Makara Vilakku at Sabarimala Temple Kerala
Sabarimala (Kerala): Two years after a stampede killed 100 pilgrims at the famed Hindu temple here, authorities are determined to ensure that the event passes off peacefully today.
The ‘Makaravilaku’ day falls  today when a celestial light is seen on the horizon. Its sighting is considered auspicious.
Makara Vilakku is the most important festival at Sabarimala temple . It is a seven-day festival commencing on the day of Makara Sankranthi, the day on which the sun is in summer solstice. It
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy told IANS that he was on his way to the foothills of the temple town to oversee all arrangements.
“Police are making every effort to see that the crowd control measures are in place. We will make ensure a smooth pilgrimage,” he said.
When the ‘celestial light’ appears thrice on the horizon, lakhs of devotees of Sabarimala Ayyappan are gripped by religious fervour.
The Sabarimala temple is situated on the Western Ghat ranges, four kilometres uphill from Pamba river in Pathanamthitta district in central Kerala.
The temple, which bars the entry of women who have attained puberty, is accessible only on foot from Pamba.