Bokaro: The Sree Ayyappa Temple in Bokaro Steel City, Jharkhand, will once again become the center of devotion and festivity as it hosts its annual Thiruvulsavam festival from August 19 to August 25, 2025. This sacred week not only brings together the Malayali community and local devotees but also celebrates the timeless traditions and myths associated with Lord Ayyappa, the symbol of dharma, devotion, and discipline. For the week-long rituals, priests have specially arrived from Kerala, bringing with them the authentic traditions and spiritual fervor of Sabarimala to Bokaro. Follow the currentbokaro channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va98epRFSAsy7Jyo0o1x
Mythological Relevance of Thiruvulsavam
The festival is rooted in the legend of Lord Ayyappa, believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini (the female form of Lord Vishnu). Worshipped as Hariharaputra, he is seen as the embodiment of unity and divine strength. According to mythology, Ayyappa defeated the demoness Mahishi and established dharma, and his devotees honor this victory through rituals during Thiruvulsavam. The celebrations also reflect the essence of “Tat Tvam Asi”—the philosophy of oneness with the divine. Follow the currentbokaro channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va98epRFSAsy7Jyo0o1x
Sacred Rituals and Offerings
The rituals will be led by Brahmasree Kantararu Mahesh Mohanaru, featuring Ushapooja, Deepaaradhana, Mahaganapathi Homam, Kalashabhishekam, Athazha Pooja, and Harivarasanam. Each ritual symbolizes purification, prosperity, and surrender to the divine. Families and organizations will sponsor special offerings like Deepastambham and Padipooja, demonstrating collective devotion and community bonding.
Cultural Highlights
Beyond the spiritual significance, the festival will resonate with vibrant cultural expressions. Devotees can witness the rhythmic Chenda Melam, Panchavadyam, and Bhajan sessions by the Ayyappa Bhakthar group of Bokaro, creating a divine atmosphere. Major highlights include Dwajarohanam (flag hoisting), Aarattu procession, Aarattu Bali, and Aarattu Sadhya (traditional feast), which symbolize prosperity and the victory of good over evil. Follow the currentbokaro channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va98epRFSAsy7Jyo0o1x
Leadership Appeal
The Ayyappa Seva Sangham, under the leadership of Chairman P. Rajagopalan, Vice-Chairmen Mohanan R. Nair and Shashidaran Karat, General Secretary E. S. Susheelan, Treasurer Balachandran, and members Dr. Suresh Babu and Suresh Kumar K. A., has appealed to devotees to participate wholeheartedly. Their message emphasises that Thiruvulsavam is not just a festival but a spiritual journey reconnecting society with its roots in faith, myth, and culture.
(Inputs provided by Dr Suresh Babu a member of Ayyappa Seva Sangham)
