Preparing the Ground for Ganesha

Ever since our last shipment of containers, containing Iraivan Temple stones, we've had this small granite shrine sitting underneath a guava tree, not far from Iraivan Temple. Several days ago, we began the process which will eventually lead to its installation. As you may know, the San Marga path which will guide future pilgrims down to the Swayambhu Lingam square, has several important stops along the way. First, of course, is the Rudraksha forest. Then pilgrims will make their way through a corridor of bamboo. Later they will climb Muruga's Hill to reach his Vel, and finally make their way to the square. But before meeting Muruga, they naturally must beseech Lord Ganesha. This shrine will be his abode, greeting every future guest that travels to Iraivan Temple from near and far. Aum.

The shrine, currently sitting next to Iraivan Temple

It is relatively small, but it will sit upon two large pitham stone, seen here to the right.

It\

s wonderfully carved, and matches Iraivan Temple\'s look and feel '

We find our hired worker Doug with a cement mixer, next to the bamboo corridor on San Marga.

He has prepared the forms for a small concrete foundation

Today he is adding the concrete

After this foundation is complete, the siplis can install the pitham stones and then the shrine

Jai!

}

];