Thiruvabharana procession starts its journey to Sabarimala

The Thiruvabharanam procession from Pandalam with the golden ornaments to be adorned on the idol of Sabarimala Ayyappa on the Makara Vilakku day has started its journey. The procession team, who set out on foot on the traditional route, will reach Sabarimala on the third day.

The ornaments that was closed and kept safe in the wooden boxes in a secure room at Pandalam Srambikkal palace has been opened on Monday morning. The Pandalam palace royal envoy blessed the 24 members who held the ornaments on their heads. At 4.30 am, the ornaments were brought to the Valiyakkoyikal temple. The ornaments were then opened and exhibited for the people to honour their reverence.

The youngest Thampuran Ramavarma, who arrived at the Thiruvabharana Malika at 11.45 am, blessed the carriers. At 11.50 pm, Valiya Thampuran and representative Uthram thirunal Pradeep Kumar Varma were welcomed to the Valiyakkoyal temple. At 12 the ritual before the start of procession commenced at the temple. The chief priest handed over the sword to the royal representative who accompanies the procession to Sabarimala. At 12.50 pm the ornaments were kept back in the boxes. At one in the evening, the procession starts its journey.

The group arrived at Ayiroor Puthiyakavu Devi Temple after receiving receptions at various places along the route. On the second day, the procession will arrive at the Laha Forest Department inn via Perunad. The procession marches through the traditional forest route on the third day. From Plappally, the group will reach Sabarimala in the evening, passing the Attathode, Valiyanavattam, and Cherianavattom. During the evening after the jewels are adorned the deeparadhana will take place and at the same time, the Makara Jyothi will appear at Ponnambalam.

The royal representative, accompanying the procession, will reach Pampa and offer blessings to the devotees. On the third day, after the ascending, King Sabarimala will witness the Kalabham at Sannidhanam and Guruthi at Malikappuram, and returns to the Pandalam with ornaments.