Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president, PS Prashanth, announced on Sunday that the renowned Sabarimala temple had welcomed over 22 lakh pilgrims in just 29 days up to December 14. This marked a notable increase of 4.51 lakh visitors compared to the corresponding period last year. Addressing the media at Sannidhanam, Prashanth revealed that the temple had generated a total revenue of Rs 163.89 crore during this time, reflecting a rise of Rs 22.76 crore from the previous year.
The major revenue sources included Rs 82.67 crore from the sale of Aravana, the sacred prasadam, and Rs 52.27 crore from offerings made in the temple’s collection boxes. Aravana sales alone saw a significant boost of Rs 17.41 crore, climbing from Rs 65.26 crore last year, while the offering box contributions increased by Rs 8.35 crore.
Prashanth commended the smooth coordination among various departments, including the police, which ensured seamless darshan experiences for devotees. He highlighted the comprehensive facilities arranged for pilgrims and expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved. The remarkable turnout and revenue growth underscore the temple’s enduring spiritual and cultural significance.
The surge in pilgrim numbers and revenue highlights the unwavering devotion of Ayyappa followers and the global appeal of Sabarimala as a spiritual destination. The Travancore Devaswom Board emphasized its commitment to enhancing the experience for devotees through improved facilities and efficient management. With meticulous planning and inter-departmental cooperation, Sabarimala continues to uphold its legacy as a sacred abode, drawing millions of devotees annually while contributing significantly to the cultural and economic fabric of Kerala.
