The sacred hill shrine of Sabarimala, nestled in the dense forests of Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in India. Devoted to Lord Ayyappa, the celibate god of discipline and dharma, the temple attracts millions of pilgrims every year—particularly during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season. Among the many fascinating aspects of Sabarimala is the gold-plated roof of the sanctum sanctorum, a gleaming architectural marvel that adds to the temple’s spiritual grandeur. Surprisingly, this glittering structure was donated in 1998 by none other than Vijay Mallya, the flamboyant businessman and former liquor baron.
This article dives deep into the history, details, and cultural significance of the gold-plated shrine at Sabarimala, and the story behind Vijay Mallya’s unexpected yet impactful contribution.
Sabarimala: A Sacred Pilgrimage
Sabarimala is not just a temple—it is a way of life for millions of devotees. The pilgrimage is characterized by strict 41-day vratham (penance), celibacy, abstinence from alcohol and non-vegetarian food, and adherence to a simple lifestyle. The trek to the hilltop shrine is physically demanding and symbolically powerful, representing the inner spiritual journey of shedding ego and embracing humility.
The main deity, Lord Ayyappa, is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini (the female avatar of Vishnu), symbolizing the fusion of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. Ayyappa is revered as the epitome of dharma, courage, and celibacy. The Sabarimala temple architecture reflects Kerala’s unique temple traditions, with the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) at the center of all rituals and worship.
The Golden Roof: An Icon of Devotion and Wealth
In 1998, the Sabarimala Sannidhanam underwent a historic transformation. The copper roof of the Sreekovil was plated with 32 kilograms of pure gold, and around 1900 kilograms of copper was used as the base structure. The total cost of this massive undertaking was estimated at ₹18 crore (₹180 million)—a staggering amount at the time.
The dazzling golden roof now stands as a symbol of divine opulence and is one of the most iconic images associated with Sabarimala. It catches the first rays of the sun and glows magnificently, adding an aura of celestial beauty to the temple. But what makes this golden crown even more intriguing is the story behind its donor—Vijay Mallya.
Vijay Mallya: A Businessman, a Devotee
Vijay Mallya, once hailed as the “King of Good Times,” was the chairman of United Breweries and founder of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. Known for his extravagant lifestyle, luxury yachts, thoroughbred horses, and glamorous parties, Mallya’s name was synonymous with wealth and flamboyance.
Yet, in a lesser-known facet of his life, Mallya was a devotee of Lord Ayyappa. According to temple authorities and media reports from the time, he had taken a vow to donate a golden roof for the Sreekovil if his business ventures flourished. Fulfilling this promise in 1998, Mallya funded the gold-plating of the shrine—an act that took many by surprise, considering his public image as a luxury-loving tycoon.
Traditional Craftsmanship and Religious Precision
The gold-plating work was no ordinary construction project. It was carried out under the guidance of Tantri Kantararu Maheswararu, the chief priest, and overseen by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), the body that manages the temple.
Specialist sthapathis (temple architects) and artisans were brought in from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The process involved:
Recasting the original copper plates to accommodate gold sheets
Meticulous hammering and polishing
Ritual purification and sanctification of materials
Installation during an auspicious muhurat (time)
The work was conducted with extreme reverence, maintaining all religious customs. The Sreekovil was closed to devotees for several days during this transformation, and elaborate poojas were performed once the gold-plating was completed.
Public Reactions and Cultural Debates
The donation sparked widespread public interest and media coverage. While many devotees expressed gratitude, some critics questioned the necessity of such opulence in a spiritual space that preaches renunciation and simplicity. They argued that the funds could have been used for public welfare or infrastructure development around the temple.
However, others viewed it as a noble act of devotion. In the Hindu tradition, daanam (donation) is seen as a way to gain spiritual merit. Temples across India have historically received lavish gifts from kings, nobles, and devotees—from gold chariots to diamond-studded crowns. In that sense, Mallya’s contribution was not unprecedented.
The Irony of Time: Mallya’s Fall from Grace
In the years following his donation, Mallya’s empire began to crumble. Kingfisher Airlines collapsed under massive debt, and allegations of financial misconduct surfaced. He was declared a “willful defaulter” by Indian banks and eventually fled to the UK in 2016, evading legal proceedings in India related to fraud and money laundering.
This led to a wave of ironic reflections—a man who donated ₹18 crore to a temple was now accused of owing ₹9,000 crore to Indian banks. Some devotees and commentators suggested that Mallya’s donation was an attempt at earning divine blessings, while others questioned the motives behind such a grand gesture.
Regardless of his personal fate, the golden shrine remains intact, untouched by the controversies surrounding its donor.
Sabarimala Today: Faith, Reform, and Infrastructure
Over the past two decades, Sabarimala has continued to evolve. From debates over women’s entry into the temple to improvements in pilgrim facilities, the temple has often been at the center of social and legal reforms.
The golden roof, however, has stood the test of time. Every year, thousands of pilgrims stand before it, hands folded in devotion, heads bowed in prayer. It serves not just as a visual spectacle but as a reminder of the rich and complex tapestry of Indian faith—where personal piety, royal patronage, and even corporate generosity find a place.
The Symbolism of Gold in Hindu Temples
Gold has long been associated with divinity and purity in Hinduism. In many temples, gold is offered to deities as a token of gratitude, devotion, or penance. It is believed to be the metal of the gods, representing immortality, prosperity, and spiritual wealth.
Temples like Tirupati, Padmanabhaswamy, and Shirdi Sai Baba have amassed immense gold reserves over the years, thanks to offerings from devotees ranging from commoners to celebrities.
The gold-plated roof at Sabarimala is part of this age-old tradition. Far from being a mere display of wealth, it is an expression of bhakti (devotion)—one that glistens under the sun and reflects the enduring faith of millions.
Conclusion: A Tale of Devotion and Destiny
The golden shrine of Sabarimala is not just a donation—it is a story. A story of a powerful businessman’s vow, the craftsmanship of traditional artisans, the fervent belief of millions, and the enduring legacy of India’s spiritual heritage.
Vijay Mallya’s life may have taken a dramatic turn, but his contribution to the temple has become a part of its mythology. The golden roof continues to shine—not as a monument to materialism, but as a symbol of divine commitment, echoing the spirit of millions of Ayyappa devotees who climb the hills of Sabarimala every year.
As they chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” and bow before the shrine, most may not know who donated the gold. But they know why they are there—for faith, for transformation, and for a glimpse of something eternal.