Also near the Patinettampadi
is the shrine of the Muslim Vavurswami. While there are several
accounts of identity of Vavur, it is generally believed that he
was a warrior who was defeated and subdued by Ayyappa, and later
became a close associate. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa himself
instructed the Pandalam king to build a mosque for Vavur at Erumuli
and a shrine at Sabarimalai.
The
Vavur deity is believed to be as old as the original deity of
Ayyappa himself, and records show that the shrine was renovated
sometime in 1905. Here, the poojas are conducted by a Muslim priest.
There is no distinguishable idol, but a carved stone slab that
represents the deity. A green silken cloth is hung across one
wall, and there is also an old sword. The special offering here
is green pepper. Many devotees also bring a goat to offer to Vavurswami,
mainly in the belief that pilgrims accompanied by a goat will
reach the temple safely. These goats are later auctioned by the
temple authorities.
The
layout of the Ayyappa temple is believed to have originated from
the specific instructions of the Lord himself, who wanted alikappurathamma,
on his left a few yards from Sannidhanam, and his trusted lieutenants
Vavur and Kadutha to be positioned as his guards at the foot of
the holy 18 steps.
Karimala
:
Karimala is the abode of elephants which visits the Karimala canal
to drink water. Pilgrims light the aazhi (campfire) to protect
themselves from wild animals and cold weather. Karimala hill consists
of seven levels and is climbed in stages. As the ascent of 5 km
is difficult the pilgrims continuously chant saranams. On top
of Karimala the terrain is flat suitable for the pilgrims to rest.
It is interesting to see the Nazhikkinar - a well within a well
with fresh spring like water. There deities of Karimalanthan,
Kochukaduthaswami and Karimala Bhagawathi. From here after the
exhausting descent, Pampa river is about 5 kms.
Pampa
:
Pampa is the most important and holy spot on the way to Sannidhanam.
It is here Lord Ayyappa was found by King Rajasekara. The Pampa
river is as holy as the Ganges. The Pampa water purifies one from
curse and evil.
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