What were the materials used?

Special feature of temple construction is complete avoidance of iron and concrete with minimal use of cement (5%) for stabilizing earth blocks. Stone elements are carved locally in blue metal stone (low grade granite) from local quarry in Rasipuram. All the materials used are acquired locally. Number of sthapatis from Avinashi and Pudukkotai are consulted and in other ways engaged in the project.

Our brahamacari asram is constructed with CEB blocks and roof is made from local "panangai"(palm tree) and Kerala clay tiles. Several cottages on our property including big kitchen and prasadam hall are build from "cob"(mud, straw, paddy) with cow dung flooring. In our experience cob buildings have best thermo insulation properties with optimal temperatures trough out the year (we have no fans!).