Restoration works in the sanctum sanctorum can only be performed after the divine powers that an image of a deity possesses, is temporarily transferred to a kalaśam (pot bearing ceremonial water). It is during this time, when the image of the deity is devoid of its divine power that the Aṣṭabandhanam is performed.

Aṣṭabandhanam (Aṣṭa - Eight; Bandhanam - to bind) is a sealant prepared by combining eight natural ingredients viz. resin, powdered limestone, wood lac, red ochre, beeswax, butter from cow’s milk. Preparing the sealant is a laborious process, where ingredients are beaten in a mortar, until they combine and the resulting compound reaches the desired elastic consistency. This compound is used to seal the joints between the base of the image of the deity and its pedestal. The priests first place offerings viz. Navaratnas, silk cloth, gold, coins in the joint between the image and its pedestal. The sealant is then applied to the joint by the priests. The whole process is accompanied by elaborate rituals and recital of hymns. Temple workers later shape the sealant to a more even and definite form.

Over time, the Aṣṭabandhanam compound loses strength, as the sealant is continuously exposed to ritual offerings such as ghee, oil, milk etc. For this reason, every twelve years, the compound is freshly made and its application is performed as a ritual. The video presented here demonstrate the application of the sealant and the various associated rituals.