Those pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh were coming to Sri Sailam to pray, on their way to Sabarimala .
They are devotees of Lord Ayappa. They go through a 41 day penance abstaining from sex, meat and
intoxicationg drinks before undertaking the trek up the forested mountain chanting the celebrated three
words "Samiye, Saranam Ayappa ( Oh lord Ayappa, I come to thee for refuge.)
