(1) “Embracing Harmony” is the name of Sabarimala’s unique tradition of praying at the Mosque of Vavar.
Before starting their journey to Sabarimala, followers of Ayyappa pay their respects at the Vavar mosque, which represents harmony between Muslims and Hindus. The Vavar Mosque, with its intricate web of myths, visions, and cultural contributions, represents a persistent spirit of interfaith harmony and common spirituality.
(2) The Mosque of Ninar
The Ninar Mosque, sometimes referred to as the Vavar Mosque, is located in the center of Erumely, some 40 kilometers from Sabarimala. It is a special custom of this hallowed location of worship for devotees of Ayyappa to pay their respects before traveling to the well-known Sabarimala shrine in the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
(3) Vavar: Ayyappa’s close friend
Legend has it that Vavar, a Hanafi Rowther from Pandya Desam, close to Madurai, moved to Travancore, where he met Ayyappa and became close companions. Vavar turned as a loyal messenger for Lord Ayyappa, helping him during the battles in the hill country. With the passing of the years, Vavar changed into a devoted follower who became known as Vavar Swami and left behind legends of bravery and camaraderie.
(4) A mosque erected in fulfillment of Lord Ayyappa’s wishesIt’s
The Pandalam monarch is said to have seen Lord Ayyappa in his visions, telling him to construct a mosque for Vavar.
(5) Sabarimala Shrine: An Iconical Honor
In keeping with Islamic traditions, the shrine displays a carved stone slab that represents the god Vavar instead of an idol. The sacred area is made more reverent by the silk cloth draped over one of the walls in a green hue.
(6) Petta Thullal
In addition to being a house of prayer, the Vavar Mosque in Erumely is the starting point for the well-known “Pettathullal,” a spiritual dance that believers conduct throughout the Makaravilaku season (mid-December to mid-January). This dance honors Lord Ayyappa’s destruction of the demon Mahishi, and followers happily chant “Ayyappa-thin-thakathom, Swami-thin-thakathom.” January 12 is the planned date of the Petta Thullal in 2024.
(7) Traditions and Offerings
In observance of the long history of the pepper trade in the area, devotees at the Vavar Mosque present black pepper. Rose water, ghee, coconut, and sandalwood paste are among more offerings.