Sri Ayyappa is Hari Hara Putra (son of both Lords Vishnu who appeared as Mohini and Šiva). He is known to inspire discipline and self-denial in His devotees, which promotes spiritual awareness. An annual ritual for His ardent devotee starts with the Sri Ayyappa Mandala (48 days) Pooja and ends with a pilgrimage (if possible) to His ancient Temple on top of Sabari Hill mid-January, during which period the devotee abstains from certain indulgences. Some of the basic vrata requirements for the Mandala Pooja are to adhere to strict codes of conduct, to abstain from certain luxuries, and engage in regular prayers, etc. This vrata builds inner strength needed for spiritual growth

Required Materials for the Pooja