INTRO

It has been a profound experience preparing for the Golu every year. This tradition has been part of our family for the past few years, and we approach it with great enthusiasm. With a new theme each year, our family gathers to decorate the Golu display. Each of us brings our unique skills and talents to this creative endeavor, making it a significant learning experience.

This year, we conceptualized a 3D temple gopuram with a garbha griha housing Sri Vishnu in the Vishwaroopa darshan form.

This gopuram consists of seven layers, each depicting numerous stories and themes. At the top of the gopuram, there are five kalashams with Lord Ganapathi overseeing the entire universe. The second layer here signified the gist of Navarathri - Shri Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswathi. The third layer of the display features dashavataram of Lord Vishnu (Matsya; Kurma; Varaha; Narasimha; Vamana; Parashurama; Rama; Balarama; Krishna and Kalki). The fourth layer, from the top, showcases Navadurga, while the fifth layer focuses on the childhood phase of Lord Krishna. The sixth layer here shows Ashta Lakshmi, and the seventh narrates the story of the Meenakshi Kalyana, where Vishnu, the brother of Meenakshi (a form of Parvati), offers her in marriage to Sundareshwar (a form of Shiva).

The grand finale features the magnificent Vishwaroopa darshan of Sriman Narayana himself. In the spirit of Navaratri, our priest inside the garbha gruha is also performing kumkumarchana to Goddess Mahalakshmi.

Our temple facility serves as a divine place for performing Sanatana Dharma rituals. A wedding is in progress, with several devotees participating in the rituals. A beautiful pond (kalyani), and a chariot by the side. Additionally, there are various vendors by the temple grounds, offering items for devotees to purchase and offer.

Notably, the Lakshmi Narayana (pattada bombe in Kannada) set at the forefront holds great significance. This set is presented by the bride's parents during the wedding ceremony. As part of the Navaratri ritual, we place this set alongside a kalasham with betel leaves and fruit or coconut and offer our prayers.

Happy Navarathri 2023