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Sabarimala: Pilgrims visit a temple and a mosque
by Juhan Samuel

     Kochi: Thousands of Hindu pilgrims who visit Sabrimala temple round off their pilgrimage after a visit to the famous Erumely Petta Thullal mosque in Kottayam district of Kerala. There's a strong belief that for the completion of Sabrimala pilgrimage one should visit and offer coconuts to the nearby Ermuley Petta Thullal mosque before going to the Darmasastha temple. 'Petta Thullal' is a mass frenzied dance accompanied by loud music created by traditional instruments of the region. The Ermuley mosque is opened only for a day for hindu pilgrims of Sabrimala so that they can offer prayers and perform rituals. The ancient temple of Darmasastha is a very important pilgrim centre for Hindus as well as Muslims. Darmasastha temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The ' Petta Thullal' of 'Kanni Ayyappas' (who are going for the first time) is an important festival, which is held in December/January. There is an ancient mosque, which is dedicated to 'Vavar' considered to be a friend of Lord Ayyappa. The devotees going to Sabarimala visit this Mosque also. Before starting the dance and procession to the nearby Vavar mosque at Sabarimala, pilgrims smear their body and faces with different colours. The Muslim devotees put ashes and sandalwood paste on the forehead of every Hindu pilgrim once they reach the mosque.
-January 12,  2008