The ongoing Mandala pilgrimage season at Sabarimala has witnessed a remarkable financial upswing in its initial phase. The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which administers the hill shrine, has announced a substantial increase in revenue collection for the first fifteen days of the season.
Record-Breaking Revenue Collection
The TDB reported a total revenue of Rs 92 crore until November 30. This figure represents a significant jump of 33.33 percent compared to the Rs 69 crore collected during the corresponding period of the previous pilgrimage season. The board released these details through an official press note, highlighting the robust turnout and devotional fervor.
The sale of the sacred offering, aravana, emerged as the primary revenue driver. Earnings from aravana alone amounted to a staggering Rs 47 crore. This marks a dramatic 46.86 percent increase from last year's fifteen-day figure of Rs 32 crore. Revenue from other devotional sales showed steady growth as well.
Detailed Breakdown of Offerings and Pilgrim Footfall
Income from the sale of appam has remained consistent, reaching approximately Rs 3.5 crore, which is on par with last season's collection. Meanwhile, revenue from direct pilgrim offerings (hundi) has seen an appreciable rise. It increased to Rs 26 crore from Rs 22 crore in 2024, registering an 18.18 percent growth.
The financial surge is directly linked to the heavy influx of devotees. Official estimates state that around 13 lakh (1.3 million) pilgrims had visited the Ayyappa temple by November 30, underscoring the scale of the pilgrimage.
Decision on Annadanam Sadya Awaits Committee Report
In a related development, the TDB has postponed a decision on reintroducing the traditional sadya (feast) for the annadanam (free meal service) at Sabarimala. TDB President K Jayakumar clarified that the board will finalize its decision following a meeting scheduled for Friday.
Initially, the board planned to commence serving the sadya from Tuesday. Currently, pilgrims are being served pulao. A special committee led by the devaswom commissioner has been constituted to examine the legal aspects and additional infrastructural requirements needed for switching from pulao to the full sadya. The board will act upon receiving this committee's report.
Echoing this, Sabarimala Executive Officer O G Biju stated that the introduction of the sadya has only been temporarily deferred. A final decision will be made promptly once the committee submits its findings.
Measures to Curb Pollution at Pamba
Addressing environmental concerns, the TDB has taken proactive steps to keep the Pamba river clean. Eight contract workers have been specifically appointed to collect discarded clothing left by pilgrims at Pamba. This initiative aims to prevent pollution in the sacred river.
Furthermore, adhering to a directive from the High Court, police personnel and home guards have been deployed in the area. Their role is to raise awareness among devotees and discourage the practice of throwing clothes into the river, promoting a cleaner pilgrimage environment.
