Vishwa Samvad Kendra, Chennai
CHENNAI, INDIA, December 22, 2006: A full third of Chennai’s police force, 5,000 out of a total force of 15,000, have taken a vow to participate in the Sabarimala pilgrimage, which includes several weeks of fasting and disciplines in advance. Such devotees are called Ayyappa Swamis. Police Ayyappa Swamis say that they are happily observing the pilgrimage, since a respect is earned from the public as well as from their bosses. Further, they say that it gives lot of mental peace by which they are rejuvenated.