In an unprecedented move, Central Airlines, in collaboration with the Central Civil Aviation Department, has introduced a significant relaxation for Ayyappa devotees. With this new facility, devotees undertaking the Ayyappa Diksha can carry their sacred Irumudi directly onboard during their flights to Sabarimala. This announcement comes as a major relief to the thousands who previously relied on buses, trains, and private vehicles to reach their destination.
The Union Civil Aviation Minister, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, shared this development from the Srikakulam camp office, stating that the government has considered the appeals of Ayyappa devotees and issued revised guidelines to accommodate the sacred Irumudi on flights. Traditionally, devotees had been unable to carry Irumudi, especially the Irumudi coconut, on flights due to safety regulations. This change not only makes the journey easier but also honors the requests of devotees seeking to preserve the sanctity of their pilgrimage.
Ayyappa Devotees’ Relief – Direct Travel Option to Sabarimala
With the new ruling, devotees carrying Irumudi—a traditional offering made with utmost sanctity by those undertaking the Mandala Diksha—can now travel by air, bypassing the longer journey by road or train. As per the guidelines, devotees will undergo standard airport screening with their Irumudi packages before boarding. Once cleared, they can carry the sacred Irumudi onboard, which marks a historic shift in civil aviation policies concerning religious pilgrimages.
Union Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu emphasized that this relaxation was introduced with consideration for both security and respect for religious practices. “We recognize the deep religious significance of Irumudi for Ayyappa devotees and wanted to make their journey as smooth and respectful as possible,” he stated, encouraging devotees to cooperate with airport staff during the necessary security checks.
Facility Valid Until Makar Jyoti
The facility will be available until January 20, concluding after the Makar Jyoti festival. Makar Jyoti, a revered event marking a divine celestial light believed to be Lord Ayyappa’s blessing, draws millions of devotees from across India to Sabarimala. Union Minister Naidu’s announcement has sparked appreciation among devotees, especially those undertaking the rigorous Ayyappa Diksha and observing its spiritual customs. The new facility will allow easier access to Sabarimala until the festival concludes, enabling pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey.
Advisory for Devotees Traveling by Air
To ensure smooth travel, devotees are advised to arrive at the airport early and cooperate fully with airport security. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has issued specific instructions to the airport staff, ensuring the scanning and handling of Irumudi kits are both secure and respectful.
With this decision, the government aims to support the faith and commitment of Ayyappa devotees by addressing their travel needs and respecting their spiritual traditions. This update has already begun trending across social media platforms, where devotees are celebrating the ease it brings to their pilgrimage experience.
Conclusion
This progressive decision by the Central Civil Aviation Department, allowing Ayyappa devotees to carry the sacred Irumudi onboard flights to Sabarimala, highlights the administration’s respect for diverse religious practices. The facility will streamline the journey for devotees, making it more accessible and safer. As the facility is available until January 20, all Ayyappa devotees planning to visit Sabarimala are encouraged to take advantage of this option and adhere to the necessary security protocols for a peaceful and fulfilling pilgrimage.
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