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Ayyappa (Temple Forms)

अय्यप्प
Also known as: Ayyappa, Śāstā, Dharma Śāstā, Manikandan, Sabarimala

About

The presiding deity of the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. Son of Shiva and Vishnu (as Mohini). Represents celibacy, discipline, and the unity of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. His devotees observe 41 days of penance (vratham) before pilgrimage. Worshipped in various regional forms across South India.

Attributes

CelibacyDisciplineUnity of Shiva-VishnuSabarimalaPenance

Symbols

BellArrowBowForestTiger18 steps
Vahana (Mount)
Tiger or elephant

Associated Mantras

Om Ayyappāya Namaḥ
Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa
Ayyappa Stotram

Festivals

MakaravilakkuMandalakalamSabarimala Pilgrimage

Scriptures

Ayyappa PurāṇaDharma Śāstā Purāṇa

Regions Worshipped

KeralaTamil NaduKarnatakaAndhra Pradesh

Iconography

Seated in yogic posture (yoga padasana). Wearing a bell around his neck. One hand in jnana mudra. Often depicted with a bow and arrow. Youthful, serene, ascetic expression.