What is ayyappa swamy?

Ayyappa Swamy is a Hindu deity worshiped mainly in South India, particularly in the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. He is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). Ayyappa is also often referred to as Manikandan, Dharmashasta, and Hariharasuta.

Ayyappa is considered to be a celibate god and is often depicted as a young man sitting on a tiger with a bow and arrow in his hands. He is also associated with attributes like self-discipline, loyalty, and righteousness. Devotees of Ayyappa believe that worshiping him can bring them prosperity, protection, and spiritual fulfillment.

The most famous pilgrimage associated with Ayyappa is the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, which attracts millions of devotees every year, especially during the annual Makaravilakku festival. Devotees undertake a rigorous 41-day fasting and purification rituals before embarking on the pilgrimage to Sabarimala.

Overall, Ayyappa Swamy is a popular deity among Hindus in South India, and his worship is centered around the virtues of discipline, devotion, and self-control.