Kanni Swami - Sabrimala Advice/Suggestions

Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa 🙏

First time doing Ayyappa mala this year from Bangalore. I’m a Kanni Swami and a bit confused about the ideal date to start.

I visited Ayyappa temples in Madiwala and Agara, and they suggested Nov 16–17 for mala dharana and 41 days. They also said it may be crowded around that time.

I don’t have a Guru Swami or a group yet. Are there any Bangalore groups/WhatsApp communities where first-time swamis can join a group going to Sabarimala?

Would also appreciate some simple advice on:

Ideal time to start mala

Basic dos and don’ts for the 41 days

How to find a Guru Swami/group

Anything a first-time Kanni Swami should know

I’m not looking for shortcuts, just trying to understand the proper process and do it correctly.

Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa 🙏