Why in the News?
The Makaravilakku festival was celebrated at the hill shrine of Sabarimala Ayyappa temple.
About the Makaravilakku Festival
- Makaravilakku is a significant annual Hindu festival celebrated at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
- It marks the celestial event of the Sun entering the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makaram Rashi) and coincides with Makara Sankranti.
- Celebrations are centred at the Sabarimala Temple, nestled in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala.
- The event draws millions of devotees who chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” in reference to Lord Ayyappa.
- The festival typically lasts for seven days, beginning on Makara Sankranti.
- Key Rituals and Events:
- A symbolic lamp ‘Makaravilakku’ is lit at Ponnambalamedu, a hill near Sabarimala, on the evening of Makara Sankranti.
- A divine star Makara Jyothi is believed to appear in the sky, symbolizing the blessings of Lord Ayyappa.
- Devotees undertake a strict 41-day penance (Vratham) before making the pilgrimage to the temple.
It’s Significance:
- The festival signifies the merging of celestial and spiritual energies, celebrating devotion, purity, and self-discipline.
- The tradition emphasizes equality, with all devotees wearing black or blue attire and carrying the “Irumudi Kettu” (a sacred bundle).
PYQ:[2017] Consider the following pairs: Traditions- Communities 1. Chaliha Sahib Festival- Sindhis 2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra- Gonds 3. Wari-Warkari- Santhals Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) None of the above |
