Divya Desam Exhibition Hall – A Journey Through the Sacred Traditions of Hinduism

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On 21st September 2025, a unique heritage installation was inaugurated inside the campus of Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Vidya Mandir at Rajkilpakkam. Named Divya Desam, this newly unveiled exhibition hall pays homage not only to the Divya Desams of Vaishnavite tradition but also embraces the six major schools of Hindu worship - Shaivam, Vaishnavam, Shaktam, Ganapatyam, Kaumaram and Sauram.

The event was graced by the presence of Pujyasri Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamigal and Pujyasri Satya Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Supported by the Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Trust, this immersive space aims to nurture spiritual awareness and preserve India’s profound religious diversity through visual storytelling and thematic installations.

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam


Exploring the Exhibition

The entrance to the exhibition gently transitions visitors from the mundane to the sacred. As you step in, you’re welcomed by an elegantly lit corridor themed “Vaishnavam.” Large backlit displays portray temples like Badrinarayan of Badrinath, Sri Krishna of Mathura, Venkatesa Perumal of Tirumala, and Ranganathaswamy of Srirangam, reminding one of the grandeur of India’s temple heritage.

Just ahead, a serene tableau captures Sri Adi Shankaracharya, revered as the “Shanmatha Sthapanacharya”, the one who unified the six streams of Hinduism into a harmonious whole. This prominent bronze-like mural, set against a glowing backdrop, is not merely decorative, it is philosophical. It invites reflection on the depth and plurality of Indic traditions.

Another captivating diorama recreates the Vata Patra Sayee Lord Krishna resting on a banyan leaf amidst cosmic waters with the black-stone statue of Adi Shankara seated meditatively in the backdrop. The artful composition bridges mythology and metaphysics, spirituality and aesthetics.

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam


The Six Paths – Shanmatha Display

One of the exhibition’s most striking elements is its sectioned zones dedicated to the six traditions:

  • Shaivam: With a grand depiction of Lord Vishwanatha and ancient Shaivite temples from across India, this section immerses visitors in the world of Shiva worship.

  • Vaishnavam: Beyond the entrance, the Vaishnavite corridor celebrates the Divya Desams, the sacred shrines eulogized by the Alwars. Intricate temple facades and interactive visuals invite deeper engagement.

  • Shaktam: A beautifully dressed Durga icon sits at the heart of this circular section, flanked by murals of Shakti Peethas such as Kamakhya (Assam), Vaishno Devi (Jammu & Kashmir), and Meenakshi Amman (Madurai).

  • Ganapatyam: Representations of Ashta Ganapati temples and stories associated with Lord Ganesha find space here.

  • Kaumaram: Murugan devotees will feel drawn to this segment showcasing sacred sites like Palani, Tiruchendur, and Swamimalai.

  • Sauram: Often overlooked in modern times, this segment honors the ancient Sun temples  including Konark and Modhera.

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam


More Than a Display – A Sacred Narrative

What makes this exhibition truly special is that it doesn't just showcase images, it educates and inspires. Through realistic sculptures, layered murals, miniature models, and thoughtfully designed lighting, the space goes beyond being just a display. It becomes a spiritual journey, helping visitors explore India's sacred places, divine forms, and rich religious traditions in an immersive and meaningful way.

The exhibition not only reflects the inclusive vision of Adi Shankara but also serves as an educational and experiential space for students, devotees, and heritage enthusiasts alike.

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam



In an age where traditions often struggle to find relevance amidst digital noise, this initiative by Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Vidya Mandir and Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Trust is both visionary and vital. It reminds us that spirituality is not about sectarian division but the celebration of multiplicity, a truth embedded deep within the Indian civilizational ethos.

Whether you are a pilgrim, a heritage enthusiast, or an explorer of India’s spiritual landscape, this Divya Desam exhibition hall is a must-visit.

Happy travelling.

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam

Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam
Divya Desam - Rajkilpakkam


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