Thanka Anki procession: Ancient tradition embarks for Sabarimala's auspicious Makaravilakku

Pandalam (Kerala): The auspicious Thanka Anki procession carrying the sacred jewellery for Lord Ayyappa commenced from Pandalam on Monday, marking the beginning of one of the most revered rituals ahead of the Sabarimala Makaravilakku festival on January 14.

The sacred ornaments, which will adorn the deity at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, were formally taken from the Srampickal Palace to the Valiya Koyikkal Sri Dharma Sastha Temple, allowing thousands of devotees to offer darshan before the ceremonial journey began. The procession set off amid loud chants of “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa”, with devotees gathering in large numbers to witness the tradition.

After religious rituals and poojas, the Thanka Anki (sacred jewellery) was placed in specially prepared wooden cases and entrusted to a dedicated group of traditional bearers. The group will journey on foot for three days through designated temple stops, where ceremonial receptions will be held, before reaching the Sabarimala sannidhanam on Makaravilakku day.

Upon arrival, the tantri (the head priest) and melsanthi (chief priest) will adorn the idol with the sacred jewellery ahead of the traditional deeparadhana ceremony. The Kerala government has deployed extensive security arrangements along the route to ensure the safe passage of the procession and smooth movement of devotees.

The annual ritual is a key highlight of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, attracting lakhs of pilgrims and symbolising centuries-old faith and tradition.

PTI