Sabarimala: The first phase of the 2024-25 pilgrimage season at Kerala’s renowned Sabarimala temple has concluded, marking a record turnout of pilgrims. The pilgrimage season, which spans two months, has seen a significant increase in the number of visitors compared to the same period last year.

This year’s first phase, which started on November 16, has seen a remarkable rise in pilgrims. The total number of visitors so far has reached 32,49,756, an increase of 4,07,309 from the 28,42,447 pilgrims who visited during the first phase of the 2023-24 season. The first phase of the pilgrimage ends on Thursday evening (December 26).

Following the conclusion of the first phase, the second phase of the pilgrimage will begin on December 30. The most significant day of the pilgrimage is expected to be January 14, after which the season will wrap up a few days later.

New measures to regulate pilgrim numbers  

In a bid to manage the growing number of pilgrims, the temple authorities have set a cap of 70,000 pilgrims allowed to have darshan each day. Of these, 60,000 pilgrims must book their slots online, while 10,000 spots will be available for on-the-spot bookings.

To accommodate the large crowds, the temple’s operating hours have been altered. The temple now opens at 3 am and closes at 1 pm, reopening again at 3 pm and closing at 11 pm.

The temple has also taken extensive security measures, with nearly 14,000 police officers and volunteers assigned to ensure the safety and smooth flow of pilgrims.

Improved infrastructure

In response to the growing number of pilgrims, the parking facility has been expanded to accommodate up to 10,000 vehicles. Additionally, restaurants in and around the temple now display rate cards in various South Indian languages to assist visitors.

Healthcare services have also been enhanced, with state-of-the-art medical facilities available for pilgrims in the vicinity of the temple town.

To make the pilgrimage experience even more accessible, the authorities have launched a multilingual microsite. The site, available in English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, provides a wealth of information about the temple’s traditions, customs, and culture. Pilgrims can also find the latest updates and geographical details about the temple and surrounding areas.

The microsite includes a route map, information on nearby temples, hotel facilities, and a gallery filled with hundreds of images related to Sabarimala. Additionally, a detailed pilgrim guide offers insights into the temple’s history, customs, and traditions, ensuring a more informed and enjoyable pilgrimage experience.

The sacred pilgrimage tradition  

Sabarimala temple, situated in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 914 metres, is a revered site for millions of pilgrims. The temple is located four kilometres uphill from Pamba in Pathanamthitta district, around 100 km from Kerala’s state capital.

Before embarking on the journey, pilgrims observe a strict 41-day penance, during which they follow a disciplined lifestyle, wearing a black dhoti, abstaining from footwear, and maintaining a vegetarian diet. The devotees also carry ‘Irumudi’, a sacred prayer kit containing coconuts, which must be broken just before climbing the temple’s 18 holy steps.

As the pilgrimage season continues, the Sabarimala temple remains a significant spiritual destination, drawing thousands who seek blessings and fulfilment of vows, while the authorities work to ensure the safety and comfort of the ever-growing number of visitors.  

IANS