While the monastery has no female residents, and non-monastic members (both men and women) leave the property by 6PM, the ladies are actively involved in Sivathondu in the public areas. They are in immense help to the monastery. Being clerks at the MiniMela and being temple hosts. They also help the Pilliyar Kulam with tags for items and other chores related to the Minimela.

The members take take turns dealing with the tide of visitors, which has grown to over more than 3,000 month every day from 9-12 noon. They have to answer questions of the wide-eyed tourists who know nothing about Hinduism, "What is that Dancing God?" Answer serious queries about the monastery from Hindu pilgrims, "What sampradaya does this temple follow?"

And act as polite policewomen. "No photos allowed the temple... Can you please put on a sarong? Don't put your feet out while sitting. No, you can't do go Iraivan, to do that come on a tour day...." This list of questions go on and on. They have become quite the diplomats.

All the monks really thank you all for this service. You have no idea how much it is appreciated! Thank you!

7 Responses to “Ladies Working for Siva”

1. Jegadessa Chenganna says:
   October 11th, 2019 at 5:22 pm

   This is a great service really – answering questions of the visitors especially non- Hindus and being diplomatic to them with regards to the protocols. Thank you all for offering such wonderful service.

2. Purany Ponniah says:
   October 11th, 2019 at 6:35 pm

   Such inspiring ladies. Sivathondan !

3. vinaya alahan says:
   October 12th, 2019 at 2:35 am

   Aum Thanks for sharing these photos of ‘the ladies’ working for Siva. Their beauty and devotion is inspiring. Aum

4. Easan says:
   October 12th, 2019 at 4:59 am

   So many years of selfless seva. Wonderful ! Aum.

5. Ramai Santhirapala says:
   October 12th, 2019 at 5:42 am

   Ever the example – so welcoming, humble and beautiful inside and out. Thank you 🙏🏾

6. Holly Young says:
   October 12th, 2019 at 9:59 pm

   Such a pleasure to see these women. Such sweet inspiration.

7. lutcheemee Curpen says:
   October 13th, 2019 at 4:13 am

   Such selfless and inspiring women. Thank you for your service. Aum