Devaprasnam begins at Sabarimala

Pathanamthitta, June 16 (UNI) A four-day "Devaprasanam" began in a solemn atmosphere at Sabarimala Ayyappa temple sannidhanam today.

A six-member team of astrologers led by Parappanangadi Unnikrisha Panicker is taking part in the event.

Special poojas were performed by Tantri Kantaru Mohanaru and Melsanthi M Sukumaran Nampoothiri before the 'Rasichakram' drawn in front of the sanctum sanctorum.

Master astrologer Unnikrishna Panicker said the Devaprasanam suggested inauspicious signs.

"Lord Ayyappa is in a mood of unhappiness over certain incidents occurred at Sabarimala. Yet, He is generous enough to shower blessings on lakhs of pilgrims who trekked the holy hillock every year. Hence, atonement rituals are necessary," he said.

Travancore Devaswom Board President G Raman Nair, Members Punalur Madhu and M B Sreekumar, Devaswom Commissioner C G Sachithanandan and Sabarimala Executive Officer V S Rajagopalan nair were present.

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