Differently abled artist defies odds to bring Lord Ayyappa’s tale to life at Sabarimala
Manoj Kumar, born with an ingrown right hand that ends below his elbow, has been painting the story of Lord Ayyappa on the wall around the Sannidhanam
On the walls around the Sannidhanam, Manoj Kumar’s left hand works tirelessly, transforming them into vibrant canvases that narrate the story of Lord Ayyappa. It’s a remarkable display of artistry that defies the odds.

The 40-year-old artist, a native of Chekom near Pathanapuram, was born with an ingrown right hand that ends below his elbow. Since the start of this pilgrimage season, he has been at Sabarimala, painting murals on the walls of the Annadanamandapam, Sabari Nandanam, and the Pandalam Malika. These murals, being crafted in oil paint for longevity, will narrate the life story of Lord Ayyappa, from the discovery of Lord Manikanda from the forests to his divine exploits.