The Catalytic Influence Of Gold Endowments In Illuminating The Nanda Lamps, With Special Emphasis On The Inscriptions Of The Keezhur Veerattaneshwarar Temple

Abstract

The people's devotion was often demonstrated through generous offerings of gold, rich ornaments, and various essential items for daily worship of the deities. These offerings included items such as crowns, bracelets, earrings, gold flowers, garlands, and umbrellas, as well as functional articles like gold vessels, lamp stands, silver, fly whisks, spoons, and pots made of gold, silver, and bronze. Some inscriptions even provided detailed descriptions of the ornaments gifted to the temple. The prestige of a temple was directly linked to the number of ornaments it possessed, enhancing its glory. Consequently, temples with a rich collection of ornaments attracted a larger number of pilgrims, especially during special worship days or ceremonies when the adorned idol was displayed. This not only enriched the temple's aesthetic appeal but also increased its income through additional offerings from devotees.