CHENNAI, INDIA, August 31, 2024 (The Hindu): R. Madurai Manikandaraja, an empanelled sthapathi of the HR&CE Department, shares how he began working with wooden objects used in temples from Sriperumpudur and how being in the city gives him an advantage, as everything from wood to tools can be purchased here, adding that this city, true to its character, has given him a livelihood he is proud of. Temples are his chosen work spots. It is at the Sri Adikesava Perumal Temple in Sriperumbudur, which is also the birthplace of Saint Ramanuja, that he began working on wooden objects used in temples. Wood is used in many places in the temples — right from the massive doors, to the tall dwajasthambams (flagpoles), the vahanams (vehicles of the Gods) and the majestic temple cars. “I was given the opportunity to work on the vahanams to be used during the 1000th birth year celebrations of Saint Ramanuja. So far, I have worked on over 15 temple cars, both big and small,” he explained. The young sthapathi, who hails from a family of traditional wood craftsmen, is currently working with a team of around 50 men making the temple car of the Thiruveteeswarar Temple in Triplicane. And for the past few months, they have just been extremely busy with that work.

More at source.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/madrasofchennai-life-in-the-day-of-a-stapathi/article68583157.ece

Post Views: 96