The newly reconstructed statue of Gajarajan Guruvayur Kesavan was inaugurated on Sunday November 23 in a ceremony marked by devotion, tradition, and emotional reverence. From early morning, devotees arrived in large numbers, eager to witness the new idol of the legendary elephant of Guruvayur. Their long-standing curiosity and concern about how the new statue would appear were soon eased—“Yes, this is Kesavan,” many devotees confirmed with satisfaction and emotion.
The dedication ceremony was held in the courtyard of the Srivalsam guest house compound. The event commenced with Temple Thantri Chennas Dinesan Namboothiripad, who lit the ceremonial lamp and performed the consecration rituals of the new statue. As part of the rituals, Guruvayurappan’s Kalabham was applied to the forehead and trunk of the statue, after which a grand floral garland and a chain with a locket inscribed with “Guruvayur Kesavan” were adorned.
A large gathering of devotees then offered prayers at the newly consecrated statue.
Earlier in the morning, Chairman V.K. Vijayan officially unveiled the Smarpana Shilaphakam at the Kesavan Memorial Hall.
Artists Elavalli Nandan and others involved in the creation of the statue were honoured with prasadam, lamps, and traditional shawls as a mark of respect and appreciation.
This newly installed statue is the third idol of Gajaraja Kesavan.
The first statue, sculpted by renowned artist M.R.D. Duttan, was built in 1981 and inaugurated on November 23, 1982.
Over the decades, ageing and damage necessitated reconstruction.
The Guruvayur Devaswom subsequently commissioned sculptors Elavalli Nandan and Vineeth Kannan to create the new statue now installed and dedicated.
The inauguration marks another important moment in preserving the memory and legacy of the most revered elephant in the history of the Guruvayur Temple.