Sabarimala welcomed the New Year with a simple ceremony where police and staff lit camphor in the shape of "Happy New Year" at midnight. The event coincided with the ongoing Makaravilakku pilgrimage, which is seeing a heavy flow of devotees. Over 1.2 lakh pilgrims have visited the Lord Ayyappa shrine since its reopening on December 30. Authorities have ensured arrangements for smooth darshan and safety during the festival.