Devaswom Board plans to host Ayyappa Sangamam, a mega gathering of devotees

Sabarimala: The Travancore Devaswom Board is gearing up to host a global Ayyappa Sangamam, a major gathering of devotees. The TDB plans to bring representatives from around 100 countries, including Malayalis residing abroad. There are also plans to revive the Pampa Sangamam, which was suspended in 2018 due to the devastating floods.

It is reported that a group of Ayyappa devotees from Singapore have expressed their willingness to cooperate with the Devaswom Board in organising the global event. They have also submitted a list of names of representatives from 25 countries who are keen to participate. According to Devaswom Board officials, hosting such a gathering will help showcase the unique features of the Sabarimala temple to the global community. Moreover, the participation of these devotees will contribute to the development of Sabarimala, it is learnt.

Pampa Sangamam’s revival

The Pampa Sangamam, a spiritual and cultural gathering, was first initiated at the Pampa Anjaneya Auditorium during the tenure of Raman Bhattathiripad as the President of the Devaswom Board. Over the years, it evolved into a Mahasammellam held in the days leading up to Makaravilakku. The event witnessed participation from Union and State Ministers, as well as figures from the spiritual, cultural, literary, and film industries.

However, the Pampa Sangamam was suspended in 2018 due to the floods and was further delayed because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, the Devaswom Board plans to reinstate the Pampa Sangamam during the ongoing pilgrimage season. Discussions regarding this will take place in the upcoming Devaswom Board meeting.

There are concerns regarding the feasibility of organising the global Ayyappa Sangamam during the current pilgrimage season. The Devaswom Board is optimistic about holding the event once the pilgrimage season concludes.