Mandala Puja is an important ritual celebrated at the famous Sabarimala Ayyappa temple in Kerala. This puja marks the culmination of a 41-day penance performed by devotees of Lord Ayyappa, known as Mandala Kalam. This penance begins on the first day of the Malayalam month Vrishchik.
Mandala Puja and Makara Vilakku are two major religious events at the Sabarimala temple. These events are attended by lakhs of devotees from Kerala and neighboring states. The temple remains open for most of the days during this period, and devotees perform special prayers.
According to an ancient tradition, devotees visiting Sabarimala during Mandala Puja also visit the Guruvayur temple. During this time, a special Abhishekam ceremony is organized at the Guruvayur temple, which holds spiritual significance for the devotees.
The 41-day fast is an important ritual during Mandala Puja. This fast is observed with utmost devotion and strictness.
The most auspicious day of Mandala Puja is Makar Sankranti. It is also called Makaravilakku and is held between 14-16 January every year. On this day, a procession of the Lord's ornaments is taken from the old Pandalam palace to Sabarimala. During this time, there is a sighting of the Krishnaparanttu (Brahminical kite), considered to be the vehicle of Lord Vishnu. It hovers over the Sannidhanam in honour of Lord Ayyappan.
The appearance of a star called Makara Jyothi is the highlight of this ritual. The idol of Lord Ayyappan is adorned with ornaments, and devotees chant "Swami Sharanam Ayyappa".
The significance of Mandala Puja is mentioned in many Puranas. Performing this puja can change a person's fortune positively. Performing it once in a lifetime is enough. This puja fulfils all desires, provided it is performed with full devotion and dedication.
The fast of Mandala Puja helps purify the soul. This fast is open to all, be it men or women. Girls aged 1 to 9 years and women aged above 50 years can also observe this fast and are called 'Malikapuram'.
At the end of Mandala Puja, the Makaravilakku flame is seen flashing three times from the hills in front of Sabarimala. The holy ritual ends with this sight. This event is the culmination of faith and joy for the devotees.