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I met Venkatesh and Masama, his mother (Two Ayappa Pilgrims) in the bus to go to Chengannur in Kerala. One of the last big city before going to Sabarimala.
This pilgrimage to Sabarimala, in the mountains of Kerala takes place every year. They are devotees of Lord Ayappa. They go through a 41 day penance abstaining from sex, meat and intoxicationg drinks before undertaking the trek up the forested mountain chanting the celebrated three words "Samiye, Saranam Ayappa ( Oh lord Ayappa, I come to thee for refuge). The doors of the temple at Sabarimala are open to everyone irrespective of caste, creed, religion or social status.
2 comments:
:o) He reminds me of my trips during my younger days ... probably started going around that age ... and went some 7 times in all .... till I lost my faith
There are lots of times I think that I should go back, maybe for the journey, maybe to photograph the long hike ... but then think otherwise ..
Thanks for bringing back some vivid memories, Claude
chengannur also happens to be my dad's home town .... though I've lived in bangalore all my life ... so this pilgrimage usually meant a trip to visit relatives back there
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