The Poonkavanam, the sacred forest surrounding Sabarimala, is home to approximately 3,650 tribal people from 350 families, residing in several colonies, including Siffan, Laha, Saippukudi, Chalakkayam, Attathodu, Vimmaram, and Perumbanmmozhi. Despite the Sabarimala temple generating crores in annual revenue, the Vanavasi brethren of Poonkavanam continue to endure poverty and hardship. The lack of proper transportation and the constant presence of wildlife make it incredibly difficult for these indigenous communities to access basic necessities. Clean drinking water, food distribution systems, sanitation, electricity, education, and healthcare remain a distant dream for them. The Sabari Saranashramam has conducted extensive studies to identify and address the critical needs of the Vanavasi communities in Poonkavanam. Manikanda Gurukulam is one of the pioneering projects developed after this meticulous research, aimed at improving the lives of the Vanavasi children and, in turn, empowering the entire community.
Manikanda Gurukulam is a shelter and residential school located at the foothills of Sabarimala. It aims to enhance the overall development of the Vanavasi children by providing them with education, primary healthcare, employability skills, and environmental awareness. Our mission is to empower these children to become responsible citizens, shielded from the harmful effects of drugs and antisocial activities. We integrate modernity and tradition by offering value-based education and providing training in small-scale industries based on forest produce, helping the children develop practical skills while preserving their cultural heritage. We are also committed to enhancing their cultural, religious, and environmental awareness, fostering a deep connection with both their heritage and the natural world. Our goal is to make them self-reliant and independent, equipping them with the tools needed to build a better future for themselves and their communities.
Since 2009, an Ayyappa Seva Kendra has been operating under the auspices of Sabari Saranashramam. This center provides free meals to over 2000 Ayyappa devotees daily, along with free accommodation and medical care throughout the pilgrimage season from November to January each year.
We have identified several projects for immediate implementation at Sabari Saranasramam. In the first phase, we plan to construct a two-story building to house an “Annadana Kendra” (food distribution center) and a hospital at Koonamkara. This project serves a dual purpose, providing facilities for Ayyappa devotees during the pilgrimage season while also serving as a rehabilitation center for the tribal folk of ‘Poonkavanam’ also.
Every year, millions of devotees visit the shrine of Ayyappa, yet the basic facilities available for them are quite limited. Those who arrive at the holy abode of God after their 41 days of penance often struggle with the lack of essential services such as cooking facilities, clean drinking water, food, sanitation, accommodation, vehicle parking, healthcare, and waste disposal systems. To address these shortcomings and enhance the pilgrimage experience, we are establishing the Ayyapa Seva Kendram at Koonamkara, located 18 kilometers from Pathanamthitta and 45 kilometers from Pampa. The Ayyappa Seva Kendram will serve as a central hub, offering the essential amenities of pilgrims, while also promoting the rich heritage and values of the revered Ayyappa tradition.
