Wed Jan 14 02:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Makara Jyothi Draws Millions to Sabarimala Amidst Controversy
The Story:
Millions of Ayyappa devotees are converging on Sabarimala for the annual Makara Jyothi festival, a sacred event held on Makara Sankranti. The festival marks the culmination of a period of intense devotion, with pilgrims undertaking strict vows before embarking on their journey to witness the divine light atop Ponnambalamedu hill. However, this year’s festivities are overshadowed by allegations of police harassment against pilgrims, with claims that devotees are being forced to abandon their private vehicles and use state-run buses to reach Sabarimala.
Key Points:
- Millions of Ayyappa devotees are gathering at Sabarimala for Makara Sankranti.
- The Makara Jyothi is a divine light that appears atop Ponnambalamedu hill, drawing devotees seeking blessings.
- Devotees undertake strict vows and pilgrimages to Sabarimala.
- Allegations have surfaced that Kerala police are forcing devotees to use state-run buses instead of their own vehicles, causing resentment.
- Authorities have arranged for 1,000 additional buses and heightened security measures to manage the large influx of pilgrims.
Key Takeaways:
- The Makara Jyothi festival remains a central event in the Ayyappa faith, attracting a massive number of devotees.
- Logistical challenges in managing the pilgrimage continue to be a concern, prompting the need for efficient transport and security arrangements.
- Accusations of police harassment highlight the need for sensitivity and respect toward religious practices during crowd management.
- The conflict between devotees and authorities could potentially escalate and damage faith depending on future interactions.
First Piper 