Millions of Devotees Witness Makara Jyothi at Sabarimala

As every year, millions of Ayyappa devotees were blessed with the sight of the sacred Makara Jyothi at Sabarimala on the occasion of Makara Sankranti. The divine light was seen at around 6:45 pm, filling the hills of Sabarimala with devotion and spiritual energy.

As soon as the holy light appeared, devotees chanted “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” and offered prayers. The Makara Jyothi was seen three times on the Ponnambalamedu hill, a traditional and deeply respected ritual linked with the annual Makara Vilakku festival. Lakhs of devotees, who had been waiting patiently for this moment, watched the divine sight with folded hands and devotion.

Ayyappa Seen in the Form of Divine Light

Makara Sankranti celebrations at Sabarimala in Kerala reached their peak with the appearance of the Makara Jyothi. As per tradition, the sacred light appeared three times in the evening on Ponnambalamedu hill. Devotees believe that Lord Ayyappa gives darshan in the form of light during this moment.

Each appearance of the Jyothi was welcomed with loud chants and emotional prayers. Devotees described the moment as deeply spiritual and unforgettable. Crores of devotees across India and abroad witnessed the event either in person or through live broadcasts.

Meaning of Makara Vilakku and Makara Jyothi

The special rituals performed at Sabarimala on Makara Sankranti are known as Makara Vilakku. Since these rituals happen during the Makara Sankranti period, the divine light is popularly called Makara Jyothi.

According to tradition, when the Sun moves from Dhanu Rashi to Makara Rashi, a special camphor offering is performed on Ponnambalamedu hill. This sacred flame is what devotees witness as Makara Jyothi. There are ancient beliefs that gods and sages once performed similar rituals at this holy location.

Special Rituals and Temple Celebrations

On the occasion of Makara Sankranti, special prayers and rituals were conducted at the Sabarimala temple. Sacred ornaments were brought from the Pandalam royal family and used to decorate Lord Ayyappa.

During the Maha Mangala Aarti, devotees believe that Lord Ayyappa appeared in the form of divine light, making the moment even more special for those present at the temple.

Tight Security Arrangements in Place

Given the massive gathering of devotees, tight security arrangements were made at Sabarimala and surrounding areas. Authorities took special measures to manage the crowd and ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Makara Vilakku festival.

Officials coordinated crowd control, movement of devotees, and emergency services to ensure the smooth conduct of the religious event.