The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has announced that the main goal of the upcoming Global Ayyappa Sangamam is to involve devotees from around the world in the development of the Sabarimala temple. The TDB is the main body organising the event, scheduled for September 20 at Pampa as part of its 75th anniversary celebrations in association with the Kerala government. The initiative has sparked reactions among political parties and community organisations in recent days.
TDB President PS Prasanth told reporters that the "Sabarimala masterplan, recognised by the government, will be presented to the participants at the conclave." He also noted that while the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has yet to confirm its participation, Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan is one of the three patrons of the event.
Prasanth confirmed that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will be the chief patron, with the Assembly Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Devaswom Minister also serving as patrons. The steering committee will include representatives from both the TDB and the Devaswom Board.
Registration for the event has already started via the Sabarimala virtual queue portal. The estimated budget for the event is around ₹4 crore, with all funding to be sourced from sponsorships.
"The objective is to take the glory of Sabarimala across the globe and propagate the essence of the ‘tatvamasi’ philosophy. The opinions of Ayyappa devotees worldwide will be collected in connection with the development of Sabarimala,” he said.
Prasanth added, “The Sabarimala masterplan will be presented before them. Their opinions, directions, and partnerships will be ensured in this regard. These are the fundamental objectives of the Ayyappa Samgamam.” He also expressed satisfaction at the support extended by organisations such as the Nair Service Society (NSS) and Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam.
Also read: Kerala BJP to TDB: Reverse stance on women's entry in Sabarimala
Follow us
