Global Ayyappa Convention Today (September 20)

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to inaugurate the event

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the Global Ayyappa Convention at 10 am today (September 20) at Pampa Manappuram. The event, presided over by Cooperation, Ports, and Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan, will see participation of Kerala ministers and also ministers from other states, other elected representatives, prominent figures from social and cultural spheres, and representatives of various organizations.

The convention is designed to ensure minimal environmental impact, with eco-friendly German hanger tents set up across three key locations. The main venue at Pampa Manappuram, spanning 43,000 square feet, will host the inaugural and concluding sessions, accommodating 3,000 delegates from across India and abroad. The stage, elevated four feet above the ground and covering 2,400 square feet, is complemented by an adjacent green room and media room. Adhering to green protocols, the tent has been constructed using plywood platforms raised one foot above the ground.

At Hilltop, two additional tents have been erected: a 4,500-square-foot facility for panel discussions and a 7,000-square-foot dining area. Another 7,000-square-foot German hanger tent at Pampa river bank will cater to dining needs. Additionally, a 2,000-square-foot tent has been setup to host an exhibition fair commemorating the platinum jubilee of the Travancore Devaswom Board. The Indian Institute of Infrastructure and Construction is overseeing the construction and waste management, ensuring the site is fully dismantled post-event. Maintenance work, including that of sanitation facilities in Pampa, has been completed.

The convention will feature three parallel sessions, each addressing critical aspects of Sabarimala’s development. The first session will focus on the Sabarimala Master Plan, with discussions involving High Power Committee members, senior officials and policy experts on infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and pilgrim welfare. The goal is to craft a sustainable vision that balances modern amenities with the temple’s traditional ethos.

The second session, themed ‘Spiritual Tourism Circuits,’ will explore ways to integrate Sabarimala with other cultural and spiritual centers in Kerala. Industry and tourism experts will propose strategies to enhance pilgrims’ experiences, promote local heritage, and generate socio-economic benefits for surrounding regions.

The third session will address ‘Crowd Control and Arrangements at Sabarimala,’ featuring senior police officials, health experts, and technical partners. It will focus on improving facilities for lakhs of pilgrims visiting Sabarimala annually, with discussions on advanced surveillance systems, healthcare provisions, and inter-departmental coordination.

The day’s schedule begins with delegate registration at 6 am, followed by the inaugural session from 9 am to 11 am. After this panel discussions will be held. 

Post-lunch, a musical performance by singer Vijay Yesudas will be held. This will be followed by a compilation of discussions at 3:20 pm and the closing session. Delegates will also have the opportunity for darshan at the Sabarimala temple.

പി.എൻ.എക്സ് 4607/2025