D

dhruv parmar

Updated on Jun 10, 2026•news-current-topics

why women are barred from Sabarimala Temple?

9
2 Answers
avatar
Fiinovation Company
Answered on Jun 8, 2026

Traditionally, the Sabarimala Temple in Sabarimala Temple restricted women between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering because the temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, who is believed to be a celibate deity (Naishtika Brahmachari). The restriction was based on long-standing religious customs rather than a general ban on women.

The practice became the subject of legal and social debate. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India ruled that women of all ages should be allowed to enter the temple, citing equality and constitutional rights. However, the issue remains sensitive and continues to be discussed in religious and legal circles.

React
U
Urmila Solanki
Updated on Jun 6, 2026

Women in the Sabarimala Temple of Trivandrum were prohibited from entering the temple in their menstruating age until 

As the presiding deity of Sabrimala temple is Lord Ayappa –a celibate, it was not considered correct for the women who menstruate to worship him, entering the temple. They were considered impure to do so.
 
Ayappa, in Kerala, is less of a god and more of a historical figure. Panthalam is a small kingdom of Patthanamthitta district in Kerala, whose prince was Ayappa. While visiting the temple, all the pilgrims, be it from any caste, have to wear black, which symbolizes the renunciation of all worldly pleasures. The pilgrims are also asked to observe asceticism for 40 days before visiting the temple.
 
According to the Puranic legend, Ayappa was the son of Vishnu and Shiva –a reunion of divine forces. So the birth of Ayappa does not involve an actual physical relationship between a man and a woman.
 
But this Lord Ayappa, who is deemed as the epitome of inclusiveness has barred women from entering his temple so that he is not distracted while answering the prayers of his devotees.
 
76