Revenue Boom at Sabarimala: Ayyappa Temple Sees Record Earnings

The Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala reported a remarkable 33.33% increase in revenue, with collections reaching Rs 92 crore in the first 15 days of the mandala-makaravilakku season. A notable rise in 'aravana' and 'kanikka' revenue contributed significantly to this surge, as thousands of pilgrims flock to the shrine.

The revered Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala has experienced a surge in revenue during the current annual mandala-makaravilakku pilgrimage season. In the first 15 days alone, the temple amassed Rs 92 crore, marking a 33.33% increase compared to last year's Rs 69 crore in the same period, as per the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).

The impressive revenue boost is largely driven by the sale of 'aravana', a traditional sweet offering, which brought in Rs 47 crore—a substantial 46.86% rise from last year's Rs 32 crore. The temple's 'appam' sales contributed Rs 3.5 crore, maintaining levels similar to the previous season.

'Kanikka' collections also saw an 18.18% increase, going from Rs 22 crore last year to Rs 26 crore. The pilgrimage season, which has already seen 13 lakh devotees till November 30, is expected to conclude in January 2026.

(With inputs from agencies.)