The Sabarimala Ayyappa temple has officially opened for the Mandala Pooja season. The temple doors were opened at 5 PM yesterday amid the sacred chants of devotees. The newly appointed Melshanti, Prasad Namboodiri, climbed the holy 18 steps, opened the Sannidhanam doors, and performed the first pooja, marking the beginning of the Mandala rituals.

For this Mandala season, the Kerala government has arranged extensive facilities for the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Under the supervision of the Health Department, temporary medical camps and oxygen centers have been set up at various locations along the trek route from Pampa to Sannidhanam. Medical staff, including professors and PG students, are available 24/7 to assist devotees.

For the first time in Sabarimala’s history, fully equipped operation theaters have been established at Pampa and Sannidhanam. Emergency cardiology services have also been arranged at the Pathanamthitta General Hospital. Informational signboards in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and other languages have been installed for better guidance. The government has also announced a dedicated helpline number: 04735 203232 for emergency assistance.

Authorities have issued important safety guidelines for the devotees. Pilgrims with chronic health issues are advised to carry their medical records. They should climb the hill slowly, taking enough rest. In case of chest pain or breathing difficulty, immediate medical help must be sought. Devotees are also instructed to drink only boiled and cooled water and maintain proper hygiene throughout the pilgrimage.