Today, April 11, 2014; Vijaya Varusha Panguni Maham, Day 7 of the Panguni Ther Utsavam or Adhi Brahmotsavam at Sri Ranganathaswami Temple, Srirangam was celebrated. From 7.30am till noon devotees had darshan of NamPerumal in Kannadi Arai. In the evening at 6.30p.m, NamPerumal came with Ubhaya Nachimars for NelAlavu. Nel means paddy and alavu is measurement. This is what is done when Rangaraja stands before the Thirukottaram or granary. Paddy symbolises plenty and it is measured with a golden Marakkal. Marakkal was the unit of measure those days. The sight of the paddy measured in the golden marrakal sends a thrill in the hearts of devotees whose eyes are pinned in the direction of the golden marakkal. SriRangam devotees go out of their way to guide newcomers and guide them to the vantage points.Paddy is collected and put in the rice containers at home in the belief that the granary at home will be full. Inspection over NamPerumal in His Pandian kondai crown and Vimana padhakam made the rounds of the four Chitra Veedhis. Tiruvahndi kaapu took place at the Tiruvehndikaapu mandapam from where the procession moved towards Thayar sannidhi where Thirumanjanam takes place. NamPerumal is expected to return to Kannadi Arai after midnight.
The following are some of the photographs taken on the occasion…
Write-up by Smt Vyjayanthi Rajan
