Preparations in full swing for the ceremony of Aanat, which will take place on Thursday at the temple Sree Vacakumathan. | Photo Credit: Kk Najeeb
On Thursday, Ashtadravya Mahaganapathi Homam and Aanayoott (elephant feeding), traditionally held on the first day of the Malaysian month of Karkidakam, take place in Thanika.
These rituals, which are carried out every year to find the blessing of Ganesha for prosperity and well -being, are led by the chief priest of the temple. The ceremonies include Ashtadravya Maha Ganapathi Homam, followed by Aanayoot.
Especially this time will also take place Gajapooja, which occurs only once every four years. Inside a specially prepared pandal, elephants will stand solemnly. Elephants are worshiped as a living design of divine power.
Ashtadravya Maha Ganapathi Homam will be made. Ashtadravya Maha Ganapathi Homam Prasadam is ready using 12,008 coconut nuts, 2,500 kg Jaggers, 200 kg Ghee, 1,000 kg of flattened rice (AVIL) Naranga.
Rice balls
Anayoot will take place near Thekke Gopura Nada. Elephants will be fed with rice balls along with specially prepared herbal mixtures, sugar factory, melon, jackfruit, mature plates (Kadali Pazham) and cucumber.
This year the participation of female elephants is a special highlight. Of the 70-–-elephants participating in the anayoot, nine elephants are. Seven elephants from Guruvayur Devaswom will also join the average.
In order to ensure smooth flow and driving the crowd, the authorities built a temporary overpass near the western entrance to the temple. Elephants enter the western Nada and perform through Eastern Nada and ensure safe and proper movement.
Published – 16 July 2025 17:52 is
