Sabrimala

"Vrischikam 1" refers to the first day of the Malayalam month of Vrischikam, which usually falls in November. During the Sabarimala season, fasting is considered important for devotees who undertake the pilgrimage. Here's why fasting is significant:

Many districts have received over 200 mm of rain in the last couple of days, resulting in flash floods and waterlogging in many areas.

The coming 'Mandala' season will see a revised recipe of 'Sabrimala appam' and 'Aravana' being served to the devotees

• The origin of the song traces back to 1950
• Swami Vimochanananda sung it for the first time at Sabarimala
• The song set in Madhyamavati raga was composed by G Devarajan for the film Swami Ayyappan in 1975

Security arrangements at the Ayappa Temple in Sabrimala have been increased considerably this year. In view of the volatile situation that could occur as a result of the Babri Masjid demolition anniversary on December 6, aerial surveillance from IAF helicopters and drones will be deployed

The company is planning to do a business of at least 8 crores this season taking advantage of the ban imposed on plastic bottles.

Amid debate on the issue of entry of women in the age group of 10 to 50 in the Lord Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy today made it clear that his government would not interfere in the customs and traditions of the hill shrine.