Sabarimala Darshan Delight: Police Escort Pilgrims After U-Turn Due to Heavy Rush

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In a heartwarming display of police support, a group of 17 Lord Ayyappa devotees from Kallambalam got a second chance to have a hassle-free darshan at Sabarimala. The pilgrims, including two children visiting for the first time, had to return earlier due to the massive crowds. However, after their story was shared on television channels, the police coordinator, ADGP S Sreejith, reached out to the group, assuring them support to have darshan. With the police's help, the pilgrims were able to climb the holy hills and offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. The incident highlights the challenges faced by the TDB and police in managing the massive flow of nearly two lakh devotees that arrived at the Sabarimala shrine within 48 hours of its opening for the annual 'mandala-makaravilakku' pilgrimage season. The crowds were so massive that devotees were packed like sardines in front of the 18 steps leading to the shrine, with many facing hours-long delays. However, with the police's strong resolve to ensure that no pilgrim leaves without darshan, the devotees were able to have a successful and peaceful visit. When asked about the incident, an elated woman pilgrim expressed her gratitude, but ADGP Sreejith humbly suggested that the credit should go to Lord Ayyappa's intervention. The police's timely intervention has set a positive precedent, ensuring that pilgrims who come with a virtual queue pass will not be turned away without darshan.