The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an architectural marvel
steeped in rich history and mythology, is one of the most intriguing and
fascinating temples in the world. Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram,
the capital city of Kerala, India, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Padmanabhaswamy,
a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its awe-inspiring structure,
opulent treasures, and the enigmatic mystery surrounding an unopened door. In
this comprehensive article, we delve into the temple's history, its legends,
and the enduring enigma of the unopened chamber.
A Brief History of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The exact origins of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple are
shrouded in the mists of time, with some historians and scholars speculating
that it dates back to the early centuries of the Common Era. The temple is
mentioned in several ancient texts and scriptures, including the Puranas and
the Mahabharata, which further attest to its antiquity. It is also said that
the temple underwent several renovations and expansions over the centuries,
with the most significant changes occurring during the reign of the Travancore
kings.
The temple's architecture is a testament to the Dravidian
and Kerala architectural styles, characterized by its gopuram (tower),
intricate stone carvings, and elaborate mural paintings. The sanctum sanctorum
houses the deity, Lord Padmanabhaswamy, depicted in the Anantha Shayana posture
- reclining on the serpent Anantha, with Goddess Lakshmi at his feet and Lord
Brahma emerging from his navel.
A Treasure Trove of Unimaginable Wealth
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Sree
Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the vast treasure that lies hidden within its vaults.
In 2011, a Supreme Court-appointed committee began the process of cataloging
and documenting the temple's hidden wealth, uncovering a staggering collection
of gold, jewels, and precious artifacts.
The temple's treasures include gold coins from various eras,
gem-encrusted crowns, golden idols, precious stones, and ceremonial attire,
among other priceless artifacts. The sheer magnitude of the treasure has led
some to speculate that the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple could be the wealthiest
place of worship in the world.
The Mysterious Unopened Door
Amidst the opulence and grandeur of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy
Temple lies a tantalizing mystery that has captivated the imagination of
believers and skeptics alike - the unopened door of Vault B. This door,
distinct from the other vaults that have been opened and inventoried, is said
to be sealed by an ancient and arcane ritual, with no visible locks or latches.
According to legend, this chamber can only be opened by a
holy man who can perform the sacred Garuda Mantra, a powerful incantation that
summons the mythical bird Garuda, the celestial mount of Lord Vishnu. It is
believed that attempting to force open the door without performing the mantra
would result in catastrophic consequences, including natural disasters and
divine retribution.
The mystery of the unopened door has fueled countless
theories and speculations, with some asserting that the chamber contains even
greater treasures, while others believe it houses ancient secrets, powerful
relics, or even a portal to another realm.
The Legends and Myths Surrounding Sree Padmanabhaswamy
Temple
The enigmatic nature of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple has
given rise to numerous legends and myths that add to its mystique and allure.
These tales, passed down through generations, provide a glimpse into the rich
cultural and spiritual heritage of the temple and the people who have
worshipped there for centuries.
The Divine Origin of the Temple
One popular legend recounts the divine origins of the
temple, involving the sage Vilvamangalathu Swamiyar, who was an ardent devotee
of Lord Vishnu. The story goes that the sage, in his quest to find the perfect
spot for a temple, encountered a small boy who began to play pranks on him.
Irritated by the boy's antics, the sage struck him with a twig, only to witness
the boy transform into the deity Lord Padmanabhaswamy. Realizing the divine
nature of the child, the sage fell to his knees and begged for forgiveness.
The deity then instructed the sage to build a temple at the
very spot, with the help of the local ruler. Thus, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy
Temple was born, with the divine blessing of Lord Vishnu himself.
The Sacred Rituals and Ceremonies
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for its
elaborate rituals and ceremonies, which have been meticulously preserved and
carried out by the temple priests for centuries. These rituals, which include
daily pujas, abhishekams (holy baths), and the recitation of sacred hymns, are
believed to imbue the temple with divine energy and maintain the cosmic
balance.
One such ritual, the Murajapam, is a unique 56-day-long
ceremony that involves the continuous chanting of the Vedas, the sacred Hindu
scriptures. This grand event, which occurs once every six years, is said to
invoke the blessings of Lord Padmanabhaswamy and ensure the wellbeing and
prosperity of the entire kingdom.
The Temple's Connection to the Travancore Royal Family
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple has long been associated
with the Travancore royal family, who ruled the region for several centuries.
The kings of Travancore were known as the Padmanabhadasas, or the servants of
Lord Padmanabhaswamy, and considered themselves to be the earthly
representatives of the deity.
The royal family was deeply involved in the administration
and upkeep of the temple, and it is believed that much of the temple's immense
wealth was accumulated through the offerings and donations made by the
successive rulers of Travancore. This close connection between the temple and
the royal family continues to this day, with the descendants of the Travancore
kings still playing a crucial role in the temple's affairs.
The Protective Serpent Guardians
Another fascinating myth surrounding the Sree
Padmanabhaswamy Temple involves the presence of serpent guardians, who are
believed to protect the temple and its treasures from harm. These divine
serpents, known as Nagaraja, are said to reside in the subterranean chambers
beneath the temple and watch over the immense wealth stored within.
It is believed that the Nagaraja can be appeased through
rituals and prayers, ensuring the continued safety and sanctity of the temple.
This belief in the protective powers of the serpent guardians has only added to
the enigma and mystique of the unopened chamber, fueling further speculation
about the dangers that may befall anyone who dares to breach its sacred seal.
Conclusion
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, with its rich history,
divine legends, and the enduring mystery of the unopened door, is a testament
to the enduring allure of ancient temples and their sacred lore. The temple
stands as a symbol of the deep spiritual connection between the people and
their deities, and a reminder of the profound mysteries that continue to
captivate our imagination. Whether the chamber ever opens or its secrets remain hidden, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple will
continue to fascinate and inspire generations of devotees, historians, and
seekers of the unknown.
As we unravel the complex tapestry of myths, legends, and
history surrounding the temple, we gain a deeper understanding of the cultural
and spiritual significance it holds. The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is not
just a monument to divine worship, but also a living testament to the ancient
wisdom, architectural prowess, and artistic genius of the people who built it
and the civilization they belonged to.
Visiting the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a transformative
experience, as it takes one on a journey through time, revealing the countless
layers of history, tradition, and mythology that have been woven together to
create its enigmatic narrative. The temple is a symbol of the unbroken
continuum of faith, devotion, and human ingenuity, a beacon of spiritual light
that has illuminated the hearts and minds of countless devotees over the
millennia.
Whether you visit the temple as a pilgrim seeking divine
blessings, a scholar exploring its historical significance, or a curious
traveler enchanted by its myths and legends, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
offers a unique and unforgettable experience that transcends the boundaries of
time and space. In this sacred space, where ancient mysteries and divine
energies coalesce, one cannot help but be awed and humbled by the timeless
wisdom, boundless creativity, and profound spirituality that permeate every
aspect of the temple's existence.
As the mystery of the unopened door continues to captivate
our imagination, we are reminded of the eternal quest for knowledge, truth, and
enlightenment that lies at the heart of human existence. The Sree
Padmanabhaswamy Temple stands as a testament to our enduring fascination with
the unknown and the divine, a sanctuary of wisdom and wonder that continues to
inspire and intrigue us in our journey through life.