Karthika Brahmotsavam Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam

Karthika Brahmotsavam Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam 2015, Tiruchanoor Temple.

On the third day of the annual Karthika Brahmotsavams, the processional deity of goddess Padmavathi Devi, in the guise of “Kaliya Mardhani” was taken around the four-mada streets of Tiruchanur temple on the ‘Muthyapu Pandiri’ Vahanam-which is made of finest quality natural pearls on Thursday in Tiruchanoor.

The pearl-studded canopy was tastefully decorated for the occasion. Pearl is a metaphor for something rare, fine, admirable and valuable. And such pearl – studded robes and jewels occupy an important place in wardrobe of “Goddess of Wealth”. To mark Her elegance, beauty and riches, the Goddess took a delightful ride on the special carrier adorned with thousands of pearls was a pleasure to behold.

One more significant feature during this procession is that it assumed grandeur with the priests decorating the Goddess as Lord Krishna, as depicted in the mythological episode ‘Kaliya Mardhanam’. In this famous episode, Lord Krishna gets into a pond, takes control of the rogue serpent ‘Kaliya’ by holding its tail and dances on its five hoods. In tune with the concept of ‘supreme surrender to the Lord’, the serpent gives up and seeks the Lord’s forgiveness.

It was this theme that was enacted by the procession of the Goddess as Lord Krishna. ‘Muthyapu Pandiri’ vahanam has a special significance in that the Goddess is believed to have a predilection for white pearls as she is considered to be an embodiment of pure and serene celestial beauty.

In a traditional way, which is an age old practice in the temple, the Jiyar Swamis of TTD and their disciples led the procession by singing the hymns in praise of the deity.

The Bhajan troupes and dance groups added extra glitter to the annual fete. Children dressed in the mythological characters, performing Kolatam dances have given the colourful touch to the religious procession.