In a spectacular display of devotion and tradition, the Sri Periya Mariamman temple in Krishnagiri town welcomed the New Year 2026 on Thursday by decorating its sacred inner spaces with currency notes worth close to ₹50 lakhs. This unique annual practice saw the sanctum sanctorum, interior pillars, and the ceremonial weighing scale, or thulabharam, covered in a vibrant tapestry of banknotes, creating a sight that drew many devotees to offer their prayers for prosperity.
A Golden Adornment and Special Rituals
Alongside the monetary decorations, the idol of the deity was specially honored with a golden shield. Elaborate and special pujas were conducted throughout the day, marking the auspicious beginning of the new year. The temple witnessed a significant influx of devotees who came to participate in the prayers and seek blessings for the year ahead.
Trustee Explains the Tradition and Logistics
Temple trustee C Muthu Kumar provided details about this distinctive custom. He explained that the temple administration sourced the currency notes from various individuals for the decoration. Notes of denominations including Rs 500, Rs 200, Rs 100, Rs 50, Rs 20, and Rs 10 were used to create the elaborate display.
"The total amount is a little less than Rs 50 lakhs," Muthu Kumar stated. He assured that the notes are not permanently affixed and will be returned to their respective owners within a couple of days. This practice, he noted, is not new but has been a recurring feature at the temple for several years during the New Year celebrations.
A Prayer for Personal and National Prosperity
Elaborating on the spiritual significance behind the ritual, the trustee said, "This would help devotees pray for their and the country’s prosperity on the New Year Day." The act of decorating with currency is symbolic, representing prayers for abundance, financial well-being, and the overall economic health of the nation in the coming year.
The event successfully merged deep-rooted religious sentiment with a communal hope for a prosperous future, making the Sri Periya Mariamman temple a focal point of New Year devotion in the Krishnagiri district.
