Pathanamthitta: The golden procession carrying the “Thanka Anki " (sacred golden attire) for the Lord Ayyappa idol in Sabarimala began from the Aranmula Parthasarathi Temple at around 7.30 am. The procession will collect offerings from various locations and is expected to reach Pampa by 1.30 pm on December 25. Following this, on the way to the Sannidhanam in the afternoon, the Devaswom Board officials will give a ceremonial welcome at Sharamkuthi. The
"Mahadeeparadhana" with the golden attire will take place at 7.00 pm on December 25, with the mandala pooja scheduled for December 26.

Devotees were given the opportunity to view the Thanka Anki from early morning at the Aranmula temple complex. The procession will take rest at several temples along the way, including Omalloor Sri Rakthakanda Swami Temple, Konni Muringamangalam Temple, and Perunadu Shasta Temple. A police team has been deployed to ensure security as the procession makes its way through the route.

The Thanka Anki , intended for the mandala pooja, was donated to Sabarimala by the Maharaja of Travancore, Sri Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, and weighs 451 sovereigns. The attire includes a golden throne, sandals, hand gloves, face covering and a crown. 

The Thanka Anki is kept securely in the Sabarimala strong room at the Aranmula Parthasarathi Temple and is brought out only for the purpose of adorning the Ayyappa idol during the mandala pooja.