Golden idol of Vishnu found at Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, July 3 (The Hindu): A golden idol of Mahavishnu and a golden ‘anki' weighing close to 30 kilograms were among the articles unearthed from one of the six vaults at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple here on Saturday.

The inventorying of the vaults is being done by a seven-member panel appointed by the Supreme Court.

The golden idol of Mahavishnu is believed to be a replica of the ‘utsava vigraham' in the Temple and has a height of about one foot (12 angulams). Another idol fashioned out of pure gold was also found.

Coconut shells of gold

Two coconut shells fashioned out of pure gold were found too. One was studded with precious stones including rubies and emeralds.

The golden ‘anki' used to adorn the presiding deity was found in 16 parts. An ornament used to adorn the chest of the deity and studded with emeralds was also found on Saturday.

Coins found

Numerous coins issued by the government of Krishnadeva Rayar (early 16{+t}{+h} century AD), and a coin of 1914 origin were also reportedly found. There was a piece of paper in bad condition on which was written the ‘Kollavarsham date' 29/9/1109. Other golden ornaments believed to have been used to adorn the main deity were also found.

Yet to be inventoried

The process of inventorying the vaults began on June 27. Vault A was first opened on June 29 and later on June 30. The contents of vault B are yet to be inventoried.

There would be no inventorying of vault A on Sunday. The process is expected to resume on Monday afternoon. There were also unconfirmed reports that the panel intends to submit an interim report to the Supreme Court.

The Devaswom Minister V. S. Sivakumar said here that the State government would provide adequate security for the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Discussions have been held with the Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on this, a press note issued here said.

Golden idol of Vishnu found at Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple