Pampa: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the “Global Ayyappa Sangamam” at Pampa, calling Sabarimala a sacred space “where everyone becomes one, transcending caste and religious beliefs.” In his inaugural address, the Chief Minister quoted from the Bhagavad Gita to emphasize the qualities of a true devotee and to criticize those who had opposed the event.
The Ayyappa Sangamam, organized by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) as part of a new “Master Plan” for the temple, aims to gather input from devotees and experts for the comprehensive development of the pilgrimage site. The Chief Minister stated that the development plans for Sabarimala are not just for a single pilgrimage season but for the next 25 years. He highlighted the need to improve infrastructure, stating that the proposed projects would enable more than double the current number of pilgrims to visit the temple.
Pinarayi Vijayan’s reference to the Bhagavad Gita was a pointed response to the opposition parties, particularly the BJP and its allied organizations, who had criticized the government’s role in the event and alleged that it was a political move to appease Hindu voters. The Chief Minister said that “it is not difficult to identify real devotees” and that the Bhagavad Gita’s 12th chapter explains their qualities. He further stated that those who attempted to sabotage the event, even resorting to a court case, had vested agendas. He reiterated that the event was organized to discuss the development plans and to get feedback from devotees, and not for political gain.
The Chief Minister also emphasized that Sabarimala upholds secular values, citing that the lullaby “Harivarasanam” was written by an atheist, Devarajan Master, and sung by a Christian, K.J. Yesudas. He concluded by stating that the government is committed to ensuring the temple’s development and preserving its unique spiritual and secular essence.
