Sabarimala Begins Construction of New Bhasmakulam ; Know More
Pathanamthitta: Sabarimala is set to witness the construction of a new Bhasmakulam (sacred pond) at the Sannidhanam. The ceremony marking the beginning of construction was jointly inaugurated Tomorrow by Travancore Devaswom Board President P.S. Prashanth and Sabarimala Thantri Kandarar Rajeeva between 8:30 and 9:30 AM.
A New Sacred Pond Behind the 18th Step
The new Bhasmakulam is being constructed behind the grand footpath in front of the 18th step, as part of the Sabarimala Master Plan. Designed with a width of 15.72 meters, length of 21 meters, and a total depth of 13 feet (with 5 feet allocated for ritual bathing), the pond will have access steps on all sides. It will also be equipped with modern water purification systems to maintain hygiene and sanctity.
ICL Fincorp CMD Adv. K.G. Anil Kumar is offering the new Bhasmakulam as a devotional contribution. The existing pond located on the western side of the Sannidhanam will continue to be used by pilgrims during the construction period.
Historical Journey of Bhasmakulam
1909: The original, oldest Bhasmakulam was replaced with a new pond,
1987: Another Bhasmakulam was constructed as part of major infrastructure development around the Sannidhanam.
2025: Now, nearly four decades later, a new Bhasmakulam is being built to replace the aging one from 1987 and to better serve the needs of millions of devotees who visit the temple annually.
Pilgrims also follow the tradition of bathing in the Bhasmakulam before performing offerings like Neeyabhishekam, and some seasoned devotees plant coconut saplings after their ritual bath, a practice followed by those coming for over 18 years.
Strict guidelines are in place to protect the purity of the Bhasmakulam. The use of oil, soap, or any artificial cleansing agents is prohibited. Devotees are also advised not to leave clothing behind and are warned against allowing children to enter the pond unsupervised.