ANNADANA PRABHU OF VAIKOM

Another significant feature that surfaces now is the suspension of Naivedyam to the Mulavirat, since it is believed that the father observed fast on this day and prayed for his son's victory. But regular feeding goes on uninterrupted. And Lo! it is done on a grand scale with many special dishes. Sumptuousness reaches the point of satiety. Orthodoxy reigns supreme. Alas! the castaways are denied even the imagination of the stateliness of the celebrations, or privileges enjoyed by the chosen few. Hence the revolution for equality and lifting of the suppressed people.

Another popular offering is the Sandhya Vala - a special type A ritual spreading over 40 days, started generally before Astami Festival. Siveli procession in the mornings, grand feasts at noon, and lakshadeeparchana in the nights are the regular features of this special puja. There used to be heavy competition between rulers like Travancore - Cochin and wealthy Bhaktas for booking in advance for this puja, since it ensures many covetable benefits along with bliss. The finale becomes more relish able, if a pious episode occurred in the sublime life of an illustrations Nayanmar is recounted.

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