The Hindu God Sabarimala Temple's brass stairs pay respect to the actual Sabarimala Temple's eighteen stairs. Pilgrims begin their journey up the Pathinettam Padi by stepping forward with their right foot. These 18 Steps are also related to 18 Puranas, 18 Mountains, 18 Ayudhams, 18 Siddhas, 18 Devatas, and 18 Gunas. The first five phases correspond to the five human senses (Panchendriyas): visual (eye), auditory (ears), olfactory (nose), gustatory (mouth), and tactile (skin).
The following eight phases reflect the eight Ashtaragas: Kama (Love), Krodha (Anger), Lobha (Avarice), Moha (Lust), Madha (Pride), Maltsarya (Unhealthy Competition), Asooya (Jealousy), and Dhumb (Boastfulness).
The three stages that follow indicate three Gunas or Thrigunas (naturally existing qualities): Satva (Perspicuity, Discernment), Rajas (Activity, Enjoyment), and Thamas (Inactivity, Stupor). The ultimate two stages are Vidya (Knowledge) and Avidya (Ignorance). The steps are also symbolic of stages of life where a devotee crosses all obstacles to reach the almighty.
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