Heavy Devotee Rush Marks Opening Day of Sabarimala Pilgrimage Season; One Lakh Pilgrims Visit

Sabarimala: The first day of the pilgrimage season at Sabarimala witnessed a rush of devotees. At 3 a.m. on Monday, the new Melshanthi E.D. Prasad Namboothiri opened the shrine in the presence of Tantri Kantar Mahesh Mohanaru.

For the Vrischika Pulari darshan, devotees had filled the area from the Valiya Nadapandal to Marakkoottam by Sunday night itself. They were provided with medicated water and biscuits. Police were at Sabarimala providing safety.

According to official estimates, around one lakh devotees visited Sabarimala on the first day. Through the virtual queue system, 70,000 people entered the temple. At Pampa, the Devaswom Board and the government have arranged extensive facilities for pilgrims. The main attraction is the large German tent where thousands can rest sheltered from rain and sunlight. There are also changing rooms for pilgrims returning from bathing in the Pampa river, as well as an air-conditioned hall.

TDB President K. Jayakumar said that all facilities have been ensured for the smooth functioning and that security, cleanliness, and transparency have been prioritised.

Forest Routes Opened

The forest trekking routes from Erumeli via Azutha and Karimala, and from Vandiperiyar Satram via Pullumedu, were opened to pilgrims on Monday. Devotees will be allowed through the Pullumedu route from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Through the Karimala route, entry from Azuthakadavu is permitted only until 1 p.m.

Sannidhanam Police Controller Removed

The State Police Chief informed the High Court that R. Krishnakumar, who was appointed as Police Controller at Sabarimala Sannidhanam during the Mandala–Makaravilakku season, has been removed from the post. He was removed because he is involved in a case registered by the CBI.

Two Special Trains for Sabarimala

Two additional special trains have been approved in connection with the Sabarimala Mandala season. The Visakhapatnam–Kollam Junction train will run on November 18, 25; December 9, 16, 23, 30; and January 6, 13, 20. The Kollam Junction–Visakhapatnam train will run on November 19, 26; December 3, 10, 17, 24; and January 7, 14, 21.