President Droupadi Murmu will visit the renowned Sabarimala Temple in Kerala on May 19th to offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. This visit is historic, as she will be the first President of India to visit this ancient and sacred temple.
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu of India will undertake a historic visit to Kerala on May 18th and 19th. During this trip, she will perform a landmark act by becoming the first President of India to visit the famous Sabarimala Temple in Kerala and offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. This will not only be a significant part of her presidential tour but also a milestone in Indian politics and culture.
President's Visit: A Historic Moment in Kerala
President Droupadi Murmu will participate in a private program in Kottayam district, Kerala, on May 18th and will visit the Sabarimala Temple on May 19th. This visit is considered momentous in the nation's history, as it marks the first time a President will offer prayers at the Sabarimala Temple. The temple management has confirmed the visit and described it as a proud moment.
P.S. Prasanth, President of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), stated that this is a historic occasion and preparations are underway. He mentioned that security and other arrangements are being made by the SPG (Special Protection Group) and the temple management for the President's visit.
Security Aspects of the President's Visit
The President's security will be a significant challenge, as reaching the temple involves a strenuous climb for pilgrims. Reports suggest President Murmu may plan to ascend from the Pampa base camp. However, the SPG will ultimately decide whether she will undertake the climb.
The TDB president stated that the SPG will decide whether the President will climb the hill. He also mentioned that general devotees will not be allowed to visit the temple on May 18th and 19th due to the President's visit. The temple's QR ticket service will also be suspended during this period to avoid overcrowding during the President's visit.
Sabarimala Temple: A Prestigious Pilgrimage Site
The Sabarimala Temple is located in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, and is considered one of the most prestigious pilgrimage sites in South India. Situated at an altitude of 3,000 feet above sea level, reaching Sabarimala requires a challenging journey for pilgrims, including a 41-day fasting ritual and a barefoot climb from near the Pampa River.
Pilgrims carry Irumudi (a sacred prayer kit) to reach the temple's sanctum sanctorum, traversing 18 sacred steps. This journey is considered a spiritual penance, symbolizing religious faith and rigorous devotion.
President's Historic Arrival at Sabarimala
President Murmu's visit to the Sabarimala Temple marks a historic moment. Previously, in 1969, the then Kerala Governor, V.V. Giri, visited the Sabarimala Temple. He was the first and only Governor to offer prayers at this prestigious temple. Now, in 2025, President Droupadi Murmu will be the first President to visit the temple.
TDB President P.S. Prasanth stated that this is a moment of pride, as it is the first time a President has chosen to visit this temple. It also holds religious and cultural significance, as devotees from across the country visit the Sabarimala Temple, considering it a sacred pilgrimage site.
High Expectations in Kerala from President Murmu's Visit
This presidential visit is not only religiously significant but also considered a major political and cultural achievement for Kerala. President Droupadi Murmu's first visit represents her reverence and respect for the state. This visit will also convey a message of unity and togetherness among the people of Kerala and the nation, as it is associated with a religious site like Sabarimala, which has for years symbolized the religious diversity and unity of Indian society.
