Century's first yagam to conclude tomorrow

Palakkad Apr 8 (UNI) The century's first ''Saagnikam Athiraathram'' performed here after a gap of 16 years will conclude tomorrow with setting fire to the ''yagasala''.

The 12-day ''Mahayaga'' is being performed at the Sri Kurumba Temple Moolankode, Kizhakkenchery, 35 km from here.

According to organising committee secretary, Perumpadappu Unnikrishnan, the expenses of the " Mahayagam'' was more than Rupees One Crore.

The ''Athirathram'' got underway on March 29 with the arrival of ''Yajamanan'' Kaavapra Maarath Sankaranarayanan Somayajippad (who performs the rituals) and his wife. During the first eight days 'Citi,' (made of bricks on which the sacrificial fire is lighted) is made. On the ninth day of the 'Saagnigam Athiraathrum',the sacrificial fire is prepared atop the Citi. And from the next day, the offerings to the fire are done. Then on the last day, the ''yagasala'' itself is burned down.

The yagam also saw 72 vedic experts chanting hymns from the Rig, Yajur and Sama Vedas.

Kerala is known for these yagams. Usually three types of yagams are performed 'Agniaadhanam,' (considered a prerequisite for any yagams), 'Somayagam' ('Agnishtomam') and 'Athirathram.' It is believed that the 'yagams' are performed for the benefit of mankind, irrespective of caste and creed, to achieve universal peace and happiness. It is considered to be an offering made to ''fire'' to either enrich energy in the environment or to destroy undesirable elements.

UNI AR PN1226