Making history, President Droupadi Murmu has become the first female head of state to pray at Lord Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala. The event was significant as it provided her with a unique distinction of following in the footsteps of former President VV Giri and becoming just the second President of India to visit the temple. The pilgrimage is of huge symbolic importance, especially after the Supreme Court decided in 2018 that women of menstruating age could enter the shrine, thereby putting an end to a long-standing ban.
A Traditional Pilgrimage
President Murmu’s pilgrimage to Sabarimala was adorned in tradition and reverence. At the Pamba base camp, she followed a series of customary rituals, which included washing her feet in the holy Pampa river and worshipping at the nearby Lord Ganapathy shrine. She was dressed in a black saree and took part in the ‘Kettunira’ ceremony, during which the head priest prepared her ‘irumudikkettu,’ a sacred bundle carried by devotees during the pilgrimage.
Darshan at the Sannidhanam
Having arrived at the Sannidhanam, President Murmu was nobly welcomed with a traditional poornakumbha by the chief priest. Ascending the 18 holy steps holding her sacred bundle atop her head, she had a meaningful ‘darshan’ of the Lord Ayyappa in the main sanctum sanctorum. After her prayers and visits to other temples nearby, she retired to the TDB guesthouse for lunch. Meanwhile, in order to mark the historic occasion, other devotees were barred from entering.
One of the prominent landmarks of President Murmu’s four-day official visit to Kerala is the unveiling of the bust of former President KR Narayanan in addition to participation in several centenary celebrations. The visit to Sabarimala is a blessing for her and, at the same time, binds hundreds of millions of Ayyappa devotees spread over India with deep faith.
Symbolism Amidst Tradition
The trip of the President to Sabarimala laid a quiet symbolism amid centuries-old customs and practices. By upholding the sanctity of the pilgrimage and following the established rituals, she respected the tradition rather than infringing upon it. BJP leader Bandi Sanjay Kumar praised President Murmu’s visit by stressing that the spirit of devotion stands shoulder to shoulder with silent deeds and not loud protestations. This moment at Sabarimala, undertaken in an aura of dignity and reverence, has etched the indelible faith that binds the devotees of Ayyappa.
In conclusion, the historic visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Sabarimala is not only a personal milestone but also speaks of a larger canvas of inclusiveness and respect for tradition. By paying homage to this shrine, she showed what devotion really means, more so for millions who hold Lord Ayyappa close to their hearts.
