Transgender _ Shabarimalai Reinvoked Science @ Technicality Made it Real ⁉️✍️

Sabarimala Temple, located in Kerala, India, is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. Here's a brief story and significance:

*Story:*

Sabarimala's origins date back to the Treta Yuga. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a synthesis of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

*Legend:*

1. Shabari, a devout woman, worshipped Lord Rama and awaited his arrival.

2. Rama, before defeating Ravana, came to the forest and met Shabari along Sibling Lakshmana. 

3. Shabari offered Rama berries, which she had preserved for years.

4. Rama blessed Shabari and promised to reunite with her in the form of Ayyappa.

5. Ayyappa's idol was discovered by Parasurama, who installed it at Sabarimala.

*Significance:*

1. Sabarimala represents the unity of Hinduism's three primary deities.

2. Ayyappa embodies the ideals of dharmam (righteousness), shakti (power), and bhakti (devotion).

3. The temple attracts millions during Mandala-Makaravilakku festival (November-January).

4. Pilgrims undertake a 41-day vratham (fast) before visiting the temple.

*Unique Traditions:*

1. Women's restrictions: Traditionally, women between 10-50 years old were restricted from entering due to Ayyappa's nakshatra (birth star) and Menstruating age group. 

2. Makaravilakku: A divine light appears on Makara Sankranti day in belief of Ayyappa comes to Earth in the form of Star. 

3. Irumudi: Devotees carry sacred bags containing offerings.

*Controversy and Reforms:*

1. Women's entry ban: Lifted by the Supreme Court in 2018.

2. Protests and debates followed.

3. Temple authorities implemented new rules for women's entry.

*Tourism and Accessibility:*

1. Located in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala.

2. Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram (170 km).

3. Nearest railway station: Chengannur (90 km).

4. Trekking routes and transportation available.

*Timings and Dress Code:*

1. Temple opens: 4am - 10 pm (November-January).

2. Traditional attire recommended (simple, modest clothing).

Sabarimala's story and significance highlight its importance in Hinduism and Kerala's cultural heritage.

The birth of Lord Ayyappa is a fascinating story, combining elements of Hindu mythology and the synthesis of Lord Shiva and Vishnu.

*Birth Story:*

Lord Ayyappa was born to:

1. *Harihara* (Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu's union)

    - Shiva took the form of Mohini (Vishnu's female avatar)

    - Vishnu, as Mohini, united with Shiva

2. *Alternative version:* Ayyappa was born to Shiva and Vishnu's combined energy (Ardhanarishvara)

*Parents:*

1. *Father:* Shiva (or Harihara)

2. *Mother:* Mohini (Vishnu's female avatar)

*Birth Purpose:*

Ayyappa was born to:

1. *Destroy evil:* Mahishi, a buffalo-demon, threatened the gods

2. *Restore balance:* Ayyappa's birth ensured the equilibrium of the universe

*Ayyappa's Characteristics:*

1. *Synthesis of Shiva and Vishnu:* Embodies their combined energies

2. *Cosmic balance:* Maintains harmony between good and evil

3. *Divine warrior:* Fights against evil forces

4. *Guru:* Guides devotees on the path to spiritual growth

*Worship and Significance:*

1. *Sabarimala Temple:* Main pilgrimage site in Kerala, India

2. *Ayyappa's mantra:* "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa"

3. *Festivals:* Mandala-Makaravilakku, Makara Sankranti

4. *Devotional practices:* Fasting, meditation, and self-reflection

*Connection to Shiva and Vishnu:*

Ayyappa's birth story highlights the unity and interdependence of Shiva and Vishnu, demonstrating:

1. *Non-dualism:* Ultimate reality is one, with multiple manifestations

2. *Synthesis:* Shiva and Vishnu's combined energies create a powerful force

3. *Cosmic balance:* Ayyappa maintains harmony between opposing forces

*Spiritual Significance:*

Ayyappa's story teaches:

1. *Selfless devotion:* Surrender to the divine

2. *Inner balance:* Harmony between opposing forces within

3. *Spiritual growth:* Seek guidance from the divine.

_Early Life:_

1. Ayyappa was born in the mythical forest of Kaliyavanam.

2. He was raised by a childless king, Rajashekhara, and his queen.

3. Ayyappa demonstrated extraordinary abilities and divine powers.

_Training and Education:_

1. Ayyappa learned martial arts, yoga, and spiritual practices.

2. He studied under sage Agastya and mastered Vedas and Shastras.

_Mahishi's Demise:_

1. Mahishi, a powerful buffalo-demon, threatened the gods.

2. Ayyappa defeated Mahishi, restoring cosmic balance.

Relation between Mahishi and Mahishasura (Killed by Durga in Treta yug times) _ Mahishi is son of Mahishasasura. 

_Penance and Enlightenment:_

1. Ayyappa meditated on Sabarimala hills.

2. He attained enlightenment and self-realization.

_Establishing Sabarimala Temple:_

1. Ayyappa installed his idol at Sabarimala.

2. He ordained the temple's rituals and traditions.

_Key Life Lessons:_

1. Self-discipline and austerity

2. Devotion to the divine

3. Protection of the weak

4. Balance between good and evil

_Associated Festivals:_

1. Mandala-Makaravilakku (November-January)

2. Makara Sankranti (January)

3. Vishu (April)

_Temples and Worship:_

1. Sabarimala Temple (Kerala)

2. Ayyappa temples in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh

3. Daily pujas and offerings.

The 21 steps at Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple hold spiritual significance:

1. Symbolize 21 virtues or qualities to attain self-realization.

2. Represent 21 obstacles to overcome before achieving enlightenment.

3. Signify 21 gunas (qualities) of the human mind.

4. Purify mind, body, and soul.

5. Bridge between earthly life and spiritual journey.

6. Threshold between material and divine realms.

Before climbing, devotees chant "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa" (I surrender to Lord Ayyappa).

Steps 1-5 represent the five senses (jnanendriyas).

Steps 6-10 symbolize the five organs of action (karmendriyas).

Steps 11-15 represent the five vital forces (pranas).

Steps 16-18 signify the three gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas).

Steps 19-21 represent the trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva).

By ascending, devotees transcend worldly attachments.

Reaching the top symbolizes union with Lord Ayyappa.

Makara Sankranti holds immense significance for Lord Ayyappa devotees:

*Why Sankranti is important for Ayyappa devotees:*

1. Auspicious day: Makara Sankranti marks the sun's transition into Makara (Capricorn), considered sacred.

2. Ayyappa's birth: Some traditions believe Ayyappa was born on this day.

3. Divine convergence: Sankranti aligns with the celestial positioning, amplifying spiritual energy.

*Rituals and Celebrations:*

1. Sabarimala Temple: Special pujas, abhishekam, and annadanam (food distribution).

2. Makara Vilakku: A sacred flame appears on the Sabarimala hill, symbolizing Ayyappa's divine presence.

3. Devotee gatherings: Ayyappa temples worldwide organize satsangs, bhajans, and prasadam distribution.

4. Charity and donations: Devotees offer annadanam (food) and contribute to charitable causes.

*Spiritual Significance:*

1. Renewal and growth: Sankranti represents transformation, aligning with Ayyappa's transformative power.

2. Inner purification: Devotees seek Ayyappa's guidance for self-refinement.

3. Divine connection: Sankranti facilitates a deeper connection with the divine.

*Traditions and Customs:*

1. Taking holy baths in rivers or temples.

2. Offering prayers and naivedyam (food offerings) to Ayyappa.

3. Distribution of ellu (sesame seeds) and sugarcane.

4. Traditional Kerala cuisine, including Pongal and other sweet dishes.

*Sabarimala Temple Timings during Sankranti:*

Typically, the temple remains open from December 30 to January 20, coinciding with the Mandala-Makaravilakku festival.

Prasadam, sacred offerings made to deities in Hindu temples, varies in nutrient content depending on ingredients. Here's a general breakdown of nutrients found in common prasadam items:

*Aravana Payasam (Sweet Pudding)*

1. Carbohydrates: Rice, jaggery, sugar

2. Protein: Milk, ghee

3. Fat: Ghee, coconut milk

4. Fiber: Rice, jaggery

5. Vitamins: B12 (milk), E (ghee)

6. Minerals: Calcium (milk), Iron (jaggery)

*Ada Pradhaman (Rice Cake Dessert)*

1. Carbohydrates: Rice, jaggery, coconut milk

2. Protein: Rice, coconut milk

3. Fat: Coconut milk, ghee

4. Fiber: Rice, coconut

5. Vitamins: B6 (coconut milk), E (ghee)

6. Minerals: Potassium (coconut milk), Iron (jaggery)

*Neyyappam (Sweet Fritter)*

1. Carbohydrates: Wheat flour, jaggery

2. Protein: Wheat flour

3. Fat: Ghee, oil

4. Fiber: Wheat flour

5. Vitamins: B6 (wheat flour)

6. Minerals: Iron (jaggery)

*Pongala (Sweet Rice Dish)*

1. Carbohydrates: Rice, jaggery

2. Protein: Rice

3. Fat: Ghee, coconut milk

4. Fiber: Rice

5. Vitamins: B6 (rice)

6. Minerals: Potassium (coconut milk)

*General Health Benefits*

1. Energy boost from carbohydrates

2. Antioxidants from jaggery, ghee, and coconut milk

3. Immune system support from milk, ghee, and coconut milk

4. Digestive health from fiber-rich ingredients

*Important Notes*

1. Prasadam is considered sacred and should be consumed in moderation.

2. Ingredients and nutrient content may vary depending on region and preparation.

3. Some prasadam items may be high in sugar and calories.

Prasadam means it is belief trust in God and after God must consume, Before Please note the ingredients and consume unless otherwise if any life threatening ailments are existing, please consult your Nutrition Healthcare Professional before devouring. 

Transgender is from Ancient times as per the story shared above Shabari Malai, Below recent successfull deliver of a baby boy through Science and Technology from Kerala itself, Shall say a WinWin point of Today's emerging Science. 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/rNnaHprFgYa28x9r/

Note: Traditional food combinations / Ingredients are thoughtfull and the health beneficial, If you want to remake or make new recipes and combination of ingredients on Daily  or Professional or Occasional basis,Please check the Nutrition Health Professionals @UNHPC as we are looking into it and trying to add Chef's who are senior and gel with Combinations of Food(Nutrition) and Health. 

https://www.ayyappatemple.in/sabarimala-news.html