The Shri Meenakshi Temple in Madurai attracts pilgrims from all over India. The distinctive black lungis worn by the men above (black is ordinarily a taboo colour to Hindus), indicate that they are members of the cult of Ayappa - which perfoms an annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala in Kerala - who have taken a detour to worship the 'fish-eyed' goddess. At this shrine, near the entrance to the vast temple complex, a mahout guards his elephant as it receives rupee coins from worshippers. Before passing them back to its keeper, the well-trained animal will bless the pilgrims on the top of their heads with its trunk.