~ TEMPLES ~

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Pazhamudircholai Temple




Pazhamudircholai is a Hindu temple located 13 miles north of Madurai, India atop a hill covered with dense forests. One of the six important abodes Arupadaiveedu of Lord Muruga, it is very close to the Vishnu temple of Azhagar Kovil. One can reach Pazhamudircholai by car, van, two-wheeler or bus, from madurai one can catch the bus (Bus No: 44) to reach Pazhamudircholai. There is a bus shuttle for every 20 minutes from the foot of the hill to the Temple. It takes approximately 15 minutes to reach the temple.

Pazhamudircholai is rich in fruits, vegetables and flowers. It is a dense forest where Valli is supposed to have lived. It is a small temple with Valli, Deivayanai, and Lord Muruga in a separate shrine. Lord Ganesha is also present in a separate shrine. There is a Temple Tower and monkeys play around the area. There is another small temple above Pazhamudhir Cholai. Local tribes lead their lives here. It is a fertile hill with many natural springs and herbs.

Although there are hundreds of Temples in Tamilnadu for Lord Muruga, particularly six temples called "Arupadaiveedu" are very famous among them. Important events in Lord Muruga's history happened in these places. Among the Arupadaiveedu (Six Temples), Pazhamudircholai is the last Padaiveedu. This Pazhamudircholai Lord Murugan is praised in old Tamil literature such as Silappathikaram, Ettuthokai, Pattupattu etc. The great Tamil poet and saint Avvaiyar had been tested by Lord Murga here.



In order to play with Avvaiyar who was one of the very famous devotees of Lord Muruga, the Lord played a drama. One day Avvaiyar became tired while travelling because of very hot summer and so came under the shadow of a fruit tree. She was very hungry and thirsty. At that time, a small boy who was sitting on the tree asked her whether she wanted fruits from the tree. Avvaiyar told that she wanted fruits. At that time the boy asked Avvaiyar whether she wanted roasted fruits or unroasted fruits. Avvaiyar who was a famous Tamil poet, litterateur and having indepth knowledge in Tamil thought,"Is there any roasted fruit in the world?" and decided that the small boy didn't have knowledge even about a fruit.



But, as she was very tired, she didn't want to argue with the small boy and asked him to pick roasted fruits for her. The boy shook the tree and so fruits fell under the tree. The mud under the tree had stuck on the fruit. Avvaiyar took the fruits and blew on the fruit to remove the mud. It was observed that as the fruits were roasted and had become warm, Avvaiyar had blown the fruits to cool them. At that time, the small boy asked Avvaiyar whether the fruits were warm? Avvaiyar was astonished, "How had a small village cowboy played such an intelligent drama? She had thought that the small boy had no knowledge about fruits and how the fruits in the tree may become roasted fruits. But blowing the air on the fruit to remove the mud is like blowing air to reduce the heat as the fruit is roasted. What a beautiful comparison.



Such a beautiful comparison would not have risen in her mind even though she had gained rich knowledge in Tamil." She asked the small boy, "Who are you actually?" At ,the small boy disappeared and in his place, Lord Muruga appeared. Now Avvaiyar realized that it was a play of God and she understood that there were more and more things that she had to learn. She bowed to Lord Muruga and requested him to bestow her with bountiful knowledge.

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Tiruchendur Murugan Temple




Tiruchendur Murugan Temple
The famous Tiruchendur seashore temple of Lord Subramanya is situated in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) District of Tamilnadu. This shrine is believed to be most liked by Lord Subramanya or Muruga and according to Skanda puranam is second among the six shrines of Kumara or the Arupadaiveedu. Tiruchendur temple is believed to be a commemeration of Lord muruga's victory over Surapadman.

Lord Muruga is represented in various forms in the temple the presiding deity (Moolavar) being Balasubramanya or the boy Muruga. The other forms are Shanmugar (Utsavar), Jayanthinathar, and Kumaravidanga Perumal.

Nazhi Kinaru
Any visit to the temple will not be complete without visiting Nazhi Kinaru. The Nazhi Kinaru is a rare natural phenomenon where there is a 14 sq.ft well and inside this well is a small 1 sq.ft well. The water in the larger well has sulphurous smell and is brackish, but the water in the small well is clear and sweet-tasting. According to the legend Lord Shanmukha's troops were thirsty and Shanmukha planted his spear or Vel at this spot and caused fresh water to gush out from the brackish water well.

Valli Guhai (Cave)
A little removed from the main shrine is a sandstone cave dedicated to Valli, Lord Muruga's consort.

History of Tiruchendur
The magnificient temple over the course of nearly 1,000 years has grown from its original modest structure through many additions made by Pandya and Chera kings, and various benefactors.

'Tiruchendur' means a sacred and prosperous town of victory. Notably, the Gopuram or the temple tower is on the West instead of the East as is traditional due to the sea. The massive structure is nine storeys high and stands at 137 feet. The Gopuram was constructed roughly 300 years ago. The sculptures on the Gopuram chronicles interesting events. For instance, there are scenes from the life of Manikkavachakar. In the ninth storey, a huge bell was fixed by one Mr. Eden, probably the Collector of Tirunelveli from 1832 to 1839. The ringing of the bell indicated the hours of the day. The bell is now not in use because the mechanism is in disrepair.

In the 17th century AD, Tiruchendur temple was occupied by the Dutch for few years and they even looted some of the idols in the temple. Legend has it that the Arumuga Peruman idol was carried away in their ship. There was a sudden storm and the Dutch grew afraid and threw the idol into the sea. Vadamalaiyappa Pillai, an ardent devotee of Lord Muruga saw a vision of the idol's position in his dream. Immediately, he and several other devotees rushed to the spot where as foretold in the dream a lemon was floating and Garuda was flying over the spot. They dove into the sea and recovered the statue.

The temple was originally constructed on the sandstone reefs of the beach, but due to corrosion by the sea the structure began to disintegrate. In early 1900s a sannyasin, Mouna Swami took up the renovation work. This was followed by others over a course of 72 years and the three pragarams were constructed anew in black granite stone.


Pooja Kaalams (Timings) of Thiruchendur Temple
There are 9 poojas in a day
1.Suprabhâatam
2.Viswarûpam
3.Udayamaartandam
4.Mudal-Kâalasandhi, Ciru-Kâalasandhi and Periya-Kâalasandhi
5.Utchikâalam
6.Saayaratchai
7.Ardha-jaaman or Raakkaalam
8.Ekâandam
9.Palli-arai Dîpâarâdhanai or the Lord's rest

Main Utsavams (Festivals) of Tiruchendur Temple
The most famous festivals of this temple are
1.Brahmothsavam in the month of Magha (February - March).
2.Vasanthothsavam for 10 days in Chaitra (April - May).
3.Vaikasi Visakam for 12 days in Vaisakha (May - June).
4.Skandha Sashti in Asvini (October - November).

There are also two Mahotsavams celebrated in a grand fashion. The first being the Aavanipperunthirunaal in the month of Aavani (August-September) and the second being the Maasipperunthirunaal in the month of Maasi (January-February). These are 12-day festivals that happen every year during the above said periods. Lord Shanmukha is taken out in procession on select days during these two festivals.



Soorasamharam or surasamharam festival in Tiruchendur temple begin with yaga sala pooja where lakhs of devotees across Tamil Nadu began their sashti vridham. The history behind this festival is said to be that Lord Senthilandavar killed the Demon Soorpadman with his vel and this divine act of his celebrated as Soorasamharam. On this day the devotees celebrate the victory of lord muruga and the temple authorities had made elaborate arrangements for the dharsan of lord murugan during the festival where the Tiruchendur Subramaniaswamy kills the demon on the sea shore.

According to skanda purana the demons under the guidance of surapadama defeated the devas and they took over the earth. From them they started to harassing the people, so adharma was all around. Lord Brahma, other gods and humans prayed to Lord Shiva to put an end to this Adharma. Lord shiva created lord murugan.

At last subramania swamy killed surapadma with the lance. But the demon turned into a huge mango tree. Then murugan cut the tree into two vertical pieces with his vel. The pieces were then transformed into peacock and cock. Then lord murugan made peacock as his vehicle and cock as his flag. This event is popularly called as Surasamharam.

This day has great importance at all the murugan South India Temples and also in south India, Malaysia, Singapore, south Africa and Sri Lanka. The soorasamharam festival takes place at Tiruchendur, the divine action is re-enacted on the day and it is seen by thousands of people.

Location : Thiruchendur, Tamil Nadu
Also Known as : Thirucheeralaivai, Thiruchenthil, Thiruchenthiyoor


Thiruchendur Murugan temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Muruga and one of the Arupadaiveedu (six major abodes) of Lord Muruga. Thiruchendur is said to be second in importance among his six abodes. Thiruchendur means the sacred and prosperous town of victory.
The deity is worshipped by various names such as Senthilandavan, Senthilkumaran and so on. The temple is situated so close to the sea that waves from the Gulf of Mannar lap at the eastern perimeter wall of the temple. The Pancha Lingas that Lord Muruga worshipped are behind him in the temple. The idol of Lord Muruga is also considered as one of the most beautiful idol among the six abodes of Lord Muruga.As one of the foremost spiritual centres, the temple has been an attraction for ages.

ACCORDING to Skanda Puranam, Muruga was created in order to destroy the evil forces and protect His devotees. Skanda Sashti is celebrated every year in all Muruga temples. At Tiruchendur where the actual annihilation of demon Soorapadman took place, the celebrations start six days in advance and culminate in Soorasamharam. The splendidly decorated deity is taken out to the seashore to re-enact the scene and lakhs of devotees congregate to watch this rare spectacle. By adopting a routine of austerity and discipline, they prepare themselves and wait for this day to worship the Lord and receive His bountiful blessings. The grand celebrations come to an end with abhishekam performed on the Vel (lance).

According to legend, Soorapadman held Jayanthan, son of Lord Indira, and other devas as captives. Lord Muruga camped at Thiruchendur along with his contingent and deputed his messenger, Veerabahu to negotiate for the release of Devas. As the peace efforts failed, the Lord waged a war against Soorapadman. With the Vel (lance) received at Sikkal, Soora Samhaaram was accomplished at Senthil (Sikkalil Vel Vangi Sendhuril Soora Samhaaram, goes a Tamil adage). The legendary Vel, called "Vetri Vel" is associated with victory. When Soorapadman took the form of a tree, the Vel hurled by the Lord pierced it. Arunagirinathar says, even the mammoth mountain and the ocean shook in the impact. (``Malai Mavusindha Alai Velai Anja Vadi Velerindha Adhi Dheera"). The dying demon, who had become two parts at the strike of the Vel, repented and Lord Muruga, full of mercy and compassion, accepted him as His vehicle (peacock) and banner (rooster).

Located south-east of the sub-continent on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the Thiruchendur Murugan temple, built by Viswakarma, is considered one of the most important pilgrim centres of Tamil Nadu. Ranked second among the six sacred abodes of Arumugha (Aru Padai Veedu). Thiruchendur is also known as Jayanthipuram, denoting the victory achieved by the Lord. As the rays of the rising sun cast its brilliant rays on the temple tower, the presiding deity of Thiruchendur looks enchantingly beautiful. The Lord has been rightly described as Kodi Soorya Prakasa.

When Adi Sankara was afflicted with a serious ailment, he heard an ethereal voice advising him to go to Thiruchendur. The Acharya came here and received the `Prasad' wrapped in the leaf of Panneer tree. Finding himself completely cured, the sage composed Subramanya Bhujangam, containing 33 songs.

Saint Nakkeerar says in `Thiru Murugatrupadai': "All the ordeals that I face would melt the moment I mention the sacred name of Velava who resides at Senthil. These forces that arise out of past deeds (karma) cannot influence one who worships the Lord of Thiruchendur, who applies Vibhuti on his forehead and who utters the word "Skanda" ("Vandha Vinayum... ").



Arunagirinathar conveys the same idea in `Kandar Alangaram': "So long as you are beside me, so long as your six sacred faces and the 12 helping hands, the grace of your lotus feet adorned by Thandai, your broad shoulders and the Kadampa garland are there before me, how can the movement of planets affect me? ("Nal En Seyum") Perhaps in keeping with the spirit of this hymn, the shrine of planetary gods (Navagraha Sannadhi) that form part of any temple is not found here. The temple of Thiruchendur, built many centuries ago and renovated by Pandya and Chera Kings, is exquisitely designed. It is a beautiful poem created in stone and an architectural marvel.

The majestic nine-storey tower (gopuram) was constructed 350 years ago by Sri Desikamoorthy Swami of the Thiruvavaduthurai Mutt.

With its main gate facing the south, the temple has three Prakarams. The third outer prakaram borders on the sea and the main entrance to the temple is on its southern side through the famous hall called Shanmugha Vilasa Mandapam. On the northern side, there is a cave temple for Valli. On entering the first prakara, one finds separate shrines for Valli and Deivanai. On the western side, there are niches for Viswanathar and Visalakshi.

Finally, the devotee finds Lord Muruga in all his splendour and glory. The Lord here appears as a youth with a single face and four hands. The Uthsava Murthi (Arumugha) with six faces and twelve hands, flanked by His consorts, faces South. This is positioned in such a way that those worshipping the Lord from the Shanmuga Vilas Mandap outside can also have a good view. Inside the temple there are eight Lingas, symbolising Panchabutha, sun, moon and Athma. It is believed that Lord Murga worshipped these Lingas after the destruction of Sooran and created a pond called Skanda Pushkarani with His Vel. Though located near the sea, the water in this well is not salty and is believed to have medicinal properties. Extensive renovation was carried out and kumbhabhishekam was performed.

It is believed that Arunagirinathar was blessed with the vision of the Lord when the saint visited Thiruchendur on the seventh day of the Brahmotsavam festival in the Tamil month of Masi. As the deity decorated was being taken out in a colourfully decorated chariot, in step with the tune of the song "Athala Sera Naarada" the Lord danced to the delight of Arunagiri. This divine experience of having seen the Lord in all His exuberance is described by the author in his song ``Thandayani Vendayam." Arunagirinathar has composed 84 songs on the Lord of Thiruchendur.

According to a story, in the 17th century, some Dutch merchants tried to take away the Arumuga idol of Thiruchendur. As they were sailing, huge waves assailed the ship forcing them to drop the idol at mid-sea. (From the book "Historic India" published by M. Rannel from Berlin in 1785).

When the officer at the Thirumalai Naickar court arranged to install another idol, a person came in his dream and asked him to look for the image at a particular spot. The idol was found and retrieved.

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Palani Temple




History of Palani Murugan Temple



‘Palani Murugan Temple’ is one of the most famous Murugan temples in India. It is located in the township of Palani, 100 km west of Madurai, and near the famous hill station, Kodaikanal.
It is one of the major Arupadaiveedu of Lord Muruga. The other Arupadiveedus are Tiruchendur (100 km south-west of Madurai), Swamimalai (150 km east of Madurai), Tiruttani (50 km from Chennai), Pazhamudircholai (10 km north of Madurai) and Tiruparamkunram (10 km south of Madurai).

The Legend of the Palani Temple
According to legend, Sage Narada once visited the divine court of Lord Shiva at Mount Kailash. Lord Shiva was with his consort, Goddess Shakti, and their two children, Lord Ganesha and Lord Subrahmanya. Sage Narada gave Lord Shiva a mango fruit and told him that it was a special fruit, the fruit of wisdom.

Lord Shiva wanted his children to have the fruit of wisdom. However, when he offered it to them, Sage Narada asked that the mango not to be cut in two to be shared between the two sons, lest the power be diminished. Now, as a result, they had to decide who should have it. Shiva and Shakti decided that the son who first circles the Earth would get the fruit. Immediately accepting the challenge, Lord Murugan, started his journey around the globe on his divine vehicle, the peacock or mayil.

Lord Ganesha, who believed that his parents were his world, circumambulated Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti and claimed the mango fruit. Lord Subrahmanya returned to Mount Kailash, only to find that Lord Ganesha had already won the contest. Lord Murugan felt he had been deceived and decided to leave Mount Kailasam. He reached to top of what is today called “Pazhani malai” (the Hill of Pazhani) and set up his abode there.

Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva rushed to the hill and tried to pacify their son, calling him, Gnana Pazham Nee appa (in Tamil, “you are the fruit – Pazham; of wisdom – Gnana”). Hence this place came to be called Pazhani, or Palani

Palani is home to one of the most sacred shrines of the God Subrahmanyan, as worshipped in the Hindu cult of Koumaram. The Dhandayudhapani Temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, and regarded one of his Arupadai Veedu (Six Battle Camps), is situated here. The temple situated atop the Sivagiri is small but attracts a flood of devotees from all over the country. The architecture of the temple appears to be of the Pandya school. The Garbagriham is surmounted by a gold gopuram, most admirably worked. Steps are hewn into the rock, besides a wide path meant for the ascent of elephants, up the hill. In addition, a funicular railway with three tracks and a rope way have been provided more recently for the comfort of the pilgrims.

In keeping with the traditions of all temples of the God Subrahmanyan, another temple is dedicated to his worship near the foot of the Sivagiri. It goes by the name of Thiru Avinankudi, and is remarkable for the exquisite appearance of the chief deity besides other sculptures.

Besides this, right at the foot of the Sivagiri is a small shrine dedicated to the god Ganapathi, where he goes by the name Pada Vinayakar. It is common amongst the pilgrims to pay their obeisances at this shrine before commencing their ascent of the hill to worship the Lord Subrahmanyan. A particular offering here is the breaking of coconuts, by flinging them against an enclosed stone before the shrine, of which many hundreds are broken by the devotees in the course of a day.



Within the town is another temple dedicated to the Goddess Parvathi as Periyanayaki Amman. It popularly goes by the name of the Oorkovil - the town's chief temple. A particularly intriguing aspect of the temple is that, although it is referred to as the temple of Periyanayaki Amman, the central sanctum, the sanctum of supreme honour in Hindu temple architecture, is accorded to the Lord Subrahmanyan. The temple is large in expanse and displays an interesting blend of Pandya and Nayaka architecture. A tradition associated with the temple is that, formerly, a subterranean passage connected it with the Periya Avudaiyar temple some distance from the town, and was used to convey the idols under a peculiar circumstance of duress - when a Nawab attacked; however, beyond the fact, obvious from his title, that he was a Muslim, nothing is known of the Nawab or of his attack. Some evidence may be said to exist of an attack since some of the sculptures in the Nayaka mandapam in front of the temple have their limbs missing.

A short distance from the town is a temple dedicated to Shiva as Periya Avudaiyar. This temple, located right on the banks of the Shanmugha Nadi, is situated in particularly peaceful environs far-removed from the bustle of the town.

Near the Periya Nayaki Amman temple are two others - the Mariyamman Temple and the Perumal Temple. The former is particularly resorted to in times of epidemics, the goddess there being regarded as the protectress against illnesses.



The Kannadi Perumal Temple, dedicated to Vishnu, is a small temple situated on a hillock 9 km south of Palani, a short distance from the highway to Kodaikanal. The name of the temple is derived from its tradition that the presiding deity of the temple wards off the effects of dhrishti, a Sanskritic term which may be held to mean 'casting an evil eye'. One of the practices of the devotees of the temple is to bring the first-born calves of their cows to the temple seeking the deity's blessing, as the protector of cattle. On account of its secluded location it is not resorted to by many.

The Hill Temple of Palani is one of the most famous temples of Murugan in India. It is located in the town of Palani, 100 km southeast of Coimbatore and a similar distance northwest of Madurai, and in the foot-hills of the eponymous Palni Hills. At its foot is the Temple of Thiru-avinan-kudi, one of the Arupadaiveedu.

Mythology
Sage Narada once visited the celestial court of Lord Shiva at Mount Kailash to present to Him a fruit, the gyana-pazham (literally, the fruit of knowledge), that held in it the elixir of wisdom.

Upon Lord Shiva expressing his intention of dividing the fruit between his two sons, Ganesha and Karthikeya, the Sage counselled Him against cutting it. Thereat, He decided to award it to whichever of his two sons first circled the world thrice. Accepting the challenge, the Lord Karthikeya started his journey around the globe on his sacred bird, the peacock.

However, Lord Ganesha, who surmised that the world was no more than his parents Shiva and Shakti, circumambulated them. Pleased with their son's discernment, Lord Shiva awarded the fruit to Lord Ganesha. When the Lord Subrahmanya returned, he was furious to learn that his efforts had been in vain. In deep dudgeon, he decided to leave Mount Kailash, and take up his abode in a place where the land and people would be unequivocally his and for him. Thus, it was that He came to what is today known as Palani, a name derived from the manner of His Parents trying to mollify him and prevail upon him to return to Kailash - Gnana Pazham Nee appa (Tamil for "You are the fruit of wisdom sire")and thus, implying that being the embodiment of wisdom, he had no need for the fruit. Thus, being the abode of wisdom, the place took on its master's name - Pazham Nee or Pazhani, anglicised as Palani.

Legends of the Temple
Going by legend, the idol of the Lord Muruga in Palani , was created and consecrated by the Sage Bhogar, one of Hinduism's eighteen great ascetics (siddhas), out of an amalgam of nine poisons or navapashanam. The legend also holds that, since it was a quick-setting paste, the sculptor had to work very rapidly to chisel its features, but that he spent so much time in creating the exquisitely beatific face, he did not have time to bestow but a rough grace upon the rest of the body, thus explaining the contrast between the artistic perfection of the face and the slightly less accomplished work upon the body.



A shrine to Bhogar exists in the southwestern corridor of the temple, which, by legend, is said to be connected by a subterranean tunnel to a cave in the heart of the hill, where Bhogar continues to meditate and maintain his vigil, with eight idols of the Lord.

Another legend holds that the idol, after centuries of worship, fell into neglect and was suffered to be engulfed by the forest. One night, Cheraman Perumal, a King of the Cheras, who controlled the area between the second and fifth centuries A.D., wandered from his hunting party and was forced to take refuge at the foot of the hill. It so befell, that the Lord Subrahmanyan, appeared to him in a dream, and ordered him to restore the idol to its former state. The king, thereat, awakening, commenced a search for the idol, and finding it, constructed the temple that now houses it, and re-instituted its worship. This is commemorated by a small stela at the foot of the staircase that winds up the hill.

The Idol
As related above, the idol is said to be made of an amalgam of nine substances, and placed upon a pedestal of stone, with an archway framing it. It represents the god Subrahmanya in the form He assumed at Palani - that of a very young recluse, shorn of his locks and all his finery, dressed in no more than a loincloth and armed only with a staff, the dhandam, as befits a monk. It is from His youthful appearance and the staff He bears, that the appellation Bāla-dhandāyudha-pāni, meaning the young wielder of the staff-weapon, is applied to Him.

One curious aspect of the idol is that it faces west rather than east, the traditional direction at most Hindu temples. This is held to be on account of the temple having been re-consecrated by the Cheras, whose dominions lay to the west, and the guardian of whose eastern frontier was supposed to be the Lord Kartikeya of Palani. Another fact that will be remarked upon by any observer, are the rather disproportionately large ears the Lord is endowed with. This is reflective of the faith that the Lord listens carefully to each of his many devotees' prayers and requests.

Housed in the garbhagriham, the sanctum sanctorum, of the temple, the idol may be approached and handled only by the temple's priests, who are members of the Gurukkal community of Palani, and hold hereditary rights of sacerdotal worship at the temple. Other devotees are permitted to come up to the sanctum, while the priests' assistants, normally of the Pandāram community, are allowed up to the ante-chamber of the sanctum sanctorum.

The Temple


The Temple is situated upon the higher of the two hills of Palani, known as the Sivagiri. Traditionally, access to it was by the main staircase cut into the hill-side or by the yanai-padhai or elephant's path, used by the ceremonial elephants. Pilgrims bearing water for the ritual bathing of the idol, and the priests, would use another way also carved into the hill-side but on the opposite side. Over the past half-century, three funicular railway tracks have been laid up the hill for the convenience of the pigrims, and supplemented by a rope-way within the past decade.

The sanctum of the temple is of early Chera architecture while the covered ambulatory that runs around it bears unmistakable traces of Pandya influence, especially in the form of the two fishes, the Pandyan royal insignia. The walls of the sanctum bear extensive inscriptions in the old Tamil script. Surmounting the sanctum, is a gopuram of gold, with numerous sculptures of the presiding deity, Kartikeya, and gods and goddesses attendant upon him.

In the first inner prahāram, or ambulatory, around the heart of the temple, are two minor shrines, one each, to Shiva and Parvati, besides one to the Sage Bhogar who is by legend credited with the creation and consecration of the chief idol. In the second outer prahāram, is a celebrated shrine to Ganapati, besides the carriage-house of the Lord's Golden Chariot.

Worship
The most esteemed form of worship at the temple is the abhishekam - anointment of the idol with oils, sandalwood paste, milk, unguents and the like and then bathing it with water in an act of ritual purification. The most prominent abhishekams are conducted at the ceremonies to mark the hours of the day. These are four in number - the Vizha Poojai, early in the morning, the Ucchikālam, in the afternoon, the Sāyarakshai, in the evening and the Rakkālam, at night, immediately prior to the temple being closed for the day. These hours are marked by the tolling of the heavy bell on the hill, to rouse the attention of all devotees to the worship of the lord being carried out at that hour. On a quiet day, the bell can be heard in all the countryside around Palani.

After the abhishekam, it is the practice to dress the idol of the Lord, in an act called alangaram, in one of several guises - the most common being the Raja, or king, the Vaitheekan, or priest, the Vedan, or hunter and the Aandi, or monk, which last is the most celebrated in Palani, because it is the nearest to the natural form the Lord assumed at Palani as an anchorite, having withdrawn from all the celestial riches of his father's court at Mount Kailash.

In addition to worship within the precincts of the temple, an idol of the Lord, called the Uthsavamoorthy, is also carried in state around the temple, in a golden chariot, drawn by devotees, most evenings in a year.

Traditions
One of the chief traditions of the temple, is the tonsuring of devotees, who vow to discard their hair in imitation of the Lord of Palani. Another is the anointing of the head of the God's idol with chandaṇam, or sandalwood paste, at night, prior to the temple being closed for the day. The paste, upon being allowed to stay overnight, is said to acquire medicinal properties, and is much sought after and distributed to devotees, as rakkāla chandaṇam.

Traditionally, the hill-temple of Palani is supposed to be closed in the afternoon and rather early in the evening to permit the Lord to have adequate sleep, being but a child, and therefore, easily tired by the throngs of devotees and their constant importunations.

A tradition that is not very well-known is that of the Paḷḷi-Arai or bedroom, wherein, each night, the Lord is informed of the status of the temple's accounts for the day, by the custodians of the temple, and then put to sleep to the singing of an ōdhuvār or bard.

Festivals
Besides regular services, days sacred to the god Subrahmanyan are celebrated with pomp and splendour every year, and are attended by throngs of devotees from all over South India. Some of these festivals are the Thai-Poosam,Pankuni-Uthram, the Vaikhashi-Vishakham and the Soora-Samharam.

Thai-Poosam, which is considered, by far, the most important festival at Palani, is celebrated on the full moon day of the Tamil Month of Thai (15 January-15 February). Pilgrims after first having taken a strict vow of abstinence, come barefoot, by walk, from distant towns and villages. Many pilgrims also bring a litter of wood, called a Kāvadi, borne on their shoulders, in commemoration of the act of the demon Hidumba who is credited by legend with bringing the two hills of Palani to their present location, slung upon his shoulders in a similar fashion. Others bring pots of sanctified water, known as theertha-kāvadi, for the priests to conduct the abhishekam on the holy day. Traditionally, the most honoured of the pilgrims, whose arrival is awaited with anticipation by all and sundry, are the people of Karaikudi, who bring with them the diamond-encrusted vél or javelin, of the Lord from His temple at Karaikudi.

Controversy
Over the years, some believe that the idol has been wearing away or dissolving, by virtue of its repeated anointment and ritual bathing. However, long-time devotees and priests of the temple maintain that they perceive no visible change.

Since Hinduism forbids the worship of an imperfect idol, suggestions have been made, at various points of time, to replace it, cover it, or stop some of the rituals, which could have resulted in its erosion.

A new 100 kg idol was consecrated on January 27, 2004, but coming under severe criticism from orthodox believers, was displaced and worship of the existing idol restored, shortly thereafter.

Poojas
Darshan (meaning open to the public) hours are from 6.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. On festival days the temple opens at 4.30 a.m.

1.Vilaa Pooja (6.30 a.m.)
2.Siru Kall Pooja (8.00 a.m.)
3.Kaala Santhi (9.00 a.m.)
4.Utchikkala Pooja (12.00 noon)
5.Raja Alankaram (5.30 p.m.)
6.Iraakkaala Puja (8.00 p.m.)
Golden Car Darshan (6.30 p.m.)



Height of the Hill Temple : 150 M
Total no. of Steps : 693
Direction the Temple : Towards WEST
Pragaram around the Hill(Giriveethi) : 2.4 KM

[MysteRy]

Swamimalai Temple




Swamimalai Murugan Temple is a Hindu temple located in the township of Swamimalai, 5 km from Kumbakonam on the banks of a tributary of river Cauvery, 250 km from Chennai and is near to Thanjavur in India.

It is one of the Arupadaiveedu, believed to be the six main abodes of Muruga. According to Hindu belief, Swamimalai is where Muruga preached what as called as "Pranava mantra" to his own father, Shiva, at a tender age, after arresting 'Brahma' for not answering his question about Pranava Mantra. Though this temple is considered as one of the Arupadaiveedu of Lord Muruga, the real Padaiveedu lies at a place called 'Thiruveragam', from where the Lord Muruga idol is brought during the 'Soorasamharam' festival.



In Swamimalai, Lord Muruga is known as "Balamurugan" and "Swaminatha Swami". The speciality of the temple is that it has been built on an artificial hill. In Tamil language, such an artificial hill is called "Kattu Malai". The next important feature is the steps of this small artificial hill. There are 60 steps and each is named in one Tamil year. There are a total number of 60 Tamil years and hence the 60 steps. Another name for this place is "Thiruveragam".

The history of the temple known as "Sthala Puranam" is as follows: Once, Lord Brahma, the creator of living beings, had disrespected Lord Muruga (the son of Lord Shiva) at the time of visiting Mount Kailash where Lord Shiva resides. Hence Lord Muruga got angry with Lord Brahma and asked him how he was creating living beings such as people, animals etc. Lord Brahma said that he was creating living beings with the help of the Vedas (The Holy Hinduism Books). On hearing the reply, Lord Muruga asked Lord Brahma to recite the slogans from such Vedas. Brahma started to recite the slogans with the Holy word called Pranav Mantra "Om". At that time Lord Muruga stopped Lord Brahma and asked him to tell the meaning of the holy word "Om". Lord Brahma couldn't tell the meaning and hence Lord Muruga punished him with imprisonment. With Brahma imprisoned, all creations came to a standstill and the devas prayed to Lord Siva to get Brahma released.



Lord Shiva came to Lord Muruga and asked him to release Lord Brahma from imprisonment. Lord Muruga refused to release him on the grounds, that Lord Brahma was not suitable to do the work, as he did not known the meaning of the Pranav Mantra(Hindi: ॐ AUM).So Lord Shiva asked Lord Muruga whether he knew the meaning himself and to tell the meaning to him. Lord Muruga told Lord Shiva that he was ready to tell but levied one condition that, even though Lord Shiva who is his father should hear the meaning by giving full respect to him, like the respect given by a student to his master at the time of learning. Lord Shiva accepted the request and heard the meaning of the Pranav Mantra (Hindi: ॐ ) like a student from his beloved son.

This important and interesting incident happened in Swamimalai and hence Lord Muruga is known as "Swaminatha Swami". The meaning of this name is "The Teacher of Lord Shiva". The Lord Muruga idol is 6 feet in height. There are Gold coverings, Gold crown and a Diamond Vel for the Lord.



LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE: Sri Swaminatha Swami Temple is located at Swamimalai of thanjavur district. situated about five kilometers west of Kumbakonam on the banks of a tributary of river Cauvery. The temple is situated very close to the bus stand and the railway station is about two kilometers away

HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE: Swamimalai is fourth among the six padai veedu or sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Muruga. The presiding deity here expounded the meaning of the Pranava mantra OM to his own Father Lord Siva Himself.

Mythology says that saint Bhrugu before commencing an arduous tavam or penance, got the boon that anybody disturbing his mediation will forget all his knowledge. Such was the power of the penance that the sacred fire emanating from the head of the saint reached up to the heavens, and the frightened devas surrendered to Lord Siva praying for his grace. The Lord extinguished the sacred fire by covering the saint's head by hand.



With the saint's penance thus disturbed the Lord became oblivious of all his knowledge and is said to have regained them by learning the Pranava mantra from Lord Muruga at this shrine
Once when Brahma, the lord of all creations was proceeding to Kailasa, the ever-playful child Lord Muruga asked him for the meaning of the Pranava OM. When Brahma admitted his ignorance, the Lord imprisoned him. With Brahma imprisoned, all creations came to a standstill and the devas prayed to Lord Siva to get Brahma released.


When Muruga insisted that the imprisonment was a just punishment for the ignorance of Brahma, Lord Siva asked him whether he himself knew the meaning of the primordial Pranava OM. Lord Muruga said that he knew the meaning of OM and can expound it to the latter only if he can accept him as guru and listen to the exposition as a devoted disciple. As Lord Siva acceded to the request of Lord Muruga and heard the exposition of OM as a disciple, the place came to be known as Swamimalai and the presiding deity as Swaminathan.

DIVINESS OF THE TEMPLE: The temple is built on an artificial hillock of about sixty feet height with sixty beautifully laid stone steps representing the Hindu cycle of sixty years - leading to the Lord . In the ground floor there are temples dedicated to Lord Sundareswarer and Goddesss Meenakshi.
Hymns in praise of the presiding deity have been sung by saint Nakkeerar in Tirumurukatrupadai and by Saint Arunagirnathar in Tiruppukazh.
AUSPICIOUS DAYS: ADaily pujas to the deities are performed six times a day. The important festivals conducted in the temple are Monthly Kirutikai festival; Temple Car festival in April; Visakam festival in May; Navaratri festival in May; Skanda Shashti festival in October; Tiru Karthikai festival in Novv/December; Taippucam festival in January; and Pankuni Uttiram festival in March.



POOJA TYPES AND TARIFF: Poojas listed here are applicable for this temple only.The tariff shown are not actual cost payable to the temple. It includes our service charge, cost of pooja items and Delivery charges.

[MysteRy]

Thiruparankundram Temple






South-west from Madurai there is granite hill rising like an enormous elephant 300 metres above the surrounding plain and visible far away. Here is located one of the most sacred Tamil Hindu shrines - Murugan Temple in Thiruparankundram. Temple consists of more ancient rock-cut parts and newer constructions in front.

Ancient legends
It is possible that the worship history of this hill goes far into the past, may be even well before there appeared Hinduism. There are many legends associated with this mountain.

Thus, the hill is considered to be the "Southern Himalaya" where the gods assemble. There is also legend that this is the place where Sun and Moon take a rest.

Feat and marriage of Muruga
Thiruparankundram is one of the six main pilgrimage sites for the devotion of the son of Shiva - Muruga (also Subramanya), Tamil Hindu god of war and patron of Tamil Nadu.

Story goes that Muruga with his troops rested here after one of his famous six battles against demons. Finally he saved Heaven by defeating the evil rakshasa Soorapadman and returned to Thiruparankundram Hill followed by all the liberated deities. At this beautiful hill, where opens wide view on the lively landscape of Tamil Nadu, in the temple he married Devasena (Deivayanai), daughter of Indra given to him as a gift for victory. Marriage took place in the presence of all deities.

Temple of marriage
Since there have happened such important events, Murugan Temple in Thiruparankundram became one of the most revered shrines in Tamil Nadu. Up to this day Tamil people readily marry here. Especially many pairs get married in festival of marriage - Pankuni Uttiram - in late March.

Temple leads very active religious life with numerous festivities and Thiruparankundram for most part of the year is teeming with life.

As if there is not enough importance and reverance, on the top of hill there is also a Muslim shrine devoted to Sekunder - Alexander the Great! Local Muslims consider that Alexander the Great was the friend of King Murugan. Thus Thiruparankundram is a place where both Hindu and Muslims go well along.

Short history of the temple
According to another tale King Harichandra worshipped Shiva from this hillock and gained eternal wisdom. Thus he built a temple here - temple was complete with Praharams (ambulatories), walls, Gopurams (gate towers) and steps.

The "real history" (who can differentiate myths and reality in Indian past?) of the temple may start with 8th century AD when Pandya rulers built rock-cut temple.

Later, during the reign of Nayaks of Madurai (1559 - 1736 AD) the temple was supplemented with beautiful gopurams and beautified. There was built extensive and beautiful front part (mugha mandapam) with 48 ornate pillars carved during the rule of Pandya and Nayaks.

Description of the temple
Presiding deities of the temple are Lord Muruga and Goddess Devasena. Other deities - Shiva, Vishnu, Durga and Ganapathy - are represented as well.

Entrance in the ancient cave temple leads through a row of massive square pillars ornamented with lotus-shaped medallions.

Inside the cave temple there has been preserved ancient painting of Nataraja - dancing Shiva. Cave temple contains also the sculpture of presiding deity Sri Subramaniyaswamy (Muruga).
Rock-cut temple contains also 41 inscriptions revealing the early history of the temple.

Before the ancient rock-cut temple there is built front part - mugha mandapam.

Separate entrance leads into Sani Bhagawan - another shrine in this temple. In the western side there is rock-cut chamber which houses the lingam but in the eastern side there is one more shrine with Vishnu and Durga opposite to him. Temple contains many more carvings of deities.

In the south-eastern part of Kambaththadi mandapam there has been found a 30 m long tunnel.

Temple contains also two historical wooden carts which are used for ceremonial purposes in certain proccessions.



Madurai has rightly earned for itself the epithet of being the temple town of Tamil Nadu. Other than the outstanding Meenakshi temple there are several other temples in and around Madurai that are well worth a visit. One of them is the Thiruparankundram Temple, Madurai. Located at a distance of about 8 km to the south of Madurai, the Thiruparankundram Temple is a rock cut temple that is dedicated to Lord Subramanya.

The Thiruparankundram Temple, Madurai dates back to the sixth century. It is considered to be one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya or Murugan. These six abodes of the Lord are popularly referred to as Arupadai Veedu. According to legend, the Lord married Deivyani, the daughter of Lord Indra at this place. This is also the site where he worshipped his parents Lord Parangirinathar and Avudainayaki.

The antiquity of Thiruparankundram Temple can very well be gauged from the fact that it finds mention even in the Sangam Literature. The Sangam poet Nakkiran has referred to this temple in his songs. Actually the oldest shrine of the Thiruparankundram Temple is the cave temple that is positioned at a height of 1050 feet. The current structure of the Thiruparankundram Temple was constructed in the 8th century A.D. during the reign of the Pandya kings. The saint poets Sundarar and Sambandar and Arunagirinathar have also bestowed a lot of praise on this temple.

What is sure to catch your attention immediately after entering the Thiruparankundram Temple are the 48 pillars with elegant carvings. You are sure to be impressed by the sculptural dexterity revealed in the seven tier gopuram. Each of the five cells within the sanctum sanctorum of the temple is dedicated to a particular deity. Some of the gods and goddesses who are worshipped in the shrines of the Thiruparankundram Temple are Murga, Durga, Vinayaka, Vishnu and Shiva Lingam. The images of Brahma, Indra, Surya, Chandra, Sri Devi and Bhoodevi carved on the walls adorn the interiors of the Thiruparankundram Temple.

Other noteworthy features of the Thiruparankundram Temple are the Brahmi inscriptions. The exquisite sculptures of Sivathandavam in a dancing posture, his celestial attendant beating a drum and his wife reclining on a bull to witness it are all very impressive. Do not miss out on the other group of sculptures where Nandi is standing along with other sages.



The Skanda temple at Tirupparankundram, located 10 kilometres from the city of Madurai in India, has a long and fascinating history. This temple is able to provide us an insight into the historical and religious viewpoint of the area at the time.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, a modest cave temple was transformed into a magnificent temple. These cave temples were carved out of the cliff-face, therefore determining both the site location and alignment, as cave temples could only be created at a suitable location. The earliest of these in the Tamilnadu state has been dated to the sixth or seventh centuries. As time went on, these cave temples were gradually abandoned, probably due to the creation limitations.

However there were some cave temples which were not abandoned; these were adapted to suit their creator’s designs. The Skanda temple typifies this expansion.

The temple was dedicated to Skanda, a Hindu deity who is also known as Murugan or Subramanya, and is extremely popular amongst the Tamil Hindus of the area. The hill of Tirupparankundram (which can be translated as ‘the sacred hill of the great god’) is sacred to both Hindus and Muslims. This spot was said to be the location where the god appeared after his battle with the demon Curan.

The heart of the temple is an early cave temple, the front of the temple is decorated by a gopura and three great mandapas, all embellishments of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries that sensationalize the approach to the main shrine. The plans of the temples are based on an “entrance for an approaching devotee and exit for deities during festival processions, with a lesser emphasis on the remaining cardinal directions, that suggest the expansion from the centre of divine energy, and a concentric plan, with a series of layers along these axes. The Hindu temples of Tamilnadu are primarily experienced through movement, that of both devotees and deities. The whole structure of the temple at Tirupparankundram stresses the first planning principle, emphasizing the gradual approach of the devotee inward and upward, from light to dark, from open space to increasingly confined space, to the final destination at the very heart of the temple in the small cave temple in the side of the sacred hill itself. The cave temple is on the north side of the rock, and this position determines the whole align”.

The cave temple has been dated to the seventh century, based on inscriptions that archaeologists have found. One inscription on columns is dated to the sixth year of the reign of the Pandyan king Maranjadaiyan(also known as Jatila Parantaka Nedunjadaiyan, r. ca. 765-815).There are other inscriptions which date it to around the time of another ruler so it is unclear as to who it was really dedicated by.

For the next 800 years nothing was added to the temple until around the 12th or 13th century when structurally enclosed halls were added. Apart from fragments, nothing of these survives today. However, during the 16th century, the inner hall was completely rebuilt.

Bibliography:

Branfoot, Crispin (2003) The Madurai Nayakas and the Skanda Temple at Tirupparankundram, Ars Orientalis, Freer Gallery of Art.

Thirupparankundram, which is one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga, stands 10km south from Madurai . It serves as the best among the Arupadai Veedu of Lord Muruga, attracting rolling crowds all the year. Thirupparankundram, the place where Lord Muruga was married with Devayanai, is considered as a sacred place for marriages.

This rock cut temple has separate shrines for Lord Ganapathy, Shiva, Durgai, Vishnu and other deities. The entrance of the temple is built with 48 Nayaka period pillars with artistic carvings engraved on them. The speciality of Thirupparankundram temple is that the innermost shrine is carved from a single rock.

Another interesting fact about the Thirupparankundram temple is the presence of subsidiary cave shrines excavated in the rock, with idols arranged so orderly like a military session. These small cave shrines can be approached through narrow dark passages. It is quite difficult to find similar group of cave shrines elsewhere.

திருப்பரங்குன்றம் என்னும் இயற்கை எழில் சூழ்ந்துள்ள அழகுமிக்க சிற்றூரில் முந்நூறு மீட்டர் உயரமுள்ள மலையின் அடிவாரத்தில் ஊ ரின் நடுவே குன்றே கோவிலாக எழுந்துள்ள எழில்மிகு திருக்கோவிலே திருப்பரங்குன்றம் திருக்கோயிலாகும்.

முருகப் பெருமானின் ஆறுபடை வீடுகளில் முதற்படை வீடாகச் சிறப்புப் பெற்று விளங்குதலால், அவன் பெயராலேயே இத்திருக்கோவில் அருள்மிகு சுப்பிரமணிய சுவாமி திருக்கோவில் என்றே அழைக்கப்படுகின்றது. இத்தலம் 275 தேவாரத் தலங்களுள் ஒன்றாக, பாண்டிய நாட்டின் மதுரை மாநகரிலிருந்து தென்மேற்கில் ஐந்து கல் தொலைவில் மதுரை - கன்னியாகுமரி தேசிய நெடுச் சாலைக் கருகிலேயே அமைந்துள்ளது. மதுரை புகைவண்டி நிலையத்திலிருந்து தெற்கே செல்லும் வழியில் பசுமலைக்கு அடுத்த நிலையமாக இவ்வூர் உள்ளது.
மதுரையில் இருந்து அடிக்கடி பேருந்து வசதி உள்ளது.
மதுரையிலிருந்து திருமங்கலம், விருதுநகர், சிவகாசி, ஸ்ரீவில்லிபுத்தூர், இராஐபாளையம் வழியாக தென்காசி செல்லும் இரயில்களும், திருநெல்வேலி, நாகர்கோயில், தூத்துக்குடி செல்லும் இரயில்களும் திருப்பரங்குன்றம் இரயில் நிலையத்தில் நின்று செல்லும்.

[MysteRy]

Tiruthani Murugan temple




Tiruthani Murugan temple is a Hindu temple, in the hill of Thiruttani, South India, dedicated to Lord Muruga. The hill has 365 steps indicating 365 days of the year.It is one of the Arupadaiveedu, the six holy abodes of Lord Muruga. The other five are: Palani (100 km west of Madurai), Swamimalai (150 km east of Madurai), Tirupparangunram (5 km from Madurai), Pazhamudircholai (10 km north of Madurai) and Thiruchendur (100 km south of Madurai).



History
The origins of this temple, like most Hindu temples, are buried in antiquity. This temple has been mentioned in the Sangam period work Tirumurugaatruppadai composed by Nakkeerar. It has been patronized by the Vijayanagar rulers and local chieftains and zamindars.

Mythology
Legend also has it that Indra the king of the Gods gave his daughter Deivayanai in marriage to Skanda, and along with her presented his elephant Airavatam as part of his dowry offering. Upon Airavatam's departure Indra found his wealth waning. Subramanyar is said to have offered to return the white elephant, however Indra bound by protocol refused to accept a gift that he had made, and insisted that the elephant face his direction, hence the image of the elephant in this temple also faces the east.



Murugan tricking Valli by posing as an old man, along with Vinaya posing as an elephant
Another legend has it that Indra presented a sandal stone as a part of his daughters dowry. The sandal paste made on this stone is applied to the image of Subramanya and the applied paste is said to acquire medicinal value. Legend also has it that Skanda bore the discus thrown by the demon Tarakasuran on his chest, and hence there is a hollow in the chest region of the image of Subramanya in this temple. Legend also has it that Skanda gifted the discus to Vishnu (Please also see Tiruveezhimizhalai and Tirumalper). Skanda is also believed to have imparted knowledge of Tamil to the sage Agasthyar and he is regarded as Veeramurthy, Gnanamurthy and Acharyamurthy in this shrine.

Lord Rama, after putting an end to Ravana, worshipped Lord Siva at Rameswaram and then came to Tiruttani to find perfect peace of mind by worshipping Lord Subrahmanya here. In Dwapara Yuga, Arjuna got the blessings of our Lord here by offering prayers to Him on his way to the South for Teertha Yatra (pilgrimage to take sacred immersion). Lord Vishnu prayed to the Lord and got back His powerful Chakra (sacred wheel), Shanku (sacred conch), which were forcibly seized from Him by Tarakasura, brother of Soorapadma. Lord Brahma propitiated the Lord here at the holy spring known as Brahmasonai after his imprisonment by our Lord for his failure to explain the Pranava ('Om' mantra) and got back his creative function of which he was deprived by our Lord due to his egotistic impudence in neglecting to worship Lord Subrahmanya on his way to Mount Kailasa to worship Lord Siva. The final steps to the eastern entrance.

On worshipping our Lord at Thanikai, the king of snakes Vasuki got his bodily wounds healed, which had been caused during the churning process in the Milky Ocean to secure the Amrita (nectar of immortality) by the devas and asuras when the Mantotra Mountain was used as the churning base and the snake king Vasuki as the rope. Sage Agasthyar Muni (of Potikai Hill) worshipped Lord Muruga at Tanikai when he was blessed with the divine gift of the Tamil language.



Significance of the temple
Apart from its puranic greatness, Saint Arunagirinathar has praised this hill as the chosen place for worship by devas and the favorite abode of saints performing prolonged tapas. He also compared this hill to Sivaloka (Bhuloka) and as the very soul of the world. Sri Muttuswami Deekshitar, who lived 200 years ago (one of the trinity of Karnatic music) had his inspiration in Tiruttani when the Lord (in the guise of an old man) met him on the steps and sweetened his tongue with the prasadam of this temple, which impelled him to sing his first song on Lord Murugan of Tanikai.The temple vimanam was covered by gold.

This temple is located in the township of Tiruttani 50 km north of Chennai en route to Tirupathi. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Murugan married Valli, the daughter of a hunting tribe cheiftain, here. Murugan is the parihara for all Rahu doshas. Offer worship at this ancient shrine of Lord Murugan and receive his divine grace in abundance.

[MysteRy]

Amarnath Temple



Amarnath Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine located in Kashmir and surrounded by beautiful Himalayan valleys. This ancient cave temple, dating to more than 5000 years ago, is devoted to Lord Shiva-one among the Holy Trinity of Hinduism. The temple is situated on Mount Amarnath which is about 141 km away from Srinagar-the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir-and is seated at an altitude of 12,750 ft. above sea level. Thousands of pilgrims from places across India and the world visit this holy shrine every year, seeking salvation and inner peace. Amarnath is famous for a natural ice stalagmite which resembles the holy Shiva Linga. This natural Shiva Linga is formed when water droplets trickling down the Amarnath cave, freeze under the extreme low temperatures during the months of May to August. The structure thus formed is a white Shiva Linga which, after reaching its height in the summers, gradually melts away after August. Pilgrims to this cave can watch the water droplets fall, freeze and contribute to the growth of this holy stalagmite while it attains its maximum size.

History
Amarnath temple is a cave situated in the Himalayan ranges. It is believed that Lord Shiva explained the secret of life and eternity (Amar Katha) to his wife Goddess Parvathi here. He wanted an isolated place for this discussion hence he stationed his vehicle Nandi (bull) at Pahalgam, Snake at Sheshnag (the lake), Lord Ganesha (his son) in Mahaguna hills, the moon at Chandanwadi and the five elements of life at Panjitarni to block any creature from reaching the cave. After ensuring that no one is around, Lord Shiva revealed the Amar Katha to Goddess Parvati. However, a pair of doves abiding in the cave overheard the secret lessons. It is believed that after hearig the secret the doves became immortal. A pair of doves that dwells in the cave is said to be the same one.

There is an interesting story regarding the discovery of Amarnath cave. A shepherd called Buta Malik once met a sage who gifted him a bag full of coal. Buta Malik, on reaching home, discovered that the entire mass of coal in the bag was replaced by gold. He understood that the sage was not an ordinary person and ran back to thank the sage at the same place they had met. However, on reaching there, he found a cave with a stalagmite Shiva Lingam instead of the saint. Buta Malik announced his discovery among the villagers and that's how it baceme famous.

Hindu epics narrate another story of this cave's discovery. It says that once when the Kashmir valley was submerged under a big lake, Sage Kashyap drained all the water through several rivers and streams. Once the valley was restored, Sage Bhrigu, on his visit to Himalayas, discovered this holy cave.

Major Attractions
The cave is situated in an exotic location in the Himalayan ranges. The major attraction of this place is obviously the natural Shiva Linga which is formed every year and is said to melt according to the stages of the moon. There are two more stalagmites near the temple which represents Goddess Parvathi, wife of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesh, their son. Other two major tourist attractions near Amarnath, Pahalgam and Sonmarg, are also famous and are usually crowded with pilgrims and tourists in the peak season. Pahalgam is a picturesque place seated at a height of 2133 metres in the Himalayan range. The exotic beauty of the place is intensified by the presence two rivers - Aru and Sheshnag.

The presence of the Sindh River with a backdrop of snow covered mountain ranges adds heavenly beauty to this scenic piece of land. Summer season, between April to October, is the ideal time to visit Amarnath. There are both government and private organized Amarnath Yatra Packages that can help you with a better organized pilgrimage.

How To Reach
Located in the lap of the Himalayas, Amaranth is a bit arduous to reach. The nature of the terrain makes it impossible to construct roads and rails in the snow-toped areas around the cave. However, the roads takes you to the nearest possible point from where either you can walk or take pony-rides to the main temple. Pilgrims can reach Amarnath in the following ways.

1.Roads take you to the base camps of Amarnath situated at two places viz., Baltal Town and Pahalgam. The holy cave is located 14 km from Baltal town and 45 km from Pahalgam. Further travel through the rugged Himalayan terrain is either done on-foot or through pony-rides.

2.Trains are available till Jammu, which is the nearest point to Amarnath connecting it with the rest of the country.

3.Nearest airport is the Sheikh UL Alam International Airport at Budgam district. Helicopter Services are also available from Baltal and Srinagar.

Amarnath, the famous Hindu shrine is different from other shrines in terms of its location and the structure of the journey. The trip is a truly mystical and divine experience.

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Badrinath Temple



Situated in the midst of the glorious Himalaya Mountains, Badrinath never fails to mesmerize visitors because of its serene beauty. But it is not just beauty that marks its importance; Hindus believe that it is one of the holiest places in the world. It is believed that this is where Lord Narayana resides and hence making it one of the most important shrines for Hinduism. Badrinath is counted as the four most significant pilgrimage spots, Kedarnath, Yamunotri and Gangotri being the others. Usually for most pilgrims, this is a one-time journey called the "Chaar Dhaam Yatra" wherein they visit all four locations. Many Vaishnavites, worshippers of Vishnu and his avatars, believe that Badrinath is the best of the lot since it resides in the midst of one of the most beautiful places in the world. People from all over the country visit Badrinath.

History
Badrinath is also known as 'Badikashram' or the place where Lord Vishnu is said to have resided and practiced his tapasya. Also, most of the schools of philosophy in Hinduism were written on this very land. It is said that, this holy land was vandalized and the stolen idol of Badrinarayana was found in the Alaknanda River by Adi Shankaracharya. It was later established that this was a pilgrimage point for all believers. However, what we see today is a result of renovations that the temple had to go through. Yet, only minor changes have been made. Being the most significant pilgrimage spot among Hindus, it is believed that one cannot attain salvation unless they have visited the four dhaams.

Major Attractions
One can visit Badrinath any time between May and November. In winter the entire town is covered with snow and the blizzards make it impossible to visit or live there. During this time, the idol is brought down to Pandukeshwar and worshiped in the temple there. However, the best time to visit Badrinath is in August and September as the mountains are in full floral bloom and one gets the best opportunity to view the glorious, Valley of Flowers in Chamoli Garhwal.

There are many other places of much importance that one can visit along with the Badrinath temple. Tapta Kund, a sulfur hot spring, is situated below the temple. Kapal, Lord Bramha's abode, is located towards the north of the main temple. Neelkanth peak, known as the virgin queen, is situated to the west of the temple at a height of 21,650feet.

Also, at the foothills of this mountain, footprints of Lord Shiva are seen on a large rock. Mana, the last Indian city before the Chinese border, is just about six kilometers away from Badrinath. Vasudhara falls, about 5 km from Badrinath, is more than 400feet high at an altitude of 12,000 feet.

How to Get There
The journey depends on how you wish to travel. However, after a certain point you need to travel by road. If you are travelling by flight, Dehradun, which is 314 km away from the destination, is the nearest airport. The nearest railhead is Rishikesh, 297 kms away from Badrinath. From here you can either book a taxi or take a bus.

However, if you have a mountain driving license then taking your own vehicle is the best idea. In any case, you must know that there is no accommodation available in Badrinath! Therefore, you need to halt at Joshimath, about 43 km from Badrinath. This helps you freshen up for the darshan at Badrinath the next morning.

So gear up for your journey into the Himalayas, to the most serene of all places: Badrinath. It can be guaranteed that you will never be able to erase the beauty of this place from your memory!

[MysteRy]

Badrinath Temple



The famous Hindu shrine dedicated to Jagatpita (Father of the world) Brahma Mandir is situated at Pushkar, in the state of Rajasthan, India. The temple is dedicated to God Brahma, the Creator-the foremost in the Holy trinity of Hinduism. Despite being one of the important deities of Hinduism, there are very few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma with the one in Pushkar being the most important. The temple itself is believed to have been established 2000 years ago however, the present structure made of marble and stone dates back to the 14th century. This temple consists of a life sized idol of Lord Brahma with four hands and four faces-each head facing to a different direction. The wall of the temple is adorned with the peacock images, which is said to be the vehicle of Goddess Savitri, the wife of Brahma. While the rest of the temple floor is inlaid with a number of silver coins as an offering to Brahma, the main section's has a silver turtle embossed on it. Scroll down to read more about this temple!

History
The Jagatpita Brahma temple is believed to be founded 2000 years ago, in Pushkar which is famous for the multitude of temples numbering up to 500. The temples in this region were subjected to destruction and demolition during the reign of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Brahma temple was one among them. Therefore, many of the temples in Pushkar, including the Brahma temple, were rebuilt above the ancient structures. Hence, the discrepancy between the founding dates.

It is a popular belief that this temple was constructed by sage Vishwamitra after Brahma Himself suggested the location. It is believed that Shankaracharya, the famous Hindu philosopher of 8th century, visited this temple and led the renovation. Some more additions and repair works were done during the rule of Maharaja Jawat Raj of Ratlam and the original design was retained.

Legend has it that once Brahma slew a deadly demon with his lotus-flower. In the process, three petals of the flower fell on the earth and he decided to have a Yajna (fire-sacrifice) at the place where the petals fell. Brahma named this place 'Pushkar' and set up mountains on all four sides so that the demons could not disrupt the Yajna proceedings. He sought to start the Yajna as soon as possible but was getting delayed because his wife, Savitri, could not be present on the designated time. Enraged by this delay, he married a local Gurjar (Gujjar or Gujar) girl, Gayatri, to ensure that the Yajna proceedings started in time. It is said that while the Yajna ceremonies were being held, Savitri arrived to see her husband Brahma making offering with his new wife. Thus livid with anger, Savitri cursed Brahma that he shall not be worshipped anywhere else in the world except Pushkar and angrily stomped away to make herself an abode in the nearby hills where a Savitri temple now stands.

The Brahma temple of Pushkar is also mentioned in a number of scriptures. According to the sacred text, the Brahma temple at Pushkar is not only the "King of sacred places of Hindus", but also the only Brahma temple in the world. However, with the passage of time, some more Brahma temples were constructed but this one is considered the most important on account of being the only ancient Brahma temple in the world. According to the report of International Business Times, the Jagatpita Brahma temple at Pushkar is "one of the ten most religious places in the world" and also "one of the five most sacred places of Hindus in India".

Major Attractions
The temple is built on a raised platform with many marble steps to reach the height. The entrance of the temple is embellished with pillared canopies which lead to the sanctum sanctorum (or 'Garbhagriha'). It is believed that the reverend Guru Sankaracharya deified the marble idol of Brahma. Temples of both Savitri and Gayatri (Brahma's wives) are located nearby on top of two different hills facing each other. The Apteshwar temple of Lord Shiva, is situated in a cave near the Brahma temple and is believed to have been founded by Lord Brahma himself.

How To Reach

Pushkar is connected to other part of the country through extensive networks of road and rail. It has direct bus and taxi services to all important cities including the metros like Delhi and Bombay.

When it comes to the rail, Ajmer is the nearest station located 11 km away from Pushkar.

You can reach Pushkar by air also. The nearest domestic airports are Sanganeer Airport, Jaipur located 144 km away from Pushkar and Jodhpur Airport at a distance of 169 km. The nearby international Airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is at a distance of 381 km from Pushkar.

Brahma temple in Pushkar holds a special place among Hindus all over the world. Despite the other temples that have come up, this ancient structure has retained all this glamour and religious appeal.

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Chamunda Temple



Chamunda Devi Temple is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a famous Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, which is just another aspect of Goddess Shakti bodied fearsomely and created with the sole purpose of eradicating all evil from earth. The shrine is very strikingly seated in beautiful surroundings and is located 1000 metres above sea level. It provides a good view of the surrounding mountains, forests and the rather untamed natural beauty. This makes this place ideal for meditation and you can see many sadhus meditating in the temple premises. It is located on the banks of the holy river Baner (Ban Ganga) where devotees worship and give offerings for their ancestors. It is believed that even a single dip in this holy river can revive and free you from all sins. Read on to know more about this shrine!

History
Chamunda is a fearsome aspect of Goddess Shakti and was enshrined as Chief Goddess with the title of 'Rudra' in the battle between demon Jalandhra and Lord Shiva. Chamunda is believed to have emerged from the eyebrow of Goddess Kaushiki and was given the task of eliminating the demons 'Chand' and 'Mund'. She, after accomplishing the mission, went to Goddess 'Kaushiki' along with the slain heads of both demons. Pleased at the victory, Goddess Kaushiki blessed and bestowed the title of 'Chamunda' upon her. The name Chamunda is a combination of two name Chanda and Munda, the demons killed by her.

Chamunda Temple also has a legend associated with it. The original Chamunda temple, which is believed to be more than 700 years old, was located in some other dangerous remote location, making it almost impossible for the devotees to reach. It is said that 400 years ago, the king of this region and royal priest of his kingdom prayed to the Goddess Chamunda asking permission to relocate the temple to an easily accessible place to which the Goddess agreed. She asked the priest and asked him to use an ancient idol in the new temple and directed him on how to get that old idol. Next day, the priest himself went there, bowed in a respectful manner and lifted the idol and installed it in the newly constructed temple.

Major attractions
The Chamunda temple is constructed near the Baner (Ban Ganga) river where an artificial lake was built right next to the temple. This lake is always filled with water from the Ban Ganga and houses artificial sculptures of Goddess Saraswati, a lion and swans. Scenes from epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata and Devi Mahatmya (Supremacy of the Goddesses) are depicted on the walls of the temple. The main deity, of the temple, Chamundi Devi is kept covered under a red cloth while the sanctorum is covered with inscribed silver sheets with images of Hanuman and Bhairav kept on either side of the main deity. A cave behind the temple also houses an ancient Shiva Linga.

How To Reach

Chamunda Temple is easily accessible by road. It is connected to all the main cities of Himachal Pradesh. Dharmastala and Palampur are the nearest towns and frequent bus services are available to this shrine from all parts of Himachal Pradesh.

This temple is also connected with Pathankot through a meter gauge toy-train.

Kangra airport at Gaggal is the nearest airport to Chamunda Devi temple (28 km).

There are other Chamunda temples in India, but the one near Dharamsala is the one best-known and has unique mythological importance.

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Galta Temple



Galta Temple, the temple of Sun, is located at a distance of 10 km from Jaipur, the capital city of the state of Rajasthan, India. Jaipur is famous for its architectural excellence which is beautifully illustrated through the multitude of buildings and monuments there-many of them being famous tourist attractions. The holy shrine of Galta Ji is situated on the summit of a small hill, in the midst of luxurious green surroundings which gives a sense of tranquility to the devotees. This temple is also called the Monkey Temple (Galwar Bagh) owing to the large group of friendly and docile monkeys who dwell here. This shrine is embellished with various scenes from the life of Lord Sri Krishna which are etched on the pink walls with a mesmerizing symmetry. This is one of the many shrines which are financially supported by the Birla family. Read on and know more about this beautiful shrine.

History
The Galta Ji temple was built around 250 years ago by Diwan Kriparama, a loyal courtier of the-then Raja (king) of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh II. According to the ancient scriptures, the famous sage Galav had lived and meditated at this place centuries ago.

Major Attractions
The temple complex, built on pink sandstone looks more like a typical palatial mansion or Haveli of Rajasthan than a shrine. With a large number of pavilions, rounded roofs and brightly painted interiors as well as exteriors which are duly complimented by exquisitely carved pillars, the Galta temple is undoubtedly a visual treat. The paintings at Galta temple illustrate images of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, Ganesha and Parvati along with scenes from various festivals and state occasions. The natural springs and reservoirs (Kunds) are the most sacred features of this shrine. It is believed that taking a dip in these holy pools absolves people of all sins. The temple also had some beautiful mural paintings on its walls but, unfortunately, over the years, many of them were washed away by heavy rains.

There are 3 main Kunds in this shrine of which, the Galta Kund is considered the most sacred. Fed by a spring originating from a rock curve named Gaumukh, the Galta Kund never runs out of water. Kartik Purnima (The Full Moon night usually celebrated in November) is the main festival here when the temple witnesses a huge influx of pilgrims who visit the shrine and take long dips in the sacred pools of water. Makar Sankranti (a harvest festival celebrated on the 14th of January every year) is also an important celebration.

How To Reach Galta Temple

The temple of Galta Ji is situated at a distance of 10km from the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Buses are available up to Vidyadharji ka Bagh and from there you can avail auto rickshaws and/or cabs. Jaipur is connected to all major cities of North India through national and state highways.

Jaipur railway station is the nearest railway head. There are frequent trains connecting the city to rest of the country.

Jaipur airport is located 13 km from the city. Domestic airlines connect the city to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi etc. It is also an international airport and is well connected with all major countries as well.

The Galta temple is one of the few paganistic temples left in the country today. Being the only sun temple in this region makes Galta Ji all the more important from the religious perspective.

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Varadharaja Perumal Temple




Varadharaja Perumal Temple or Hastagiri or Attiyuran is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in the holy city of Kanchipuram, Tamilnadu, India.

It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 temples of Vishnu believed to have been visited by the 12 poet saints, or Alwars. It is located in part of Kanchipuram called the Vishnu Kanchi that is a home for a lot of famous Vishnu temples, including this one.

One of the greatest Hindu scholars of Vaishnava VisishtAdvaita philosophy, Ramanuja is believed to have resided in this temple. The temple along with Ekambareswarar Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram is called Mumurtivasam.

While Srirangam is referred to as ‘ The Koil’ and Tirupathi as the ‘Malai’ among Divya Desams, Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal temple is known as the ‘Perumal Koil’. This is one of the most sacred places for Vaishnavites.

History

Here is a belief that the temple was first built by the Pallava king Nandivarman II. Varadharaja Perumal Temple was originally built by the Cholas in 1053 and it was expanded during the reigns of the great Chola kings Kulottunga Chola I and Vikrama Chola.

In the 14th century another wall and a gopura was built by the later Chola kings. When there a Muslim invasion was expected in 1688, the main image of the deity was sent to Udayarpalayam, now part of Tiruchirapalli District.

It was brought back with greater difficulty after the involvement of local perceptor who enlisted the services of general Todarmal. Robert Clive, the British general during the colonial period visited the Garuda seva festival and presented a valuable necklace which is adorned during the special occasion every year.

The Temple

The Temple is a huge one on a 23-acre complex and shows the architectural skills of ancient Vishwakarma Sthapathis in temple architecture and is famous for its holiness and ancient history.

The temple has 3 outer precincts (prakaram) namely Azhwar Prakaram, Madai Palli Prakaram and Thiru Malai Prakaram. There are 32 shrines, 19 vimanams, 389 pillared halls and sacred sacred tanks some located outside the complex.

The main sanctum faces west and can be entered through a 130 feet tall, 7-tiered rajagopuram. The eastern gopuram is taller than the western gopuram, which is contrasting to large temples where the rajagopuram is the tallest one.

One of the most famous architectural pieces in the temple is the huge stone chain sculpted in a single stone. There is a 100 pillared hall has sculptures depicting Ramayana and Mahabarathastands the masterpiece of Vijayanagara architecture.

The shrine of Varadarajaswamy is on a small hillock 10m tall and a fleet of 24 stps, termed “Hasthagiri” and has murals of the late Vijayanagara empire is found on the ceiling.

Another significant thing about the temple are beautiful carved lizards and platted with gold, over the sanctum. The vimana over the sanctum of Vradaraja Swami is called Punyakoti Vimanam and the one over Perundevi Thayar shrine is called Kalyana Koti Vimanam.

Apart from the main stone idol, the temple has the wooden image of Varadarajaswamy preserved within a silver box in water pumped out every 40 years. There is a shrine of Narasimha on the hillock. The origin of the mask of Narasimha is mysterious and believed to possess inexplicable powers.

In the second precinct downstairs contains four shrines, the important one of which is of Malayala Nachiar (Kerala consort), presumably built during the Chera kings in the early 14th century.

The third precinct has the shrine of Goddess Perundevi Thayar – it is customary for devotess to visit the shrine first before visiting the Perumal shrine.

There are four small pillared halls identical in strcutre called Thulabara Mandapas built during the 1532 for a ceremony of Achutaraya of the Vijayanagara empire.