Pampa to host global congregation of Ayyappa devotees on September 20
According to the Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan, around 3,000 delegates from different countries will attend the historic event, which will also see the participation of Union Ministers as well as Chief Ministers from other States. 'For the first time, such a large number of delegates is being brought together for a gathering of Ayyappa devotees. The summit, which provides an opportunity to hear from devotees worldwide, aims to strengthen the global prominence of Sabarimala,' he noted.
The Minister added that constructive suggestions from devotees will be compiled, and participation from all sections of devotees will be ensured. Inputs will also be sought from the temple Tantri (chief priest) and other stakeholders, with consultations under way with representatives from various States.
As part of the arrangements, a central reception office will be set up under the district administration in Pathanamthitta town, while additional offices will function at Pampa, Perunad, and Seethathode. KSRTC will provide special transport facilities and accommodation will be arranged across the district. Delegates will also be given the opportunity for darshan at the hill shrine. Vehicle parking will be arranged at the Pampa Hill Top, while voluntary organisations will assist in sanitation and cleaning activities.
The district administration has already issued instructions to various departments as part of the preparations. The feasibility of stalls by the Tourism department, Forest department and the Kudumbashree is also being explored.
To oversee the event, a 1,001-member organising committee has been formed with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as the chief patron.
According to the organisers, the Global Ayyappa Summit is envisioned as a platform to showcase Sabarimala's cultural heritage and spiritual unity to the world. The event will bring together renowned spiritual leaders, scholars, devotees, cultural representatives, and administrators from across the globe.
With just months left for the local body and Assembly elections in the State, the conduct of the event by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government also assumes political significance.
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