SABARIMALA: The sacred doors of the Sabarimala Shree Dharma Sastha Temple will open on August 16 at 5:00 PM for the annual Chingam month poojas.
In the presence of Tantri Kandararu Brahmadathan, Melshanthi Prasad E.D. will open the sanctum sanctorum and light the ceremonial lamp. Following the opening, the sacred fire (Aazhi) at the base of the holy 18 steps (Pathinettam Padi) will be lit.
Devotees will be allowed entry for darshan starting at 5:00 AM on August 17, which marks Chingam 1, the Malayalam New Year.
Key Highlights & Important Dates
- Ulkkazhakam Selection (August 17): The draw of lots to select the Ulkkazhakam—the priest assistants who aid the Melshanthi during ritual duties—will take place after the Usha Pooja on Chingam 1.
- Padipooja Rituals: The special Padi Pooja at the 18 holy steps will be conducted every evening after the Deeparadhana, starting from Chingam 1.
- Closing Date (August 21): The temple doors will close on August 21 at 10:00 PM after completing the monthly poojas.
- Onam Poojas (August 24): The shrine will reopen on August 24 for the special ritual observances during the Onam festival.
Mandatory Online Booking for Devotees
Pilgrims planning to visit Sabarimala for the Chingam month poojas must pre-book their entry slots through the official Virtual Queue portal: www.sabarimalaonline.org.
