KONATTUSSERY TEMPLE: HINDU-CHRISTIAN COLLECTIVE EFFORT AT IDOL INSTALLATION
| Konattussery Devi – Khandakarna temple, Vettakkal, Pattanakkad, Chertala, Alappuzha |
Of the 11-member executive committee overseeing installation of Lord Subrahmanya’s idol at the Konattussery Devi – Khandakarna temple at Vettakkal, Chertala, 6 are Christians and in the general committee of 50 convened for the purpose, 22 are believers in the Christian way of life.
When conflicts based on differences between castes and religions are on the rise, the example of Konattussery village assumes significance.
Since the consecration of the temple 20 years ago, the people of Christian faith in the village have been cooperating with its upkeep. Water for puja and other purposes of the temple, is drawn from a well in the temple compound. And on the parapet it has been engraved that this well has been dedicated by Koonthanissery Thankachan, a Christian.
The 6 Christians in the executive committee are Tharayil Josy, Velikkakath Jacob, Johnson, Koonthanisseril John, Joseph, Thyvelikkakath Xavier. Women like Thyvelikkakath Mary and Peediyekkal Velama are also active in the temple affairs. The idol installation, scheduled for July 4-6, 2006 is part of the expiatory rites in connection with Ashtamangala Prasna held in the temple.
While Christians take active interest in the affairs of the temple, the Hindus on their part are alert to the needs of the St.Joseph Chappel in the village.
There is no discrimination in the affairs of the temple and all activities are planned in consultation with Christians, say N.P.Ranganath and T.K.Mani, president and secretary of the temple committee respectively.
Courtesy:
K.R.Sethuraman, Mathrubhumi, June 15, 2006
Contributed by: Administrator
