First Friday of Sabarimala mandala season sees low footfall

Sabarimala: Friday was a quiet day at Sabarimala following the start of the Mandala season, with few devotees arriving in the morning. The valiyanadapanthal was largely deserted from 10 am, and those who did arrive quickly climbed the pathinettam padi.

As the early-morning crowd was less, devotees were allowed to have darshan directly without being routed through the flyover. Pilgrims also arrived via Pullumedu and the number of visitors from other states remained low.

A small crowd gathered in front of the appam-aravana counters. Devotees descended the hill after completing their neyyabhishekam and taking a brief rest. Light rain at around 4 pm did not cause any difficulties, and both Pampa and Nilakkal remained largely empty.

RAF deployment from Saturday

A 140-member RAF team will be stationed at Sannidhanam from Saturday to bolster security. Members of the 105th Battalion, Coimbatore, will ensure security at Sannidhanam, North Nada, South Nada, Bhasmakkulam, Thirumuttam, and the Appam Aravana counter. Deputy Commander Biju Ram will coordinate the team’s activities.

Cleaning Campaign

Devotees can now enjoy smoother darshan following a comprehensive cleaning of the refuge paths. Garbage from Sannidhanam to Marakkoottam has been cleared, with organic and inorganic waste separated and removed. The operation was carried out under the leadership of Sabarimala ADM Dr Arun S Nair.

Devaswom Minister visited Sabarimala

Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan arrived at Sabarimala at 9 pm on Friday and reviewed the situation with ADM Arun S Nair. A high-level meeting will be held on Saturday under the minister’s leadership to review preparations for the pilgrimage season. The meeting is being conducted with the High Court’s permission, given the election code of conduct currently in force.