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The sacred Sabarimala Temple, tucked deep inside the forests of Kerala’s Western Ghats, has once again drawn national attention. This time, the spotlight is on the temple’s immense wealth, its ancient traditions, and a recent gold-related security issue that has raised questions among devotees and administrators alike.

The Mystery of Gold at Sabarimala

The wealth of Sabarimala has always inspired awe and curiosity. Managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board, the temple receives offerings from millions of devotees every year. These include gold ornaments, coins, jewellery, and other precious metals, many of them donated over centuries as acts of devotion.

According to media reports from November 2024, Sabarimala is believed to possess approximately:

• about 227 kilograms of gold

• around 2,994 kilograms of silver

While the temple administration has not officially released a detailed public inventory, it is widely believed that the total value of these assets runs into several hundred crores of rupees. Because of this, Sabarimala is considered one of the most closely guarded religious sites in India.

Who Are the Golden Gatekeepers of Sabarimala?

At the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum stand two powerful guardian figures known as Dwarapalakas. In Hindu temple tradition, Dwarapalakas are divine gatekeepers entrusted with protecting the deity and the sacred space.

At Sabarimala, these Dwarapalakas hold deep symbolic importance. Devotees believe that as long as they stand watch, Lord Ayyappa’s abode and its sanctity remain protected. In recent news, reports emerged that the gold plating on these Dwarapalakas had gone missing, triggering concern and speculation.

Following a security audit and investigation, temple authorities restored the Dwarapalakas by re-plating them with pure gold. The move was seen as both a security measure and a reassurance to devotees whose faith is deeply tied to these symbols.

Which Deity Is Worshipped at Sabarimala?

Sabarimala is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, also known as Ayyappan, Shastha, or Manikandan. According to Hindu belief, he is the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini, the female incarnation of Lord Vishnu, earning him the name Hariharaputra.

A visit to Sabarimala is unique in Hindu practice. Devotees must observe a strict 41-day austerity period known as Mandalam Vratam, involving celibacy, simplicity, and discipline. The annual Makaravilakku festival, held around Makar Sankranti, draws millions who come to witness the sacred Makar Jyoti.

Faith, Wealth, and Vigilance

The renewed focus on Sabarimala highlights a delicate balance: safeguarding immense material wealth while preserving centuries-old spiritual traditions. For devotees, the gold is not merely treasure; it is a physical expression of faith, sacrifice, and devotion to Lord Ayyappa.