The central government announces good news for devotees visiting Sabarimala

In a significant relief for Lord Ayyappa devotees undertaking the sacred Sabarimala pilgrimage, the Central Government has granted permission to carry the traditional 'Irumudi'—the holy bag containing ghee-filled coconuts and other offerings—as cabin baggage on flights. This special exemption, announced by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu, takes effect from today, November 28, 2025, and will remain valid until January 20, 2026, covering the peak Mandalam-Makaravilakku season. The move honors the deep-rooted customs of the pilgrims while ensuring rigorous security protocols, including X-ray scans, explosive trace detection, and physical checks, to maintain safety standards.

Minister Naidu urged devotees to make the most of this facility, emphasizing the government's commitment to respecting religious traditions and facilitating seamless travel for millions flocking to the hilltop shrine in Kerala. This annual concession, a recurring gesture during the pilgrimage period, underscores efforts to blend devotion with modern aviation norms, allowing pilgrims to preserve the sanctity of their 'Irumudi Kettu' ritual without the hassle of check-in restrictions.