Kerala Govt to spend Rs 1,000-Cr on development of Sabarimala-Sannidhanam: CM at Global Ayyappa Conclave

Pathanamthitta: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday inaugurated the ongoing Global Ayyappa Sangam at Pampa, highlighting plans to make Sabarimala a safer and more convenient pilgrimage destination. The event is part of the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Travancore Devaswom Board.

The inauguration began with the ceremonial lamp lit by Sabarimala thantri Mahesh Mohanaru, followed by prayer songs by Padma Shri Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri. Devaswom Minister and other dignitaries were present. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister was scheduled to attend but cited unforeseen official commitments.

CM outlines development projects

During his address, CM Vijayan announced that projects worth over Rs 1,033.62 crore will be executed across Sannidhanam, Pamba, and the trek route to the hill-shrine, with all phases expected to be completed by 2039. He also said over Rs 300 crore will be spent between 2025 and 2030 to improve basic facilities for devotees.

He emphasised the spiritual significance of Sabarimala, saying it “beholds the essence of embracing all above religious differences.” Reciting the Geetha, Vijayan reminded the audience of the concept of Thathwamasi (Tat Tvam Asi), meaning “Thou Art That,” signifying that the individual self is identical to the ultimate universal reality, and that the inner essence of every individual aligns with divinity.

He added that the conclave would provide direct insights into the needs of devotees and criticised those who manipulate religion for specific interests.

Referring to the opposition to the conclave, Vijayan said: “Some persons masquerading as devotees tried to obstruct the conclave by going all the way to the Supreme Court. But, the apex court stopped such attempts.”

International participation and agenda

According to Travancore Devaswom Board president P S Prasanth, delegates from 15 countries are attending, alongside participants from various Indian states. Tamil Nadu is sending the largest contingent of around 1,000 devotees.

Discussions are underway across three stages, covering the Sabarimala Master Plan, Spiritual Tourism Circuit, and crowd control and preparation at Sabarimala. From 2 pm, a musical programme featuring Ayyappa songs coordinated by Vijay Yesudas is being held. Discussions are scheduled to be summarised at 3.20 pm, followed by the closing session at the main stage, after which representatives will have the opportunity to undertake Sabarimala darshan.