Devotees of Lord Ayappa walk over hot embers in Surat

Surat, Jan.2 (ANI): Devotees of Lord Ayappa walked on hot embers as a part of Makara Vilakku Mahotsavam in Surat over the weekend.

Devotees sang devotional songs and performed certain basic rituals.

The Makara Vilakku Mahotsavam commenced on December 30 and culminates on Makara Sankranti, celebrated every year on January 14.

The devotees believe that this fire walk earns them Lord Ayappa's blessings for prosperity.

Before this walk, the intending devotee has to wear a significant neckpiece.

"This is the nature that signifies God; not everyone can walk on it, only who pledges and wear this neckpiece can walk on it. Every year it is held, I am doing it for second time," said Venkatesh Channa, a devotee.

The main shrine of Lord Ayappa is located at Sabarimala in Kerala. By Dharmesh(ANI)