Sat Nov 23 13:45:19 UTC 2024: ## Sabarimala Temple Sees Record Pilgrim Surge
**Pathanamthitta, Kerala – November 23, 2024** – The Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple is experiencing a significant surge in pilgrim numbers during the ongoing Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, prompting discussions about increasing the daily virtual queue booking slots.
Over 5.38 lakh devotees have visited the temple in the first eight days (November 15-22), a sharp increase from 2.64 lakh during the same period last year. November 22nd saw a record high of 87,216 pilgrims, significantly boosting revenue for the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). A substantial portion of these pilgrims, nearly 50,000 in the past week, accessed the temple through spot bookings at various locations.
While the TDB president, P.S. Prashanth, acknowledged the possibility of increasing virtual queue slots from the current 70,000, he expressed concerns about logistical challenges if the influx becomes unmanageable. This debate arises as the Kerala High Court reviews a report criticizing the reduction of online booking slots to 70,000 – a decision made without court approval, despite the court previously permitting 90,000 daily darshans.
Despite the ongoing review, TDB officials suggest the current system could handle up to one lakh visitors daily, with a remarkably consistent flow of pilgrims. The board is reportedly open to increasing the virtual queue slots, but awaits the outcome of the High Court review before making a formal request.
First Piper 