During the morning, the dedication of “thazhikakudams” (the three domes above the sanctum sanctorum), along with the reinstallation of the Vishwaksena idol and the ‘Ashtabandha Kalasam’ at the Thiruvambady Sree Krishna Temple (within the main shrine complex), was carried out, as stated by temple sources.
“The rituals commenced during the auspicious window from 7.40 am to 8.40 am on Sunday,” they remarked.
These sacred rites began after Moolam Thirunal Rama Varma, the current head of the Travancore royal family, offered his prayers at the shrine.
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In the presence of Varma and other members of the royal family, the tantri (head priest) first conducted the “Ashtabandha Kalasam” at the Thiruvambady Temple. The reinstallation of the Vishwaksena idol was completed by 8.00 am, according to temple sources.
The renovated Vishwaksena idol, which is approximately 300 years old, was crafted using “katu sarkara yogam,” a traditional method involving a unique blend of materials for idol creation. Following this reinstallation, the tantries and priests, accompanied by the royal family head, proceeded in a procession for the dedication of the domes while devotees chanted “narayana” mantras.
Extensive arrangements were made by temple authorities, including the installation of video walls at all four entrances for devotees to view the rare ritual. Long lines of worshippers formed at the temple entrances from early morning.
Kerala Governor Vishwanath Rajendra Arlekar attended the shrine to witness the entire rare ritual. Various rituals, such as Acharya Varanam, Prasada Shuddhi, Dhara, and Kalasam, were performed in the week leading up to the “Maha Kumbhabhishekam.”
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Temple authorities noted that the aim of the Maha Kumbhabhishekam is to strengthen spiritual energy and revive the sanctity of the shrine. Such a comprehensive renovation and associated rituals at the centuries-old shrine have not occurred in over 270 years, making it unlikely to happen again for several decades, they concluded.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
