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In a momentous occasion that intertwines spirituality and gender progress, President Droupadi Murmu became the first woman head of state to offer prayers at the revered Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple in Kerala on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. This significant visit underscores the evolving role of women in India’s political and religious spheres.
A Historic Pilgrimage
President Murmu arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday evening, where she was warmly received by Kerala Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Union Minister George Kurian, among other dignitaries. The following day, she embarked on a traditional pilgrimage to the Sabarimala temple, accompanied by her son-in-law Ganesh Chandra Hembram, Additional Private Secretary Saurabh S. Nair, and Personal Security Officer Vinay Mathur.
The journey commenced with a helicopter ride from Thiruvananthapuram to Nilakkal, followed by a road trip to Pamba, the base camp for Sabarimala pilgrims. At Pamba, President Murmu performed the customary ritual of washing her feet in the Pampa river and offered prayers at the nearby Lord Ganapathy shrine. She then proceeded to the Sabarimala temple, where she climbed the 18 sacred steps, known as ‘Pathinettam Padi,’ carrying the traditional Irumudikettu (sacred offerings) on her head.
Upon reaching the temple sanctum, she was received with a traditional ‘Poorna Kumbham’ offering by Devaswom Minister V. N. Vasavan. President Murmu offered prayers before Lord Ayyappa, seeking blessings for the well-being and prosperity of the nation. Following the darshan, she visited the adjacent Malikappuram temple and Vavaruswami Nada before returning to Pamba at 12:15 p.m.
Significance of the Visit
President Murmu’s visit is historically significant, as she is only the second President of India to visit the Sabarimala temple; former President V. V. Giri had previously visited in the 1970s. Her pilgrimage holds profound symbolic importance, especially considering the landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling that overturned the traditional ban on women of menstruating age (10-50 years) entering the temple. This ruling was a significant step towards gender equality in religious practices.
The President’s participation in the pilgrimage, adhering to traditional rituals, reflects a message of inclusivity and respect for cultural practices. It also underscores the evolving role of women in India’s political and religious spheres, challenging longstanding gender norms and promoting gender equality.
Security and Logistics
Given the high-profile nature of the visit, extensive security arrangements were implemented to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Entry for other devotees was restricted during President Murmu’s visit to maintain order and security. The Kerala Police and other security agencies coordinated to manage the crowd and facilitate the President’s movement through the temple complex.
Public Reactions
The President’s visit has elicited a range of reactions from the public and political leaders. BJP MP Bandi Sanjay Kumar hailed President Murmu’s visit to Sabarimala, stating, “She is 67. She broke no rules, hurt no faith – she only honoured it. In doing so, she became the first President ever to carry the Irumudi and bow before Lord Ayyappa.” Her visit has been widely appreciated as a message of faith and humility.
However, the visit has also sparked discussions on the intersection of religion and gender. Some observers view President Murmu’s participation as a step towards challenging traditional gender roles in religious practices, while others emphasize the importance of respecting longstanding customs and beliefs.
President Droupadi Murmu’s historic visit to the Sabarimala temple is a testament to her commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in India’s religious and political landscapes. By participating in this traditional pilgrimage, she has set a precedent for future leaders and has contributed to the ongoing discourse on women’s rights and religious practices in the country.
