Two Lakh Devotees Experience 'Divine Illumination' at Sabarimala Temple
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Synopsis
On January 14, two lakh pilgrims gathered at Sabarimala Temple for the celestial light sighting, marking a significant event during the festival season. The temple, located in the Western Ghats, attracts devotees who undertake a 41-day penance before the pilgrimage.
Key Takeaways
- Record attendance of two lakh pilgrims at Sabarimala.
- Celestial light sighting is a key event of the festival.
- Sabarimala Temple is located in the Western Ghats.
- Pilgrims perform a 41-day penance before visiting.
- Access to the temple is limited to foot traffic.
Sabarimala, Jan 14 (NationPress) An astounding two lakh devotees gathered at the Sabarimala temple on Tuesday evening to witness the divine illumination that emerged on the horizon.
This remarkable sighting of the celestial light, which appears three times, is the most significant event during the two-month festival season that commenced in November.
The revered Sabarimala temple, perched atop a hillock, saw pilgrims waiting at various points in and around the temple town since morning, eager to catch a glimpse of the Makara Villaku.
At precisely 6:44 p.m., the celestial light made its first appearance, followed swiftly by two additional sightings, causing the temple town to erupt in joyous chants of “Swamiya Saranayyappa”.
ADGP S. Sreejith, who oversaw security around the temple town, reported that close to two lakh pilgrims were present, and the situation remained well-managed.
“We noticed that pilgrims from other South Indian states outnumber those from our own state. Our responsibility concludes once the last pilgrims depart after witnessing the celestial light,” he stated.
Situated amid the Western Ghats at an altitude of 914 metres above sea level, the Sabarimala temple is located four kilometres uphill from Pamba in the Pathanamthitta district, approximately 100 km from the state capital.
Access to the temple is restricted to foot traffic from the Pamba River, and it does not permit the entry of women who have reached puberty.
Traditionally, before embarking on the pilgrimage to this sacred shrine, a devotee observes an intense 41-day penance, which entails going barefoot, donning a black dhoti, and adhering to a strict vegetarian diet. Every pilgrim carries an 'Irumudi', a sacred prayer kit composed of coconuts that must be broken just before ascending the 18 steps at the 'Sannidhanam'. Without this kit, no one is permitted to ascend the holy steps.
