Devotees witnessing Makarajyoti from Pullumedu near Vandiperiyar in Idukki on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Thousands of devotees gathered at vantage points, including Pullumedu, Panchalimedu, and Parunthumpara, on Wednesday to witness the sacred Makarajyoti as part of the Makaravilakku festivities.
According to official figures, 9,217 pilgrims viewed the Makarajyoti from Pullumedu, while Parunthumpara and Panchalimedu recorded turnouts of 1,500 and 1,250 devotees, respectively. The 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 had put in place extensive arrangements to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated 60 special services between Kumily and Kozhikkanam to facilitate transportation to Pullumedu. More than 1,500 police personnel were deployed across all major viewing points for crowd management and security.
The Revenue department had installed lighting along the 14-kilometre Pullumedu–Kozhikkanam stretch, while Fire and Rescue Services personnel were stationed at six locations, including Pullumedu, Sathram, Vandiperiyar, Panchalimedu, and Parunthumpara. Ambulance services, medical facilities, and drinking water arrangements were also provided at various locations.
Authorities had enforced a ban on trekking through forest paths leading to the Sannidhanam.
The arrangements were closely monitored by a team of senior officials led by Ernakulam Range DIG J. Hareendra Nath, District Collector Dineshan Cheruvat, District Police Chief K.M. Sabu Mathew, Special Branch SP V.U. Kuriakose, Subcollector Anoop Garg, and Deputy Collector Athul V. Swaminath.
Published – January 14, 2026 11:41 pm IST
