Pancha Brahma Murtis

You well know that there are five forms of Siva, also known as Sadasiva, that will one day be installed in niches on the Iraivan Vimanam. They are deeply mystical aspects of Iraivan temple that were cast in bronze many years ago. They are 36 inches tall. Finally, they are being prepared to be gilded with 23-karat gold leaf. The work is going to be done in Honolulu, by Hawaii's finest gilders, so our team made some sturdy crates for the 104-mile sea voyage ahead. When they return, you will be amazed by the transformation (in a January or February TAKA post). Meantime, enjoy the crate building.

The five forms of God Siva captioned.

The final crates ready for the voyage to Oahu.

The wood blocks fit inside the hollow base of the murti to support it without any bracing.

This was designed so that one their way back to Kauai the gold need not be touched at all, which would cause damage to the newly gilded surface.

Two on one pallet and three on the other.

Ready to go to the dock and onto a ship (well, actually a barge).

Aum Nama Sivaya!

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