Sri Manikandan/Sri Iyyappan
Integrator of all faiths - Lord Ayyappan
When multiple energies occupy a complex and new energies are to be located, it is vital to balance these energies. So when the Ashta Mangala Bhairavar was to be consecrated in a denoted space, it became imperative that the space occupied by Danvatri/ Vinayakar at the entrance be relocated.
Vinayakar - Danvantri was moved appropriately and the space originally occupied by the idol fell vacant. To overcome the sense of emptiness that Swamigal experienced at that moment, he placed an 'akanda deepam' in the space.
Just as he initiated the lamp and closed his eyes, an image of Lord Ayyappan flooded him. Realising that Ayyapan too presents Himself to his devotees as the 'makara jothi', he decided to have an Ayyappan idol installed in the space.
He also decided that it would be consecrated the same day as the Ashtanga Mangala Bhairavar. Heading right away to Kumbakonam, he ordered the idol, completed the karikolam and had it consecrated- all within three days!!!
Lord Ayyappan is venerated by devotees of all faiths. In all humility, irrespective of age, gender, class or caste, anyone wearing the beads of commitment around the neck is honoured and respected for undertaking the vow to visit Sabarimalai.
