Embracing Harmony: Sabarimala's Unique Tradition of Praying at the Mosque of Vavar

Vavar mosque stands as the symbol of the harmony between Hindus and Muslims, where devotees of Ayyappa pay their respects before commencing their pilgrimage to Sabarimala. With a rich tapestry of legends, dreams, and cultural offerings, the Vavar Mosque symbolizes an enduring spirit of interfaith unity and shared spirituality.

In the heart of Erumely, just 40 kilometers away from Sabarimala, stands the Ninar Mosque, known as the Vavar Mosque. This sacred place of worship holds a unique tradition that Ayyappa's devotees pay their respects before embarking on the journey to the renowned Sabarimala temple in the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

According to legends, Vavar, a Hanafi Rowther from Pandya Desam near Madurai, migrated to Travancore, encountering Ayyappa and forging a deep friendship. Vavar became a devoted messenger of Lord Ayyappa, supporting him in the wars of the mountainous region. Over time, Vavar transformed into an ardent devotee, known as Vavar Swami, with tales of valor and friendship that endure through the ages.

It is believed that Lord Ayyappa appeared in the dreams of the king of Pandalam and instructed him to build a mosque for Vavar.

Adhering to Islamic teachings, the shrine does not feature an idol but showcases a carved stone slab symbolizing the deity of Vavar. The presence of a green-colored silk cloth across one of the walls adds to the reverence of the sacred space.

The Vavar Mosque in Erumely is not only a place of prayer but also the starting point for the famous "Pettathullal," a spiritual dance performed by devotees during the Makaravilaku season (mid-December to mid-January). This dance commemorates the annihilation of the demon Mahishi by Lord Ayyappa, as devotees joyfully chant "Ayyappa-thin-thakathom, Swami-thin-thakathom." The Petta Thullal in 2024 is scheduled for January 12.

Devotees visiting the Vavar Mosque offer black pepper, paying homage to the region's rich history of the pepper trade. Other offerings include rose water, sandalwood paste, coconut, and ghee.