Pathanamthitta: In anticipation of the Mandala Pooja scheduled for tomorrow, the procession carrying the ‘Thanka Anki’ (sacred golden attire) is expected to arrive at Pamba this afternoon. At approximately 5:50 pm, the casket containing the sacred attire will reach Sannidhanam, where it will be adorned on Lord Ayyappa. Following this, the temple will be closed in the evening, and Deeparadhana will commence. The Mandala Puja is scheduled to take place between 10:30 am and 11:30 am tomorrow. After the Mandala Puja, the Sabarimala Shrine will be closed and will be reopened on the 30th for the pilgrims. The season will end after the Makaravilakku darshan.
Yesterday, Sabarimala witnessed a surge of devotees, with the queue extending up to Appachimedu. An estimated 100,000 people visited, averaging 4,300 visitors per hour. In response to the large gathering, police control measures have been implemented from Sannidhanam to Sabari Peeth.
The ongoing school holidays have contributed to an increase in the number of devotees, especially children. It is expected to increase in the coming days. At present, devotees are waiting for 15 hours for ‘Darshan’. In Pamba, devotees are experiencing up to a three-hour wait before commencing the ascent to Sabarimala.
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