Pathanamthitta: A unique postal quirk added a layer of historical significance to President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to the famed Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple today. The moment marked the convergence of the only two ‘persons’ in India with their own dedicated, single-address Pincodes: the President of India and Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala.
The President’s official residence, Rashtrapati Bhavan Post Office in New Delhi, is uniquely identified by the code 110 004. Similarly, the Sabarimala Post Office in Pathanamthitta is dedicated to the deity, using the Pincode 689 713. Both codes are distinguished by serving only a single, iconic address.
The Ayyappa Postal Phenomenon
While the Rashtrapati Bhavan Post Office operates year-round, the Sabarimala Post Office (P.O.), established in 1963, is a seasonal marvel. It functions primarily during the annual Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage and the Vishu festival, dedicated to receiving mail addressed to ‘Swami Ayyappan, Sabarimala PO, 689 713’.
Letters, money orders, and prayers addressed to Lord Ayyappa are received here and subsequently handed over to the Temple’s Executive Officer.
Adding to its distinct character is the special postal seal. Since 1974, the Sabarimala post office has used a custom cancellation stamp featuring the image of Lord Ayyappa’s idol and the sacred ‘Pathinettampadi’ (the 18 holy steps). Pilgrims often queue up at the Sannidhanam post office to mail prayer cards and letters, ensuring their correspondence carries this unique, sacred stamp.
The convergence of the nation’s highest constitutional office holder and the revered deity, each possessing a postal identity unlike any other in the country, turned the President’s spiritual journey into a captivating tale of faith, history, and a fascinating coincidence of the Indian postal service.
