PALAKKAD: A memorial for keeping alive the memories associated with the renowned Sanskrit scholar and exponent of Srimad Bhagavatham Bhakthasiromani Vazhakunnam Vasudevan Namboodiri is nearing completion on the premises of the celebrated Thiruvegappura Mahadevar temple near Valanchery in the district. Members of the temple committee have said that the memorial being built in the form of an auditorium will be inaugurated within three months. The work of the auditorium is progressing fast, they said.
Vazhakunnam Vasudevan Namboodiri had introduced refreshing waves in the recital of Srimad Bhagavatham and the discourses on it. Apart from interpreting Srimad Bhagavatham with his scholarly skill, Vasudevan Namboodiri had authored several books in Sanskrit and Malayalam.
``Vasudeva Karnamrutham’’, ``Bhagavatha Samgraham’ ’ and ``Bhagavatha Vyakhyanam’’ are some of his works.
Born on April 23, 1891 (Medam 12, 1066) as the son of Vazhakunnam Raman Atithiri, Bhakthasiromani Vazhakunnam had inspired and guided several youngsters to take up the recital of Srimad Bhagavatham for the benefit of the common man.
Ravivarma Koyi Thampuran of the erstwhile Kochi had honoured Vasudevan Namboodiri with the title Bhakthasiromani.
``For the completion of the memorial, the temple committee will spend around Rs.10 lakh,’’ said Vazhakunnam Jayan, convener of the memorial building committee.``Our plan is to open the memorial in connection with the Sivarathri celebrations on February 20,’’ he said. The foundation stone for the auditorium was laid by Thiruvegappura temple thanthri Padinjaredathumanakkal Shankaranunni Namboodiri on October 21.
Ashtami celebrations conclude
The eight-day Ashtami celebrations concluded at the Thiruvegappura Mahadevar temple on Tuesday. Large number of devotees thronged the temple premise to witness the two-hour concluding celebrations which began around 6.30 pm. Padinjaredathumanakkal Shankaranunni Namboodiri led the religious ceremonies.