Pathanamthitta: Despite opposition from the BJP’s Kerala unit and the Congress-led UDF, the Global Ayyappa Sangamam, inaugurated on Saturday at Pampa, has received support from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Organised by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) with the backing of the LDF government, the event marks part of the board’s 75th anniversary celebrations.

In a written message responding to the state government’s invitation, Adityanath extended his greetings and best wishes to the conclave. He praised the spiritual and cultural importance of Lord Ayyappa’s worship, calling it a force for promoting righteousness, satvic values, and unity.

“Lord Ayyappa is the divine protector of dharma. His worship illuminates the path of righteousness and inspires the devotees to promote and preserve satvic values. For strengthening harmony, inclusivity and unity, it is necessary to spread ancient wisdom and traditions. In this perspective, Agola Ayyappa Sangamam assumes much significance,” the UP Chief Minister said in his letter, while also thanking Kerala Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan for the invitation.

The Kerala BJP and the UDF opposition have both decided to boycott the Sangamam, citing political and procedural objections. However, the boycott has sparked internal disagreement within the BJP, especially after several prominent Hindu community organisations, including the SNDP, KPMS, and NSS, extended their support to the conclave.

While key Hindutva organisations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Hindu Aikya Vedi opted to stay away, many within the BJP felt the party should have embraced the event given its cultural and religious relevance.

CM Vijayan announced ₹1,033 crore development plan for Sabarimala

The Global Ayyappa Sangamam was officially inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at Pampa. The opening ceremony featured traditional rituals, including the ceremonial lamp lighting by Sabarimala Thantri Mahesh Mohanaru, followed by devotional renditions by Padma Shri awardee Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri.

During his address, CM Vijayan revealed a comprehensive development blueprint worth ₹1,033.62 crore, aimed at upgrading infrastructure across Sannidhanam, Pampa, and the pilgrimage trek route. The initiatives will be executed in phases, with a portion of over ₹300 crore, for the 2025–2030 period, focusing on basic amenities and safety improvements for pilgrims.