Sabarimala Temple, KeralaImage Credit source: PTI
Sabarimala Temple Gold Case: The Sabarimala temple situated amidst the dense forests and hills of Kerala is once again in the headlines. The reason is the mystery and faith associated with the temple, in which gold, security and traditions are deeply interconnected. This temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is not only a center of reverence but is also a confluence of many historical and spiritual facts. Let us know about Sabarimala temple which is currently in the news regarding the gold theft case.
Sabarimala Temple and the Mystery of Gold
The wealth of Sabarimala temple and the amount of gold present there has always been a matter of curiosity. According to reports from the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages the temple, Sabarimala has preserved a huge amount of gold offered by devotees over the centuries. This includes gold jewellery, coins and items gifted in the form of gold jewellery.
According to a report of November 2024, the temple is said to have 227 kg of gold and 2,994 kg of silver. Although the Sabarimala temple administration has not made any official announcement about it, it is believed that the gold associated with the temple is worth crores of rupees.
Who are those gatekeepers who were plated with gold?
The Sabarimala temple has two major statues installed at the entry gate, which are called Dwarapalakas in the local tradition. These gatekeepers are considered to be the symbols that protect the temple. There is a religious belief that as long as these gatekeepers remain blessed, the temple and its property remain safe. Some time ago, there were reports of disappearance or theft of the layers of gold plated on these gatekeepers of the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. This layer was very valuable not only from the religious point of view but also from the economic point of view. After this incident, considering the faith of the devotees and after the security audit of the temple, these gatekeepers have again been coated with layers of pure gold.
Which god is worshiped in Sabarimala temple?
Lord Ayyappa is worshiped in the famous Sabarimala temple of Kerala. He is also known as Ayyappan, Shasta or Manikandan. According to mythology, Lord Ayyappa is the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini, the female form of Lord Vishnu. For this reason he is also called Hariharputra. To visit the temple, devotees have to observe a strict fast of 41 days, which is called Mandalam Vrat. The Makaravilakku puja held on the day of Makar Sankranti in this temple has special significance, in which lakhs of devotees come to have darshan of Makar Jyoti.
Also read: What is the case of gold theft in Sabarimala? ED came into action, raided 21 locations in 3 states
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.