The most interesting of all aspects regarding the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is its six vaults of enormous wealth, that fetched the temple international attention. It is estimated that the vaults contain gold and precious stones worth several crores. The wealth is believed to have been accumulated through the offering of Padmanabha's devotees over centuries. The vaults are now named A, B, C, D, E and F. The vaults (C,F) have been opened periodically and Vault-A was opened after an SC order. But the controversial Vault-B still remains unopened.
What the vaults contain
Here's a quick look into the six vaults built below the sanctum sanctorum:
Vault A
The most amount of treasure was discovered in this chamber.The chamber is situated in the southern part of the sanctum sanctorum. 16 wooden boxes of four-feet height and two-feet width and sacks full of precious stones were stacked in the two-layered chamber. Pieces of gold jewelry, medallions, and precious stones were found in these boxes and sacks. Around 2 lakh gold coins were found in jars of four feet height and two feet diameter.
Other valuable items found in the vault: Swan model necklaces, stone-studded ornaments, golden armlets and head sets. Around 700 medallions with the symbol of Vijayanagara empire.Heaps of pearl jewels, diamonds, and more than 12 golden lotuses. Five-to-six-layered golden lamps used for deeparadhana (aarti). Vishnu Padam and Rama Padam (the footprints of Vishnu and Rama). Golden waist-belts, rings, ceremonial attire for adorning the deity. 18-feet-long ornamental frame for the idol.
Vault B
This controversial chamber has never been opened citing fears that it will bring ill fortune. It is believed that the two-layered chamber will extend below the sanctum sanctorum. If stories are to be believed, the vault will have gold and silver biscuits, and an iron jar full of golden coins, pieces of jewelry, and bells. The Supreme Court has asked to wait till a new order to open the secret chamber.
Vault C
The contents stored in this vault are routinely taken out for special ceremonial occasions. This vault has golden mace, gold coconut shells studded with rubies and emeralds. Golden jewelry to adorn the presiding deity. Pooja items to be taken out during festivals and special rituals. Golden umbrellas, golden serpent's hood, and gold coins.
Vault D
Decoration items for the Garudavahana used during special days and festivals
Vault E
Daily pooja items used for Narasimhamoorthy in Thekkedam are kept in this vault. Deepradhana plates are kept neatly on the silk-laid granite floor of the vault.
Vault F
Items for daily pooja are kept in this vault. There are three idols of Sree Padmanabha Swamy for daily pooja. Three idols are Anantha-sayanam posture, idol for abhisheka, and one for sheeveli. Periya Nambi, the main priest, keeps the key of this vault. Two more vaults were later identified and have been designated as G and H. Regular offerings and donations to the temple are kept in these vaults. These vaults also contain palanquin, pillows, umbrellas, and 35 kg of silver biscuits.
The tale of Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple entices thousands across the globe, its hidden treasures, only a heard tale of wealth, pomp and a past grandeur.