Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Why are idols in South Indian temples kept in dark with no lights?


The Statues-Idols are kept in Karpa-Graha of the Temple.

  • The term "karpa graha" refers to the sanctum sanctorum of a Hindu temple, also known by the Sanskrit term garbhagriha . In Tamil, it is called karuvarai, which means "womb chamber," derived from the words "karu" (foetus) and "arai" (room).
  • I’m not sure what is reality behind the closure of Karpa-Graha without any light nor celebrating the Statues-Idols in Karpa-Graha using Lamps-Lights-Sounds on specific days of the year.
  • There should be wider meaning for the timely celebration and closure of temples on-time and every-time.
    • Exception: Few temples are just opened for once in year or once in 14 years, many temples are opened daily.
      • For Instance, Sabarimala Temple do manage a specific calendar for the opening and closure of Temple.