Lord Ayyappa is believed to be an Eternal celibate who is the Reincarnation of Lord sasta an Avatar born to Lord Vishnu (Mohini Avatar) and Lord Shiva to restore the balance between Deva (Good) and Asura(Evil), Lord Sasta took his reincarnation when there was a religious conflict going on between Shaivya Hindus (Followers of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnava Hindus (Followers of Lord Vishnu). Technically Ayyappa is given a name by the people or his followers for resolving the feud between these two communities who's actual name was Manikandan. The word meaning for Ayyappan is, "Ayya" Means Vishnu and "Appa" means Shiva, the name was given to the religious social reformer Manikandan by his followers. Pandhalam Palace and their family is still the living proof of Lord Ayyappa, which means manikandan was a real person who lived in our land many years ago ie. 1125 to 1150 AD. In his previously known Incarnation or Avatar named Sri Dharma Sasta, it's said that he had two wife's named Purna and Pushkala. But, in his reincarnation, he chose a different path of Eternal Celibacy. Even if you take the folklore, or text associated with Sabarimala it's Ayyappa who is being worshipped with the manta "Sharanam Ayyappa". Present day, many pseudo-Feminist like Rehana Fathima who is very controversial in wearing Ayyappa swami costume which is black shirt and black dhothi by lifting her legs and showing her thighs created a big outrage and commotion in the public which is affecting the emotions of many Ayyappa devotees of both the gender. Both the gender is given equal importance in Sabarimala, it's only an age restriction with respect to lord Ayyappas Eternal celibacy. In order to keep and protect the rights of the Lord Manikanda and Beliefs of Millions of Ayyappaa Devotees, I'm raising my voice.

There are a lot of politics involved with this, kindly do hear the prayers of Millions of devotees. 

Swami Saranam,

Shyam Prakash J

A devotee of Lord Ayyappa