Why I Find Peace in Temples like Ammapally
Before moving away from India, I frequently visited only two places – Tirupati and Shirdi. Since then, life has not provided many opportunities to explore what truly energizes and brings joy to my soul.
Generally, temple visits are treated like a checklist, aimed at beating queues – get in, have darshan, and get out quickly. However, this particular temple visit sparked my fascination.
I took a walk around the magnificent stepwell, sat in the shade of the cool stone hallway. As the sun’s rays reflected off the water, illuminating the pillars, I wondered how these structures were built without modern machinery. Furthermore, I was captivated by the intricate details of the carvings. That’s the thing about old temples, their power is in the atmosphere they hold.
The Energy You Feel, Not See
Old temples such as Ammapally hold something that new structures rarely possess. It’s not just about the ancient architecture or history; it’s about the energy they radiate.
In traditional temple architecture, energy is invoked with intention. Copper yantras of a certain geometric pattern are strategically placed beneath the deity during prana pratishta (the consecration of the idol). This is to harness cosmic energy, which subtly radiates vibrations that sanctify the sanctum and create a spiritually charged space. Over time, these vibrations are said to build an energetic field, making the temple deeply powerful.
These places have a grounding presence, having withstood the test of time through the centuries, offering a glimpse into a bygone era even today.
Of late, I find myself drawn towards such spaces more than ever before. Not for rituals, but for the energy.