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Monks Gather for Rare 56-Day Temple Ritual
22 Nov
Summary
- Festival spans 56 days with monks from multiple mutts participating.
- Vedic scholars are chanting Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva Vedas.
- The rare ritual is held every six years, honoring an 18th-century king.
Monks from prominent mutts in Sringeri, Kanchipuram, Udupi, and Chinnajeeyar from Hyderabad are participating in the 56-day Murajapam festival, which began at the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple. This significant religious observance occurs once every six years, drawing a large congregation of devotees and scholars.
The festival commenced with Vedic scholars reciting the Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva Vedas, with the latter being a new inclusion this year. Special mandapams have been erected at the temple entrances to facilitate the chanting, marking a grand spectacle of ancient traditions. The rituals are being led by esteemed tantris, ensuring the sanctity and proper execution of the ceremonies.
This ancient practice traces its origins to the 18th century, initiated by the Travancore king Marthanda Varma. The festival's conclusion will coincide with Lakshadeepam, the lighting of one lakh oil lamps, on January 14. Cultural programs and processions, including an elephant procession, are also scheduled throughout the event.
