Chennai: The consecration of the Thanjavur Big Temple took place in a grand manner today with mantras recited in both Tamil and Sanskrit.
The eight-kaala pooja of the kumbabhishekam of Lord Brahadeeswarar temple, also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, began at 4.30 am today morning following which the Maha Deeparadhanai took place at 9 am.
The Maha Kudamuzhukku of the 12-feet gold-plated kalasam atop the 216 feet high Raja Gopuram took place at 9.20 am and for main deity Peruvudaiyar, it took place at 9.45 am.
The consecration began with the Yaga Salai pujas on 1 February and culminated today morning with Mahapoornahuthi at 7 am. Following this the pots containing the holy water were taken in procession to the sanctum sanctorums of the deities and were poured on the idols.
More than 300 Sivacharyars performed the homams and other rituals at the yaga salai. A group of Odhuvars recited Thevaram, Thiruvasagam and Thirumurai among other Tamil hymns during the consecration. Apart from this, 33 homa kundams were set up around the Swami Vedhigai and 25 homa kundams were set up around the Amman Vedhigai.
Following the kumbabishekam this morning Perabishekam of Peruvudaiyar will take place at 6 pm. Following this the Panchamoorthys will be taken on a procession. More than two lakh devotees took part in the kumbabishekam which is being held after 23 years. About 5,000 police personnel were deployed on duty. Food for the devotees has been arranged at the Raja Raja Samaya Sanga marriage hall.
Fire and rescue personnel were actively engaged in safety measures. Bursting of crackers was banned in the ceremony. An examination of the temple and its basic facilities was conducted by the municipal administration ahead of the consecration.
Works to conduct the consecration began eight months ago. Repair works were carried out in the gopurams and all other preparations to conduct the consecration. The balalayam took place on 2 December.
Meanwhile, consecrations were also held at the Thiruvanmiyur Marundheeswarar temple in Chennai, Ukkadam Lakshmi Narasimma Swami temple in Coimbatore and Chidambaram Aadhi Moolanadhar temple.