Hanuman, Hinduism’s beloved Mahadeva (Part 2)
July 3, 2012 • Hinduism, Photography & Travel
Morning at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. Tamil Nadu, South India. (Part 2)
Within the walls of Madurai’s famed Meenakshi temple we explore the area in front of the Siva Sanctum. The pillars in this area are amazing in beauty and in size, and probably the best in the entire temple. Most of these I did not photograph but amongst all the gigantic pillars there was one that was quite simple but very popular among many of the pilgrims. The statue of the Mahadeva (great angel) Hanuman was carved on it. Hanuman is the popular monkey faced being who is worshiped by most Hindus.
Here he is covered in an orange-red paste. Countless pilgrims stop by him, touching his feet in search of blessing and lighting small clay oil lamps in offering. Hanuman is getting much attention amongst the devout pilgrims of this temple.
The morning light was just right to capture all of this and I quietly positioned myself next to a nearby pillar and took the following photos. I hope you enjoy them.
A statue of Hanuman portrudes out of a tall granite pillar at the Madurai Meenakshi temple.
An elder pilgrim touches Hanuman's feet in search of blessings.
A lamp is kept filled with oil throughout the day and burns brightly next to Hanuman.
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