Has President Murmu Delayed Her Visit to Sabarimala Due to India-Pakistan Tensions?
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Synopsis
As border tensions rise between India and Pakistan, President Droupadi Murmu's scheduled visit to the Sabarimala temple is postponed. This significant development has implications not only for the President's itinerary but also for pilgrims hoping to visit during that time. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation.
Key Takeaways
- President Murmu's visit to Sabarimala has been postponed due to national security concerns.
- The visit was initially planned for May 19.
- Pilgrims can still make bookings for visiting the temple on May 18 and 19.
- Sabarimala temple is situated in the Western Ghats at a height of 3,000 feet.
- Entry to the shrine is currently restricted for certain women.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 9 (NationPress) As tensions escalate along the India-Pakistan border, President Droupadi Murmu's anticipated visit to the renowned Sabarimala temple for prayers has been postponed, according to a senior temple official on Friday.
In an interview with IANS, P.S. Prasanth, the chief of the Travancore Devaswom Board, revealed that the President's visit, originally scheduled for May 19, has been deferred due to the current situation of heightened tensions.
"This visit has not been cancelled, merely postponed to a later date in light of the circumstances our nation is facing," he stated.
With this high-profile visit now on hold, the board has reopened virtual Q booking for May 18 and 19, dates that had previously been blocked following the initial scheduling of the President's visit. Therefore, pilgrims wishing to visit the temple on those dates can make pre-bookings," Prasanth added.
When President Murmu eventually makes her visit, it will mark the first occasion that any Indian President has prayed at this notable temple.
Located amidst the Western Ghats at an altitude of 3,000 feet, the revered Sabarimala temple requires a four-kilometer trek uphill from Pampa, which is about 100 kilometers from the capital of Kerala.
Currently, entry to this hilltop shrine is restricted for girls and women aged 10 to 50.
This temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, can only be accessed on foot from the Pampa River.
Traditionally, pilgrims undertake a rigorous 41-day penance before heading to the sacred shrine, which includes going barefoot, wearing a black dhoti or top, and adhering to a strict vegetarian diet.
Each pilgrim carries an 'Irumudi' on their head, a prayer kit containing coconuts that are broken just before ascending the 18 steps to the shrine.
Without this, no one may step onto the sacred 18 steps at the ‘Sannidhanam’.
Throughout the years, some practices at the temple have evolved.
Whereas the temple used to open only in the latter half of November and close around mid-January, it is now open for several days at the beginning of each Malayalam month.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the delicate balance between national security and cultural practices. The postponement of President Murmu's visit underscores the importance of prioritizing the nation's safety above ceremonial engagements. This decision, while disappointing for many, reflects a responsible approach to governance in challenging times.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was President Murmu's visit to Sabarimala postponed?
The visit was postponed due to escalating tensions on the India-Pakistan border, prioritizing national security.
When was President Murmu's visit originally scheduled?
The visit was originally scheduled for May 19.
What is Sabarimala temple known for?
Sabarimala temple is known as a sacred site dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, requiring a rigorous pilgrimage.
Are women allowed to enter the Sabarimala temple?
Currently, entry is restricted for girls and women between the ages of 10 and 50.
What is the significance of the Irumudi carried by pilgrims?
The Irumudi is a prayer kit that includes coconuts, which are broken before climbing the sacred 18 steps to the shrine.
