Ayyappa Deeksha is a Hindu religious observance for 41 days by the devotees of Swamy Ayyappa before visiting the Temple in Sabarimala, Kerala, India. It is a set of spiritual exercises to enable one to begin the journey towards becoming a true devotee. During this period, devotees wear Ayyappa Mala, black clothes, sport a beard, walk barefooted, chant hymns, observe chastity, and remain harmless in principle before visiting the temple. The ultimate purpose of Ayyappa Deeksha is self-transformation, and the process of 41-day rituals helps the devotees to realize the divinity. Some of the dos and donts of Ayyappa Deeksha include:

Dos:

• Help others and make them happy.
• Remain pure both mentally and physically.
• Wear the holy mala around the neck and swear total allegiance to Lord Ayyappa.

Donts:

• Do half mandal Deeksha, quarter mandal Deeksha, and instant Deeksha.
• Argue with others on any matter.
• Hurt anybody either physically or verbally.

It is important to note that most of the rules are meant for the devotees health, and a few are meant for becoming a good citizen.