New initiative at Sabarimala: Devotees’ original songs to be considered for temple playlist

Sabarimala: In a significant move aimed at strengthening spiritual participation, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has announced that devotees of Lord Ayyappa will now be able to submit their own devotional songs to be played at the Sabarimala hill shrine.

Until now, only devotional tracks by renowned singers such as K J Yesudas and Jaya- Vijaya were broadcast through the temple’s public address system. Under the new initiative, newly composed original devotional songs by ordinary devotees will also be considered for inclusion after a detailed review by the temple management.

According to the TDB, the lyricist, composer, and singer must jointly submit an affidavit and consent letter confirming originality and the absence of copyright claims. The songs should be submitted on a pen drive to the designated TDB official at the Sannidhanam (temple complex). After scrutiny, selected compositions will be added to the official playlist.

Currently, Sabarimala traditions include the sanctum opening at dawn to Yesudas’s “Vande Vighneswaram”, reopening at 3 p m to “Sreekovil Nada Thurannu” sung by Jayavijaya, and closing with the iconic “Harivarasanam.” Throughout the day, devotional tracks are played between pilgrim announcements, and the new submissions will be included in this segment.

The initiative marks a historic opportunity for devotees to musically express their devotion, while enriching the spiritual ambience at one of India’s most revered pilgrimage centres.

PTI