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Samudra Manthan

Crafted by: Cholamandal Artists' Village
Material: Acrylic Paint Blend

According to Puranic lore, the Devas (Gods) and Asuras (Demons) once joined forces to churn the cosmic ocean in search of Amrit (the nectar of immortality). The great Mount Mandara was used as the churning rod and the snake Vasuki was used as the rope. However, during the Samudra Manthan, the mountain started to sink, flooding the entire universe. It was then that Lord Vishnu took the form of a sea tortoise (the legendary Kurma avatar). The avatar swam into the depths of the ocean and supported the mountain on its back, giving it balance and protecting all life in the process.

It is said that 13 Ratnas or "Divine Gems" came out of the Samudra Manthan, including Soma (the moon) and Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, Fortune and Prosperity.

The Samudra Manthan or Churning of the Ocean, is represented in the hand painted mural in the foyer of the Kannadi Gopuram. It is over 40m (120ft) in running length and is inspired by mural styles found in the temples of the region. It surrounds the Glass Bells installation in the Gopuram. The installation has a cascade of golden bells which honour Goddess Lakshmi who came into being through the Samudra Manthan. These are surrounded by bells tinged in blue and green which are symbolic of the energy in flowing water.

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