We’d not seen this one together so went together. Quiet temple evening. Climbed up onto the terrace to see the Parashakti figure being attended to by some lads who were grouped there–the temple gives them this work and these socialities. Below, the two main priests prepare for and conduct the entire abhishekam. No additional helpers. They’re swift and efficient. Alankaram does not take hours. Invariably there’s a kunkumarchanai with namavali chanting (is this the same as a Navavarna puja?). The temple always has a distinctly open community feel, it’s like a place where people gather to learn and be together. They accept the tutelage of the Iyers, who are avuncular figures to them. It’s just a very nice, almost intimate atmosphere here always. Sriram Gurukkal sends us photos and videos from time to time, and we share with him. too. The casual, easy nature of these things extends that feel of place.