumudikettu' is a sacred offering bundle carried by pilgrims, symbolizing devotion during the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
What rituals will President Murmu perform at the temple?
President Murmu will climb the sacred 18 steps and offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa, followed by a welcoming ceremony with a poornakumbham ritual.
When is President Murmu returning to New Delhi?
President Murmu is scheduled to return to New Delhi on October 24.
