Image title: Figure 4. The story of Sarngapani depicted in a painting

20. Is there any Sthala Vrksam [Vrksa] in this temple?

A. There is none. But Kurakatti Pu or Vrcci Pu is offered to god during worship.

21. Is there any tank attached to the temple?

A. On the back side is the Potramarai Tirukulam [Tirukula] where Tayar appeared. In this Potramarai Tirukulam [Tirukula], Sage Hemarsi did penance and Mahalaksmi took birth as Komalavalli Tayar. To celebrate this in Masimaham, Teppotsavam [Teppotsava] is celebrated. Teppotsavam [Teppotsava] is celebrated where by Sridevi and Bhudevi are seated in a small Teppam [Teppa] or boat and taken around being worshipped.

22. What is the greatness of Tayar?

A. Praying to Tayar for success of any work fructifies.

23. Who are the Utsava Murtis in the temple?

A. Sarngapani, Sridevi and Bhumidevi, Komalavalli Tayar and Andal.

24. What all Ayudhams does Sarngapani hold in his hands?

A. He is holding Sankha, Cakra, Gadai, Sarnga and Khadga.Gadai and Sarnga are held with the left hand. One right hand is in Abhaya Hasta. The back left and right hands hold Sankha and Cakra. Khadgam [Khadga] and Banam [Bana] are attached to the waist.

Gallery information:

Kumbakonam is considered as one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu and is known for its temples and Mathas (monasteries which were centres of Brahmanical learning). These photographs depict the connection between the sculptures in the temples and Natya Shastra and related texts dealing with iconography.