Ayyappan | |
---|---|
God of righteousness and celibacy | |
Affiliation | Hinduism |
Abode | Sabarimala |
Mantra | Svāmiye Śaraṇam Ayyappa[1] |
Weapon | Bow and arrow, sword |
Symbols | Bell, bow and arrow |
Day | Saturday |
Mount | Tiger |
Texts | Brahmanda Purana |
Gender | Male |
Festivals | Makaravilakku |
Genealogy | |
Born | Manikandan |
Parents |
Ayyappan, also known as Dharmasastha and Manikandan, is the Hindu deity of truth and righteousness. His worship is more prevalant in South India. Although his worship has been prevalent earlier, his popularity rose in the late 20th century. According to Hindu theology, he is the son of Vishnu in the form of Mohini and Shiva thus representing a bridge between Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Ayyappa is depicted as a youthful man, riding or near a Bengal tiger, carrying a bow and arrow. Most iconography depict him in a yogapattasana, a seated position. His abode is in Sabarimala which is located in the forests of the Western Ghats on the banks of river Pamba, and is a major pilgrimage destination, attracting millions annually.
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