Worshipping Lord Athi Varadar at Kanchipuram

These days, Tamil Nadu is all agog with the ongoing rising festival of Athi Vardar in Kanchipuram . It is said to be the most important festival at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple here. In keeping with the tradition, just like last time (in 1979), the 10-feet long idol of the Lord, who gets this name because of being carved out of a fig (athi pazham) tree, has been installed at the Vasantha Mandapam of the temple.

So, while the masses have already congregated there, hoping to be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime event, many are gathering as much info as they can so that they can make this religious trip.

As a result, there are Facebook groups selling tickets for the darshan as well as accommodation, groups having heated discussions over how a wooden silai (idol) can withstand 40 years of being underwater, WhatsApp messages about the importance of the festival being circulated, and plans being made to go and be a part of a festival that will now commence only 40 years hence.

For those who've been blissfully unaware till now, here's what the festival is all about: There are many legends and stories that are doing the rounds about the origin of Athi Varadar , but while that's another story, another day, for now, this idol is considered to be the original idol of the temple. It was stowed away in the temple tank to keep it safe from invaders, and much later, as a ritual, began the worship of that idol once in every 40 years. The year 2019 is the 40th year in this endless time sequence. So, what all is set to happen?

The festivities will span a period of 48 days, with the idol being kept in the reclining position for the first 40 days (July 1 to August 9), and in a standing posture for the last eight days (August 10-18)

Outsiders (other than the residents of Kanchipuram) can get darshan from 5am-5pm, whereas for the Kanchipuram residents, the evening time is extended up to 8pm. And hence, after obtaining the tickets (which can also be booked online at www.tnhrce.org) for the darshan, the price of which ranges from Rs 50-Rs500, be prepared to stand in long queues. Also, keep Aadhar Card, or other identification papers handy - one is allowed inside the inner precincts of the temple only after verification.

The TN government, apart from allocating Rs 29 crore for the festivities and arrangements, has also directed the local authorities to provide shuttle services from the bus stop into the town, drinking water dispensers and sanitation facilities; and within the temple premises, there will be three medical camps. A word of caution for those from Chennai planning a short trip: on the auspicious days of the lunar calendar that fall within this period, and on the weekends, the expect a surging crowd.

Pic sourced: From the Varadaraja Perumal Temple official website