President Droupadi Murmu's Historic Sabarimala Visit: First Sitting President to Ascend by Vehicle

President Droupadi Murmu is set to make history as the first sitting President of India to reach the sacred Sabarimala temple by vehicle. The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has permitted her to ascend the Sabarimala hill shrine by motorcade, bypassing the traditional 4.5-kilometre trek from Pamba.

The visit, scheduled for October 22, 2025, coincides with the auspicious Thulam monthly puja. Extensive security and logistical arrangements are already in progress for the landmark occasion.

A Landmark Permission from the Travancore Devaswom Board

For centuries, pilgrims have journeyed barefoot from Pamba to Sannidhanam, following a deeply spiritual tradition that forbids the use of vehicles. Only a few exceptions exist, such as ambulances belonging to the TDB and Forest Department and tractors for transporting goods.

However, President Murmu's convoy will include a specially designated four-wheel-drive Gurkha emergency vehicle. It will be accompanied by six other vehicles, including a medical support unit to ensure safety during the climb.

The Kerala High Court granted permission for this special arrangement, stating that it complies with national security protocol and does not violate temple customs.

The last comparable event dates back to the 1970s when President V. V. Giri visited the temple in a traditional palanquin. That practice was later discontinued due to ethical concerns related to human and animal welfare.

"This is a one-time administrative decision, not a relaxation of general norms," said P. S. Prasanth, President of the Travancore Devaswom Board. "Permitting the vehicle does not violate any temple customs or practices."

Security, Protocols, and Preparations Underway

The President's convoy will travel along the Swami Ayyappan Road, a steep and narrow route typically reserved for emergency or maintenance use.

The Special Protection Group (SPG) and Kerala Police are coordinating an elaborate security system to ensure a smooth and secure visit. Multiple trial runs and rehearsals have already been planned as part of the preparation.

The permission falls under the Blue Book, which specifies security arrangements for high-level protectees. The Union Home Ministry cited health, age, and threat perception as the main reasons for recommending vehicular access.

The High Court emphasized that the decision should not become a precedent. It also reminded authorities of past rulings that restricted the use of tractors for human transport, referring to a previous case involving senior police officials.

Ritual Observances and Crowd Management

Despite the special travel arrangement, the TDB confirmed that President Murmu will fully participate in traditional rituals.

"The President and her team will carry the Irumudi and participate in all prescribed rituals, including breaking coconuts at the 18 sacred steps," said Prasanth.

Authorities will deploy extra personnel at Nilackal and Pamba to control crowds. Entry to Sannidhanam will be regulated through staggered timings to avoid congestion and ensure safety.

The entire visit will be monitored using CCTV cameras, drones, and a three-tier security system, which will also include forest patrol units.

Importantly, no VIP queue will be created inside the sanctum. President Murmu will wait for darshan according to the standard procedure followed by Irumudi bearers.

Religious Significance and Public Reactions

While the President's visit has been celebrated as a historic moment, it has also sparked quiet debate among traditionalists.

Sabarimala has long been at the centre of socio-religious discussions, particularly after the Supreme Court's 2018 verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the shrine.

President Murmu, who is above 50 years of age, falls within the customary age limit for women devotees. She will also become the first woman head of state to offer prayers at the revered shrine.

Her visit combines faith, tradition, and history, marking a significant moment for both Kerala and the nation.