Mandalam Musings Day 2 - Ayyappas everywhere!

 

Mandalam Musings - Day 2
Ayyappas everywhere!

During the Mandalam period, if we look around the Sabarimala temple premises and on the forest path leading to the temple, we hear the name Ayyappa incessantly in the air, as if it is the base-note of a grand concert. Pilgrims address each other by the same name– Ayyappa. There are police-Ayyappas and chaiwala-Ayyappas. There are priest-Ayyappas and vendor-Ayyappas. There are rich Ayyappas and poor Ayyappas. And yes, of course, the deity of the temple is also Ayyappa. 

All are wearing similar and simple attire, and all are trying to live up to the divine name Ayyappa. After all, they have taken on the Lord’s name. This is the only pilgrim center in the world where the devotee and the deity are addressed by the same name. For the 41 days of Mandalam, each devotee is dreaming of becoming an Ayyappa. 

Taking on the Lord’s name is a commitment, at least for the period of a Mandalam. It is a period of penance and introspection for the devotee. He carefully undertakes his daily routines following all the prescribed behaviors, rituals, and codes of conduct. His attire is that of a mendicant with the minimum required physical comforts. He is following “saroopya” penance – trying to emulate the bhava (gesture) of the Lord Ayyappa, Himself. That is a step closer to the divinity all seekers are trying to attain.

As the Mandalam season approaches, a devotee’s mind is filled with anticipation of the penance he is going to undertake, guided by the Lord himself. For an ordinary person, it is an opportunity to develop good habits and to learn about Sanatana Dharma, India’s philosophy of life.

Yes, it is our own attempt to get our minds focussed on the tall claim – Tat Tvam Asi – You are that!

Admittedly, it is not easy - Why?