Shree Ayyappa Swamy Temple stands as a testament to the devotion and dedication of a close-knit community of devotees who envisioned a sacred space for worshipping Lord Ayyappa in Valsad. This journey began with a small group who regularly gathered for poojas and bhajans, seeking to spread Lord Ayyappa's teachings and ideals. Over time, these efforts culminated in the establishment of Shree Ayyappa Seva Sangham, a charitable trust dedicated to constructing and maintaining a temple to serve the spiritual needs of devotees in the region.
The origins of Shree Ayyappa Seva Sangham date back to a group of devotees who organised religious gatherings at their homes. For over 25 years, they conducted rituals, chanted bhajans, and organised pilgrimages to the holy Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. With a collective goal to spread the teachings of Lord Ayyappa, this group formalised their devotion and established the Sangham. Acquiring land in Parnera Pardi on the Valsad-Atul road, the Sangham was registered as a public charitable trust, officially recognised as Shree Ayyappa Seva Sangham (Regd.), Valsad, under Regn.No.A/842/Valsad.
The foundation stone ("Adhara Sila") of the temple was laid on 28 August 2003, marking the beginning of a significant spiritual journey for the Shree Ayyappa Seva Sangham and its devotees. After years of dedicated effort and planning, the Prana Pratishta, or the consecration of the idols, was performed on 9 March 2008 ("Kumbham-Uthrittathy"). This ceremony, led by Thantri Brahmashree Kantararu Rajeevaru, brought life and divine energy into the temple, establishing it as a sacred site for generations to come.
The temple's connection to the revered Sabarimala Temple is both spiritual and profound. The chief priest of Sabarimala, "Thantri" Brahmashree Kantararu Rajeevaru, who hails from the esteemed Thazhamon Madom, agreed to serve as the temple's "Thantri". This appointment was especially significant as the Thazhamon Madom lineage is believed to have been established by Lord Parasurama, who granted them the authority to serve as priests at Sabarimala Temple, a tradition that has endured over centuries.
When Brahmashree Kantararu Rajeevaru accepted the role of "Thantri" for the new temple, his blessing symbolised a continuation of the sacred link to Sabarimala, bringing immense joy to devotees in Valsad.
The temple's architectural design reflects traditional "Dravida Vastu", a South Indian style of architecture known for its intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance. Shri Sadashiva Achari of Neelakanta Idol Works in Mundancav, Chengannur, served as the temple's architect, while the construction was managed by M/s Surya Constructions, owned by Shri NM Raveendran Nair of Kottayam. Under their skilled guidance, the temple took shape, becoming a striking blend of aesthetic beauty and spiritual sanctity.
One of the temple's unique features is its "Valiyabalikkalpura", beautifully crafted in teak wood, and its walls adorned with exquisite mural paintings. These murals, which illustrate the life of Lord Ayyappa on its "Chuttambalam" walls, add a distinctive artistic touch to the temple, making it a cherished landmark for devotees and the local community alike.
The main sanctum of the temple is dedicated to Lord Shree Ayyappa, with the idol carved from "Krishna Shila", a sacred stone sourced from Kerala, specifically chosen for its purity and spiritual significance. The craftsmanship of the idol and the sanctum adheres strictly to traditional standards, enhancing the divine aura of the temple.
In addition to the presiding deity, Lord Shree Ayyappa, the temple houses idols of other revered deities — Devi, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, Navagraha and The Snake Lord (Naga Devata). These "upadevatas" (sub-deities) complement the temple's spiritual environment, offering devotees a place to seek blessings from multiple divine forms.
The establishment of Shree Ayyappa Swamy Temple has been a journey deeply rooted in faith, community, and tradition. The temple stands today not only as a place of worship but as a symbol of the collective spirit of its devotees, whose tireless efforts and devotion brought this dream to life.
Shree Ayyappa Seva Sangham continues to nurture this sacred space, inviting all devotees to find solace, strength, and spiritual fulfilment within its walls.
