Wishfulfilling Cow and Tree

One of the most popular of the processions over the Deepam Festival, is that of the Kamadhenu, the wish fulfilling cow, and the Kalpavriksha, the wish fulfilling tree. Both of which emphasis the wish fulfilling aspect of Arunachala.



Kamadhenu, Wish Fulfilling Cow

The Kamadhenu is a divine cow-goddess described in mythology as the mother of all cows. She is the giver of plenty and provides the owner with whatever he desires.

Theories as to the origin of the Kamadhenu are two-fold. One scripture describes her as the daughter of the creator god Daksha, and another narrates that Kamadhenu emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean.



Kalpavriksha, Wish Fulfilling Tree

The Kalpavriksha is a mythological divine tree said to fulfil all desires. Its mythology narrates that the wish-fulfilling tree also originates from the churning of the ocean of milk afterwhich the god Indra, returned with the tree to his paradise.



Kalpavriksha

Karthigai Deepam Festival 2011, Day 4

Throughout the 10 day Karthigai Deepam Festival, there are constant pujas of the Gods inside the Temple and circumambulation of the Gods both around the outside perimeter of the Siva Sannidhi, and around the outside of the 26 acre Temple perimeter.

The programme during Karthigai Deepam follows a specific order, with the Gods being carried in procession on various vahanas (vehicles) on certain days.

As well as pujas and processions, there are also daily cultural programmes throughout the Festival period, that take places inside the Temple Compound. Definitely a thrilling time at Tiruvannamalai.


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