Devotees witness Makarajyoti from Pullumedu near Vandiperiyar in Idukki on Wednesday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Thousands of devotees thronged vantage points including Pullumedu, Panchalimedu and Parunthumpara on Wednesday to witness the sacred Makarajyoti as part of the Makaravilakku festivities.
According to official data, the Makarajyoti of Pullumedu was viewed by 9,217 pilgrims, while Parunthumpara and Panchalimedu saw the attendance of 1,500 and 1,250 devotees. Attendance at Pullumedu marked a significant increase compared to previous years, rising from 6,446 pilgrims in 2024 and 6,425 in 2025.
The district administration has put in place elaborate arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of the devotees. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated 60 special services between Kumily and Kozhikkanam to facilitate traffic to Pullumedu. More than 1,500 police officers were deployed at all major vantage points for crowd management and security.
The Revenue Department installed lights along the 14-km Pullumedu-Kozhikkanam stretch, while Fire and Rescue Service personnel were deployed at six locations, including Pullumedu, Sathram, Vandiperiyar, Panchalimedu and Parunthumpara. Emergency services, medical facilities and provision of drinking water were also provided at various locations.
The authorities have enforced a ban on trekking on forest roads leading to Sannidhanam.
The measures were closely monitored by a team of senior officials led by Ernakulam Range DIG J. Hareendra Nath, District Collector Dineshan Cheruvat, District Superintendent of Police KM Sabu Mathew, Special Branch SP VU Kuriakose, Sub-Collector Anoop Garg and Deputy Collector Athul V. Swaminath.
Published – 14 Jan 2026 23:41 IST
