Festival News

The Pandalam Mahadeva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrates its annual 10‑day festival during the Malayalam month of Dhanu (around December–January), known locally as the Aarattu Mahotsavam. This grand celebration begins with the traditional kodiyettam (flag hoisting) and features daily rituals, special pujas, cultural performances, and community gatherings. Villagers from the surrounding 12 karakal (local hamlets) actively participate, adding to the festive spirit that fills the temple precincts along the banks of the Achankovil River.  During the festival, one of the most spectacular events is the Kettukazhcha procession, where tall, colourfully decorated temple structures and effigies are paraded through the streets to rhythmic traditional music and dance. The festival culminates with the Aarattu ceremony, a sacred ritual bath of the deity’s idol in the river, symbolising purification and divine blessing for devotees. Alongside the main rituals, cultural programs such as Elam, Ganamela, traditional dance, and drama performances entertain visitors and reinforce community unity and devotion.

The Makara Jyothi 2025 festival at Sabarimala was witnessed by lakhs of devotees from across Kerala and other states. Pilgrims gathered at the Sannidhanam shrine and along the hill paths, chanting “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” as the celestial Makara Jyothi appeared atop Ponnambalamedu hill. This divine light, considered a blessing from Lord Ayyappa, is the culmination of months of devotion during the Mandalam season. Devotees observed strict rituals, including fasting, celibacy, and traditional attire, making the pilgrimage a test of discipline and spiritual commitment. A central part of the festivities is the Thiruvabharanam procession, in which sacred golden ornaments of Lord Ayyappa are carried from Pandalam Palace to the Sabarimala shrine. The procession, accompanied by temple authorities and thousands of devotees, symbolizes devotion and continuity of tradition. Authorities implemented extensive crowd management and security measures to ensure safety, including controlled movement along the forested paths and medical assistance for pilgrims. The festival not only represents religious fervor but also reinforces cultural heritage, community participation, and the shared devotion of millions who undertake this sacred journey each year.

The Sabarimala Mandalam–Makaravilakku season of 2025 is underway, attracting millions of devotees from across Kerala and other states. This annual pilgrimage is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is considered one of the most sacred events in the Hindu calendar. Devotees observe strict rituals, including fasting, celibacy, and wearing the traditional black or blue attire, during the 41-day Mandalam period. The journey to the hill shrine is seen as a test of devotion, discipline, and endurance, drawing devotees regardless of age or gender. The highlight of the pilgrimage is the Makaravilakku festival, which marks the appearance of the divine Makara Jyothi — a celestial light that is considered a blessing from Lord Ayyappa. The festival begins with the ceremonial Thiruvabharanam procession from the Pandalam Palace, carrying the sacred ornaments of the deity to the Sannidhanam shrine. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this procession and to participate in the subsequent rituals at the temple. Authorities manage the massive crowds with elaborate arrangements for security, transportation, and health facilities, ensuring a smooth and safe pilgrimage. The season also emphasizes community participation, with volunteers assisting pilgrims along the forested path to Sabarimala, providing food, water, and guidance. The pilgrimage concludes after the Makara Jyothi darshan, when devotees offer prayers and perform final rituals before returning home. This spiritual journey is not only a religious observance but also a celebration of faith, discipline, and cultural heritage, making it one of the most significant events in Kerala every year.