Sri Padmanabhaswami Temple - The wealthiest in India cont.

Hello people,

Uthradam Thirunal

As the Supreme Court of India has stalled the opening of the 6th vault for now, and as the media personnel have breathing space, the current Raja of Thiruvithancore [no official power nor the Title remains]- Uthradam Thirunal, who is 80 years old- has clarified to the Apex court that neither he nor anyone of his relatives wants any share of the wealth found and he is just a ‘Padmanabhadasa’ [Deity's servent] as were his predecessors. The fact that their clan knew of the whole thing and even after having full control of the temple [It is run through the trust from the Palace] have not even thought of taking any part of it and also were successful in keeping is safe and secure is creditable and that shows their character. That’s the ‘trust’ factor that I mentioned at the beginning.

Ay Kingdom - Southern tip

Venad- down south

The temple is said, by the historians, to have been built by the Ay rajas, who ruled at the end of the first millennium. Their reign coincided with the end of Chera dynasty and then a new Kingdom, the Kingdom of Venad, took over the temple and the south of Kerala. They added Mutts for visitors stay and also added to wealth of the temple. The wealth came through various means like gifts and also as present when some social issue was solved by the temple. Even elephants were received as gifts! An important contributor to the temple from the Venad kingdom was Bhootala Veera Marthanda Varma. He expanded the territory of Venad upto present day Tirunelveli in Tamilnadu. There is even a sculpture of him in Satya Vagisvarar temple in Tirunalveli. Venads history after Bhootala Veera was filled with tensions, internal tensions and clashes, and the temple was shut down for most of the time due to circumstantial inconvenience. It may have been possible that the wealth of man prominent Kings were kept in the temple for safety or donated to the temple during that time. 

Ettuveedan - Ettuveettil Pilla

The temple, then, was run by a group called ‘Ettarayogam’ [Eight and a half group]. It consisted of ‘Pottys’ from 7 prominent families, one ‘Nair Tharavadu’ and King as the half. [Koovakkara Potti, Vanchiyur Attiyara Potty, Kollur Attiyara Potty, Muttavila Potty, Neythassheri Potty, Karuva Potty, Sri Karyattu Potty, Palliyadi Karanatta Kuruppu were the ones with the right to vote].The treasurers of sorts were ‘Ettuveettil Pillamar’. During the clashes the Pillas and the King were on the opposite sides.  Using this to their advantage, the Dutch, who were in Cochin spread their roots across Venad.

Anizham Thirunal

But in 1729, a strong-willed and farsighted King- Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma [reignal years 1729 – 1758] - took over and successfully suppressed the uprisings and also reigned in the clashes. The Travancore Kings have their names preceded by their birth star. So ‘Anizham’ is the birth star of Marthanda Varma.  He is said, again, by the historians, to have contributed most to the temple. He captured and recaptured provinces in the north up to Cochin and defeated the Dutch in the battle of ‘Coletchal’ in 1741. Admiral Eustatius De Lennoy who led the Dutch made donations to the temple. Historians say, that explains the finding of Dutch coins Belgian cut-glasses and diamonds and Portuguese coins in the vaults.     

Dutch Surrender

The Thiruvithancore Kings are called or self-confessed ‘Padmanabha Dasas’ or Gods servants. This was initiated by Anizham Thirunal, in 1749-50 as he gifted his Kingdom to the deity. The function was called ‘Thrippadi Danam’.  He announced, after gifting his sword to the deity - that henceforth the Kings of Thiruvithancore will be just the representatives of Sri Padmanabha and the deity was the ruler of the Kingdom. Before this ceremony, he re built the temple somewhat taken-aback [I won’t say ruined] by the internal clashes of Venad. He took 10000 ‘Kazhanj’ gold from the Dutch in return to pepper in 1939. The Dutch artifacts clarify this was used for a ceremony called ‘Hiranyagarbham’ at the temple. Anizham Thirunal had decided that Sri Padmanabhaswami temple was going to be his center even though he had his sword undergo religious ‘pooja’ at Thiruvattar Adikesha temple in present day Kanyakumari before going to war with the Dutch. The present ‘Vigraha’ was built by a ‘shilpi’ called ‘Balaranyakoni Devan’. The ‘Vigraha’ is about 18 foot and can be seen only from 3 doors as stated before. The ‘Ottakkal  Mandapam’ was built using a single rock procured from ‘Thirumala’ a place near present day Thiruvanathapuram. 

Kodimaram

The teak wood for the ‘Kodimaram’[Flagstaff] was brought from ‘Kakkachal’ in present day Tamil nadu. Historical artifacts reveal that there were 4000 skilled workers, 6000 ‘koolis’ and 100 elephants for the construction.

A  tulabharam Ceremony

The coronation ceremony was preceded by a ceremony called ‘Hiranyagarbham’. Before that in ‘Tulapurushadanam’ or tulabharam gold coins to match Kings Weight were distributed to Brahmans. Then King walked into a big 10 ft. x 8 ft. vessel in shape of ‘Tamara’ which is filled with ‘Panchagavya’. The vessel was then shut for around 10 minutes and Vedic chants were recited. This was called ‘Padmagarbham’. Then the King came out and the crown was placed on his head. 

Painguni Festival

He wore the crown only on that day as the King was Padmanabha dasa and the Kingdom was supposed to be of Padmanabha - the deity.  The rituals that were there in Anizham Thirunal’s time are continued even today. Festivals like ‘Alppashi’ and ‘Painguni’ are examples were the King is involved.

Rani Gowri Lakshmi Bai

Later, when we go into the British East India company time, Colonel Munro was appointed the Resident of Cochin and Thiruvithancore. Rani Gowri Lakshmi Bai, the Thiruvithancore Queen then, appointed Munro as the ‘Divan’. Munro found the wide spread corruption in the temple run under the ‘Ettara Yogam’. He brought it under government control. Even though now the temple is run by a trust from the Palace, the ‘Ettara Yogam’ is asked for suggestions for rituals and festivals as a custom.

Chithira Thirunal

It was Chithira Thirunal balarama Varma at the helm when India became independent. It is said, that he opened the temple doors for the untouchables[who were not allowed to enter then] when Mahatma Gandhi requested him to do so. He also agreed to the joint state of Kerala, even though he was initially skeptical as Cochin, which he considered enemies of his predecessors, was also going to be a part of the same state. He was the last ruling King of Thiruvithancore as the official powers were stripped off after Independence.

I will write about the things found next.

To be continued…

 Thanks!

Sri Padmanabhaswami Temple - The wealthiest in India.

Hello people,

Sri Padmanabhaswami Temple

For the last week, it has been going on like a movie script. Trust, treasure, devotion, debates, anxiety, curiousness, proudness, fear, happiness – every emotion and thoughts are going through the minds of the people from Kerala a small state on the southernmost tip of India.  The fact that I am one them makes me write about this! 

It has been a week since the Supreme Court of India ordered opening of the vaults in Sri Padmanabhaswami Temple, citing a private petition, in which the petitioner said he wanted to make sure the temple authorities, - the temple is run by a trust consisting of the royal family of Thiruvithancore[present day Thiruanathapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and parts of Kottayam] – managing the accounts without any misappropriation.
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Thiruvithancore map

Vigraha of Sri Padmnabha

There were 6 vaults to be opened in all. 2 of them were not opened for more than 150 years! Surprise of some kind was expected to be found. But it really conjured up something much bigger. Latest assumptions are in the range of $22 billion. The least valuable metal found was silver. Everything else was gold, or diamonds or rubies or emeralds or pearls!  There was golden ‘vigraha’ [the word meaning embodiment] – the idol of the deity - studded with valuable stones. There were golden coconuts and even golden brooms [those were meant to dust the ‘vigraha’! ‘Sharappolimala’ which is a kind of a garland to be adorned on the deity was 18 feet and was fully gold studded with stones! The ‘vigraha’ itself is in a lying position symbolizing ‘Anantasayanam’ – meaning Maha Vishnu [the God] is posture in ‘Yognidra’ or eternal penance on the body of ‘Ananta’ the snake. The word ‘Ananta means ‘infinity’ or ‘Entirety’!  It symbolizes that Vishnu is lying over infinity or that he is everywhere. The word ‘Vishnu’ itself means ‘Prevading over’ and ‘NU’ meaning over everything. Below the deity is supposed to be the Arabian sea, though it’s not verified.

Temple in 1931

Shankha

There is a underground path towards ‘Shankumukham’ a nearby beach which was very active during the 14^th to 19^th century. ‘ShankhuMukham’ means the mouth of the ‘Shankha’ or seashell which is regarded in India as one of the ‘Panchavadyas ‘or five important musical instruments. When blown, it should emit a long, loud and sonorous sound like ‘OM’. It is also considered to medicinally valuable. Shankha bhasma-bhasma meaning ash -  is prepared by soaking the shell in lime juice and calcinating in covered crucibles, ten to twelve times, and finally reducing it to powder ash. Shankha bhasma contains calcium, iron and magnesium and is considered to possess antacid and digestive properties. ‘Valampiri Shankhu’ or Dextral Conch-shell, served as the state emblem of Thiruvithancore and it can still be seen on the emblem of Kerala state. The deity can be vied through 3 doors. One for Lord Shiva one for Brahma and the other for Lord Vishnu.

Golden Shankha

Going into the history of the temple, the temple dates back to 8th  century AD. Reference about the temple can be found in ancient scriptures like ‘Brahma Puranam’ , ‘Brahmanda Puranam’, ‘Skanda Puranam’, ‘Matsya Puranam’ and ‘Padma Puranam’.  Historians say that the temple was constructed by Chera Dynasty. After the dynasty weakened, it was part of Kingdom of ‘Venad’ – present day – south central Kerala. The ‘Vigraha is said to be made of 12500 ‘Saligramas’ brought from the kingdom of Nepal. It took two and half years for 25000 Saligramas were presented by the King of Nepal and elephants were used as the mode of transport! 

to be continued...,

P.S: Please add to the info if you have any regarding this post...,

Thanks!

India in England 2011 - The Team.

Hello people,

Champions!

As we wait, hyped as the biggest matchup of this year, the England vs India test series in England, I thought of the squad selected by India for the same. Before that, I think India vs South Africa was the biggest match-up for this year. And it lived up to the expectation. The cricket played was hard and high quality. Even the audience, like me, felt the exhaustion after that series. To add to that when India won the world cup, it was virtually like we were pretty exhausted and soaking it all in and resting! But the BCCI, whose idiots need $$ first played out a ‘tamasha’ that was IPL and then sent the team to the WI and the poor [not sure about that] players are playing in a series that is watched by a couple of West Indians, the TV crew, the ground staff and some dogs.

Coming to the team selected for the England series, which obviously will be a tough one, I thought it was a fair call. At least considering our selection committee, it’s definitely a fair call. So let’s just have a look at the squad.
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The squad: MS Dhoni (capt/wk), Gautam Gambhir (vice-capt), Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Abhinav Mukund, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Harbhajan Singh, Amit Mishra, Zaheer Khan, Sreesanth, Munaf Patel, Ishant Sharma, Praveen Kumar
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   1. Gautam Gambhir : Gambhir has been a profilic scorer for India in tests, especially coming back after  McGrath and co toyed with him in 04’. He has problems with the short ball and the England bowlers being tall will certainly trouble him. He, despite being injured played in the IPL and –I thought that was a ridiculous and selfish decision – has no practice except playing ‘the likes of Sreesanth’ in the nets. He has surprised some [including me] when he played somewhat ok in South Africa. He has not had overseas tours to show off which makes him an under-scanner player. [Not on his position in the team, but on his place among cricketers]
Verdict : Could be the surprise man. But not dependable.

   2.    Virender Sehwag: A maverick! Instinctive player. Nothing to say as news about Sehwag. Has played in England before during his early days. So he averages only 40. But he has a quick 100 among the 237 runs he has scored in England. It would be a curious fact – would be overly strict – to say that he needs to be tested against England in England. He has had a stint with Leicestershire, which was a successful one in 2003. He scored 478 runs in 10 innings in 6 first class games with 2 100s and as usual striking at 95.
     Verdict : Could be the match/series winner. Could be an utter flop as well.

3.     Abhinav Mukund : He is the backup opener and is most likely to play in the first test at Lords. This is amazing luck for this youngster. He was picked over his team mate who is perhaps taking it easy on the back of his IPL century last year. But has now learned that you can’t be a superstar ever with on T20 100 as magnificent as it may be. Mukund was susceptible against the short ball in the WI. Nothing much is expected of him, but a 30 or 40 and supporting Gambhir and taking the pressure off him. If India wins the toss at Lords, how the openers perform could decide the series.
Verdict : Has a chance to be next in line, but nothing much is expected off him.

       4. Rahul Dravid : Well, what should I say. He has a tremendous record in England and has played part in wins in England. But off late has lost his reflexes a bit and may, just a small ‘may’, struggle if England bowlers bowl splendid. But by what he has shown in the WI India can hope. If he clicks India will have it a bit more easily.
   Verdict : Has to be a holder of one end. As always allow others to play pressure free.

   5.    Sachin Tendulkar: He is looking for that 100. And to score it during the 2000^th test and the 100^th test between the 2 countries – nothing can be more special. I guess that’s why he did not pay in the WI. He didn’t want to score that 100 in front of no one. He has a tremendous record as he does everywhere except in Pakistan and Zimbabwe. He, says my gut feeling, will be the man who will take India to victory. Last time he played with grit rather than flare. But this time I expect flare.
Verdict : As always, the match/series winner India looks up to. 1% chance to flop. ;)
        

   6.  VVS Laxman : Very very special, surprisingly or unsurprisingly[he doesn’t have a good footwork] doesn’t have a 100 in England! He will want to correct that. Even though he has a decent record in England, he will be susceptible against the swing. May be someone should always manipulate the score card to say, India are 150/7 when he bats. ;) India would want him to play well, as the bowling lineup is really good. His county stints might help him to get his 100.
Verdict: Will look to correct the record, but should be allowed to play freely. India will look to him when under pressure.  Don’t be surprised if he flops.

7.    Yuvraj Singh: It’s a cliché. Man having talent and not utilizing it. Yuvraj is a great example in Tests. Has not played a test in England. Will look for inspiration from ODI performances in the famous Natwest series. Most certainly Swann will trouble him. He should avoid being Marcus North of India. Swing also can trouble him. Could be in trouble with his ego. But if he clicks along with the top order, India will win it at least 2-0.
Verdict: Expected to have an average series. If he does lose it, India will be pulled back. Confidence player.

    8.    Suresh Raina: Will be used only if Yuvraj fails. Untested in foreign conditions. Is expected to be in trouble. Should really concentrate on his job. This [Yuvraj/Raina] position is the key after Sehwag.
    Verdict: Expected to play only after India take a 3-0lead J. Jokes apart, if Yuvraj fails and he gets his chance, it will be advantage England. So has to not lose his cool.

9.    MS Dhoni: His captaincy skills will be looked up to the most. With the bat he is not expected to do much. He has of course saved a match last time around. But expecting a repeat is not worth it. But the thing he can do is to put the cherry on top if the top order clicks together. A 70 ball 80 would be shattering for England if the top order gets 350-400. Has to use Harbhajan and Zaheer wisely. Has to keep Sreesanth calm [ but apparently he is not interested]. Has to keep Ishant and Yuvraj confident.

      Verdict: Nothing to say. Just lead the team well!

10.  Wridhiman Saha: This is a questionable selection for me. Has no credentials as a batsman. But will play only if something happens to Dhoni – which would be disastrous. Has a good first class record. A good keeper. But not a great one as some make out. An average batsman doesn’t necessarily mean a good keeper. May be Dinesh Karthick could have been chosen. He also has a not so bad prior experience in England.
 Verdict: Not expected to play. Could be a problem if such a situation comes.

     11.  Harbhajan Singh: He has a big task on his hand. Not only is he expected to take wickets, but he will be evaluated head to head with Swann. Loves it when such a situation comes. It pumps him up. Hopefully he will be at his best which is certainly required as Zaheer would need an experienced backup. But if he doesn’t click, that could affect his confidence and thus India’s chances. Expected to score some important and demoralizing [for England] runs.
Verdict: Could play an important part if India are to win. Same if India are to lose!

12.  Amit Mishra: His position will be same that Raina plays. Backup to Harbhajan. Not expected to play. Will be hard on him. But Harbhajan has to click, if India is to win. Mishra can get a bit mechanical at times. Also he doesnt use his googly efficiently. May be Oragyan Ojha could have been a better pick, considering KP[ But I am not for selecting a player just for a single opposition player].
Verdict: Could play in Trentbridge. But mostly, will not. Expected to perform if plays.

   

13.  Zaheer Khan: Expected to play a crucial part. His role will be as important as Sehwag, if not more. If he clicks India has a better chance to win. If he fails, India WILL lose. Won the series last time around. KP and co be ready with some jelly beans please! J
Verdict: Expected to win it for India. Plenty of experience in England.

14.  S Sreesanth: I would like to call him arrogant and careless instead of calling him volatile. He lacks temperament and can be a liability and frustration for the team mates themselves. But on his day, he can rip apart any batting line up. He has got the one of the best seam positions for an outswing. It would depend on how Dhoni [or as Dhoni says, he himself]  controls him. Last time around, even Michael Vaughn was flustered by his idiotic behavior. He needs to keep the pressure that Zaheer exerts from one end. Many times he just lets the pressure off when the other end is going tight. Example was the first spell in World Cup final.
Verdict: Can swing a match within a spell. The catch is - either ways! :)

 

   15.  Ishant Sharma: High on confidence now after a ten-for, he can be Indias answer to Finn or Tremlet. He can generate pace and bounce and has a good slower ball. Should improve in his strike rate and pick up regular wickets, to support the spearhead.

 .      Verdict: Important part of the pace attack. Zaheer would look for support in him. 

   16.  Munaf Patel: Will play only if Ishant goes out of form. Sreesanth will be replaced by Praveen. Patel, even though maintains discipline, can be a bit predictable. KP and others can easily and perhaps successfully use the technique he used against McGrath [though unsuccessfully].
Verdict: Not expected to play a major part. But if Ishant goes out of form, will be expected to create pressure so that Sreesath or Zaheer can strike.

  

17.  Praveen Kumar: His strength is his swing. He has earned his place after a long toil. But still can’t expect to get a place. He can use the conditions and swing the ball alarmingly for the English batsmen. But lack of pace can hurt him.

Verdict: If he plays, he is expected to pick wickets quickly at the top.

My 11 would be:

1.    Gambir

2.    Sehwag/Mukund

3.    Dravid

4.    Sachin

5.    Laxman

6.    Yuvraj

7.    Dhoni

8.    Harbhajan

9.    Zaheer

10.  Ishant

11.  Sreesanth

12.  Raina
 

Thanks!