Introduction to Lord Ayyappa
Lord Ayyappa is one of the popular and revered deities of Hinduism. His devotion is particularly strong in South India and Kerala. Lord Ayyappa is worshipped as a symbol of power, restraint, spirituality and religion. He is also known by holy names like “Swami Ayyappa”, “Ayyappan” and “Hariharaputra”.
By worshipping Lord Ayyappa, devotees gain self-strength, mental peace and progress in life. The world-famous Sabarimala temple in Kerala is considered the biggest centre of devotion to Lord Ayyappa.
Origin of Lord Ayyappa
According to mythology, Lord Ayyappa is the son of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini. During the churning of the ocean, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of Mohini. The son born from the divine part of Lord Shiva and Mohini was known as Hariharaputra, who later became famous as Lord Ayyappa.
At that time, Mahishasura's sister Mahishi started atrocities on the gods. Due to the boon of Brahma, her killing was possible only by the son born from the combined part of Shiva and Vishnu. Lord Ayyappa fought a fierce battle with Mahishi and killed her and restored peace and happiness to the gods.
Lord Ayyappa's childhood
According to beliefs, Lord Ayyappa was abandoned on the banks of the Pampa river. Later, King Rajasekhara adopted him and raised him. From childhood, Lord Ayyappa was seen to have extraordinary divine power and brilliance.
After killing the mare, Lord Ayyappa attained spiritual enlightenment at Sabarimala. Even today, the Sabarimala temple is considered the holiest pilgrimage site for the devotees of Lord Ayyappa.
Lord Ayyappa's family
Lord Ayyappa is the son of Lord Shiva and born from the Mohini form of Lord Vishnu. Therefore, he is known as Hariharaputra.
Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya are considered his half-brothers. According to some beliefs, Goddess Ashokasundari, Goddess Manasa and Goddess Jyoti are his sisters.
Lord Ayyappa is considered a celibate and therefore unmarried.
Description of Lord Ayyappa's form
Lord Ayyappa is usually depicted holding a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other. He wears a quiver full of arrows on his back.
In many paintings, Lord Ayyappa is depicted riding a tiger, which symbolizes his strength and fearlessness. In some forms, he is also shown riding a horse, elephant or leopard.
Mantra of Lord Ayyappa
The most popular and sacred mantra of Lord Ayyappa is as follows.
॥ Swamiye Sharanam Ayyappa ॥
Festivals associated with Lord Ayyappa
Makarvilakku is the most important festival associated with Lord Ayyappa. On this holy occasion, lakhs of devotees visit the Sabarimala temple for darshan and perform special puja to Lord Ayyappa.
Famous Temples of Lord Ayyappa
There are many famous temples of Lord Ayyappa in India and around the world. Among them, Sabarimala Temple (Kerala), Achankovil Temple (Kollam), Ayyappa Temple (Lucknow) and Ayyappa Temple of Chhattisgarh are particularly famous.
Importance of Sabarimala Temple
The Sabarimala Temple located in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala is a world-famous pilgrimage site of Lord Ayyappa. Every year, lakhs of devotees come here for darshan by observing strict fasts and rules. The pilgrimage to Sabarimala is considered a symbol of devotion, restraint and self-purification.
Spiritual Importance of Lord Ayyappa
Lord Ayyappa is considered the god of religion, bravery and spiritual power. By worshipping him, one gains confidence, restraint and positive energy in life. Devotion to Lord Ayyappa inspires devotees to move forward on the spiritual path.