2023, Vol. 9, Issue 4, Part C

author(s)
Ramakrishna Ganjam

abstract
The Vaikhānasa Kalpasūtra, authored by the sage Vikhanasa, stands as a unique bridge between the Vedic ritual tradition and the temple worship of Lord Viṣṇu. While rooted in the authority of the Vedas, especially through its alignment with the Karma and Brahma Kāṇḍas, this Kalpasūtra extends the scope of Vedic practice beyond fire rituals into the realm of iconic worship (samūrta-ārādhana). It meticulously outlines daily and occasional rites with corresponding Vedic mantras for each of the thirty-two upacāras, demonstrating the inseparability of mantra and ritual action. The work also presents a well-structured philosophy where homa, arcana, pratiṣṭhā, utsava, and snapana find their liturgical foundation in both śruti and āgamic traditions. By harmonizing śrauta yajñas with temple rituals, the Vaikhānasa Kalpasūtra proves to be not only a manual of sacred acts but a living tradition that sustains Vedic dharma in contemporary devotional practice. This paper highlights the theological, ritual, and scriptural significance of the Vaikhānasa Kalpasūtra and its role in shaping the daily worship of Viṣṇu temples across Bharata.