Special poojas performed in lightning-struck temple

Chennai, Aug 23 (UNI) Special pujas and hawans were performed as a mandatory religious prelude before formally beginning the repair works on the famous Kapaleeswarar temple, which was damaged in lightning two days ago.

Official sources said the HR and CE department and the temple authorities were expected to float a tender for the renovation works.

The trustee of the temple including Nalli Kuppusami Chetti, Vijaya Thayanban, Thamizharasi and Vaidyanatha Mudaliar had decided to convene a meeting of the donors tomorrow.

The authorities estimated that the renovation work of the 120-ft Rajagopuram would cost around Rs 12 lakh.

Today, vedic scholars performed Balalayam (a special puja for propitiation) in a specially erected yagasalas. It was attended by HR and CE Special Commissioner K Pichandi and Joint Commissioner P Dhanapal, besides scores of devotees.

The repair works were expected to be completed within two months and a special Kumbhabhishekam would be performed, temple authorities said.

The central portion of Nasi Thalai of the eastern tower had developed a crack in the lightning strike.

UNI