Arunagiri Teachings on Muruga: Part 4-4

Arunagiri Teachings on Muruga: Part 3-4

Arunagiri Teachings on Muruga: Part 2-4

Arunagiri Teachings on Muruga: Part 1-4

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VALLI MALAI MURUGAN

Valli Marries the God of the Mountain An oral tradition from Sri Lanka

You might as well know from the start - this is a girl's story. The girl, Valli Amma, was a princess of sorts - a stone-age jungle princess who grew up among the prehistoric hunting people of the island now called Ceylon or Sri Lanka. Mind you, this happened many thousands of years ago at a time when Sri Lanka was still connected to India by a land bridge.

Valli, who was only twelve years old at the time, had her heart set on Kande Yaka, the age-old hunting God of the Kataragama Mountain whose power and wisdom - they say - was beyond human understanding. The Spirit of the Mountain was so touched by Valli's innocent love that he came down to earth in disguise to touch her in return - but she wouldn't let him! Of course, they both fell in love at last, and their love story still continues to this day in far-off Sri Lanka.

Here are the details:

In the Indian Ocean not far from India lies a teardrop-shaped jewel of a tropical island called Lanka. Many thousands of years ago - nobody knows for certain when - Stone Age people of ancient India walked to Lanka across a narrow bridge of land, called Adam's Bridge, and populated this island of paradise. Their descendants today call themselves Wanniya-laeto or 'inhabitants of the forest.' But most Sri Lankans call them Veddas, meaning hunters.

Veddas believed that the spirit of a great hunter lived upon a remote mountain peak within sight of the Indian Ocean. Kande Yaka, the Great Mountain-Spirit and Hunter-God, was the Vedda people's greatest friend and guardian spirit, then even as he still is today. No successful hunt began without Vedda hunters first dancing themselves into a trance-frenzy in which Kande Yaka spoke through them, telling them where to hunt and how to survive happily. But the Vedda people also knew that Kande Yaka was easily angered, so all regarded him with a mixture of love, respect, and fear.

Now Veddas are a people who are accustomed to marvelous occurrences. So when Nambi, the chief of the Kataragama Veddas, and his wife one day discovered a baby girl in the jungle, they were overjoyed because they had been praying for a daughter, and yet nobody considered it a miracle. They called her Valli, meaning 'Sweet Potato,' because they found her in a patch of yam or valli creepers. Some say her real mother was a red deer, so perhaps Valli also had reddish hair and wide innocent eyes of a doe. Others say that since Nambi was the Veddas' chief, therefore Valli was a Vedda princess. But all agree that Valli was the sweetest child anyone had ever seen, and everyone adored her.

Valli's girlfriends loved her too, but they couldn't help but tease her about the peculiar vow or promise she had made. Valli was twelve years old and her girlfriends were always talking about brave, handsome Vedda boys who were already hunters themselves. But Valli had vowed to herself - and to Kande Yaka - that she would only accept Kande Yaka and no one else as her life companion. All the other Vedda girls laughed and teased Valli for vowing to marry a god whom no one had seen.

But Kande Yaka had been watching all his Vedda people - including Valli - with great interest all this time. The hunter-god of the Mountain was as old as the mountain itself, but as a spirit he was also young just like Valli. Before long, the ever-youthful Kande Yaka felt so attracted to Valli that he decided to come down from his mountain and meet her.

At the time, Valli's family had cleared a small patch in the jungle near Kataragama Peak and were growing millet there. But someone had to stand guard against parrots and other birds that came to eat the millet. Valli, who grew up in the jungle, was not afraid of being alone, so her father sent her to guard the field while he and Valli's brothers went hunting with bow and arrows. Day and night Valli's sweet voice could be heard as she sang to the birds and animals, warning them to keep away and twirling a sling that she used to fling stones if they ignored her and tried to eat the tender millet.

Kande Yaka could see that this was his chance to meet Valli alone face-to-face. So just like you or I would put on a fresh change of clothes, Kande Yaka put on the human form of a handsome young hunter. He figured this would be the best way to impress her. Pretending to be tracking a deer, he strolled out of the forest and into the millet field.

Of course, Valli could not recognize the handsome stranger. "Hey, get out of here fast and don't come back!" she yelled, adding "Who do you think you are?" Poor Kande Yaka was just about to apologize and retreat back into the forest when suddenly there was the sound of drums - Nambi and his hunters were bringing Valli some mangoes and honey to eat.

The moment Valli looked away, Kande Yaka turned himself into a tree. As soon as the hunters left, the god reappeared in human form and confessed his love for her. Valli was shocked and angry, and told the stranger to beware or her brothers would come back and go wild if they saw him there alone with her.

Just at that moment there was the sound of footsteps and they knew that Valli's family was coming back. In the blink of an eye, Kande Yaka changed himself into an old man with long gray beard bent over with age. Valli's family paid their respects to the kind old man and suggested that Valli would be good company for the old man as long as he stayed.

As soon as the hunting party left, the old man told Valli that he was hungry, so she gave him some millet flour mixed with honey. This only made him thirsty, so she took him to a stream and gave him water to drink. Then he told her: "Now that you have satisfied my hunger and thirst, do satisfy my love for you."

This was too much for Valli - so she gave the strange old man a piece of her mind and was about to start back to the clearing. Kande Yaka mentally asked his brother the elephant-god Ganesha for assistance. Instantly from out of the jungle from behind Valli came Ganesha in the form of a wild trumpeting elephant. Valli got the fright of her life, rushed back into the arms of the old man and begged him to save her.

"I'll save you," he said, "but on one condition. You must marry me."

There was no time to argue, so Valli agreed. No sooner did Valli agree to the stranger's condition than he revealed himself as Kande Yaka, seated on a peacock and surrounded by dazzling light. Valli was thrilled to see that it was her beloved god and after that they were never apart.

Never, except the time of harvesting the millet approached, and her family called Valli back to their tribal hamlet. Kande Yaka was awfully upset when he came to the clearing and could not find Valli. So late at night he slipped into the hamlet and together they ran away.

When Vedda chief Nambi woke up in the morning, he figured out that Valli had run away with the old man and was furious. He organized a search party and set out with his men to get revenge. When they found them, they released a volley of arrows, but instead of killing the mysterious old man, the Veddas all fell dead instead.

Valli was stricken with grief to see her relatives dead. Seeing her grief, Kande Yaka told her to revive them to life, which she did simply by touching them. The Veddas at once realized that Valli's friend was the great God of the Mountain himself, and they all fell down to worship him.

Valli's parents gave their consent for the couple to be married and the whole village rejoiced. Since that time long ago, Valli and Kande Yaka have never left Kataragama and never died, either. And they still have fun like other children, playing hide-and-seek with each other and with their devotees, who come in search of them from all over the island and even from far, far away. And if you don't believe it, you can go to Kataragama and find out for yourself.

SHOLINGANALLUR MURUGAN

Sri Subramanya Swami Temple is situated on Old Mahabalipuram Road in Sholinganallur, 13 kms south of Adyar (Chennai) adjoining a cool green environment spread over an area of 100 acres of farmland with scenic beauty and aesthetic value that has already attracted people from far and wide.

The temple has been blessed by the participation of the revered Sri Sankaracharyas of Kanchi Mutt and other Hindu religious figures of various mutts of Tamil Nadu.

The pradhana devata of the temple is Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Subramanya Swami. Other deities having their own separate shrines at the complex include:

• Sri Selva Vinayakar
• Sri Maha Vishnu
• Sri Vana Durga
• Sri Sapta Mata (Seven Mother Goddesses)
• Sri Anjaneyar (Hanuman)
• Sri Mahalakshmi
• Navagrahas

The kumbhabhishekam of Sri Selva Vinayakar Sannidhi took place in July 1998 and since then Lord Vinayakar has been blessing His devout devotees.

The temple interiors are excellently landscaped and a beautiful nandavanam is being developed. When one enters the temple, one feels the divine presence of the Lord.

The Ashtabandhana Mahakumbhabhishekam of Sri Subramanya Swami Temple took place on 24th January 1999 on a grand scale with many religious dignitaries in attendance. The temple was developed on the request of the people of Sholinganallur and adjoining areas. The entire temple complex was constructed at a cost of about Rs 45 lakhs (US$100,000), and all this has been possible due to the untiring and dedicated efforts of the Clasic Group, who have funded the entire project.

May the Lord Subramanya in His infinite mercy ensure that His devotees remain ever protected under His blissful umbrella and be blessed for all noble and generous deeds.

LORD MURUGAN WALLPAPERS

SIRUVAPURI MURUGAN

Siruvapuri Tiruppugazh

"Who saw in a dam of lilting lyrics the flood of flowing grace of Tamil divine Ladling it out as Tiruppugazh divine For perennial praise of Skanda's feet benign. The deity who reigns in cool SIRUVAI Wherein the minds of devotees ever abide The resident Lord raining grace on SIRUVAI. As plenteous as the city of Kubera.

Oh! the life of SIRUVAPURI shinging for greater prosperity
Surpassing the city of Kubera more glorioius itself than even the metropolis of the gods
SIRUVAPURI, famouis and flourishing soaring with towers and ramparts
Brimming with boulevards and temples brilliant with burnished gold."

Thus has Siruvapuri been blessed by the rapturous lyrics of Saint Arunagirinathar

I. Mahizhicchi Tiruppugazh

One with lotus eyes! The consort of Devasena, the daughter of Indra!
The One with perfect knowledge, One with lofty shoulders!
One with the effulgent sharp spear subdued the rough sea, pierced the Krauncha mountain and battered its animosity!
One with a chest adorned with pearls and gems!
One with a beautiful form radiating golden hue!
One who is much attached to the Tamils and their language!
Muruga! Oh, Lord!
Willingly you have taken permanent abode eternal in the hearts of your devotees, residing in the cool-emitting Siruvapuri!
We, your devotees, pray that you should come before us prancing on your mighty peacock, attuned to the dance of your vehicle.
And when you come please note:
All the devas should colonise their original abode from which they were dislodged by the asuras, whom you must eradicate simultaneously to the utmost satisfaction and pleasure of the devas. Your grace should permeate everywhere.
Moreover, Sankara who associates himself with a dual dance with Andhari should derive pleasure by your dual dance with the peacock!
All the more you must give darshana of your dance to your elder brother Ganesa of five hands, to your mother Umai, to the rishis, to the ashtadigpalas guardians of the eight cardinal directions), to Indra, Brahma, Visnu and His consort Laksmi and to the global inhabitants and by your darshana all of them will dance in glee.
So may you oblige us. We crave your indulgence.

II. Archanai Tiruppugazh

Oh, brother of elephant-faced Vinayaka!
Oh, affectionate son of Siva of matted locks of hair and of body smeared with holy ashes!
Oh, son of Mahalakshmi!
Oh, One who has the courage to challenge even the mighty ocean!
Oh, One whose knowledge supreme is beyond the ken of the great Vedas chanted by the rishis!
Oh, Ocean of Mercy!
Oh, One with a broad chest adorned by the sweet-smelling honey-dripping neeba garland!
Oh, One with six radiant faces, each resembling a full moon!
Oh, Murugesa! Oh, Vadivela!
Oh, Supreme Lord of rishis and the devas!
Oh, Supreme Lord of the seven higher spheres!
Oh, Lord enlogisted by Visnu and by Brahma who resides eternally in Visnu's lotus-like navel!
Oh, life-giver (nucleus ) of Siruvapuri, hallowed by the existence of Laksmi, goddess of wealth and prosperity!
Your Siruvapuri is not really siru (ie wanting in fullness), but it is Siruvapuri,ie the city of Lava and Kusa, the illustrious sons of Rama. Hence it is of high eminence occupying a place higher than Amarati city of Indra or Alagapuri the city of Kubera. In short, you are the Lord of all Indras!
Oh, One with the cool lotus-like feet! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, All-wonderful One steeped in the musical strains of Narada! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, Darling of the mighty cock and the valiant peacock! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, One sought after by the Vedas being the crown of all eminence! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, Quintessence of Agamas! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, Devasenapati! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, Wielder of the vel! You cut off all the sins of your devotees and make them attain salvation! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, One who is severe towards the asuras! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, One who is the unconquerable here in the world! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, One who is born as the son of Parvati, the daughter of Himalaya! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, One who is expert in expounding knowledge gladdening the hearts of all! Salutations to Thee!
Oh, Bala Kumara Swami! Salutations to Thee! Please bestow Thy grace upon us!

Note: This Tiruppugazh song is one of six Archanai Tiruppugazh songs found among the available 1330 Tiruppugazh songs.

III. Vazhi-Kattum Tiruppukazh

Oh, Muruga!

Sages who have not transgressed the control of their senses had to suffer in their cave-abodes brooding over their fate on the return of the giant bhutam-spirit. At that time, in a minute, you have brought about the action to be taken against the giant, and by riding on your peacock, showered your grace unparalleled on the sages (by killing the giant) and as a remembrance of this unique timely help you wore the garland of Tamil verses, the Tiru Murugaarruppadai in ecstatic jubiliation.

Oh, Lord! You have willingly taken your abode in Siruvapuri which resembles in fecundity of wealth Alagapuri (the abode of Kubera, god of wealth) and hereby rose in your eminence.

Do you know the reason for this rise in your status?

This is the place of a battle with drawn bows and arrows where two youngsters (Lava and Kusa) won a tremendous victory over Kothanda Rama and his four-fold army (his mainstay being elephants and infantry).

Oh, eminent Lord!
This body of mine has taken its birth here in this mundane world. It goes astray deviating from the right path and thereby suffers from many diseases. Tottered by dilemmas, it undergoes hardships due to evil karma. As a consequence, it is tossed in various species of birth without end.

Now I realise that I should not spoil myself by believing in this cycle of births. Forgetting relief, there is only One way open to me and that is to think unceasingly of your lotus feet studded with honeyed flowers, which paves the way for silent meditation. Your darshana is craved by rulers of both heaven and earth. As such, I do not know when I am destined to have a sweet darshana of you, and that also for my benefit.

---

NOTE: Siruvapuri is Siruvarpuri. Siruvar refers to Lava and Kusa. So this place is also called Siruvaram Bedu (Siruvar-ambu-edu)because this is the place where the youngsters took the arrow to be darted agains their father Rama. This is also Kusalavambedu (Kusa-Lava-ambu-edu). In local parlance this name has corrupted itself into Sinnambedu (Cinnambedu) and now this is popularly current among the public.

This holy place visited and sung of by Saint Arunagirinathar and currently called CHINNAMBEDU is situated 35 kms from Madras on the Gummidi Poondi route. Bus no. 133 runs from Madras Basin Bridge bus stand to the temple. Buses depart at 6am, 12 noon, 4pm and 8pm. If traveling by bus nos. 131, 131-A, 132, 133-A, alight at Agaram from where the temple is only one kilometre distance.

VIRALIMALAI MURUGAN

Location

Viralimalai is on the bus route between Madurai and Tiruchy. It is 25 kilometers from Tiruchy and 40 kilometers northwest of Pudukottai. From Azhankudi Viralimalai is 371/2 Kilometers. A railway station is very close to the town. Viralimalai temple is on top of a big rock and can be seen from a great distance. Viralimalai temple is situated in the heart of the town of Viralimalai. Hence the town takes the name of the hill. Buses, which ply from Tiruchy to Madurai and from Pudukottai to Illupur go via Viralimalai. Devotees can reach Tiruchy by road, rail or air and hence proceed to Viralimalai. In Tiruchy and Viralimalai there are many private boarding and lodging houses and food facilities are also available.

Nearby Pilgrimage Sites

• Madurai Arulmigu Meenakshi temple
• Arulmigu Tiruparankundram
• Pazhamudircholai
• Kodaikanal
• Palani
• Tiruchy Rock Fort Temple
• Tiruvanaikaval
• Tiruvarangam(SriRangam)
• Arulmigu Samayapuram Mariamman temple
• Thirukarkudi- Uyyakondan Hill

Hill

The hill is small and rocky. From the foot of the hill a beautiful flight of steps take us to the top. These footsteps are engraved on the rock and are 207 in number. In between there are beautiful mandapams for devotees to rest. There are thick woody orchards on the hill and peacocks abound in these orchards. Great saints and yogis are said to have lived in the form of Kura trees and worshipped Lord Muruga and hence the name Viralimalai derived from the Tamil word Viravi.

Special Features

This temple is specially known for the peacocks that are found in plenty. Cigar is a unique offering similar to the sandal paste offered to Lord Dandayudhapani during Arthajama puja in Palani. During the reign of Ramachandra Thondaiman of Pudukottai the Lord is believed to have appeared in his dream and requested the offering of cigars for the Kalasandhi and Sayaratchai puja. The king is said to have been cured of his diseases after the offer of cigars to the Lord according to history. We also find a number of caves in which saints and yogis have performed penance. This is a place where the Lord blesses devotees with the power to control the indriyas or senses. Rishis Narada and Kashyapa offered prayer to Lord Subrahmanya for getting their sins propitiated. The mute Sivachariyar obtained the power of speech after worshipping Lord Murugan here. These and many more are the marvels of this temple.

Temple

People find the statue of Kashyapa Muni and Narada Muni in the hill temple along with sculptures of Arundhati and Vashishta. We also find the sculpture of Arumugan and Arunagirinathar on the pillars found on the way to the temple. The temple is located on top of the hill and can be seen from a great distance. A beautiful flight of steps along with mandapams for devotees to rest, take us to the top of the hill. At the foot of the hills the water tank called Saravana Poigai is located on southern side. On the eastern side there is a shrine for the Goddess Maikannudaiyal. It is customary to worship this goddess before climbing up the hill.

On the way to the hill top we find the Idumban Sannidhi a small cave shrine for Meenakshi Sundareshwar and a mandapam called Sandana Kottam at the end of the flight of steps. Adjacent to the Sandana Kottam Mandapam people find the Navaratri and Shanmuga Moorty Mandapam.

Next to the Navaratri Mandapam we find the south-facing Raja Gopuram. In the Shanmuga Moorthy Mandapam of this temple with a single prahara the utsavamoorthy gives darshan together with devas. In the western part of the prahara we find the shrines of Vinayagar, Dakshina Moorthy, Agasthiyar and Arunagirinathar and in the northern side we find the shrine of Chandikeshwarar and Bhairavar.

The shrine for Navagraha is located on the way to the Maha Mandapam in front of the sanctum sanctorum. In the Maha Mandapam Natarajar, Sivakami, Manika Vinayagar and Srinivasa Perumal with consort await to bless the devotees. On the outer walls of the garbhagraha we find inscriptions. Inside the sanctum sanctorum Lord Muruga showers blessings upon the devotees.

Theertham

On the southern part of the foothill Saravana Poigai, the Sthala Theertham is located. It is also called Naga Theertham. The Sthala Vriksham in this temple is Kasi Vilvam.

Moolavar

The vision of the Lord inside the Garbhagraha is soul-stirring. The Lord is in the form of Arumugan, six-faced and with twelve hands seated elegantly on the peacock facing east. The divine consorts Valli and Deivannai stand on either side. As the Sivachariyar offers camphor the devotees can see the three faces at the back in the mirror which the other three can be viewed directly.

Mythology

Sages and saints were in the form of Kura trees and worshipped the Lord of Viralimalai. Hence this place was called Viravi Malai which later became Viralimalai. The poet Saint Arunagirinathar has mentioned in his songs about saints staying and worshipping Lord Muruga in this hill temple.

Saint Vashishtar's wife Arundhati forgets to feed Lord Murugan when he was born at Saravana Poigai. Due to this her husband cursed her. In turn Vashishtar was cursed by Lord Murugan for the ill fate he brought on his wife. As per mythology both Vashishtar and his wife Arundhati prayed here in Viralimalai to ward off their curse. Saints like Kashyapa Munivar and Naradar are believed to have offered their prayer here in Viralimalai to ward off curses.

The representative of the Palayamkarar Karupamuthu Pillai used to visit the temple every Friday. During one such visit, due to heavy rains there was flood and tanks bunds were broken. The river Mamundi was also flooded and Karupamuthu Pillai was cut off from the mainland. He neither had food to eat nor cigars to smoke and was in great misery as he was a chain smoker. Lord Murugan appeared before him, gave him cigar and matchstick and also took him to the temple for darshan. From that day cigar is offered to Lord Murugan along with neiveidyam and given away as prasadam to devotees.

History

When the temple and its allied properties were acquired by Vadi Lakkaiya Naicker, the temple was renovated and built by their successors and the descendants of Marungapuriyar. In the 18th century the temple was under the control of Pudukottai Thondaiman. In the 18th and 19th century during the Karnataka war Viralimalai Tiruchirapalli was a military area. The tourist Bungalow here was built in 1822 for the army chiefs to halt and rest. The Palayamkarar's used to offer cigar to the Lord.

Method of Worship

The daily puja is performed six times a day and as per Kamika Agamam.

Festivals and Pujas

Taippucam, Pankuni Uttiram, Kanda Sasthi and Adikrittikai are the main festivals as in other Murugan temples.

Inscriptions

On the outside wall of the sanctum sanctorum, we find a few inscriptions. These contain certain information on the history of the temple.

Literature

Muthu Pazhani Kavirayar authored Viralimalai Kuravanchi. This Kuravanchi was staged regularly every year during festivals.

Hymns and Songs

Poet saint Arunagirinathar described the beauty of the Lord, the way Sri Krishna hide the sun with floods, the way peace was brought into the Uruthirasanmar Sangha before he wrote divine verses on Lord Murugan.

From his verses and lines we understand that Arunagirinathar was in his youth while he wrote these poems and also that Viralimalai was a part of Konadu. When Arunagirinathar was in Viralimalai the Lord gave him jnanopadesam in the Sandana Kotta Mandapam and we can decipher this information from his verses. Viralimalai has been praised by Arunagirinathar is 16 verses of Tirupugazh (344 -364). In Shastra Kovai Pillai Tamizh the 25th song is about Viralimalai.

Tiruppugahz:

Tiruppugahz:

Maalaasai Koba Moyathi Naalu

Maaya Vihaara Vazhiye cel
Mapaavi Kali Thaaninu Naadhaa
Maatha Pithaavum Ini Neeye
Nalaana Veda Noolaga Madhi
Nanodhi Nenu Milavine
Nalpoi Vidaamalaaraaru Meethil
Jnaanopadesam Arulvaye
Baala Kalaara Amoda leba
Pateera Vahaa Animeethe
Paadaala Bhoomi Yaatra Meena
Paneeya Melai Vayalura
Pola Viraali Vazhve Samooga
Vedalaa Bhoota Pathiseye
Veeraa Kadora Soorariyese
Vele Suresar Perumale

RATHNAGIRI MURUGAN

The History of the Shrine:

Rathinagiri Balamurugan Temple was built around the 14th century. Over the passage of time an ordinary sand structure was converted into a stone shrine.

Greatness of the Shrine:

Ancient Hindu scriptures say that wherever there is a hill, Lord Murugan resides as the all-powerful Deity. Of these Tirupparamkundram, Tiruchendur, Tiruvavinankudi, Tiruveragam and Palamuthircholai are famous shrines, collectively called 'Kundruthoradal'. The holy shrine at Rathinagiri also features in this category.

Literary Evidence:

The 14th Century poet Arunagirinathar has sung about this temple Rathinakiri Vazh Murukane Ilaya Vaaramarar Perumaley' which means 'Murugan, the God of Devas resides in Rathinagiri'.

Divine Blessings:
The Omnipotent Power manifests His Blessings to mankind in three forms:

1. In the form of Idol in the Shrine.
2. In the form of the Guru.
3. In the form of the Devotee.

Of these three, Lord Balamurugan manifests himself at Rathinagiri in two forms. The first is in the form of the deity with his two consorts Valli and Deivanai. The Second is in the form of our Guru, Swami Balamurugan Adimai.

The History of Swami Balamurugan Adimai through whom the Blessings of Lord Balamurugan are channeled to us is praise worthy.

History of Swami Balamurugan Adimai:

Born on the 24th of January 1941 (in the Vikrama year of the Tamil Calendar on the 11th day of the month of Thai) in the small village of Kilminnal adjacent to Rathinagiri, he was the fourth Child born to Sri Kandaswami Mudaliar and Smt. Sinagarammal. He was named Dakshinamurthy and Sachidanandam, both being names of Lord Shiva.

On Completion of his Schooling he entered the services of the Electricity Department. Soon after, he entered into holy matrimony with Sivakami and was blessed with two daughters and a son.

One day in his 27th year, on his way to work, he climbed the hill to offer his prayers. There was neither camphor nor incense available at the temple. He walked around the shrine with a heavy heart and was suddenly overcome with divine awakening. He fell in a faint to the ground and on waking up was unable to remember his own self. He dressed himself in a loincloth. He took a sacred vow not to leave until the temple was restored to its former glory.

This memorable event of Swami's spiritual awakening took place on 20th March 1968. Ever since then Swami's spiritual well being of his devotees has continued unabated.

Renovation of the Temple:

Separate pathways were laid to ascend and descend the hill. A chariot made of granite was made and the main deity was installed there to facilitate renovation of the sanctum sanctorum. Two temples for Lord Ganesha were built at the foothill and uphill. A golden chariot was made for the Lord Murugan to circumambulate the shrine. Ornaments made of gold, silver and precious stones were made to decorate the Idol.

Work Completed to Date:

A granite sanctum sanctorum modeled according to the Chola architecture has been built at a cost of 20 lakhs for installing the deity. A spacious hall around the shrine, vimanam and a beautiful entrance has been completed at a cost of 50 lakhs. The rest of the renovation work estimated to cost another 50 lakhs is in progress. With the inflow of donations from devotees work may be completed soon and the kumbhabhishekam may be performed at a close date.

Durga Temple:

The worship of Durga Devi 'the bestower of success' has been carried on since time immemorial. A temple for Durga Devi was built at Rathinagiri and Kumbhabhishekam, performed on 8 June 1995.

Six Sided Holy Tank:

A six-sided tank has been dug out and steps have been made. Further progress on this work has postponed until Kumbhabhishekam of the main temple. The cost of completing the work on the tank will be around nine lakhs.

Archana in Tamil:

Lord Murugan being the God of Tamil it is only befitting that worship be carried on in Tamil. All mantras are chanted in Tamil so that the common man can better understand the worship.

Service to the Devotees:

Cottages for the devotees have been built and a nominal rent is collected.
Public toilets and drinking water have been provided for the general visitors.
Around 40 shops at a low rent have been built along the Arcot - Vellore road.
Four marriage halls are present for public use at a low rent.
A police outpost, post office, bank and a co-operative store are present for the benefit of the public.
A hall with bathrooms for those who wish to tonsure their head has been provided.

Education:

In order to provide facilities to enable the rural youth to compete with the urban, a matriculation school was established for the children of the employees of the shrine on 19-08-1987. It has gradually developed and at present about 1019 children of the surrounding 18 villages are benefited by it.

Every first Friday and Saturday lectures are held on Tiruvilaiyadal Purina, Tolkapiyam, Periyapuranam and Tirukkural for the public.

Health:

A 25-bed charity hospital has been built for the benefit of the poor. Specialists from all fields offer their services freely to the poor. Free eye camps are held every month and around 70 patients are operated free of cost.

Temple hours:

Temple is kept open between 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Abhishekam timings: 6 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. & 5.30 p.m.

Temple office working hours:

9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. & 3.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Days of principal importance in the calendar year:

Tamil New Year Day:
Aadi Krittikai celebrations (Lord Murugan's Birthday);
Aadi Velli (auspicious Friday in the month of August or September);
Kanda Shashti celebrations (Six Days);
Navaratri (Nine Nights of the Goddess Festival);
Panguni Uthiram;
January 1st;
The sacred day of Swamiji's enlightenment 20th March of the year.

PAZHAMUTHIRCHOLAI

Pazhamutircolai is situated 19 kilometres from the temple town of Madurai. The place is full of natural beauty and sylvan surroundings. This hill is also known as Vrishabhadri or Idabagiri. At the foot of the hill is situated Azhakar Kovil, which is one among the 108 divyadesams sanctified by the hymns of Azhwars sung in praise of the Vishnu enshrined in this temple. Atop the hill Lord Muruga stands majestically in the temple as the Lord of the Hills popularly known as Kurinji Nilakkizhavan in Tamil. The temple of Pazhamutircolai can be reached by a motorable road leading to the hill.

Pazhamutircholai is mentioned as the sixth of Lord Murugan's Aaru Patai Vidukal, the six holiest Murugan shrines described by Cankam poet Nakkirar in his poem Tirumurukarruppatai. Regarding the identity of the sixth major site, there is no consensus among scholars and many local temples are ascribed the distinction. Most scholars, priests and devotees identify Pazhamutircholai with the shrine of Palamutircolai, twelve miles north of Madurai in the Alagar Hills, above the Alagarcoil Vishnu temple. While this temple is not as large or bustling as the other five recognized shrines, it is just as incredible to visit.

This shrine is located on the northern outskirts of Madurai in a pleasant wooded hill not far from Alagar Visnu Kovil, a fortified temple complex revered as one of the 108 abodes of Vishnu glorified by the hymns of the Alwars. At the top of the hill, is Noopura Ganga, a perennial waterfall with a temple dedicated to Rakkayi Amman. The Nûpura Ganga atop the hill is said to originated from the anklet of Tirumal or Visnu and hence the name of the spring. It is said that sitting in the madavi mandapa near the spring Ilangovadigal wrote one of the five mahakavyas in Tamil, viz., Cilappatikaram. Even today the place is very fertile with many trees and different flora and fauna, a standing testimony to the vivid description of the place's natural beauty as found in Tirumurugattruppadaiof Nakkeerar.

Though the sthala is of ancient origin, the temple as in existence today was constructed only recently. From days of yore Vel has been worshipped as the moolavar or main deity. The idol of Lord Muruga in a standing posture has a single face and four hands with Valli and Teyvayanai on both sides. The Vel made up of stone is of special significance and is worshipped with a great veneration by devotees.

The sthala vriksha is a rose apple tree. The fruits of this tree ripen during Skanda Sashti festival. The temple that was in existence during Sangam period no longer existed in Arunagirinatha's time. The recently constructed temple is considered as Pazhamutircolai and worshipped by the devotees. It is needless to say that it is one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga very extensively praised and described by Nakkeerar in Tirumurugatruppadai.

Arunagirinathar also reveres this shrine in his Tiruppukal. Arunagirinatha sang 16 Tiruppugzh psalms to Pazhamutircolai Muruga. Though one might be in possession of all types of wealth, if he wants to lead a healthy life bereft of any disease he should necessarily visit Pazhamutircolai. Arunagirinatha very emphatically says in the most unequivocal terms that Lord Muruga should come before him running to bless each and everyone with health and wealth as has been very clearly described in the

THIRUCHENDUR MURUGAN

One of the six places of worship dedicated to Lord Muruga, the shore temple of Arulmigu Subramanya Swami at Tiruchendur has a unique significance as the culmination of the concept of Muruga. With its lofty tower of about 140 feet, it has a holy past dating back to 2,000 years, if not earlier. References are available in such texts as Purananooru, Silappadikaram, Tirumurugatrupadai, Adi Sankarar Sri Subramanya Bhjangam, Kanda Puranam, Tiruppukazh, Tiruchendur Pillai Tamil, etc.

As one of the foremost spiritual centres, the temple has been an attraction for Hindus for ages. In the Tirumurugatrupadai, a classic of the third century AD, six chosen spots in The Tamil soil were referred to by Nakkirar as of more than ordinary sanctity fo the worshipo of Lord Muruga, among which Tiruchendur is number two. This was the only temple of Lord Muruga located on the seashore. His shrines are always situated amid mountains and forests, for these regions are considered dear to Lord Murugan. The variance here is possibly due to Muruga's divine mission to free the devas, and the vanquishing of evil in the form of Surapadma and his mighty hosts in Veera Mahendram, their mid-ocean fortress. The Tamils have ever since been celbrating the event as an annual festival during Skanda Sashti.

At this spot, Lord Muruga was said to have emcamped before and after vanquishing the asuras and worshipped Siva at the shrine Mayan had built for Him. The Kanda Madana Parvata, the red sandstone rock of this coast received its foundations. A lofty gopuram also rose beside it. A part of the cliff was bored into to form the holy sanctum of Subramaniam. The red sandy rock round about was further carved into, and the rolling hills of sand moved away to gain more space. The second and thrid praharas were then desinged and brought into being. The Pandya and the Chera, their vassals, improved the temple. Maharaja Marthandavarma of Travancore Samasthanam endowed the very first Udaya Marthanda Kattalai of each morning and others followed in the nine aradhanas of the day.

As time rolled on, the effect of the sea and its salt-laden air begain to tell upon the inferior sandstones used in the original construction. A noble sannyasin, Mauna Swami, immediately took up the renovation and was followed by two others, Kasi Swami and Arumuga Swami. The work continued during the course of 72 years. The sannyasins were wedded to poerty, but nevertheless funds poured in for the construction of a worthy temple to stand for all times. The temple was constructed anew in all its details and kumbhabhishekam was performed in 1941. The temple and its gopurams of nine floors are a landmark visible at sea for twelve miles.

Lord Muruga's association with Tiruchendur is significant. Tiruchendur, a sacred and prosperous town of victory, was also known as Tiruchen-Chendiloor in the Tamil classics. The Vasanta Mandapam is a recent noble edifice standing on 120 columns and with a central porch. The Ananda Vilas Mandapam stands on a raised sandy promontory majestically overlooking the sea. It is a mandapam of 16 pillars worked in black granite. The Shanmukha Vilasam, a magnificent mandapam of intricate stone plinths and columns, is the frontal adjunct to the main temple. It houses an ornate mandapam of four pillars in the centre, and this touches the ceiling through its elaborately carved and majestic pillars and supports the entire Shanmukha Vilasam.

The main entrance of this temple opens into the first temple prahara known as Sivili Mandapam. It is a series of four long corridors running round the inner second prahara flanked on either side by familiar rows of columns of yalis. The Sivili Mandapam produces a fine effect of symmetry and randeur. There is a Vishnu shrine of Lord Venkatesa on the norther prahara. Shrines to Vishnu withing ancient Saivite temples are common in South India as in Chidambaram, Rameswaram, Perur, Tiruchengode, Sikkil, etc. This Vishnu shrine is hollowed out of the rock itself.

The principal sanctum of this great temple is Subramaniam, the Lord of Senthil. The figure is seen in a standing posture. The principal sanctum has all the full complement of mandapas. The temple Mela Gopuram, a massive structure of nine storeys, is a striking landmark. The stupas at the top are nine in number in consonance with thenumber of storeys as a general rule with such temples. This gopuram is said to have been constructed 350 years ago by Desikamoorthy Swami of the Tiruvaduthurai Math. It is remarkable that from the sixth storey upwards to the ninth, the plaster on the walls is preserved and is beautified with fresco paintings.

According to Mr. C. Subramaniam, an art lover and managing trustee of Muthu Vadivammal Trust, there are four lithic inscriptions of the Pandya times collected together and planted in a line. Two of them belong to Pandya Varaguna Maran of about 875 AD, the third of Pandya Mara Varman of about 1282 AD and the fourth of Vikrama Pandya Deva. The inscriptions of Varaguna speak of his grant of 1,400 gold coins to the temple. There is a mention of a shrine to Nakkira Deva, which speaks highly of the literary advancement of the period.

A little removed from the main shrine and on the northern seashore under a cliff of overhanging hardened sandstone there is a picturesque cave carved out of it, which is famous as Valli's Cave. Two images are installed there, one dedicated to Valli and another to Dattatreya. The king of a clan of hunters and his men had followed the flight of Valli with Muruga, and here they were confronted by the divine consorts who showered their grace upon the pursuers. The frontal shrine has been embellished by a stone mandapam, the walls of which have paintings of Nambi Rajan.

Almost embedded in a rolling high sand dune on the beach lies a remarkable spring known as Skanda Pushparani -- the Nazhik Kinaru. It is a natural phenomenon and is said to have sprung up as Lord Shanmukha planted His lance -- the Vel -- on the spot.

There is a remarkable spring of fresh crystal water in a stone receptacle known as Nazhik Kinaru. It is a foot square and inset with the larger well. Another water source is one of saltish and highly sulphurous smelling and muddy-looking water. This swells up during the day and is pumped out daily so as not to allow it to overflow into the smaller one. A bath in the sea and in this well is considered to be of much spiritual merit.

Except for the sanctum and mahamandapam, the entire temple structure is of recent origin according to researchers.

The utsavar idols of Lord Muruga, with consorts worshipped by Kattabomman are kept at the first prahara in the northern side, which is characteristic of temple iconography of the 19th century. It is said that Kattabomman used to hear the bell sound after the puja was over at the temple by way of a chain of mandapams built along a distance of about 50 miles to his royal seat at Panchalankurichi.

The kumbhabhishekam of the temple, performed once in twelve years, is slated for 5 July 1995 and the temple is being given a facelift. According to Mr. Uvari A. Kirubanidhi, Chairman of the Trustees' Board of the Temple, renovation work costing more than Rs. one crore are under progress. He said that a new dhyana mandapam has been constructed with an outlay of Rs.10 lakkhs adjacent to Valli's Cave. Mr. Kirubanidhi said the temple management has set up a power station to augment the power supply in the town by spending Rs.25 lakh. The beach will be illuminated by installing neon lights and it has been proposed to construct a big choultry in a three-phased manner at an outlay of Rs. 84 lakhs to accommodate the devotees free of cost. Every day 30,000 devotees visit the temple.

THIRUPARAMKUNDRAM MURUGAN

Tirupparankundram, a hill five miles southwest of Madurai, is the fourth pilgrimage site of Muruga. A cave temple dedicated to the element of earth and mentioned in various classical Tamil texts as the 'Southern Himalaya' where the gods assemble, Tirupparankunram is also mentioned in legend as 'the place where the sun and moon abide'. Murugan was married to Devasena upon the hill and for many centuries the Tamil people have considered it the most auspicious place for their own marriages, especially during the time of the Pankuni Uttiram, the festival of marriage held in late March. Besides the fantastic temple to Murugan on the hill, there is also a Muslim shrine dedicated to 'Sekunder' (al-Sikandar or Alexander the Great) who is associated with Murukan by the Muslim pilgrims. "Sikandar was a friend of Murugan at the time when Murugan was King here," they say.

Tirupparankundram is situated three miles southeast of Madurai on the main railway line. It is one of the Aru Padai Veedugal or six sacred places selected by Lord Subrahmanya for his abode. The importance of this temple is that here was celebrated the marriage of Lord Subrahmanya with the daughter of Indra, Devayanai.

Long, long ago, when Lord Subrahmanya was staying at Kanda Verpu, the two daughters of Lord Maha Vishnu, Amrita Valli and Sundara Valli, cherished the desire of becoming the consorts of Subrahmanya. With this aim in mind they both went to Saravana Poigai and commenced austere penance to fulfil their desires.

Pleased with their prayer and worship, Lord Subrahmanya appeared before them and told Amrita Valli, "You will be brought up by Indra as his daughter and I shall marry you in due course." Her younger sister Sundara Valli was also graced with a similar blessing. She was born to sage Sivamuni and brought up by Nambi, the headman of Veddas.

Amrita Valli took the form of a female child and went to Mount Meru, the abode of Indra, and told him, "I am the daughter of Maha Vishnu and the responsibility of looking after me has been entrusted to you." On hearing this, Indra became very happy and directed Airavatam, his white elephant, to take care of the child.

The elephant with all love brought her up and affection and she attained the age of marriage in course of time. Hence she came to be known as Devayanai, one who was brought up by the heavenly elephant of Indra (yānai in Tamil means elephant).

The six sons of sage Parasara were cursed to become fishes in the Saravana Poigai. On request for redemption, these six boys were ordered to pray to Lord Subrahmanya.

When they got his darshan, they could get redemption. It was also made known to them that Lord Subrahmanya would come to Tirupparankunram after vanquishing the demon Surapadma. Anxiously they waited for the arrival of Subrahmanya.

When the mission of Subrahmanva to vanquish Surapadma was over at Tiruchendur, on his way, he came to this spot followed by all the devas and heavenly beings whom he had released from the untold miseries caused by Surapadma.

On his arrival at Tirupparankunram, the sons of Parasara received Subrahmanya and, at their request, he consented to stay there. He at once ordered Viswakarma to construct a beautiful abode for himself, for the devas and for others.

He also suggested to the heavenly architect to build roads and erect a city around them. Indra, the king of the angels, desired to get his daughter Devayanai married to Subrahmanya, as a mark of his gratitude for relieving him and the devas from the depredations of the demon Surapadma.

He expressed his desire to Brahma and Vishnu who were present there. They were only too glad to hear the proposal. When they communicated the desire of Indra to Lord Subrahmanya he readily agreed to it and said: "Devayanai has been praying at Saravana Poigai in the Himalayas for this happy marriage. Now the time has come for its being solemnised." As Subrahmanya agreed to this marriage, Indra sent a messenger to bring his wife Indrani and daughter Devayanai from Mout Meru.

The marriage took place at Tirupparankunram, after the victory of Subrahmanya over Surapadma. All arrangements for marriage were made and the marriage was performed at the Tirupparankunram Temple. All the devas, Siva and Parvati attended the marriage and blessed Subrahmanya and Devayanai. Since then, the temple has become a very famous abode of Subrahmanya.

LORD MURUGAN IN PALANI

Palani Hill Temple and the Idol

Lord Murugan is the deity of the Tamil Land. Palani (Tiru Avinankudi) is the third Padai Veedu. The temple at Palani is an ancient one. It is on an elevation of 1500 feet above sea level. The deity is called Dandayudhapani Swami, the Lord having the staff in his hand. The deity at the sanctum sanctorum is made out of an amalgam of nine minerals popularly called Navabashana. The deity is in a standing position with a baton in his hand. He has the look of a person who has renounced all worldly pomp. He has just a loincloth besides the baton. He is a mute messenger of the great precept 'Renounce all to reach Me'. The icon is unique in the whole world. It was made by Siddha Bhogar by combining nine poisonous substances (navabashana). Murugan signifies beauty and Lord Murugan of Kurinji land is the god of Beauty and Youth.

The Legendary, Historical and Spiritual Significance of the Hill Temple

There is a legend how Lord Murugan came to this sacred spot. Narada Muni, a sage, brought a golden mango to the divine court of Lord Siva when Lord Siva was seated with his consort Parvati and His children Lord Vinayakar and Lord Subrahmanya. Narada gave the fruit to Lord Siva and implored Him to eat since it was a rare, miraculous Jñanapalam, the fruit of wisdom. As a loving husband, Lord Siva gave it to Parvati and requested her to eat. As a loving mother, she wanted to give the fruit to her children. As there was only one fruit and it should not be cut, they announced a contest and said that the winner would be given the fruit. Whoever completes one round of the globe first will be given the fruit.

Lord Subrahmanya mounted His peacock to go around the world. Lord Vinayakar circumambulated around His parents, symbolising the world, and got the fruit. On return, Lord Subrahmanya found that He was cheated. In anger, He renounced His family and came to this spot to settle forever. Lord Siva and Parvati came to pacify Him. They said, "Pazham Nee" ('You are the Fruit'). Hence the name Palani is a popular syncopation of the two words mentioned.

The presiding deity, Lord Dandayudhapani Swami, is the son of Lord Siva and son-in-law of Vishnu. He has other names such as Kulandaivelan, Balasubrahmanyan, Shanmukhan, Devasenapati, Swaminathan, Vallimanalan, Devayanaimanalan, Palaniandavar, Kuriñjiandavar, Arumugan, Jñana Pandita, Saravanan, Sevar Kodiyon, etc. Tamils, Keralites, Bengalis, Sri Lankans, Malaysians, Fijians, Africans, Australians and Americans to name a few come here to worship Lord Muruga. Thus Murugan worship cuts across provincial boundaries and national frontiers.

Cheaman Perumal, a ruler of Kerala, built the main temple perhaps in the 7th Century AD. The Nayaks built the Navaranga Mandapam which is a fascinating stone structure incorporated by four pillars and endowed with nine bays. The other portions of the temple have been built by the Pandiya kings, besides a number of local heads, religious groups and individual devotees.

Pujas

There are six pujas every day. At 5 am the Lord gives Visvarupa Darshana. The first puja is Vizhapuja at 7:15 am followed by Kala sandhi at 8am, Uchikalam at 12 noon, Sayaraksha at 6 pm and Rakkalam at 8 pm.

Golden Chariot

The Golden Chariot goes round the praharam on the top of the hill in a ceremonious procession along with nadaswaram, Tiruppukazh music and other temple paraphenalia at 7 pm on all Karttikai days and as per the request of the devotees. The illuminated Golden Car is a veritable fairyland.

Festivals

Panguniuttiram, Thai Pucam, Kanda Sasthi, Agni Nakshatram are the major festivals. Vaikasi Vishakam, Tirukkarttikai and other festivals are also celebrated.

Kavadi & Pada Yatra

Devotees from various places bring different types of kavadis and offerings to the Lord by pada yatra or foot pilgrimage, the most popular time being Thai Pucam.

Bhogar Shrine

The Bhogar Shrine is in the southwestern corridor of the hill temple. Siddhar Bhogar created the icon (the amalgam of nine minerals) and did daily services. He lived long ago, perhaps 3000 BC. A medical prodigy as he was, he could prepare the amalgam on nine medicinal minerals in proper proportion. In this shrine, pujas are offered to Navadurga, Bhuvaneswari and Maragatha Lingam that were worshipped by Bhogar. It is said that there is a subterranean tunnel linking the shrine with the sanctum sanctorum through which Bhogar is said to go to the main idol and perform daily pujas as he is said to be only in nirvikalpa samadhi.

Pañchamirtam & Rakkala Sandanam

Lord Muruga is Abhisekapriya (fond of anointment), especially Pañchamirta (fruit jam having medicinal properties). The Devasthanam prepares pañchamirta, vibhuti and other items which are sold for reasonable price. Like Pañchamirta, the Rakkala Sandanam (sandal paste placed on the deity during the night) has special significance and sanctity.

Haulage Winch

To climb the hill, there are also winch trolleys in addition to the traditional route of 697 steps.

The Hundial

The Hundial is the cash collection box. It is the backbone of the economy of the temple. Palani Dandayudhapani Swami Devasthanam has the honour of being the temple of highest income in Tamil Nadu and second only in all India after Tirupati.

Annadanam (Offering meals to poor pilgrims)

Giving annadanam at the hill temple at 12:30 pm is a useful scheme for the benefit of the devotees. If a donor deposits Rs 25,000, the interest of it will be utilised for annadanam on a particular day as per the request of the donor.

Tonsure Ceremony

Tonsure ceremony is a special feature of Palani. Many devotees of all ages perform tonsure ceremony at Palani.

Constituent Temples

Tiruvavinankudi, Periyanagaki Amman temple, Shanmuganadhi group of temples, Idumban Hills, Vishnu temple, Pada Vinayagar temple, 108 Vinayagar shrines around the hill temple, the Kuriñjiandawar temple (Kodaikkanal), the Velappar temple aat Poomparai (Kodaikkanal) are the important constituent temples adminstered by Palani Dandayudhapani Swami Devasthanam.

Management

This temple is under the control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. There is a Joint Commissioner/Executive Officer to look after the day-to-day administration of Palani temples. He works in close association with the Chairman, Board of Trustees and other members.

Accommodation

The Devasthanam has constructed pilgrims' resthouses, single, double, deluxe and air-conditioned rooms as well as cottages. Reasonable rates are collected from the devotees.

Transportation

Palani is reached by just three hours drive from any of the nearest airports: Coimbatore, Madurai and Tiruchy. It is an important railway station on the Dindugal-Coimbatore line. The nearest tourist information office is at Madurai. There is a Palani Devasthanam Information Centre at the Palani bus stand.

Shopping

Panchamirtam, Vibhuti, souvenirs of Murugan, toys, handicrafts, pictures of the Lord and publications of the Devasthanam are among the souvenirs one can bring home from Palani.

Daily Worship:

Seven worship services are carried out each day here. The day commences with the Viswaroopa darisanam in the morning. The concluding worhsip service involves a procession of the deity in a golden palanquin in the temple and the palliyarai sevai.

Panguni Uttram is celebrated for 10 days as the annual Bhramotsavam. This festival is celebrated only at Tiruvavinankudi in the foothills to Muthukumarar the festival deity here.The Ther Thiruvizha is held on the last day of this festival. Offerings of Kaveri water brought from Kodumudi by thousands of devotees in kaavadis are made to the deity.

Agni Nakshathram is celebrated in the month of Chittirai and Vaikaasi.During this time, thousands of pilgrims circumambulate the hill. Vaikaasi Visaakam is celebrated for 10 days.

Skanda sashti is celebrated for 7 days. Soorasamharam is enacted on the last day of this festival in which both Chinna Kumarar the festival image of the hill temple and Muthukumaraswami of Thiruvavinankudu participate.

Kaartikai Deepam is celebrated for 10 days. In addition Kaartikai asterism in each month is celebrated with a procession of a golden chariot in the hill temple. Thai poosam is also celebrated for 10 days here.