Kerala Police Ready for Sabarimala Pilgrimage Season
Increased Pilgrim Numbers Expected
The Mandala-Makaravilakku season has begun with the opening of the Sabarimala temple. Kerala’s Additional Director General of Police, S. Sreejith, announced that the police are well-prepared for crowd management. This year, the number of pilgrims booking for darshan is significantly higher than last year. Around 14,000 police personnel will be deployed in phases to ensure safety.
Record Pilgrim Bookings
ADGP Sreejith noted that all slots for the first phase, from November 15 to 30, are already filled. Last year, 14,000 pilgrims visited on November 16, but this year, 70,000 are expected. The authorities and devotees are ready for a smooth pilgrimage season.
Temple Ceremonies and New Appointments
The Sabarimala temple opened on Friday afternoon, with outgoing Melsanthi P.N. Mahesh Namboothiri performing the ceremonial opening. New Melsanthis, S. Arun Kumar Namboothiri and Vasudevan Namboothiri, have taken their roles at the Ayyappa and Malikappuram Devi temples.
Online Booking System Controversy
Kerala’s Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan defended the online booking system in the legislative assembly, explaining it helps regulate pilgrim numbers. Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan expressed concerns, suggesting it might hinder devotees from other states. Minister Vasavan assured that the system prevents overcrowding and enhances safety, with a daily limit of 80,000 pilgrims.
Doubts Revealed
Sabarimala -: Sabarimala is a famous temple located in the state of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is visited by millions of pilgrims every year, especially during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season.
Mandala-Makaravilakku -: Mandala-Makaravilakku is a special festival season at the Sabarimala temple. It usually lasts for about two months and is a time when many devotees visit the temple to offer prayers.
ADGP -: ADGP stands for Additional Director General of Police. It is a high-ranking position in the police force, responsible for overseeing law and order in a region.
Melsanthis -: Melsanthis are the chief priests at the Sabarimala temple. They perform the main rituals and ceremonies during the pilgrimage season.
Online booking system -: The online booking system is a way for pilgrims to reserve their visit to the Sabarimala temple in advance using the internet. This helps manage the number of visitors and prevents overcrowding, ensuring safety for everyone.