Sabarimala Prepares for Makaravilakku Amid Post-Mandala Challenges
The Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple closed its doors after the conclusion of the 41-day Mandala pilgrimage season. However, activities at Sannidhanam and Pampa remain intense as preparations begin for the Makaravilakku pilgrimage. After a two-day break, the temple will reopen on the 30th for Makaravilakku. A notable feature of this season is that a large number of pilgrims, comparable to the Mandala season, are expected to arrive within a much shorter period. The next two days are crucial for completing preparations.
Aravana Prasadam Issue
One of the major challenges during the Mandala season was the restriction on the distribution of Aravana prasadam due to low buffer stock. Ahead of the Makaravilakku opening, maximum stock must be prepared. The Devaswom Board has initiated necessary arrangements and issued strict instructions that all staff involved in Aravana preparation must be present at work.
Pilgrim Management
Virtual queue bookings have been fully booked until January 14, leaving no scope for new reservations. Spot bookings have been reduced to 5,000 per day. As a result, the total number of pilgrims this season is 2.49 lakh fewer than last year. On key Mandala pooja days, only 30,000 pilgrims were allowed on the 26th and 35,000 on the 27th—just half of last year’s capacity.
Cleanliness Concerns
Immediate action is required to clean Sannidhanam, Pampa, Nilakkal, and the trekking routes. Large quantities of plastic waste have accumulated, especially at Sannidhanam. Pilgrims often abandon offerings such as aval, malar, sugar candy, grapes, and camphor brought in plastic covers, making disposal difficult as they cannot be incinerated.
Pampa River Pollution
The Pampa river bathing steps are littered with discarded clothes in large quantities. Pilgrims are forced to step on abandoned garments while entering the river, leading to severe water pollution. Authorities must completely flush out contaminated water and remove cloth waste settled at the riverbed.
Need for Better Lighting
Many pilgrims arriving for Makarajyothi stay temporarily in forest areas by setting up makeshift shelters. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and the Devaswom Board should ensure the installation of additional pathway lighting in these areas to improve safety.
KSRTC Transportation Issues
Pilgrims continue to face difficulties boarding KSRTC chain services between Pampa and Nilakkal. Buses arriving one at a time lead to crowding and chaos. A proper queue system is needed, and allowing three or four buses to arrive simultaneously could significantly reduce congestion.
Annadanam Quality
The quality of free meals provided by the Devaswom Board requires improvement. There are widespread complaints about the poor quality of the noon pulao. Similarly, the so-called Kerala sadya served lacks the expected standards, according to pilgrims.