Ayodhya Ram Mandir: What Is Mandala Puja? All You Need To Know About 48-Day Long Special Puja

The opening ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, is a significant moment being joyfully observed by millions of Hindus globally. This historic event holds great importance, marking a special milestone for the community.

As per the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, the Pran Pratishtha program is scheduled to take place on January 22, 2024. This falls on Paush Shukla Kurma Dwadashi, Vikram Samvat 2080, following the Hindu calendar. The ceremony is set to commence at 12:30 pm. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will oversee the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony on Monday, January 22.

PM Modi has been following a disciplined routine, which includes sleeping on the floor and having only coconut water. In 2020, he also oversaw the 'bhumi poojan' of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Around 20,000 individuals hailing from 50 countries across the globe, including all states, are expected to attend this significant event. This marks a historic moment that brings together people from diverse backgrounds to participate in the ceremony and festivities.

After the installation of Ram Lalla, there will be a 48-day Mandala Puja beginning on January 23, 2024. People from all walks of life can visit and witness the deity during this time. While this puja might not be widely known in North India, it holds significance in South India. The Mandala Puja, overseen by Swami Jagadguru Madhvacharya, the Peethadhipati of the Pejawar Math in Tirtha Kshetra, will take place for 48 days.

During the puja, there will be daily ritual bathing (abhishekam) of Ram Lalla's idol using consecrated liquid from silver kalashas. In addition to these rituals, scholars and acharyas will recite the Chaturvedas and other divine scriptures during the puja. This event provides a unique opportunity for devotees to participate in the spiritual experience and connect with the rich traditions guided by Swami Jagadguru Madhvacharya.

What is Mandala Puja?

A kid in saffron dress light earthen lamp at sector 17 plaza to mark the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya | Photo: BCCL

Mandala Puja holds significant importance and is observed annually at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala. This ceremony marks the conclusion of the 41 to 48 days of Mandala Kalam, a period of devout austerity observed by followers and devotees of Lord Ayyappa. During the puja temple remain open for all days.

Devotees eagerly await the day of Mandala Puja, as it signifies the end of their dedicated 41-day spiritual journey. This practice is deeply ingrained in the religious traditions surrounding Lord Ayyappa, bringing a sense of fulfillment and devotion to the believers.

The Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, became a hub of spiritual activity during this period. Pilgrims from different walks of life come together to participate in the Mandala Puja, fostering a sense of unity and collective worship.

As the day of Mandala Puja approaches, the atmosphere at the temple becomes charged with anticipation and reverence. The culmination of the 41-day austerity is met with various rituals and ceremonies, creating a spiritual ambiance that resonates with the cultural and religious heritage of the region.

In essence, Mandala Puja is not just a ritual but a celebration of faith, marking the completion of a devoted period for Lord Ayyappa's followers. It serves as a reminder of the shared devotion and the sense of community that thrives among those who embark on this spiritual journey together.

What is the importance of Mandala Puja?

The significance of Mandala Puja is highlighted in various Puranas. Performing Mandala Puja is thought to bring about a complete transformation in a person's life. It is a ritual that can be undertaken by anyone, regardless of age or gender. Those who approach Mandala Puja with sincere devotion are believed to receive blessings and have their wishes fulfilled. According to the tradition, completing Mandala Puja is said to grant individuals everything they desire.

Rituals of Mandala Puja span 41 days of austerity, during which devotees observe a strict fast. This fasting period is intended to purify the soul, body, and mind. Through the dedicated observance of Mandala Puja, individuals seek not only spiritual cleansing but also the fulfillment of their heartfelt desires.

Rituals and rules to follow during Mandala Puja:

• Mandala Puja holds great significance for South Indian communities, with fasting being a central and strictly observed practice.
• Those embarking on the pilgrimage to the Sabarimala shrine must adhere to austerity measures, making it a mandatory aspect of their journey.
• Devotees are encouraged to lead a simple and virtuous life during the Mandala Puja period.
• Wearing Rudraksha or Tulsi malas adorned with Lord Ayyappa¡¯s locket is a common practice among devotees until they visit the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. They are referred to as ¡®Swami¡¯ or ¡®Ayyappan¡¯ during this time.
• Fasting individuals are required to maintain the cleanliness of both body and mind.
• Devotees are expected to abstain from worldly pleasures throughout the 41 days.
• Avoidance of alcohol and smoking is emphasized during this sacred observance.
• Daily prayers are essential, and devotees are advised to steer clear of sexual activity, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor.
• Donning black dhotis and carrying the ¡®Irumudi¡¯ or ¡®Ketunira¡¯¡ªa divided cloth bundle containing a holy coconut with rice and ghee¡ªis a customary practice. This offering is presented to Lord Ayyappa.
• Pilgrims often include a visit to the Shri Krishna Temple at Guruvayur as part of the ritual.
• Some individuals take a solemn pledge (Sankalp) to sleep on the floor, avoid beds, and walk barefoot to the temple.
• Makarasankranti Day is considered highly auspicious during Mandala Puja, also known as Makarvillaku.

When is Mandala Puja 2024 at Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple?

The Mandala Pooja at Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala takes place on the 11th or 12th day during the month of Dhanu. In 2024, the Mandala Puja will begin on Saturday, November 16 and conclude on Thursday, December 26.

This special day marks the conclusion of a 41-day-long spiritual practice observed by devotees of Lord Ayyappa. The fasting period begins 41 days prior to Mandala Puja, starting on the first day of Vrishchikam Masam in the Malayalam Calendar.

Two significant events, Mandala Puja and Makar Vilakku, are widely recognized at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. During these occasions, the temple remains open for devotees on most days, creating a spiritually vibrant atmosphere. It is a time when worshippers come together to celebrate their devotion to Lord Ayyappa.

Mandala Puja FAQs:

Q: What is Mandala Puja?

Mandala Puja is a sacred ritual in Hinduism, typically associated with certain temples, where devotees offer prayers, rituals, and offerings to the deity over a specified period, often 41 days. It marks the beginning of the pilgrimage season, and the devotees observe austerity during this period.

Q: When does Mandala Puja occur?

Mandala Puja usually begins in the Malayalam month of Vrishchikam (November-December) and concludes after 41 days, culminating in the Mandala Vilakku festival. The exact dates may vary based on the temple traditions and lunar calendar.

Q: Which deities are worshipped during Mandala Puja?

The most well-known Mandala Puja is associated with the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, where Lord Ayyappa is the main deity. However, Mandala Puja can be dedicated to various deities in different temples across India.

Q: What is the significance of the 41-day austerity period?

Devotees observe a 41-day penance, including abstinence from certain pleasures and strict adherence to a virtuous lifestyle, as a way to purify their minds and bodies before visiting the temple. This period of austerity is considered essential for spiritual preparation.

Q: How is Mandala Puja celebrated?

Devotees undertake a pilgrimage to the respective temple, often barefoot, carrying an offering known as Irumudi Kettu. Special rituals, prayers, and pujas are conducted throughout the 41 days, with the climax being the Mandala Vilakku festival.

Q: What is Irumudi Kettu in Mandala Puja?

Irumudi Kettu is a double-pouched bag carried by the devotees during their pilgrimage. It contains offerings for the deity, including coconuts, ghee, rice, and other essential items. The offerings symbolize the devotee's surrender to the divine.

Q: Can anyone participate in Mandala Puja?

Mandala Puja is open to all, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender. However, there are specific rules and regulations that devotees must follow, such as observing the 41-day austerity period and adhering to the temple's traditions.

Q: Are there any specific rituals associated with Mandala Puja?

Yes, Mandala Puja involves various rituals, including the daily Neyyabhishekam (ghee abhishekam), Pushpabhishekam (flower abhishekam), and the lighting of the sacred lamp during the Mandala Vilakku festival. Each ritual holds symbolic importance in the worship of the deity.