Ayyappan also known as Dharmasasta, Maṇikanṭhan or Sasta, is a Hindu deity who is the son of Harihara, fused with both Shiva and Vishnu. He is generally depicted in a yogic posture, wearing a jewel around his neck, hence named Maṇikaṇṭhan, which literally means "person with gem around the neck".
By the 20th century, there has been an increase in the number of worshipers of Ayyappan from many different groups, spurred by vast improvements in transport and communication in southern India.
The name "Sri Ayyappan" is used as a respectful form of address in Malayalam and Sanskrit. The equivalent of Sri is "Thiru" in Tamil. The mantra Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa is translated in English as, "Lord Ayyappa, I seek refuge in you".
Download the app 200 Ayyappan Songs and get to listen to Ayyappan songs in Tamil sung be legendary artist Veeramani Raju.