Aranmula (Pathanamthitta): The ceremonial procession carrying the Thanka Anki, the sacred golden attire of Lord Ayyappa, commenced from the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple on Tuesday morning, marking a key ritual leading up to the Mandala Pooja at the Sabarimala Sannidhanam.

The sacred journey began at around 7 am, accompanied by temple officials and devotees. The procession marks the final phase of the 41-day Mandala pilgrimage season, culminating in the Mandala Pooja at the Sabarimala temple.

The Thanka Anki, an exquisitely crafted golden attire, was donated by the late Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the Maharaja of Travancore. As part of tradition, the sacred ornament is transported in a specially decorated chariot, and designated people carrying it on their heads, drawing devotees along the route.

Large crowds gathered along the customary procession path to offer prayers and seek blessings, while pilgrims accompanying the chariot distributed prasadam to devotees. The event witnessed heightened devotional fervour as the golden attire passed through temple precincts and nearby areas.

Comprehensive police security arrangements were put in place to ensure the safety of the Thanka Anki, pilgrims and devotees. Authorities deployed personnel for crowd control, traffic regulation and smooth movement of the procession.

In keeping with tradition, the Thanka Anki chariot will halt at several temples en route before reaching Sabarimala. Officials expect a significant turnout of pilgrims this season, following past trends. During the previous pilgrimage season, more than 32.5 lakh devotees visited the hill shrine.

The Thanka Anki is scheduled to arrive at the Sabarimala temple on December 26, ahead of the evening Deeparadhana. On the day of Mandala Pooja, the idol of Lord Ayyappa will be adorned with the golden attire, marking one of the most significant rituals of the annual pilgrimage. 

ANI