Sabarimala Mandala Pooja 2023: Know date, timing, history, significance, celebrations and more
By Rashmi Kuttan | First Published Dec 26, 2023, 12:17 PM ISTMandala Pooja is a significant ritual associated with the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, India. Mandala Pooja is a spiritually significant event, symbolizing the completion of a challenging pilgrimage and the devotees' dedication to Lord Ayyappa. Here's a brief overview of its date, history, timing , significance, and more:
Mandala Pooja is a significant ritual associated with the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, India. Here's a brief overview of its history, significance, and more:
This year, the Mandala Pooja falls on December 27, 2023, which marks the end of the 41-day austerity period by Ayyappa devotees.
Latest Videos
History:
1. Sabarimala Temple:
The Sabarimala Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a revered deity in Hinduism. The temple is situated in the Western Ghats and is known for its rigorous pilgrimage traditions.
2. Mandala Pooja:
Mandala Pooja marks the culmination of the 41-day austerity period observed by Ayyappa devotees, known as the Mandala Kalam. Pilgrims undertake a rigorous pilgrimage during this period, following strict vows and practices.
Significance:
1. End of Austerity Period:
Mandala Pooja signifies the end of the Mandala Kalam, during which devotees observe penance, celibacy, and other austerities.
2. Completion of Pilgrimage:
Pilgrims visit Sabarimala during the Mandala Kalam, and Mandala Pooja marks the completion of their pilgrimage.
3. Offerings and Rituals:
Devotees make special offerings and perform rituals, seeking the blessings of Lord Ayyappa. The temple witnesses a surge in devotees during this time, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere.
4. Harivarasanam:
The sacred song "Harivarasanam" is recited during the closure of the temple doors, marking the end of the pilgrimage season.
5. Harvest Festival:
Mandala Pooja coincides with the conclusion of the harvest season, and in some regions, it is celebrated as a harvest festival.
Rituals and Celebrations:
1. Makaravilakku:
The Mandala Pooja season concludes with the Makaravilakku festival, a celestial lighting that occurs on the day of Makara Sankranti. The event involves the lighting of a sacred lamp at Ponnambalamedu, visible from Sabarimala.
2. Pilgrimage Procession:
The pilgrimage culminates with a grand procession, and devotees participate in the divine rituals.
3. Temple Rituals:
Elaborate rituals are performed at the Sabarimala Temple, and the temple complex becomes the focal point of religious activities
4. Devotee Offerings:
Devotees offer ghee-filled coconuts, known as Neyyabhishekam, as a symbol of surrender and devotion.
Mandala Pooja is a spiritually significant event, symbolizing the completion of a challenging pilgrimage and the devotees' dedication to Lord Ayyappa. The rituals, traditions, and celebrations surrounding Mandala Pooja contribute to the cultural richness and religious fervor associated with the Sabarimala Temple.
subscribe to Asianet Newsable WhatsApp channel by clicking here.