After completing 41-day fast, Father Manoj will climb Sabarimala, discloses what drew him closer to Ayyappan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After fasting for 41 days, Anglican priest Father Dr Manoj will embark on a pilgrimage to Sabarimala where he will diligently observe all the rituals. On the 20th day, following the completion of his fast, the rituals will take place at the Tirumala Mahadeva temple. Father Manoj aged 50 and hailing from Thiruvananthapuram specifically from Balaramapuram Uchakkada Payattuvila, is deeply committed to learning about Hindu religion and customs and he intends to explore various other religions as well. He firmly believes that one doesn't need to abandon their own faith to do so.

Preferring to remain itinerant, Father Manoj has refrained from taking charge of any church. His mission primarily revolves around educating young individuals on the practical application of spirituality in their daily lives. It's important to note that Father Manoj's journey doesn't entail renouncing his priesthood or faith. As a permanent resident of Bengaluru, Father Manoj has also pursued a career as a software engineer for 27 years. His wife, Jolly Jose is a homemaker and their daughter Ann Irene Joslette, is a graduate student.

Father Manoj attributes his affinity for Ayyappan to the 'Tathvamasi' philosophy which has brought him closer to this deity. He firmly believes that God is one, and various religions offer diverse perspectives on the divine. In essence, all religions convey a unified message - that God transcends the confines of any single belief system. Father Manoj passionately asserts that many global issues can be resolved if this universal truth is recognized. It's crucial to emphasize that delving into the depths of other religions doesn't necessitate forsaking one's own. All religions share the common goal of promoting human goodness. - Father Manoj.