Mega Star Chiranjeevi, a seasoned practitioner of the rigorous Ayyappa Deeksha for several decades, recently shared the profound reasons behind his initiation into this spiritual discipline during an interaction with the media.

Reflecting on his early days of stardom with hits like Gharana Mogudu, Indra, Vijetha, and Gang Leader, accompanied by the overwhelming adulation, Chiranjeevi confessed that success and fame took him to great heights, often leaving him feeling over the moon. However, the disconnect and arrogance that followed such triumphs led him to seek solace by adopting a humbler lifestyle, including sleeping on the floor.

Chiranjeevi revealed that sleeping on the ground became a grounding force for him, and the discipline instilled through Ayyappa Deeksha played a pivotal role in keeping his ego in check. He acknowledged that stardom, while exhilarating, demanded mental composure and physical discipline, qualities that Ayyappa Deeksha instilled in him.

In explaining his choice of Ayyappa Deeksha over other spiritual practices, Chiranjeevi emphasized the importance of peace of mind and physical discipline in a person's life. He likened Ayyappa Deeksha to Lord Hanuman, underscoring its significance in maintaining equilibrium amidst the glamour of the film industry.

During the 80s, inspired by personalities like Rajendra Prasad, Sarath Babu, and Nambiar, who were practicing Ayyappa Deeksha in Tamil Nadu, Chiranjeevi delved into the strict conditions associated with it. The commitment to sleeping on the floor, practicing brahmacharya, daily prayers, a vegetarian diet, and walking barefoot intrigued him, prompting his decision to embark on this spiritual journey.

Having practiced Ayyappa Deeksha for two decades and now holding the title of Guruswamy, Chiranjeevi reminisced about the peaceful 40-day periods wearing the sacred mala. He shared anecdotes of humble train journeys to Sabarimala, where he found camaraderie with fellow devotees like Rajendra Prasad. Despite facing physical challenges during those trips, Chiranjeevi cherished the discussions, impromptu bhajans, and shared meals, considering it his cherished world.

As Chiranjeevi transitioned to Hyderabad, his busy schedule led him to conclude the Deeksha after 21 days, during which he would distribute the Irumudi to devotees heading to Sabarimala. Despite the increasing number of Telugu devotees participating in Ayyappa Deeksha, Chiranjeevi underscored its transformative impact in preventing loneliness and disillusionment.

Chiranjeevi concluded by sharing how his son, Ram Charan, also embraced Ayyappa Deeksha for a period, finding solace and discipline in its practice, particularly during challenging phases in life. This spiritual discipline, rooted in humility and discipline, continues to be a source of strength and balance for the iconic Mega Star.