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Makaravilakku 2025: Date, rituals, and spiritual significance at Sabarimala Temple

Makaravilakku 2025: Date, rituals, and spiritual significance at Sabarimala Temple

Makaravilakku 2025: Date, rituals, and spiritual significance at Sabarimala Temple
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14 Jan 2025 8:08 PM IST

Makaravilakku 2025 falls on January 14, marking one of the most revered festivals celebrated at the sacred Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. Thousands of devotees from across India and beyond gather to witness the divine Makara Jyothi, a phenomenon believed to symbolize the celestial presence of Lord Ayyappa.

This spiritual event is steeped in ancient traditions and astrological significance, aligning with the sun’s transition from Sagittarius to Capricorn during Makara Sankranti.

Key Rituals and Timings

The day’s rituals are deeply rooted in devotion and align with the temple’s longstanding traditions. Below are the main rituals scheduled for January 14, 2025, as per Drik Panchang:

Opening of the Temple: 3:00 AM

Abhishekam: 3:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Image Purification: 11:30 AM

Kalabhabhishekam: 12:00 PM

Lunch Pooja: 12:30 PM

Temple Gate Closing: 1:00 PM

Evening Temple Gate Opening: 5:00 PM

Flower Anointing: 7:00 PM

Harivarasanam: 10:50 PM

Closing of the Temple: 11:00 PM

Makara Sankranti Moment: 9:03 AM

Spiritual Significance

The highlight of Makaravilakku is the darshan of the Makara Jyothi, a divine light appearing on Ponnambalamedu hill. Witnessing this light is considered a moment of spiritual awakening, signifying divine blessings from Lord Ayyappa.

The festival begins with the Thiruvabharanam procession, symbolizing the arrival of Lord Ayyappa’s sacred ornaments, and culminates with the Makara Jyothi sighting.

For devotees, the 41-day pilgrimage involves rigorous practices, including wearing a Rudraksha necklace, observing strict fasting, abstaining from worldly pleasures, and carrying an offering bundle known as Irumudi.

Guidelines and Restrictions

To ensure a safe and seamless experience, authorities have issued guidelines for pilgrims:

Entry Restrictions

Entry from Pampa closes at 10:00 AM on January 14.

Shrine access is paused for an hour post-noon puja.

The 18th step is accessible only after the Thiruvabharanam reaches the temple in the evening.

Viewing Points for Makara Jyothi

Nilakkal: Best spots include Attathod, Ilavunkal, and Nellimala.

Pampa & Sannidhanam: Recommended locations are Hilltop and Annadana Mandapam.

Prohibited Activities

Cooking setups at Pampa, Sannidhanam, and nearby areas.

Viewing the Jyothi from treetops, rooftops, or water tanks.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

Makaravilakku is more than a festival—it’s a transformative journey of faith and perseverance. For devotees, witnessing the Makara Jyothi and completing the pilgrimage represents divine grace and spiritual fulfillment.

The festival concludes with the Kuruthi Puja, signifying the end of the 41-day discipline and offering devotees a sense of renewal and enlightenment.

By blending communal worship with individual devotion, Makaravilakku continues to inspire and unite millions, making it a life-changing experience for those who undertake this sacred journey.

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