Neyyabhishekam Begins at Sree Ayyappa Temple for Makaravilakku Pilgrimage
Kottayam: The Neyyabhishekam ritual commenced on Wednesday at the Sree Ayyappa Temple following the opening of the shrine for the Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. The ritual was conducted in two sessions, from 3.30 am to 7 am and from 8 am to 11 am.
Neyyabhishekam is the principal offering to Lord Ayyappa. After performing the ritual, devotees receive the offered ghee as prasadam from the sanctum sanctorum. Pilgrims can participate in Neyyabhishekam until January 18. The temple is scheduled to close on January 19 at 10pm.
Meanwhile, the first Kalabhabhishekam of the Makaravilakku season was also performed on Wednesday at Sannidhanam. This important ritual took place at 11 am, prior to the noon puja.
The puja was led by Tanthri Mahesh Mohanaru, after which Melshanti E D Prasad carried the Kalabha vessel around the sanctum sanctorum accompanied by traditional musical instruments. The Kalabhabhishekam was then performed in a solemn manner. Administrative officer S Srinivas and executive officer O G Biju were present during the ceremony.