Sabarimala Niraputhari

Niraputhari, a symbol of prosperity and agricultural abundance, is celebrated by Malayalees by hanging small sheaves of rice grains in their homes. This ritual is also one of the important ceremonies at Sabarimala. Traditionally, the Travancore royal family also observes Niraputhari Day.

On the day before Niraputhari, the Sabarimala temple opens, and the poojas commence. In the morning, the sheaves of rice grains are received by the Tantri at the Pathinettampadi (18 steps). The sheaf of paddy is then brought to the eastern mandapam. After being worshipped there, the sheaf of paddy is taken inside the shrine to be offered to Lord Ayyappa. Payasam made from this new rice is also offered to Ayyappa.

After the pooja, small sheaves of rice grains are tied in front of the sanctum sanctorum. The remaining are distributed as prasadam (consecrated offerings) to the devotees by the Tantri (chief priest) and Melshanti (head priest).  Now, the paddy harvested at the Sannidhanam is first offered to the Lord.

 Paddy grains brought from Aranmula, Palakkad, Achankovil and Chettikulangara are regularly delivered to Sabarimala for Niraputhari. Additionally, paddy is also brought from Tamil Nadu. Devotees from Rajapalayam bring paddy to the Sannidhanam in a chariot procession.