Get a reminder before the next Ayyappa Mandala Vratham · 2026–27
At 7pm the evening before, each time it comes around. Turn it off anytime.
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Ayyappa Mandala Vratham — the 41-day vrata of the Sabarimala season (Vrishchikam–Dhanu, Nov–Jan). One of the most widely observed vrathams in Kerala. Observers wear the Mala from the Guruswamy on Vrishchikam 1, observe strict vegetarianism, celibacy, black/dark blue attire, no footwear, and daily puja for 41 days — culminating in the Sabarimala pilgrimage with Irumudi-kettu on the head.
Dates 2026–2027
Mantra
स्वामिये शरणं अय्यप्पा। ॐ श्री अय्यप्पाय नमः।
Swamiye Sharanam Ayyappa · Om Sri Ayyappaya namah
I take refuge in Lord Ayyappa, the Swami. Salutations to Sri Ayyappa.
How to recite
On the first day (Vrishchikam 1), wear the Mala (tulsi or rudraksha bead garland) from the Guruswamy after pujas at the local Ayyappa temple. For the entire 41-day Mandala kaalam: strict vegetarian diet, brahmacharya (celibacy), black or dark blue attire, no footwear, daily Ayyappa puja with Sharanam Ayyappa kirtan, sleep on the floor, no shaving. Bathe twice daily in cold water. On the 41st day prepare the Irumudi-kettu (sacred two-compartment cloth bag — front for ghee-filled coconut and puja items, back for personal supplies) and undertake the Sabarimala pilgrimage, climbing the Pathinettam Padi (18 sacred steps) with Irumudi on head.
Benefits
The Mandala Vratham is one of the most widely observed vrathams in Kerala and the global Malayali diaspora. The 41 days are said to purify the body, mind and senses; the Sabarimala pilgrimage with Irumudi is considered equal to a full Tirtha-yatra. Ayyappa is the celibate son of Hari (Vishnu as Mohini) and Hara (Shiva) — uniting the two streams.
✦ Special Note
2026–27 season: Nov 27, 2026 (Mala dharanam) – Jan 6, 2027 (41st day). Mandala Pooja at Sabarimala falls within this window. Makaravilakku follows on Jan 14, 2027. Male-centric historically (women aged 10–50 traditionally do not pilgrimage), but observance of the vratam itself is undertaken by full families.
Foods Allowed
Foods to Avoid
Meal Idea
Plain rice with parippu, sambar, avial, pappadam; payasam on Saturdays (Shanivar — Ayyappa's day); tender coconut.
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Get a reminder before the next Ayyappa Mandala Vratham · 2026–27
At 7pm the evening before, each time it comes around. Turn it off anytime.
Remind meDates shown for India (default). Enable JavaScript to set a reminder for your location.
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