Rice rotting in rain; Where should devotees place their sacred offerings?

Sabarimala: The Travancore Devaswom Board has failed to provide proper facilities to collect and dispose of the rice, camphor, turmeric powder, and sandalwood water that devotees bring in their Irumudikettu (the bundle carried during the pilgrimage). Near the Malikappuram temple, sacks of rice have been left in the open, getting soaked in the rain and spoiled, while other pooja materials are dumped in waste bins — yet the authorities remain indifferent.

Initially, a counter was opened at the Maramath complex in Sannidhanam to collect rice. However, for the past two days, it remained closed. There are also counters near the Mahakanikka area and on the way to Bhasmakulam, but no one is aware of this.

Rice is being collected near the Malikappuram temple. The collection facility set up there has been overflowing for days. With no other option, devotees continue to leave rice in the same place. Sacks of rice have also been piled up near and behind the Melshanthimadom. Many sacks have been torn open by rats, and the rice is scattered on the ground, forcing devotees to walk over it.

Sacks of rice are piled up near the Neithoni area of Sannidhanam, on the walkway, and even in the lower courtyard. Rice can be seen being dropped into the offering vessels as well.

There is no system to collect aval, malar, turmeric powder, sandalwood water, camphor, and other items brought by devotees in their Irumudi.

Contract signed on Friday to remove rice

The Devaswom Board authorities have stated that the removal of rice will commence soon. The contract for the same was finalised on Friday.