Study of Ayyappa The Connection Between

Disha Manocha, Sakshi Venkat, Pratika Gopinath, Kahan Shah, Neha Mubeen
Iconography: Meaning and Myths of Icons
Professor Viraj Shah
12th January 2015
Ayyappa
Ayyappa, also known as Harhariputra, Manikandan or Shasta, is a local Hindu
deity, mythically born out of the union of two of the most famous Hindu Gods – Shiva and
Vishnu. Mainly worshipped in South India, Ayyappa is a local God believed to have been
created to bridge the gap between the Vaishnavite and Shaivite cults. Although Ayyappa is
mentioned in his Dharmashasta form in the Vedas (1750-500 BCE), it is not until the Puranic
times (16th Century AD) when he is actually described and detailed in his life events.1 Said to
protect the cosmic universe from evils, Ayyappa is known for his strength and masculine purity.
His names are said to represent what he was known for, in terms of myths, legends and birth
stories. For example, Harhariputra means ‘Shiva’s and Vishnu’s son’, Manikandan means ‘The
One With The Bell Around His Neck’, and Shasta means ‘Teacher’. Said to have first been
mentioned in the Sanskrit text of Bhutanathopakhyanam (19th Century AD),2 and generally

1
"Ayyapan, the Celibate God." Hindu Way of Life. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<http%3A%2F%2Fmailerindia.com%2Fgod%2Fhindu%2Findex.php%3Fayappa>.
2
Paulson, Brian. "Sabarimalai Temple and Pilgrimage." pp -1. March 2010. Web. <http://www.mahavidya.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2010/08/Paulson-Brian-Sabarimala.pdf>
depicted in yogic postures (because of his part Shaivite origin), Ayyappa is worshipped in
Kerala, where his most famous and unique temple – the Sabarimala Temple – is located, which
more than a million or so pilgrims visit in a year.3
Mythologically, Ayyappa was created to defeat the demon Mahishi, who could
only be defeated by a creature born of Vishnu and Shiva.4 After Durga defeated Mahishasura, the
sister Mahishi set out to avenge her brother’s death. Lord Brahma had given her a boon that only
the son of Shiva and Vishnu can kill her. To save the world from being destroyed, Lord Vishnu
took the female form of Mohini and married Shiva, and through their union, Ayyappa was born.5
Ayappa was abandoned by them on the banks of the Padhma River in a forest in
Kerala and was found and adopted by the famous king Raj Shekhar of Pandalam.6 As a baby he
was made to wear a chain around his neck with a bell, and hence, was named ‘Manikandan’. He
was brought up along with his brother, the biological son of king Raj Shekhar and was taught the
martial arts. As the kings wished Ayyappa to be the heir to the throne, the queen instigated a plan
to execute Ayyappa as she was jealous of him and wanted her own son to be the heir. The queen
pretended to be ill and asked Ayyappa to get her the milk of a tigress. Valiantly agreeing to this,

3
Das, Subhamoy. "The Legend of the Hindu God Ayyappa or Manikandan." Hinduism. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<http://hinduism.about.com/od/godsgoddesses/a/Lord-Ayyappa.htm>.
4
Singh, Sanjay. Main Festivals. "Yatra to Yatra" ICEM COMMUNICATIONS PVT. LTD. (2009) pp - 294. Web. 11 Jan.
2015. Stable URL
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=kWqPwWpkhg0C&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q=ayyappa&f=false >
5
Singh, Sanjay. Ayyappa. “Yatra to Yatra”. (2009). Pg 295. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=kWqPwWpkhg0C&pg=PA295&dq=ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=HCCyVIXWHIO2
uQTO84G4CQ&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=ayyappa&f=false>
6
Masilamani-Meyer, Eveline. Relationships: One is Many, Many are One. “Guardians of Tamilnadu: Folk Deities, Folk
Religion, Hindu Themes”. (2004). Pg. 125. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=xTJpU6NQ5B4C&pg=PA124&lpg=PA124&dq=iconography+of+ayyappa&source
=bl&ots=EE8BTGR-
EH&sig=AGYp1Xz020fqlr7qfsSG06RPD4Y&hl=en&sa=X&ei=4f2wVJPjLYWXuATyuILACw&ved=0CEYQ6AEwBw
#v=onepage&q=iconography%20of%20ayyappa&f=false>
he headed to the forest and defeated the demon Mahishi whom he encountered on the way.
Pleased by his act, all the Gods agreed to help him with his deed; Indra turned into a tiger and the
Goddesses turned into tigresses, and they returned to the palace together. The temple at
Sabrimala was created in honour of his Godly act.7
However, it is believed that the history behind the Shasta idol in Sabarimala is
somewhat different from that of the Ayyappa idols in any other temples. Another mythological
version of the story is that Mohini was created as Viswamohini (universal enchantress) to cheat
and distract the Asuras (demons) during the churning of the sea of milk. Shiva saw this form of
Vishnu and immediately fell in love with her. Out of their love, Ayyappa was created.
It is however still unclear as to why Shiva and Vishnu, being two of the most
powerful gods could not make either of their consorts adopt the child. Some historians such as
K.N. Gopalapilla believe however that this myth was necessary, that with the decline of
Buddhism in Kerala and surrounding regions, the Shaivites and Vaishnavites were making
rampant efforts to claim the Sabarimala temple and thereby divide the income that it received.
Although these efforts lead to a myth of Ayyappa being the son of Vishnu and Shiva, the
ignorance of the succeeding generation lead people to believe in its authenticity.8
In the Puranic period however, Ayyappa is said to be another name for Shasta or
Dharmashasta. Unlike many other Hindu deities, Ayyappa as Shasta is said to be the historical

7
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=kWqPwWpkhg0C&pg=PA295&dq=ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=HCCyVIXWHIO2
uQTO84G4CQ&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=ayyappa&f=false>
8
Sadasivan, S.N. Buddhism in Kerala. “A Social History of India”. (2000). Pg. 122. Web. 11th Jan, 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=Be3PCvzf-BYC&pg=PA123&dq=a+social+history+of+India+-
+ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=zhCyVLbGJ4K1uATaxILYBg&ved=0CCAQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=a%20social%20hist
ory%20of%20India%20-%20ayyappa&f=false>
and not the mythical god. P. R. Rama Varma presumes that he was born as late as 10th Century
A.D. According to this story, Ayyappa or Shasta was the son to married ascetics and after
learning martial arts, joined the army of the Raja of Pantalam. He was a said to be a Malayali-
Chevakan (a knight who fought to resolve social and political disputes of rival rulers by single
handed combat). Shasta was taught the martial arts by the Mooppil or the chief of Chirappanchira
in Tannirmukkam. He fell in love with the Mooppil’s daughter Poonkodi, his experiences of
which have been translated in songs and hymns.9
Shasta was involved in the conquest of Sabarimala from the possession of the
enemy rule, the Maravas. He took the help of his reliable Muslim friend Vavar (Babar), son of
Pathumma (Fatima) and Alikutty. There are several stories about Vavar’s specific history;
however, the general belief is that Vavar was once the leader of an enemy clan in the mountain
regions and was in contact with Arab traders. Shasta, along with his army led by the Mooppil
and Vavar raided the the fort at Inchipara, thereby regaining the possession of the Sabarimala
temple. On doing so, he disarmed himself and left his weapons and armour at the bottom of a
Peepal tree, this location is now known as Saramkutti. He trekked up to the temple and reclaimed
the temple as a shrine under the possession of the Raja of Pantalam. He then began meditating at
the shrine. Some songs from the period tell us that after he reclaimed the temple, he decided to
go to Ceylon in the attire of a Buddhism mendicant, certain legends tell us that he turned into a

9
Sadasivan, S.N. Buddhism in Kerala. “A Social History of India”. (2000). Pg. 122-123. Web. 11th Jan, 2015.
Bhikshu and married the princess of Ceylon, while other legends tell that he strove to seek
nirvana in a vihara.10
Additionally, in Kerala, Ayyappa is said to be one of the 18 names of Buddha and
a popular local name for Ayyappa is Buddha. Ayyappa was also said to be a Boddhisattva. His
goal in life was to reclaim possession of the temple and so he did with self-defying earnestness.
In honour of Mooppil and Vavar, he constructed idols of them both and placed it near the
temples: Mooppal as Kaduthaswami and Vavar as Vavarswami. 11
Iconographically, Ayyappa is often depicted simply as Ayyappa, in his bachelor form,12 seated
on a lotus pedestal which is believed to symbolize the world we live in and the lotus itself
symbolizes the different stages through which our life passes.13 In some idols and statues, he is
even shown riding a tiger. Ayyappa is almost always shown sitting in ardhapadmasan (semi-
lotus posture) which confirms his readiness and willingness to help the distressed world at any
scenario and time.14 Both his legs are shown pulled up to his body and both legs are kept in place

10
Sadasivan, S.N. Buddhism in Kerala. “A Social History of India”. (2000). Pg. 123. Google Books. 11th Jan, 2015.
11
Sadasivan, S.N. Buddhism in Kerala. “A Social History of India”. (2000). Pg. 125. Google Books. 11th Jan, 2015.
12
Religion, Hindu Themes”. (2004). Pg. 124. Web. 11th Jan, 2015.
=bl&ots=EE8BTGR-
13
"Lord Ayyappa – Son of Vishnu & Shiva." LOTUS SCULPTURE - Fine Hindu and Buddhist Statues. N.p., 31 May
2013. Web. 11 Jan. 2015. <http://www.lotussculpture.com/blog/ayyappa-son-vishnu-shiva/>
14
by a Yoga band.15 Such traits are characteristic of an ascetic philosophy.16 He is said to maintain
utmost celibacy in discipline to his Brahmachari status. According to local beliefs, his legs are
representative of the wandering mind and the belt around them is said to restrain that mind. 17 His
arms are placed in front of him, his right hand mostly in abhaya mudra, symbolizing protection
to his devotees or sometimes in chinmudra, which is characteristic of most Bhodisatvas, the
curer of all diseases. His left hand is almost always shown with an inverted palm, four finger
facing downwards and spread far apart from the thumb, representing the four truths.18 According
to some locals, the five fingers pointing downward translates that he is the creator and controller
of the five elements of Earth.19 He is never seen to carry any sort of weapons. His forehead is
often marked with the ‘vaisnava namam’.20 He wears an elaborate crown and is ornamented and

15
Religion, Hindu Themes”. (2004). Pg. 124. Web. 11th Jan, 2015
=bl&ots=EE8BTGR-
16
Masilamani-Meyer, Eveline. Relationships: One is Many and Many are One. " Guardians of Tamilnadu: Folk Deities,
Folk Religion, Hindu Themes" pp. 20. Web. 11 Jan. 2015. Stable URL
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=xTJpU6NQ5B4C&pg=PA124&dq=ayyappa+iconography&hl=en&sa=X&ei=B4
6xVNaLLs6VuATT34KIBA&ved=0CBsQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=aiyyappan&f=false>
17
18
19
20
Religion, Hindu Themes”. (2004). Pg. 124. Web. 11th Jan, 2015.
=bl&ots=EE8BTGR-
garlanded, which represents his royal upbringing, which can be seen in the picture below:
21
Ayyappas elaborate crown, expressive mudras, noble posture and his readiness to
aid others hint that he was in fact a majestic and royal figure and could not simply be a village
deity. It might have just been Shasta popularly known as Ayyappa who was reduced to that

21
Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa. Digital image. India On Rent. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Jan. 2015.
<http://www.indiaonrent.com/view/s/swamiye-saranam-ayyappa.html>.
stature and not the mythical Ayyappa.22 Ayyappa, like several local deities over time, has been
incorporated into mainstream Brahmanical worship - despite the ambiguity in his origins.23
Historically, Ayyappa is said to originate from Kerala, as the foster son of the
King of Pandalam.24 A unique trait of his story is the widely believed factual truths regarding its
geography. Small hamlets in Tamil Nadu and Kerela claim to have witnessed and been the origin
of this tale.25 According to myth, the King, his father, was his first devotee. On the advice of
Saint Agasthya, the King laid the foundation stone of the temple at Sabarimala,26 whereas
Parashuram erected the statue of Ayyappa.27
Today, Ayyappa is one of Kerala’s most popular deities, with devotees also
spread out in the rest of South India: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. He is
significant in representing strength, superior masculine purity, and the male responsibility
towards family welfare. The pilgrimage to Sabarimala, which is the most popular temple to
Ayyappa located in Kerala, especially emphasizes masculinity. It induces devotees to relate to
Ayyappa himself, as the journey to Sabarimala requires ascetic self-denial and endurance, which

22
Sadasivan, S.N. Buddhism in Kerala. “A Social History of India”. (2000). Pg.126. Web. 11th Jan, 2015.
23
Sikand, Yoginder . Chapter 2 - The God of The Mountain. "Sacred Spaces: Exploring Traditions of Shared Faith in
India" pp - 22. Web. 11 Jan. 2015. Stable URL
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=RBkwnoDPKgUC&pg=PA23&dq=how+is+ayyappa+worshipped&hl=en&sa=X
&ei=rHexVNzkNIeWuATpjoHoBw&ved=0CCsQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=how%20is%20ayyappa%20worshipped&f=f
alse>
24
"Lord Ayyappa." Lord Ayyappa. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2015.
25
Kunjumani, Sreenivasan. "History of Ayyappa Swamy." Sree Ayyappa Swami. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2015.
26
"Birth & History of Sabarimala Lord Ayyappan." Birth & History of Sabarimala Lord Ayyappan. N.p., n.d. Web. 07
Jan. 2015.
27
Kunjumani, Sreenivasan. "History of Ayyappa Swamy." Sree Ayyappa Swami. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2015.
is reminiscent of Ayyappa’s own arduous journey through the mountain forest.28 Even apart from
Ayyappa’s pilgrimage having masculine overtones, he is a generally wholesome deity,
worshipped to secure a righteous, peaceful, healthy lifestyle on the way to the attainment of
salvation.
It has been observed that as the Ayyappa cult spread to Andhra Pradesh, he was
primarily worshipped by males of the urban lower middle class/backward class community. This
is believed to be a result of the fact that these people, frustrated and burdened with problems,
turned to religious solace in a non-Brahminical form. An interesting thing to note is that
Ayyappa is also worshipped by the transgender community due to his unique birth story. The
Ayyappan cult, though it has its fair share of myths and symbols borrowed from Brahminism, is
clearly outside the mainstream Brahminical cultural establishment. Gradually, the cult was
assimilated into the mainstream: from being the whim of the problem youth, it escalated into
being the religion of an entire family, and then finally, it was accepted by the whole class.29 This
is what perpetuated a shift in Ayyappa’s image from a quintessentially masculine deity to be
looked up to for overcoming hardships, to a wholesome family god, worshipped for general
prosperity and happiness.
Most of the festivals dedicated to this local deity remain, to a certain extent,
confined to the area of regional influence and somewhat in accordance to the Malayali calendar.
Makar Vilaku is prominent festival in worship of this deity, where it is said to start on the day of
Makar Sankranti and last for a week. It is also said to commence the first day of the Malayali

28
Osella, Filippo, Caroline Osella. “Ayyappan Saranam: Masculinity and the Sabarimala Pilgrimage in Kerala”. The
Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute, 9.4: 729. Dec. 2003. Web. Jan 8, 2015.
29
Balagopal, K. “Rise of Gangsterism in Politics”. Economic & Political Weekly: 24, 5. Feb 4, 1989. 227-229. Jan 10,
2015. Web.
New Year. This day is also said to commemorate the establishment of the Ayyappa idol in
Shagbark Mala. At Shabari Mala, the Mandala Puja is considered the most significant festival,
which is set to fall between mid-November and mid-January. In terms of tourism, this is the
period of time that the number of tourists are said to be at its peak.30
As a testament to the popularity of his cult, Sabarimala receives around 50 million
visitors every year, not only from the south but also from all around India.31 On the 12th of
January every year, therefore, all of Ayyappa’s jewelry begins to be transferred from the palace
where he lived, to his icon at Sabarimala. This event takes place amidst much pomp and
celebration. When the procession finally reaches the temple on the 14th, it ascends the 18 sacred
steps to Ayyappa’s shrine and his image is finally adorned with finery, following which there is
an Aarti. Many believe that the 18 steps represent the 18 Puranas, while others maintain that the
18 steps symbolize the 18 weapons used by Ayyappa to defeat evil. It is after this that his
devotees worship him in the form of light. Legend has it that every year, on what is now called
Makara Jyothi, Ayyappa grants his darshan in the form of light (Jyothi) rising up from the east
side of the temple, up above the Hills of Kanthamalai.32
Shabari Mala is said to be the most prominent temple dedicated to lord Ayyappa -
where the shrine here is said to be the most powerful. The temple was supposed to have been
built originally by Lord Vishavakarma - who mythically was said to be a semi-divine being.

30
Singh, Sanjay. Main Festivals. "Yatra to Yatra" ICEM COMMUNICATIONS PVT. LTD. pp - 296. Web. Stable URL
31
Das, Subhamoy. "The Legend of the Hindu God Ayyappa or Manikandan." About Religion. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan.
2015.
32
"Saranam Ayyappa Swamy." Story Behind. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2015.
Legends also include Parashuram to have created and mounted the image of the deity himself.33
Historically, this deity may have had associations to Ayannar - the tutelary deity from Tamil
Nadu - both of them being Hariharaputra. However, this identification can be attributed to the
increase in the number of Ayyappan temples in the past.34
The holy mountain is located in the Patanamhitta district in Kerala. The audience
participating in this pilgrimage come predominantly from the state, and also those from the
neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka; constituting only of men. The reason why
women are generally not permitted on this pilgrimage is due to the fact that Ayyappa is
worshipped as a Brahmachari or celibate deity. However there are certain instances where pre-
adolescent girls and post-menopausal women are allowed.

33
Knapp, Stephen . Chapter 8. Ayyappan. "Hindu Gods & Goddesses" Web.
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=eIqyv8A9XBAC&pg=PT155&dq=how+is+ayyappa+worshipped&hl=en&sa=X&
ei=rHexVNzkNIeWuATpjoHoBw&ved=0CDsQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=how%20is%20ayyappa%20worshipped&f=fals
e>
34
Masilamani-Meyer, Eveline. Relationships: One is Many and Many are One. "Guardians of Tamilnadu: Folk Deities,
Folk Religion, Hindu Themes" pp. 124. Web . Stable URL
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=xTJpU6NQ5B4C&pg=PA124&dq=ayyappa+iconography&hl=en&sa=X&ei=B4
6xVNaLLs6VuATT34KIBA&ved=0CBsQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=aiyyappan&f=false>
Pilgrims seen wearing only black and orange clothes.
This pilgrimage expects its participants to observe absolute celibacy and
abstinence from meat and intoxicants for a period of 41 days, where the trails requires to be
travelled barefoot all the way to the top of the hill where the shrine is located.35 During the trip,
the devotees also carry the irumudi or the cloth bundle in which ghee filled coconuts are taken as

35
Laser, Tammy. Ayyappan. "Gods and Goddesses of Ancient India" . Web. Stable URL
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=ho0gBAAAQBAJ&pg=PT55&dq=how+is+ayyappa+worshipped&hl=en&sa=X
&ei=rHexVNzkNIeWuATpjoHoBw&ved=0CEAQ6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=how%20is%20ayyappa%20worshipped&f=f
alse>
offerings to the deity at the hilltop. Pilgrims are required to cross the golden eighteen sacred
steps or the Padhinettu padi, in order to reach the main shrine at the top.
36
37
The Shabari Mala pilgrimage is one that emphasized on religious solidarity, unity
and brotherhood, where socio-economic factors such as caste, language, fiscal background, etc.,

36
Google Images. Web. <https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/sabarimala-destination/535/>
37
Google Images. Web. <http://pathanamthitta.nic.in/Photo%20Gallery_2.htm>.
are all reduced to their minimalistic effect. This pseudo-renunciary characteristic suggests
influences from Buddhism in the worship of this deity.38 39 The climbing of the Padhinettu padi
is said to be representative of the eighteen hills or the victory over the eighteen elements an
individual's body - the five senses or the Gyanendriyas, five Karmendriyas, the five Praan-
Vaayus, the mind, intelligence and pride.40
While Sabarimala is the most famous Ayyappan temple, mythically, Kerala is
known to be the region where Parasuram built the 108 Shasta or Ayyappa temples - in reflection
of the 108 names of the deity - to protect his land. One of the few prominent temples within this
list is the Malamakavvu Ayyappa Temple, situated in Kerala. A relatively local temple, the area is
somewhat famous for its traditional percussion music played during festivals called
Thayambaka. Other examples in the list of 108 temples include Erumeli (seen below),
Kulathupuzzha, Aryankavu and Arakullam, all dedicated solely to Ayyappa.

38
<https://books.google.com.sg/books?id=ho0gBAAAQBAJ&pg=PT55&dq=how+is+ayyappa+worshipped&hl=en&sa=X
&ei=rHexVNzkNIeWuATpjoHoBw&ved=0CEAQ6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=how%20is%20ayyappa%20worshipped&f=f
alse>
39
40
41
Due to his local nature, Ayyappa is a God hardly worshipped outside the Indian
culture. Outside of India, there are hardly any temples or shrines built in his honor, all of which
are also built by Indians, for the Indian community residing in that area. For example, the only
other – relatively – well known Ayyappan temple existing outside of India is the Sri Shiva
Vishnu temple in Lanham, Maryland, USA, twelve miles from Washington DC.42
Built in the Keralan style of architecture, the temple is said to duplicate the entire
geography of the South Indian places of worship – from Shri Venkateshwara Balaji’s depiction
at the hilltop shrine in Andhra Pradesh, Vishnu’s Anantapadmanabha version in Kerala, Rama’s
pilgrimage temple in Andhra, to Shiva at Rameshvaram.43 The Ayyappa shrine is built to

41
Erumeli Shasta Temple. Google Images. Web. <http://www.panoramio.com/photo/16919837>
42
Badlani, Hiro G., Dr. "Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple." Hinduism: Path of the Ancient Wisdom. New York: IUniverse, 2008.
332. Google Books. IUniverse. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=VCdWXWk6nEcC&pg=PA332&dq=shri+shiva+vishnu+temple&hl=en&sa=X&ei
=hAexVI_8LtagugTf_4GwCg&ved=0CB4Q6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=shri%20shiva%20vishnu%20temple&f=false>.
43
Coward, Harold G., John R. Hinnells, and Raymond Brady. Williams. "Hindu Sacred Geography of America." The
South Asian Religious Diaspora in Britain, Canada, and the United States. Albany, NY: State U of New York, 2000. 229-
30. Google Books. SUNY Press. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=Zsj7MfYXSZ4C&pg=PA230&dq=shri+shiva+vishnu+temple&hl=en&sa=X&ei=h
AexVI_8LtagugTf_4GwCg&ved=0CC0Q6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=shri%20shiva%20vishnu%20temple&f=false>.
replicate the Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala, and hence, is the only temple outside India with 18
Holy Steps to the altar. Apart from Ayyappa, Dravidian Gods like Ganesha, Nagaraja, and
Kannimula are also worshipped in the temple. The Ayyappan idol is worshipped in Chinmudra
position – where Ayyappa is in Padmasana, extending his hands out to the ground and holding
his thumbs and index fingers together.44 The local Indians there take pride in the fact that their
priest was once a priest in Sabarimala itself, hence all rituals and poojas carried out in the Shrine
is according to the traditional Sabarimala convention.45 Innumerable devotees from all across
USA and Canada come to this temple for their pilgrimages during the Mandala and Makara
season – November to December, naming it the ‘Sabarimala of the West’, to fulfill their desires
of experiencing a Sabarimala pilgrimage, without actually going to the place itself.46
One of the reasons why this temple is so popular in the USA is because the
temples are not only seen as places to worship your beliefs, but also places to reconnect with
your original culture and adapt and assimilate the foreign host culture. Therefore, while the
Indians try to counter the American demands of uniform ideologies, the temples are places where
Indians themselves can come together and unite regardless of their own individualistic beliefs
and religious identities.47

44
"Sri Ayyappa." Sri Siva Vishnu Temple. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Jan. 2015. <http://www.ssvt.org/deities/ayyappa.asp>.
45
Barkan, Elliott Robert. "Religion and American Culture." A Nation of Peoples: A Sourcebook on America's
Multicultural Heritage. Westport, CT: Greenwood, 1999. 496. Google Books. Greenwood Press. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=seJ5bceT5BkC&pg=PA496&dq=shri+shiva+vishnu+temple&hl=en&sa=X&ei=hA
exVI_8LtagugTf_4GwCg&ved=0CDIQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=Ayyappa&f=false>.
46
"SabariMala of West." SabariMala of West. N.p., 2010. Web. 10 Jan. 2015.
<http://northamericaayyappa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=64&Itemid=53>.
47
Palmer, Norris W. "Negotiating Hindu Identity in an American Landscape." Nova Religio 10.1 (2006): 96-108. Jstor.
Web. 11 Jan. 2015. <http://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1525/nr.2006.10.1.96>.
Apart from being associated with Shiva and Vishnu, and Vishnu is his Mohini
form, Ayyappa is also associated with one other Hindu deity called Ayannar, who is also
considered to be another form of Ayppa himself, because of his strikingly similar origin stories
and worship in South India. Similar to Ayyappa, Ayannar is worshipped in the Tamil Nadu
region, where he is regarded as the son of Shiva and Vishnu in his Mohini form. He is a part of
the Shaivite clan, as he is mainly called Shivaputra or Hariputra – son of Shiva. A guardian
deity, Ayannar is depicted usually outside, on white horses or elephants, holding staffs and
whips. Legend says that he rides the nights, followed by his generals, exercising control over
demons. Ayannar is mainly worshipped for protection from diseases, pests, accidents, and safe
childbirth. Since Ayannar is also a patron of the mercantile community, his depictions are mostly
Terracotta sculptures, as he was known to be the main benefactor of potters. The Ayannar
festival usually occurs before the Ayyappan Shabarimala festival, around September/October
after Navaratri.48 He is also associated with a deity called Shasta, who is also known to be
another form of Ayannar and Ayyappa, who also originates from the Tamil Nadu state. Since he
is referenced to by a king in the 8th Century AD, scholars believe that Shasta was the original
Puranic form of Shiva and Mohini’s union, from whom the stories of Ayyappa and Ayannar
were spun off in the 20th Century. Therefore, in some parts of South India, both Ayannar and

48
Dalal, Roshen. "Ayyappa." The Religions of India: A Concise Guide to Nine Major Faiths. New Delhi: Penguin, 2010.
43. Google Books. Penguin Books. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=pNmfdAKFpkQC&pg=PA43&lpg=PA43&dq=ayyappa+worship+outside+india&so
urce=bl&ots=FNL-
gLza7c&sig=VKDgmz0jcKVobXepwtj8NKSDOpU&hl=en&sa=X&ei=0gWxVOXiFtD_ugTi8IDYDA&ved=0CEcQ6AE
wBw#v=onepage&q=ayyappa%20worship%20outside%20india&f=false>.
Ayyappa have been merged into one Hindu deity and are worshipped together at the Shri Sabari
Ayannar/Ayyappa Temple at Penaiyur, India.49
In terms of consorts, Ayyappa is said to have been a Brahmachari, which is also
why no females from the puberty to menopausal stage are allowed into the temple. However,
scholars believe that Ayyappa’s brahmachari form was only given to the Shabarimala version of
Ayyappa.50 The older ‘Dharmashasta’ version of Ayyappa is said to have had two consorts –
Poorna and Pushkala – and a child Satyaka. However, since the Dharmashasta version is now
passed over to Skanda over the years, the majority believes that Ayyappa’s relationship status is
single because of his vow to celibacy.51
Ayyappa’s original characteristics are said to have originated and taken from other
gods, because he was a recent local god. Essentially, all the good characteristics from certain
Hindu Gods came to be with him. Just like Kartikeya, Shiva’s son, Ayyappa is worshipped for
his maleness and strength, and his pledge to purification.52 Different stories of his life are said to
explain different aspects of his character: his lineage of both Shiva and Vishnu symbolizes the

49
Dalal, Roshen. "Ayyappa." Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide. New Delhi: Penguin, 2010. N. pag. Google Books.
Penguin Books. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=zrk0AwAAQBAJ&pg=PT222&dq=ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=HBuxVNCmNMe2
uASG24GADw&ved=0CEQQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=ayyappa&f=false>.
50
Pattanaik, Devdutt. "Mythology: Studying Myths." Indian Mythology: Tales, Symbols, and Rituals from the Heart of the
Subcontinent. Rochester, VT: Inner Traditions, 2003. 30. Google Books. Inner Traditions. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=xolzAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA30&dq=ayyappa+comparison&hl=en&sa=X&ei=zGqxV
J7UONLiuQThuIKoAQ&ved=0CDIQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=ayyappa%20comparison&f=false>.
51
N. pag. Google Books. Penguin Books. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=87k0AwAAQBAJ&pg=PT235&dq=ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=PRuxVK7bO5SGu
ASv_IGwCg&ved=0CCgQ6AEwAzgK#v=onepage&q=ayyappa&f=false>.
52
Burnam, J. Roy. "Hindu-Muslim Syncretism in India." Economic and Political Weekly 31.20 (1996): 1211-215. Jstor.
Web. 11 Jan. 2015. <http://www.jstor.org/stable/4404148>.
harmony between the Shaivite and Vaishnavite communities and his friendship with Vavar
shows his geniality towards the non-Hindu community.53
For example, Ayyappa’s Muslim friend Vavar is an example of Ayyappa’s
openness to other religions, which is reflected in how anyone of any religion can take part in the
Sabarimala pilgrimage and traditions. Vavar, as mentioned before, was believed to have come to
India to spread the word about Islam. In his travels, he met Ayyappa in Kerala and became his
close friend. Other stories portray Vavar as as a dangerous pirate, who worked like Robin Hood
in distributing goods to the poor, who took a liking to Ayyappa and gave up his ship and crew to
accompay Ayyappa. In stories, Vavar became Ayyappa’s advisory – and sometimes even
Commander - and accompanied Ayyappa in overcoming several obstacles, and also saved his life
during a fight with a demon.54 They had such a close relationship that Vavar was not only
considered as Ayyappa’s best friend, but also his brother, as Ayyappa is said to have asked his
father to build a shrine for Vavay by saying “Consider Vavar as myself.” Often compared to the
strong bond of friendship between Krishna and Arjuna in the Mahabharata, the legend of
Ayyappa’s celibacy and relationship with Vavar has gone so far that scholars now speculate a

53
Wilhelm, Amara. "Sri Ayyappa." Tritiya-Prakriti: People of the Third Sex: Understanding Homosexuality, Transgender
Identity, and Intersex Conditions through Hinduism. Tinucum, PA: Xlibris, 2003. 128-29. Google Books. Xlibris. Web. 11
Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=iZ5RAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA129&dq=ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=PRuxVK7bO5SG
uASv_IGwCg&ved=0CC4Q6AEwBDgK#v=onepage&q=ayyappa&f=false>.
54
Kent, Eliza F., and Tazim R. Kassam. "Vavar Swami." Lines in Water: Religious Boundaries in South Asia. Syracuse,
NY: Syracuse UP, 2013. 81-82. Google Books. Syracuse University Press. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=iYOiAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA81&dq=vavar+and+ayyappa&hl=en&sa=X&ei=NmmyV
I2AIYeVuASHs4LABw&ved=0CBsQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=vavar%20and%20ayyappa&f=false>.
possible homosexual relationship between Vavar and Ayyappa.55 Hence, Vavar now has a shrine
in Sabarimala, and a mosque in his name in Kottyam, right next to an Ayyappan temple.
Symbolizing a Hindu-Muslim rapport system, the temple and mosque even share a wall to show
and promote Hindu-Muslim unity.56
Although said to be more recent, the Ayyappan cult is also said to have Buddhist
origins. Sabarimala is supposed to be a Buddhist pilgrimage due to the severe austerities
followed by the Ayyappan devotees are similar to the Buddhist Ashtasilas, also known as the
Eight Fold Path. The Pandalam king who built the Sabrimala temple was also a wellknown
Buddhist. Additionally, Ayyappa’s previous name Shasta is also said to have been another name
for the Buddha. The similarities of the Ayyappan chants – ‘Swamiye Saranam Iyyappa’ – and
Buddhist chants - ‘Buddham Saranam Gachhaami’ – and the lack of the word ‘Saranam’ in any
other Hindu context, along with the similarity in appearance of the Ayyappa’s right arm’s
vajradhara and the Boddhissattva’s vajras, all lead to the suspicions that the Ayyappan cult is at
least influenced, if not originated through, by Buddhism.57 Hence, Sabarimala Ayyappa is

55
Vanita, Ruth. "Ayyappa and Vavar: Celibate Friends." Same-Sex Love in India. London: Penguins UK, 2008. N. pag.
Google Books. Penguin UK, 20 Oct. 2008. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=P2nprDLPRLwC&dq=vavar+and+ayyappa&source=gbs_navlinks_s>.
56
43. Google Books. Penguin Books. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.
<https://books.google.co.in/books?id=pNmfdAKFpkQC&pg=PA43&lpg=PA43&dq=ayyappa+worship+outside+india&so
urce=bl&ots=FNL-
gLza7c&sig=VKDgmz0jcKVobXepwtj8NKSDOpU&hl=en&sa=X&ei=0gWxVOXiFtD_ugTi8IDYDA&ved=0CEcQ6AE
wBw#v=onepage&q=ayyappa%20worship%20outside%20india&f=false>.
57
"Is Sabarimala a Buddhist Monastery?" Hindu Sutra. N.p., 1 Apr. 2007. Web. 10 Jan. 2015.
<http://hindusutra.com/archive/2007/04/01/is-sabarimala-a-buddhist-monastery/>.
likened to be the Potala Lokeshwara of Buddhism,58 something that scholars are still debating the
consequences over.
Ayyappa when positioned against more mainstream Brahmanical deities, can be
seen to have more a local belonging, where his deitification could have occurred from within a
localised settlement. Ayyappa's presence in present day Hinduism can be reduced to a joint
manifestation of more mainstream deities such as Vishnu and Shiva - in reflection to mythical
conception.
Another aspect supporting this is the deity's unlikeness to the organization held by
most mainstream Hindu gods. This lack of organization refers to the absence of a more scholarly
characteristic and the replacement by a more emotional and ritualistic approach to the worship of
the God. Such a feature can be clearly reflected in the pilgrimage made to Shabari Mala where
there is a great emphasis placed on religious solidarity, unity and brotherhood. In a way, the
worship of this deity acts as a socially binding force, bringing together people from different
social and economic roots for a similar cause. A very similar parallel to such a motive of finding
a religious figure as an emblem for social unification can be seen in Lokamnya Tilak's revival of
Ganesh Chaturti, where a similar bridging of societal gaps can be seen.
From the research obtained from the interview conducted with a priest from a
local Ayyapan temple in Chennai, it was suggested that this deity held somewhat of a paradoxical
identity. This is in reference to his conflicting characteristics of yogic and celibate aspects. The
yogic concepts can be seen in his postural depictions, where his yoga patta is said to constrain

58
Chandra, Lokesh. "Lokiteshvara of Potala." The Thousand-armed Avalokiteśvara. New Delhi: Abhinav Publications,
1988. 35. Google Books. Publications. Web. 11 Jan. 2015. <https://books.google.co.in/books?id=0kBSFcX-
K4wC&pg=PA35&lpg=PA35&dq=ayyappa+buddha&source=bl&ots=7H8kq_W1L1&sig=IG2pi5dtGPu2ntTI6fQJcQ-
FnOI&hl=en&sa=X&ei=AXWxVPXRGYOSuQTz1IKQAQ&ved=0CDIQ6AEwBDgU#v=onepage&q=ayyappa%20budd
ha&f=false>.
and reserve his bodily Shakti. This practice of yoga is seen as association with Tantrism.
However, in a more holistic view of Tantrism, Ayyappa is seen to pose a contradicting persona,
as Tantrism has a larger involvement of the consumption of meat, wine and sexual energy.
Whereas, Ayyappa is considered to maintain a very celibate nature and his devotees – especially
on the pilgrimage to Shabrimala – are required to maintain absolute avoidance from intoxicants
and meat. These conflicting aspects of the deity contribute to Ayyappa’s paradoxical identity,
where the larger picture of Tantrism doesn’t coincide with the abstinent nature of his
Brahmanchari personality.
This factor, along with the possible Buddhist origin and camaraderie with the
Islamic community is is possibly why the Ayyappa cult is still in its prime and continues to rise
in popularity day by day.

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Disha Manocha, Sakshi Venkat, Pratika Gopinath, Kahan Shah, Neha Mubeen

Iconography: Meaning and Myths of Icons

Professor Viraj Shah

12th January 2015

Ayyappa, also known as Harhariputra, Manikandan or Shasta, is a local Hindu

more than a million or so pilgrims visit in a year.3

Sabrimala was created in honour of his Godly act.7

ignorance of the succeeding generation lead people to believe in its authenticity.8

which have been translated in songs and hymns.9

Additionally, in Kerala, Ayyappa is said to be one of the 18 names of Buddha and

temples: Mooppal as Kaduthaswami and Vavar as Vavarswami. 11

to his devotees or sometimes in chinmudra, which is characteristic of most Bhodisatvas, the

Parashuram erected the statue of Ayyappa.27

Ayyappa located in Kerala, especially emphasizes masculinity. It induces devotees to relate to

Ayyappa’s pilgrimage having masculine overtones, he is a generally wholesome deity,

turned to religious solace in a non-Brahminical form. An interesting thing to note is that

is what perpetuated a shift in Ayyappa’s image from a quintessentially masculine deity to be

prosperity and happiness.

As a testament to the popularity of his cult, Sabarimala receives around 50 million

side of the temple, up above the Hills of Kanthamalai.32

increase in the number of Ayyappan temples in the past.34

adolescent girls and post-menopausal women are allowed.

This pilgrimage expects its participants to observe absolute celibacy and

Vaayus, the mind, intelligence and pride.40

While Sabarimala is the most famous Ayyappan temple, mythically, Kerala is

Kulathupuzzha, Aryankavu and Arakullam, all dedicated solely to Ayyappa.

pilgrimage temple in Andhra, to Shiva at Rameshvaram.43 The Ayyappa shrine is built to

of experiencing a Sabarimala pilgrimage, without actually going to the place itself.46

and religious identities.47

Ayannar/Ayyappa Temple at Penaiyur, India.49

In terms of consorts, Ayyappa is said to have been a Brahmachari, which is also

single because of his vow to celibacy.51

shows his geniality towards the non-Hindu community.53

For example, Ayyappa’s Muslim friend Vavar is an example of Ayyappa’s

and promote Hindu-Muslim unity.56

origins. Sabarimala is supposed to be a Buddhist pilgrimage due to the severe austerities

least influenced, if not originated through, by Buddhism.57 Hence, Sabarimala Ayyappa is

Ayyappa when positioned against more mainstream Brahmanical deities, can be

Ganesh Chaturti, where a similar bridging of societal gaps can be seen.

in popularity day by day.

Ayyappan. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2015.

Statues. N.p., 31 May 2013. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.

"Lord Ayyappa." Lord Ayyappa. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2015.

"SabariMala of West." SabariMala of West. N.p., 2010. Web. 10 Jan. 2015.

1989. 227-229. Jan 10, 2015. Web.

America's Multicultural Heritage. Westport, CT: Greenwood, 1999. 496. Google

Books. Greenwood Press. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.

(1996): 1211-215. Jstor. Web. 11 Jan. 2015. <http://www.jstor.org/stable/4404148>.

Chandra, Lokesh. "Lokiteshvara of Potala." The Thousand-armed Avalokiteśvara. New Delhi:

Press. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.

pag. Google Books. Penguin Books. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.

Web. 11 Jan. 2015. <http://hinduism.about.com/od/godsgoddesses/a/Lord-

Google Images. Web. <http://pathanamthitta.nic.in/Photo%20Gallery_2.htm>.

Google Images. Web. <https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/sabarimala-destination/535/>

University Press. Web. 11 Jan. 2015.

Knapp, Stephen . Chapter 8. Ayyappan. "Hindu Gods & Goddesses" Web.

Masilamani-Meyer, Eveline. Relationships: One is Many, Many are One. “Guardians of