Lord Ayyappa is a popular Hindu deity primarily worshipped in the southern Indian state of Kerala. He is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Vishnu in his female form as Mohini. Ayyappa is often depicted as a young man in a meditative pose, wearing a black dress and holding a sword. The most famous temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is the Sabarimala Temple, which attracts millions of pilgrims each year, especially during the annual pilgrimage season. Devotees often observe a period of fasting and follow specific rituals before visiting the temple, symbolizing devotion and discipline.