Sabarimala: The fervent devotion of pilgrims reached its peak as the Makarajyothi illuminated the skies at Ponnambalamedu on Tuesday, marking the most important moment in the Makaravilakku festival. As devotees witnessed the celestial light, they felt a deep spiritual connection with Lord Ayyappa, adorned in the sacred ornaments (Thiruvabharanam)

The Makarajyothi appeared at 6:45 PM, captivating the throngs of devotees gathered at the hilltop. The procession of Lord Ayyappa, decked in the divine jewels, was warmly received by the Executive Officer of Sabarimala, B. Murari Babu, and escorted towards the temple. Alongside, Kerala’s Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan, Tamil Nadu Devaswom Minister P.K. Sekar Babu, and the President of the Travancore Devaswom Board, P.S. Prasanth, were present to receive the procession.

The procession continued as the sacred was carried by Thiruvabharanam the chief priest, Kandararu Rajeevaru, and the head priest Arun Kumar Namboothiri to the temple’s sanctum. The ensuing rituals included the Mahadeeparadhana, during which the Makarajyothi appeared at Ponnambalamedu.

Stringent security measures were in place, with the police, forest department, and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) ensuring safety for the devotees. Authorities urged pilgrims to avoid overcrowding during the return journey, as it could pose a safety risk. 

The celebrations continue with the deity adorned in the sacred ornaments from January 15 to 17, followed by the Kalabhishekam ceremony on the 18th. The Makaravilakku festival will conclude on January 19 with the grand rituals at Malikappuram. On Tuesday morning, Makara Sankrama  puja was held at 8:45 AM, with the first offering of ghee from the famed Kowdiar Palace.