New Theerthakulam to Be Built at Sannidhanam as Existing Bhasmakulam Found to Be in the Wrong Location
Sabarimala: A recent assessment has concluded that the existing Bhasmakulam (sacred ash pond) at Sannidhanam is not located according to Vaastu Shastra principles. As a result, the Travancore Devaswom Board is planning to construct a new Theerthakulam (sacred pond) at Sannidhanam.
The 2014 Devaprasnam recommended the excavation of a new temple pond, but stated that it should not be named "Bhasmakulam." Following this recommendation, the Travancore Devaswom Board has decided to name the proposed pond "Theerthakulam."
The proposed pond will be built between the Large Nadappanthal and the Sabari Guest House, in an area that is currently part of the Koprakkalam (coconut storage yard). The Board has appointed the Aranmula Vaastu Vidya Gurukulam as the consultant for the project.
According to Vaastu Shastra, a temple pond should be located on the north-eastern side of the temple. However, the existing Bhasmakulam is situated behind the temple. It has also been found that wastewater from Sannidhanam flows near the Bhasmakulam, causing contaminated water to enter the pond.
Earlier Devaprasnam (temple astrological assessment) conducted at Sannidhanam had also indicated that the location of the Bhasmakulam was not appropriate.
Originally, the Bhasmakulam was located on the north-western side of the temple. It was later closed for reasons that remain unclear and eventually filled in as part of the expansion of Sannidhanam to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. A new Bhasmakulam was subsequently constructed at its present location.
The 2018 Devaprasnam reportedly indicated that Lord Ayyappa wished for the original Bhasmakulam to be restored at its original location.
During the tenure of the previous Travancore Devaswom Board headed by President P.S. Prashanth, there was a proposal to build a new Bhasmakulam near the Koprakkalam. The foundation stone was laid for the sponsor-funded project. However, the construction was halted after the Special Commissioner submitted a report to the Kerala High Court opposing the project, and no further work was carried out.
The new Board, led by President K. Jayakumar, has now decided to construct a Theerthakulam instead of a new Bhasmakulam at the site. The Board is also seeking permission from the Kerala High Court to proceed with the project.