Makarasheeveli Procession Highlights
Deities and Traditional RitualsLakshadeepam Celebrated at Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple on Makara Sankranti
The festival featured the colorful makarasheeveli procession, beginning at 8:30 pm with the Deities of Lord Sri Padmanabhaswamy and Lord Narasimha taken to the temple’s flagmast.
Royal Family and Priests Lead the Ritual
The procession was led by Aditya Varma of the erstwhile Travancore royal family and included children in ceremonial attire, decorated elephants, and traditional orchestras. Pushpanjali Swamiyar Oravankara Achutha Bharathi, thantris, and Vedic scholars were part of the sacred celebration.
Integration of Lord Thiruvambadi Srikrishna
Upon reaching the western side, the Deity of Lord Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna joined the sheeveli, which concluded after three circumambulations of the temple. Entry was regulated through online passes, with devotees seated at 26 designated spots inside the mathilakam to witness the procession.
Distinguished Guests and Temple Officials
The ceremony was attended by Governor Rajendra Arlekar, members of the Travancore royal family, including Pooyam Thirunal Gowri Parvathi Bai and Aswathy Thirunal Gowri Lakshmi Bai, along with temple administration officials such as Velappan Nair, Karamana Jayan, and executive officer B Mahesh.
Murajapam and Spiritual Significance
Historical Legacy
The Murajapam ritual, started during the reign of King Marthanda Varma, involves continuous recitation of the Vedas in seven cycles, each lasting eight days. This 56-day ritual began on November 20, 2025.
Inclusion of Atharva Veda
This year, for the first time, Atharva Veda was included along with Rigveda, Samaveda, and Yajurveda, attracting Vedic scholars from across India.
Lakshadeepam Lighting
The 56-day ritual concluded with the Lakshadeepam, where over one lakh oil lamps were lit on Makar-Sankranti, creating a mesmerizing and spiritually uplifting spectacle for devotees and visitors alike.
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