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Makara Jyothi 2011:Sabarimila Shrine-50 Pilgrims Die Near Pulmedu

by NowPublic Staff | January 14, 2011 at 10:48 am

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Makara Jyothi 2011: Sabarimila Shrine Deaths: 50 Pilgrims Dead Near Village Of Pulmedu After Viewing Celestial Light, Makara Jyothi

Update Makara Jyothi 2011

The Associated Press is now reporting that the death toll in Sabarimila Shrine tragedy is now at least 100 people.

Earlier Makara Jyothi 2011 Story

The a 40 day pilgrimage in the South Indian state of Kerala ended in tragedy after 50 pilgrims died near the village of Pulmedu. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims descend on the Sabarimila Shrine to witness what is called the celestial light, the Makara Jyothi .

karajyoti is a star which is worshipped by the pilgrims. The main worshipping rituals are performed at the day of Makara Sankaranthi (every 14 January) day. It draws the second largest number of pilgrims in the country. The devotees believe that witnessing the light brings them good luck and divine blessings.
The Makara Jyothi marks the climax of the Makaravilakku season of Sabarimala pilgrimage lasting 41 days.

At least 50 pilgrims died after returning from the Sabarimala Shrine, near the village of Pulmedu.

According to reports, the tragedy occurred in Pulmedu near here when a jeep ran into a group of pilgrims when they were returning after attending the pilgrimage.

State Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan termed the incident as a "big tragedy".

Officials say relief efforts are being hampered because of the lack of cellular service in the area.