See below for the Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala 2024 Dates Timings Rules, Starting date and ending date, Mala Deeksha Rules, How to do Padi Pooja at Home.

Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala 2024 Dates and Comprehensive Pilgrimage Guide

The Sabarimala pilgrimage begins with the sacred practice of wearing the Ayyapa Mala, symbolizing devotion and discipline. It marks the start of a spiritual journey toward Lord Ayyappa at the Sabarimala Temple located in Kerala. For 2024, this guide provides vital details about Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala 2024 Dates Timings Rules.

Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala 2024 Dates Timings Rules

The auspicious period for wearing the Ayyapa Mala for the 2024 pilgrimage begins in November 2024. Specifically:

• Starting Date: November 15, 2024
• Ending Date: December 26, 2024 (Mandala Pooja Day), extending until January 14, 2025 for those observing the Makaravilakku festival.

Devotees must complete the Mandala Vratham of 41 days with adherence to discipline, devotion, and rituals.

Mala Deeksha Rules

The act of wearing the Mala (Deeksha) is a critical ritual and signifies the beginning of the spiritual preparation. Pilgrims must follow specific rules:

1. Initiation Ceremony:

   • The Mala is worn after special poojas performed by a priest at a temple or in the presence of a Guru Swamy.
   • The Mala is made of Rudraksha or Tulsi beads and includes a pendant of Lord Ayyappa.

2. Lifestyle Discipline:

   • Observing celibacy throughout the 41 days.
   • Abstaining from alcohol, smoking, and other vices.
   • Practicing self-control and leading a simple life.

3. Dress Code:

   • Wearing black, blue, or saffron attire symbolizes humility and simplicity.
   • Avoid wearing footwear or leather items during this sacred period.

4. Spiritual Commitment:

   • Chanting “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” daily and observing strict prayers twice a day.
   • Sleeping on the floor and avoiding luxuries to detach from materialistic pleasures.

5. Diet Regulations:

   • Consuming Satvik (pure vegetarian) meals and fasting at intervals.

Removing the Mala happens only after completing the pilgrimage and offering prayers to Lord Ayyappa.

How to Do Padi Pooja at Home

Padi Pooja is a symbolic devotion to the 18 sacred steps at the Sabarimala Temple.

Steps to Perform Padi Pooja:

1. Prepare the Setup:

   • Place a wooden or stone plank covered with a clean white cloth.
   • Depict the steps using vermilion, sandalwood paste, and flowers.

2. Arrange Items for Worship:

   • Place a small idol or photo of Lord Ayyappa.
   • Light ghee lamps for divine energy.

3. Perform the Ritual:

   • Recite Ayyappa mantras and offer coconuts, betel leaves/nuts, and prasadam (jaggery).
   • Chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” repeatedly during the pooja.

4. Distribute Prasadam:

   • Share the sacred offerings with family and neighbors.

Pooja Items List

Rules and Regulations

Adherence to temple customs preserves the sanctity of the pilgrimage. Below are vital rules:

• Strictly follow the Mandala Vratham for 41 days.
• Wear only black, blue, or saffron clothing.
• Worship Lord Ayyappa twice daily and chant his name regularly.
• Avoid luxury, sleep on the floor, and practice humility.
• Do not consume non-vegetarian food, alcohol, or tobacco.
• Abstain from hurting others, maintaining discipline in words and actions.

Danam and Offerings

Charity and offerings hold special significance in the Sabarimala pilgrimage:

1. Donation Options:

   • Monetary contributions to Annadanam (community meals) programs.
   • Sponsorship for special poojas and temple maintenance.

2. Traditional Offerings:

   • Offer ghee-filled coconuts, symbolizing surrender to God.
   • Contribute to elephants’ welfare, temple restoration projects, or lighting lamps.

Fasting and Food Details

Devotees undertake fasting as part of their spiritual preparation. Guidelines for fasting:

• Food Restrictions:

  • Eat simple vegetarian meals.
  • Avoid garlic, onions, or spicy dishes.
  • Preferred meals include rice, dhal, fruits, and jaggery-based desserts.

• Timetable for Food:

  • Early morning light tea.
  • Lunch with minimal portions of rice and vegetables.
  • Light snacks like bananas in the evening during fasts.

Maintaining purity in cooking and serving meals is essential.

Prasadam Offering Details

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” during prayers and trekking.
• Participate in community clean-up activities.
• Use biodegradable items and minimize plastic use at Sabarimala.
• Respect the temple staff and police for organized crowd control.

Don’ts:

• Do not skip the Mandala discipline after wearing the Mala.
• Avoid loud conversations, arguments, or disrespect toward others.
• Refrain from skipping fasting days to maintain spiritual focus.
• Avoid bringing non-vegetarian food, alcohol, or banned substances to the temple.

Things to Know

1. Accessibility:

   • The nearest railway station is at Chengannur (86 km).
   • The closest airport is Cochin International (152 km).

2. Health Facilities:

   • Medical aid is available at Pampa and Sannidhanam for emergencies.

3. Climate Preparedness:

   • Carry umbrellas, woolens, and first-aid kits to tackle the cold and rain during your trek.

4. Essential Packing List:

   • Bring ghee coconuts, reusable water bottles, and torchlights.
   • Comfortable trekking footwear to be removed before temple entry.

FAQs

What are the key dates for Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala 2024?

The Mala Deeksha begins on November 15, 2024, and ends on December 26, 2024, or extends till January 14, 2025, for the Makaravilakku festival.

Can women wear the Mala and visit Sabarimala?

Women aged below 10 years and above 50 years are allowed as per temple traditions.

Are there exceptions for the 41-day Mandala Vratham?

The Mandala Vratham is mandatory, and devotees should complete the 41-day commitment without exceptions.

What is the significance of fasting?

Fasting purifies the mind and body, helping devotees focus on spiritual goals.

Where can I buy the Mala?

Mala can be purchased from temples and must be worn during a ceremonial pooja.

Wearing the Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala in 2024 is a profound spiritual commitment that enriches your life with discipline, devotion, and divine blessings. By adhering to the Mala Deeksha rules and immersing yourself in prayers and rituals, you prepare your soul to connect deeply with Lord Ayyappa. Use this guide to ensure a fulfilling and spiritually uplifting pilgrimage experience. Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa! This is the brief information about the Sabarimala Ayyapa Mala 2024 Dates Timings Rules in detail.

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