That's the theme for the month for the CDP bloggers.
These umbrellas cannot be rolled up, however. At the Bhaktavatsala Perumal temple at Thiruninravur, the deity was being paraded through the streets around the temple as part of the bhramotsavam. The March sun is hot and it wouldn't do to have it strike the idol directly. So, along with the palanquin bearers are the umbrella carriers...
...to see more umbrellas from around the world, take a look here.
ceremonial umbrellas - am just discovering some of these
ReplyDeleteSuch lovely ceremonial umbrellas! It looks like a lotus underneath.
ReplyDeleteShade is a great gift, an honor to bestow. Thanks for sharing these beautiful umbrellas and their special purpose.
ReplyDeleteExotic and elegant!
ReplyDeletedefinitely unique!
ReplyDeleteLooks like a giant parasol!
ReplyDeleteWonderful, I love the ceremonial aspect they serve - both beautiful and practical!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful...
ReplyDeleteHappy Theme Day :)
A wonderful Indian umbrella!
ReplyDeleteLove these big umbrella!
ReplyDeleteDina is so wise. Shade in a hot land is indeed a gift. The protective functions of these parasols takes on another level of meaning in this religious ceremony. Thank you for showing us.
ReplyDeleteUmbrellas with a higher meaning..very cool Shantarum.
ReplyDeleteWhether for protection from the sun or rain, these umbrellas are quite exotic. Thank you for showing them and for the story of their use as well.
ReplyDeleteBises,
Genie
Thank you, everyone!
ReplyDelete@Gerald: I know, I discovered a few, too!
@Oakland Daily Photo: Agree with you, @Dina's comment is so insightful.
@Hilda: Your comment had me searching for a lotus on the palanquin - and then I realised what you meant!
@Genie - Paris: Between your comment and that of@Kate, it struck me that French has two words for umbrella - suddenly feel wiser! :)