Know the details about Sabarimala 41 Days Vratham Rules Mala Pooja Procedure Daily, Sabarimala 41 Days Vratham Rules Daily Procedure
The Comprehensive Guide to Sabarimala 41 Days Vratham and Mala Procedure
Introduction
Sabarimala pilgrimage, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is one of the most significant spiritual journeys in India. Central to this pilgrimage is the 41 days Vratham (penance), which involves strict rituals and abstinence. This guide will walk you through all aspects of the Sabarimala 41 days Vratham, including the mala procedure, rules, daily routines, pooja procedures, and frequently asked questions.
Sabarimala 41 Days Vratham Rules Mala Pooja Procedure Daily
What is Sabarimala 41 Days Vratham?
The 41 days Vratham is a period of penance and preparation for devotees planning to visit the Sabarimala temple. It is a time of austerity, aimed at purifying the mind and body to achieve spiritual upliftment. This period is also known as Mandala Vratham.
Mala Procedure
The Significance of Mala
The initiation of the Vratham starts with the wearing of a sacred mala (garland) made of Rudraksha or Tulsi beads. This marks the beginning of the penance.
How to Wear the Mala
- Purification: Before wearing the mala, devotees must take a holy bath.
- Pooja: Conduct a small pooja at home or at the temple.
- Mantras: Chant mantras dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
- Wearing the Mala: The mala is usually worn by a Guru Swami (experienced pilgrim) who blesses the devotee.
Rules During the 41 Days Vratham
Abstinence
- Dietary Restraints: Only vegetarian food is allowed. Avoid garlic, onions, and any form of meat or alcohol12.
- Personal Restraints: No shaving or hair cutting. Devotees should maintain celibacy.
- Behavioral Restraints: Avoid anger, lust, greed, and other negative emotions.
Daily Routine
- Morning and Evening Poojas: Perform poojas twice a day to invoke blessings from Lord Ayyappa.
- Bhajans and Chanting: Recite Ayyappa bhajans and mantras regularly.
- Community Service: Engage in charitable activities and help others.
Pooja Procedure
Morning Pooja
- Holy Bath: Begin the day with a bath to purify oneself.
- Lighting the Lamp: Light a lamp and offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa.
- Offering Naivedyam: Prepare and offer simple food items like fruits and coconuts to the deity.
- Chanting: Recite Ayyappa mantras and shlokas.
Evening Pooja
- Repetition of Morning Rituals: Follow a similar routine as the morning pooja.
- Extended Chanting: Include additional bhajans and hymns in the evening prayers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can women participate in the Sabarimala Vratham?
Women aged between 10 and 50 are traditionally not allowed to undertake the pilgrimage due to religious customs.
2. Is it mandatory to wear the mala for 41 days?
Yes, wearing the mala signifies the start of Vratham and is mandatory for all devotees.
3. What happens if a rule is broken during Vratham?
If a rule is inadvertently broken, devotees should consult their Guru Swami for guidance. Usually, a brief period of repentance and additional prayers can resolve minor breaches.
4. Can I go to work while observing the Vratham?
Yes, you can go to work, but you should adhere strictly to the Vratham rules, maintaining discipline and spiritual focus.
Things to Know
Key Points
- Duration: The Vratham lasts for 41 continuous days without break.
- Mala Wearing Ceremony: Begins with the wearing of the mala.
- Strict Abstinence: Fasting and abstaining from various indulgences.
- Daily Disciplines: Regular poojas and chanting.
- Community Involvement: Encouraged to serve others.
Final Steps
After completing the 41-day Vratham, devotees make their pilgrimage to Sabarimala. Upon reaching the temple, they climb the sacred 18 steps, which symbolize human passions that need to be conquered.
Embarking on the Sabarimala 41 days Vratham is a deeply spiritual journey that demands dedication, discipline, and devotion. By adhering to the prescribed rules and engaging in daily poojas, devotees can purify their minds and bodies, paving the way for a serene and fulfilling pilgrimage.