SUCHINDRAM

The visit becomes incomplete and purpose unfulfilled, if the significance and procedure of Suchindram Pratyayam is not properly understood.  The ordeal is conducted with an elaborate procedure and that too in full public gaze.  The accused to prove his innocence has to obtain a letter of authorization from the highest authority for undergoing the ordeal at Suchindram.  The yogakkar-the official in charge, on receiving it fixes the time and intimates to the concerned parties.  They are certain ceremonies to be observed before commencement.  The accused along with servants have to observe fast on that day.  The parties and spectators assemble at the Udaya Marthanda Mandapam.

After several rituals to God, ghee is boiled to such a high pitch that the bark and leaf of the Konnayadi tree makes cracking sound when thrown into the boiling ghee vessel.  The accused is made to dip his hand in the boiling ghee and take out the seal kept in it.  If on the third day there are no wounds or blisters on hand, the accused is acquitted: else he is guilty and becomes social outcast. 

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