The Mystery of Padmanabhaswamy Temple

The Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, situated in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is one of India’s most mysterious and sacred Hindu temples. Dedicated to Vishnu, this temple is famous for its architecture, spiritual significance and most interestingly its hidden treasures. The temple was in the news when an enormous wealth of $22 billion was found in its underground vaults and it is now the richest temple in the world. But the biggest mystery is Vault B, which is said to be cursed and has not been opened for centuries.

The history of Padmanabhaswamy Temple is mythical and mysterious. According to historical records, the temple dates back to the 8th century AD but references to it are found in ancient Tamil Sangam literature which means it was a place of worship over 2000 years ago. The temple is built in classical Dravidian style similar to the grand temples of Tamil Nadu but also has elements of Kerala’s traditional architecture.

The temple is closely associated with the Travancore Royal Family who have been its custodians for centuries. The Kings of Travancore ruled the kingdom as the servants of Lord Padmanabha and surrendered all their wealth and possessions to the deity. This tradition continues and that’s why the temple and its riches are believed to belong to Vishnu only.

In 2011, after a Supreme Court directive, an investigation was conducted into the temple’s underground vaults. What was found inside shocked the whole world.

There are six underground vaults named A, B, C, D, E, and F. When five of these were opened an unimaginable treasure trove was found.

• Gold coins from different civilizations including the Roman Empire
• Diamond-studded crowns and gold ornaments
• Gold statues and necklaces several feet in length
• Emeralds, rubies and other precious stones
• 800 kg of solid gold
• Sacred relics of immense religious and historical value. The total value of these treasures is over ₹1.4 trillion ($22 billion) and Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the richest temple in the world.

While all the other vaults were opened and explored Vault B is locked and untouched because of the legends and fears surrounding it. This vault is said to have more treasures and divine secrets that should not be disturbed.

1. Vault B is Jinxed: Vault B is Jinxed. Many temple priests and sincere devotees assert that Vault B will be opened at one’s death, and there are even documented deaths and disasters that have befallen those who tried to open Vault B in the first place. The gods did not approve.
2. Serpent Lock: Locks and latches keep the vault door fastened. However, there are serpent engravings on the entrance. Supposedly, the temple’s priests believe that the vault was sealed due to a Naga Bandham chant, and only a Siddha with appropriate expertise can release the bond.

Scientific/Historical Reasons

Historians and archeologists theorize that in Vault B there are the following:

• Religious writings or manuscripts of great thinkers.
• More diamonds lie in the ground below.
• A passage to the other side of the temple.
  But when none of the attempts at theorizing are validated, the mystery only deepens.

Litigation and More Litigation

Once the temple’s assets were found, litigation ensued over ownership. The Travancore royal family, long since caretakers of the temple, claimed it was treasure bestowed by god to remain undisturbed. Yet the Supreme Court of India was involved. That gave the jurisdiction.

Custodianship and Controversy

In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that the Travancore Royal family would keep custodianship of the temple and its treasures, which means the treasures that come from the temple are God’s and never to be spent on carnal endeavors.

Temple Structure and Religious Features

Yet the temple boasts of its own infamous Dravidian architectural style. The following are key features:

• The Gopuram (Temple Tower): Standing at 100 feet, the height is adorned with intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology.
• The Idol of Lord Vishnu: A rare idol of Lord Padmanabha is seen reclining at 18 feet on the serpent Anantha, which is composed of a rare combination of 12,008 salagramams (stones) from Nepal.
• Secret Vaults: There are intricate underground passageways beneath the temple in addition to the vaults which are said to lead to other underground passageways.

The question is whether to open Vault B. Some believe it’s full of untold riches; others warn of dire consequences. Regardless of belief since ancient times, the mystery surrounding the Padmanabhaswamy Temple calls for more information as it continues to attract pilgrims around the globe.

Until then the secrets of Vault B lie behind locked doors, tucked away in the shadows of history and legend.

I will try to know the full history of this Padmanabhaswamy temple for you and update it on our Ligerz.com website. Also if you know any interesting facts about this temple then comment below and share with us.

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