Sabarimala (Kerala), Jan 20 (UNI) The world-famous Lord Ayyappa temple has been closed at 0630 hrs on Monday, marking the conclusion of the 2024-25 annual pilgrimage after facilitating the customary Darshan for the royal representative of the Pandalam Palace.

As part of the ritual, temple head priest (Melsanthi) Arun Kumar Namboodiri handed over 'Panakkizhi' (the money offered for the conduct of the poojas at the temple) and the key of the Sreekovil to royal family member 'Thrikketanal' Rajaraja Verma in front of the Holy Steps of the temple.

The rituals were held in the presence of Temple Thantri Brahmadattan Kanadanararu.

Before the Darshan of the royal representative, the return procession of the 'Thiruvabharanam' box containing the sacred gold ornaments, which was adorned on the idol of Ayyappa during the Makaravilakku ceremony, left for Pandalam this morning.

The devotees were allowed to offer prayers at the temple only till the closure of the Sreekovil (Sanctum Sanctorum) at 2100 hrs on Sunday.

The five-day procession carrying the ‘Thidambu’ of Malikappuram Devi also came to an end on Saturday. The customary 'Yatra' to Saramkuthi was also held on the day.

The ‘Guruthi,’ the annual offering held for the blessings of the hill Gods of Lord Ayyappa, was also held after the 'Athazha Pooja' on Sunday.

UNI DS ARN