Mandala Pooja

Mandala Pooja celebrations continues for a period of 41 days beginning from first day of the Malayalam month of Vrishchikam (November-December) and culminating on eleventh day of Dhanu (December-January). During this period devotees make a pilgrimage to the famous shrine of Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala. As a tradition, those visiting Sabarimala from nearby places will come to Neervilakom Ayyappa temple to sanctify the mala (Thulasi or Rudraksha) they wear during the vrutham. After the prayers, the devotee receives mala from the priest of temple. At the time of adoring the mala he will also give advise to the pilgrim about the implications of vruthum and pilgrimage.  Here vilikakku koluthu is held throughout "mandalakaalam" by various nair families coming under 1741 karayogam. Mandala Pooja signifies 41 days of austerities. Main Mandala pooja is conducted on the 41st day after the 1st of Vrichikam.