In Kerala, thousands of pilgrims thronged famous Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on Sunday for the makaravilakku festival. Large number of devotees from across the country have been stationed at the hill shrine for days together for darshan of Lord Ayyappa on the most auspicious makarasankranti day. Immedaitely after deeparadhana at the sanctum sanctorum with Lord Ayyappa adorned with golden attire or thiruvabharanam, makarajyothi or the flame appeared on the hill top bringing instant happinees and fulfilment to devotees. Devotees from all walks of life irrespective of cast and creed visit Sabarimala further strengthening the secular traditions of Kerala.