Namakkal is famous for a life size Hanuman Statue(Anjaneynar) carved out of a single stone. The city lies at the foot of a huge rock, upon which there is a fort. The name Namakkal immediately brings to mind ‘Namakkal Anjaneyar’ – the temple of Hanuman at Namakkal. The idol of Hanuman is 18 feet or so in height, and stands under open sky. Opposite to the Hanuman is a temple of Narasimha.
It is said that Lord Anjaneya brought the Salakrama Hills from Nepal as instructed by his guru Narasimha Murthy and named it as Namakkal. The Lord presents Himself in Vishwarupa Dharshan with His hands worshipping in the open terrace, exposing Himself to natural calamities like flood, hot sun and storm. It is believed that He keeps on growing height wise. The people of Namakkal pray to the Lord for blessing them with good sense, health, boldness, success, wealth and fine speech.
Hanuman played a vital role in Lord Sri Rama’s kingdom. He had served Lord Sri Ram in all the ways, as a servant in personal life, as a Minister in political operations, as a knight in his military and etc., Hence, he decorated himself with silk cloths, gold and diamond ornaments and short sword suitable to all his roles and responsibilities. With the same dresses, jewels and decorations, Sri Hanuman came to Namakkal and serving the Lord Sri Narashima.
You could realize this by having Dharsan of Sri Hanuman in this temple. Sri Hanuman is decorated with golden Crown; big diamond Earrings, lengthy gold Garlands and Chains; Fingers decorated with rings; wrists decorated ornaments; Hip covered with golden belt; a short curved sword in right hand side of hip; ankles clubbed with gold rings; such a nice huge and beautiful deity of Sri Hanuman, we couldn’t see anywhere in this world.
One more specialty of this temple is as follows: Lord Sri Hanuman don’t like roof over him, would like to stay in open sky. In past centuries, many people tried many times to build roof for Sri Hanuman, but Lord Hanuman didn’t accept it. For one of the devotees, in dream, Sri Hanuman declared as follows: “My supreme master Lord Sri Narashimha stays inside cave. There is no roof for him as Hill is the natural roof by itself. Since, my master doesn’t have the roof, I don’t want to stay under the roof. Let me live in open sky and do the service for Lord Narashimha for ever”.
Pallava kingdom built many halls, compound walls and numerous stone sculptures in this temple, but couldn’t build a roof for Sri Hanuman. This is the proof that Lord Sri Hanuman didn’t allow to build a roof for him. Even ten years before, temple renovation completed with huge budget, but the square portion of where Sri Hanuman stands, left for open sky.
Devotees comes day and night and do worship to Sri Hanuman in all aspects. With the great Anugraham of Lord Hanuman, they get relief for all the problems. Devotees surrender to Sri Hanuman, who always takes care of his devotees with special attachment.
Devotees are coming from all over the World to have Dharsan of this temple. Devotees offer sacred tulasi garlands, sweet-scented betel garlands and flower garlands for decorating Sri Hanuman. Devotees offer milk, ghee, honey, sugar and nuts with full of devotion.
This temple for Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi is situated in a small village called Ayyavadi around 6 kms from Kumbakonam.
Located just 500 mts from Uppiliappan temple, this village was once called as Aivar Padi.According to legends, the 5 Pandavas visited this place, kept their weapons under a tree, worshipped Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi and went around in the forests. As the five Pandavas worshipped here, it is beleived that the place was called as Aivar Padi which later changed as Ayyavadi.
Lord Vishnu took the Narasimha Avatar to kill the demon king Hiranyakasipu who is the father of Prahalada. After being so furiously fought with so much of power to kill the king, the anger and the fierce of Narasimha didnt come down. With so much of hyper Narasimha couldn’t make out between good and bad people and started disturbing everyone and no one could control him. People prayed Lord Shiva to save them.
Lord Shiva took a new and more powerful form or Avatar as Sarabeswara, with lion’s face and eagle’s wings. Shakthi accompanied Lord Shiva in the form of Sri Mahaprathyangira Devi seated on one of the wings of Sri Sarabeswara. Sarabeswarar went and subsided Narasimha’s anger to bring back peace. Hence both Sri Mahaprathyangira Devi and Sri Sarabeswara are beleived to be more powerful than any other powers.
In Ramayana, Indrajit, son of Ravana performed a Yaga called “Nigumbalai Yagam”, worshipping Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi. It is beleived that from this Ayyavadi he performed the Yaga. If he had completed the Yaga successfully, he would have got the powers to kill Rama. But somehow it was spoiled by Lakshmana and Anjaneya before completion. Here the Devi is seated on the chariot with 4 lions, 8 arms with weapons possessing Lion’s face.
Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi’s worship will take away all evil forces and unsolvable problems from one’s life. In this temple Homams are conducted every Full moon day and No moon day, after which huge volumes of Red Chillies are offered to the Goddess. Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi is an important Goddess in Shakthi worship. There is a Gayatri Mantra too for worshipping Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi. Prathyankira and her moola manthram was discovered by 2 rishis in ancient times – they were Angiras and Prathyankiras, in whose honour the Goddess assumed the name of Prathyankira. She is also known as Aparajitha.
Dhanwanthari, the God of Life and Medicine, and one of the rare temples in the whole world was consecrated during 1977 April 26 at the heart of Coimbatore City in The Arya Vadiya Chikitisalayam campus. Built following the traditional architectural science of Vasthu, Dhanwanthari Temple has Lord Dhanwanthari, the God of medicine, as the main deity and other dub-deities Durga / Bhagavathy, Sri Ayyappan, Hanuman, Brahmarkshas, Nagaraj, Uma Maheshwarar, Lord Siva, Muruga, Ganapathy and Navagrahas. Lord Dhanwanthari was consecrated in the month of Medom (Chitra in Tamil) under the Punarthom, by Sri Kalpuzha Hareeswaran Nambudiripad under the chief guidance of Tantrika RatnamKalpuzha Divakaran Namboodiripad.
Dhanwanthiri Mandir stands proud in the heart of coimbatore city, in Arya vaidaya pharmacy campus,with the credit of being one of the rare temples devoted to Lord Dhanwanthiri in the whole world,The temple has come a long way from the year 1975, Since it is”Shadaadhara Pratishta (ceremonial fixing up of 6 adharas or support in the sanctum sanatorium,with recital of mantras and done by the tantri , the chief priest. and from 1977 when the idols were consecrated and established with the inauguration of the temple.
Lord Dhanwanthiri is the Upasanamoorthy (worshipped Lord) of Vaidyas(AYURVEDA Physicians), and this temple was initiated as to give a spirituals background to the Ayurvedic tradition of treatment in the Aryavaidya Chitsalayam. Thewarrier family with its rich Ayurvedic tradition,finely manages the temple along with the Aryavaidya Pharmacy Created much according to the traditional architectural science of Vaasthu, the Dhanwanthiri temple has lordDhanwanthiri the god of medicine as the main deity as well as other sub deities adorning the power of the temple.
Dhanwanthiri the God of Life and medicine was consecrated in the temple on 1977 April 25 in the month of Medomunder the star of punarthom by Sri Kalpuzha Hareeswaran Nambudiripad undre the chief guidance of Tantrika RatnamKalpuzha divakaran . The other Gods and Goddesses who are sub deities in the dhanwanthiri Mandir are Durga, Bhagavathy, SreeAyyappan, Hanuman, Bramarakshas , Nagaraja,Uma maheswar, Lord shiva, Muruga,Ganapathy and Navagrahas,all the installations of Sub –Deities can be considered as luminous constellation surrounding the glory of main Deity, LordDhanwantari. Thus Adding to the sanctity of the temple atmosphere. Though the temple started functioning to provide a religious solace and serene atmosphere to those under treatment at the Chikitsalayam it spreads its wings of fame and influence to all the rest of the world. And today it stays renowned ,accepting and blessing pilgrims from all over the world.
Dhanwanthiri is the Adhishtana Devata (presiding Deity) of Ayurveda, the ancient science of life and he is considered to be an Avatar or incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The legend goes like this. Once Due to curse from saint, the God who are considered eternal ,started aging and their supreme position was being challenged. At the instance of their GuruBrihaspathy the God Decide to obtain an elixir medicine by churning the ocean milk. At the task was hard between them, the God requested the Asuras( Demons) to aid them in the effort ,promising them half of the benefits acquired. They churned the ocen making the Mandara Mountain as the churning rod and vasuki the great serpent, the rope. Lord Vishnu took the form of gigantic tortoise(kurma) to support the mountain Mandara.
It was Lord Dhanwantari who rose from the ocean of milk with the pot of Amrita(Ambrosia) in his one hand. It was lord Vishnu incarnated and had divine srichakra ( wheel), Sankh(Conch) jaluka(leech which cures of impure blood)along with ambrosia in this four hands.there is a female form of Dhanwanthari too. Worshipped in some temples. Lord vishnu had take the form of charming enchantress mohini, when the Asuras snatched the elixir, thus depriving the Gods of it Thismohini who retored the power of eternity to the gods, is the female form of lord Dhanwanthiri and he is also considered the physician of Gods and believed to have brought the science of medicine to earth. Thus LordDhanwanthiri is regarded as the Lord Of Ayurveda.
The image of Lord Dhanwanthiri according to the religious texts is with four hands, upper right hand holding the chakra, upper left hand with the conch, lower right hand with the leech and the lower left hand holding the pot of elixir,Going back in time, we hear an interesting st ory that idol sculpted in stone for installation at this temple of healing had a minor difference to it. The Amiritha pot got exchanged to the places of the leech and the leech adorned the down left hand of the idol. An expert advice from the astrologer revealed a most surprising miracle that it was the reading was that this was the form in which the founder of this temple ,Arya Vaidyan Sri.Ramavariar and had pictures in mind and prayed to lord Dhanwanthiri and it was that glorious figure that got engraved in the Idol Too .It was decided that there is no problem in the consecration of the idols. Thus the specialty in the idol of main Deity.
The story becomes even more interesting when we know that this idol was the second one sculpted for its purpose as the first idol built with all right proportions otherwise had Dharaanaalam to fit in the Sanctum Sanatorium. That idol now stands at the entrance to the main block of the Chikitsalayam.
Among the myriad temples in and around Kumabakonam and Mayavaram Kalyanasundarar temple Thirumananjeri is a famous Prarthana sthala. It is believed that unmarried boy or girl will enter into wedlock if they propitiate the presiding deity Kalyanasundarar and his divine consort- Kokilambal.
There is a popular belief that unmarried men and women will get married by worshipping the Lord and his consort. All the pooja items which is required to propitiate the deities are available inside the temple. But there are shops adjoining the temple who sell the pooja items.
Prarthana can be done on any day and the timings are 7.30 am – 1 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. – 8.30 p.m. There are many unmarried men and women who are grouped to propitiate the deities. The priests conduct the rituals precisely and the pooja with the reverence. Rathi and Manmadhan were united in wedlock in Thirumananjeri.
One should visit Thirumananjeri only after completing their visits to other places. This temple should be the last leg in their tour. Faith can move mountains. Reposing faith in the deities will do wonders. Unmaried men and women who prayed for their wedding should compulsorily visit Thirumanajeri after their wedding and follow the ritual as ordained by the priests.
There is a separate shrine for Rahu of the Navagraha. The childless will get a progeny if they worship him thus called Mangale Rahu and worshipping him consecutively on three New Moon days will remove the malefice effects of Navagraha.
Among the myriad temples in and around Kumabakonam and Mayavaram Kalyanasundarar temple Thirumananjeri is a famous Prarthana sthala.
It is believed that unmarried boy or girl will enter into wedlock if they propitiate the presiding deity Kalyanasundarar and his divine consort- Kokilambal.
To bless the devout multitude on earth Lord Shiva and Parvathi got married in five different types. The celestial wedding that took place in this sacred spot was performed according to the sastras followed by human beings.
Unmarried spouse should buy one set of archanai thattu/bag; there are two places where you can buy this thattu; there are ten shops just outside the temple which sell this thattu at Rs.80 for boys and Rs.90 for girls [because manjal kayiru is added] containing 2 garlands, 2 coconuts, one lemon, vetrilai paaku, kalkandu; the same thattu is available inside the temple also at Govt (HR&CE Dept)-fixed price of Rs.40 & 45 sold by an HR&CE employee; always buy it inside the temple in Tanjore temples.
As soon as you enter the Kalyanasundareswarar sannithi, light the dheepams first and then wait for the next batch; only girls and boys concerned are seated inside the enclosure and those accompanying should sit around this enclosure; couples who come after marriage to complete the rituals and the parents (of boys/girls who are unable to come in person) also can sit inside the enclosure; if you are parent(s) inform the priest as soon as you enter the enclosure.
The priests brief you first regarding the Do’s and Don’ts; then collect all the garlands and the archana tickets first; they keep all garlands at the feet of the god, return one garland each to the spouse to be worn, parents must keep it in their hands; sangalpam is done and the thattu is taken away; parents should tell the boy/girl’s gothram/name/star and not theirs; archana follows, coconuts are broken, thattus are returned after aarthi as usual; drop Rs.10 or so in the thattu for the priests.
Once upon a time, Parvathy wanted to marry Shiva in an earthly marriage with all religious rites on the earth; Brahma, Vishnu and Indira came to earth as acharya in Thiruvaduthurai; while playing chokkattan (similar to Thaayam), Vishnu won and his sister Parvathy laughed aloud; Lord Shiva was angry and said “Ada pasuve!” and Parvathy was born as a cow on earth; Vishnu became her herder at Therazhundur; Barathamuni had no children and he prayed the Lord; he was given permission to remove her curse and so he converted her cow shape to a feminine figure at Thiruvavaduthurai; she grew up at Kuthalam alias Thiruthuruthi in Bharathamuni’s house; Lord Shiva came to marry her as promised earlier and Barathamuni received him at Ethirkolpadi; Shiva performed all the marriage rites / velvi at Velvikkudi before marriage; then he married Parvathy at Thirumanancheri. Shiva hence gets the name ‘Pasupathy’.
1.Therazhundur (Vedhapureeswarar – Soundaryanayagi) – 11km from Mayuram.
2. Thiruvaduthurai.
3. Kuthalam.
4. Ethirkolpadi.
5. Velvikkudi.
6. Thirumanancheri.
The following story also keeps floating around: Two girls promised each other that their son and daughter would marry in future; one got a beautiful girl while the other gave birth to a turtle-shaped boy; former refused the marriage; the latter appealed to the Lord; he converted the turtle to a handsome young man; marriage went off well; so goes the story; hence the belief is that the physical disabilities of the spouse will be either corrected by the Lord or overlooked by the other spouse; hence the marriage obstacles would be removed once you come and pray here.
To bless the devout multitude on earth Lord Shiva and Parvathi got married in five different types. The celestial wedding that took place in this sacred spot was performed according to the sastras followed by human beings.
When Shiva and Parvathi were in a happy mood in their abode in MT Kailash a strange idea struck Parvathi. Instead of the usual fight that separates the couple after which they unite in wedlock , Parvathi thought it correct and logical to request Shiva to marry her another time.
Parvathi requested Shiva to marry her again which he accepted with joy and also informed the time of their wedding. Parvathi became impatient as there was a fairly long time for the marriage. She became callous and cold shouldered Shiva.
Shiva watched her behavior and in a fit of anger cursed her to be separated from him and take the form of a cow. Parvathi incarnated as a cow and roamed in the jungle. She was always thinking of her spouse while loitering in Asukadau( forest) he divine cow -Parvathi spotted a Lingam and showered it with milk from its udder. Shiva was overjoyed to see the devotion of his consort.
Shiva happy with Parvathi’s (cow)deeds and granted Mukthi to her Thiruvavaduthurai. He was contemplating as to how Parvathi could be born on earth so that he can marry her quickly.
Bharatha Maharishi was conducting a yaga and Shiva thought it apt to make Parvathi appear from the yaga kundam. Thus a divine damsel emerged from the yaga kundam and the sage Bharatha was happy to see her and considered as a holy girl. He was worried about finding a suitable groom for her. The Lord appeared in his dream and assured him that he -Shiva would marry her as she is none other than Parvathi. Shiva also wished that the sage should perform the wedding in a grand manner.
Lord Shiva appeared in the dream of Sage Bharatha, that he will enter into wedlock with the celestial who appeared from Sage Kundam.
Thus the Sage meticulously looked after the wedding arrangements. The divine wedding took place in Thirumananjeri which was witnessed by celestial beings. Since the Thirumanam (Wedding) took place at Thirumananjeri, this place is called Thirumananjeri.
In the Tamil month of Chithirai on Poosam star; Shiva’s Thirumana Mahotsavam.
Marundeeswarar Temple is a legendary temple located in the breezy area of Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai adjacent to the beach of Bay of Bengal. This is the biggest temple in Thiruvanmiyur. This is a magnificent temple built for Lord Shiva, in his incarnation of Lord Marundeeswarar. Lord Marundeeswarar is said to have the power to heal. This is one of the great Shiva Temples of Tamil Nadu.
Lord Marundeeswarar is known so because he taught sage Agastya about some magical medicine. Since then The Marundeeswarar temple has been a place of worship for people with diseases and various problems with their health. It is said that even The Sage Valmiki, who wrote The Ramayana, came here to The Marundeeswarar temple to worship The Lord. Sage Valmiki was said to be blessed here. After this incident, this place was to be known as Thiruvalmikiyur, after a long period of time, the name gradually changed to Thiruvanmiyur.
There is a place present in Thiruvanmiyur called Valmiki Nagar in his honour. There is also a temple built for Sage Valmiki in the middle of the East Coast Road. The temple is built very close to the Marundeeswarar temple. It came as a surprise that the builders of the ECR (East Coast Road) had even considered demolition of the temple of Sage Valmiki in order to complete the project (of building the ECR). The high court of Tamil Nadu then directed that the temple be in its place and not to disturb it.
The lingam for which Lord Hanuman performed pooja, The lingam(meenakshisundareswarar) that cured the curse of Lord Indra, the Lingam for which Saint Bharadwaja performed pooja are present here. Markandeyar performed a penance and prayed to lord Shiva here, Lord Brahma is believed to have conducted a festival here for lord Shiva.
Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple or Meenakshi Amman Temple’ is a historic Hindu temple located in the holy city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva (in the form of Sundareswarar or Beautiful Lord) and his consort, Goddess Parvati (in the form of Meenakshi). The temple forms the heart and lifeline of the 2500 year old city of Madurai. This temple has a stunning architecture and a significant testimony for Vishwakarma Brahmins for their master architecture in sculpting this temple. The complex houses 14 magnificent Gopurams or towers including two golden Gopurams for the main deities, that are elaborately sculptured and painted. The temple is a significant symbol for the Tamil people, and has been mentioned since antiquity in Tamil literature, though the present structure is believed to have been built only recently in the early 17th century. The temple was a frontrunner in the election for the modern seven wonders of the world for its architectural importance.] In 2009, the temple was selected one of the Seven Wonders of India by NDTV.
The divine marriage where brother Vishnu hands his sister Parvati to Shiva (from left, Vishnu, Meenakshi, Shiva) According to Hindu legend, Shiva came down to earth in the form of Sundareswarar to marry Meenakshi, an incarnation of [Parvati]. Parvati had earlier descended to earth in the form of a small child in response to the great penance of Malayadwaja Pandya, the ruler of Madurai. After growing up to adulthood, she began ruling the city. The Lord appeared on earth and proposed to her. The marriage was supposed to be the biggest event on earth, with the whole earth gathering near Madurai. Vishnu, the brother of Meenakshi, was traveling to preside over the marriage from his holy abode at Vaikuntam. Due to a divine play, he was tricked by god [Indra] and delayed on the way. Meanwhile, the marriage was presided over by a local god [Koodal Azhaghar]. This is celebrated anually as ‘Chitirai Thiruvizha’ in Madurai. During the period of Nayakar rule in Madurai,in order to link the ‘Azhakar Thiruvizha’ and the ‘Chitirai Thiruvizha’ a story was added that Vishnu was angered and swore he’d never cross ‘Vaigai’ Later he was pacified by the other lords. Hence born the ‘Azhaghar Thiruvizha’.
The history of the original structure is not properly known, but Tamil literature speaks about the temple for the last couple of millennia. [Thirugnanasambandar], the famous Hindu saint of [Shaiva] philosophy, has mentioned this temple as early as the 7th century, and describes the Lord as Aalavai Iraivan. The temple was believed to have been sacked by the infamous Muslim invader Malik Kafur in 1310and all the ancient elements were destroyed. The initiative to rebuild the structure was taken by [Arya Natha Mudaliyar] , the Prime Minister of the first Nayak of Madurai (1559-1600 A.D.), the founder of ‘Poligar System’. Then came the most valuable contributions of Thirumalai Nayak circa 1623 to 1659. He took considerable interest in erecting the Vasantha Mandapa of the temple complex.
The temple structure
The temple is the geographic and ritual center of the ancient city of Madurai. The temple walls, streets and finally the city walls (ancient) were built around the temple in concentric squares. Ancient Tamil classics mention that the temple was the center of the city and the streets happened to be radiating out like the lotus and its petals. It is one of the few temples in Tamil Nadu to have four entrances facing four directions.
The complex is in around 45 acres (180,000 m2) and the temple is a massive structure measuring 254 by 237 meters. The temple is surrounded by 12 towers, the tallest of which, the famous Southern tower, rises to over 170 ft (52 m) high.
Shrines
This temple is a complex of many deities. The Shiva shrine lies at the centre of the complex, suggesting that the ritual dominance of the goddess developed later. Outside the Shrine, lies huge scultpture of Lord Ganesh carved of single stone and there is a shrine for a giant Ganesh temple, called the Mukuruny Vinayakar. This idol is believed to have been found during an excavation process to dig the temple lake. The Meenkashi shrine is on the left of the Shiva shrine and is of sculpturally less valuable than the Shiva shrine.
Velli Ambalam
This is one of the five royal courts( Shabai or Shabha) of lord shiva velli(tamil)=Silver Ambalam(tamil)=Stage or altar.This Shiva shrine also consists of an unusual sculpture of the Hindu god Nataraja. This massive Nataraja sculpture is enclosed in a huge silver altar and hence called Velli Ambalam (Silver abode). Famous Hindu marquee and a dancing form of Shiva that normally has his left foot raised, has his right foot raised in this temple. According to the purana, this is on the request of the Rajasekara Pandya king a sincere devotee of the lord. Asked the Lord to change his position, as he felt that always keeping a single foot raised will pose enormous stress on that, based on his personal experiments in dancing. Other four courts of Lord Shiva in Tamil Nadu: Shaba(court) Place Deity made of Pon Ambalam Porshabhai Chidambaram Gold Chitra Shabhai Courtallam or Kutrallam Fresco picutre Thamira Shabhai Thirnelveli copper Rathna Shabhai Gems The lake Porthamarai Deity of Lord Shiva Porthamarai Kulam, the sacred pond inside the temple, is a very holy site for devotees. People go around the 165 ft (50 m) by 120 ft (37 m)[2] lake before entering the main shrine. The name means the Pond with the Golden Lotus, and the lotus that grows in it has a golden color. According to legend, Lord Shiva promised a stork that no fish or other marine life would grow here and thus no marine animals are found in the lake. In the Tamil legends, the lake is supposed to be a judge for judging a worth of a new literature.
Thus, authors place their works here and the poorly written works are supposed to sink and the scholastic ones are supposed to float.
Thousand Pillar Hall
Thousand Pillar hall of Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple was built with the oldest Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunleveli as a model. The Aayiram Kaal Mandapam or Thousand Pillar Hall contains 985 (instead of 1000) carved pillars. It is considered culturally important and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. The Thousand Pillared Hall was built by Ariyanatha Mudaliar in 1569. He was the Prime Minister and General of Viswanatha Nayak of the first Nayaka of Madurai (1559-1600 A.D.). He was also the founder of Poligar System, the quasi-feudal organization of the country, which was divided into multiple palayams or small provinces and each palayam was ruled by a palayakkarar or a petty chief. At the entrance of the Mandapam, we can still see his statue; the majestic pose of Ariyanatha Mudaliar seated on a beautiful horse-back which flanks one side of the entrance to the temple. The statue is still periodically crowned with garlands by modern worshippers. Each pillar is carved and is a monument of the Dravidian sculpture. There is a Temple Art Museum in the hall where icons, photographs, drawings, and other exhibits of the 1200 years old history are displayed. Just outside this mandapam, towards the west, are the Musical Pillars. Each pillar, when struck, produces a different musical note. The kalyana mandapa, to the south of the pillared hall, is where the marriage of Shiva and Parvati is celebrated every year during the Chithirai Festival in mid-April.
The most important festival associated with the temple is the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam (The divine marriage of Meenkashi) that is celebrated in April every year. During that one month period, in which most Tamil Nadu temples celebrate their annual festivals, there are a number of events including the Ther Thiruvizhah (Chariot festival) and Theppa Thiruvizhah (Float festival) are celebrated.
Apart from this, major Hindu festivals like Navrathri, Shivrathri are celebrated in a grand manner. Like most Shakti temples in Tamil Nadu, the Fridays during the Tamil months of Aadi (July 15 – Aug 17) and Thai (Jan 15 to Feb 15) are popularly celebrated with thousands of devotees thronging to the temple.
Saniswaran living with two wife and two child. The only place availalable saniswaran with family in the Universal. He also called as mangala saniswaran.
THIRUNARAIYUR OR Nachiarkoil is well known as one of the 108 Vaishnavite Divyadesams, sanctified by Thirumangai Azhwar in 110 verses in his “Periya Thirumozhi” and for its Kal (stone) Garuda Sevai. But it also houses two famous Siva temples. One of them is Siddheswaram, where Lord Siva, known as Siddhanathaswami, is enshrined and the other is the temple for Ramanathaswami, the presiding deity in the island temple at Rameswaram.
Temples dedicated to the Goddess Saraswati are seldom found in India.
There are very few temples in India dedicated to Saraswathi, the Goddess of learning. Though we see Her in collaboration with other deities in most other temples, a shrine dedicated to the Goddess Herself is very rare. Located in the Mayiladuthurai-Tiruvarur rail route and one and a half kilometres away from the village Poonthottam is the temple dedicated to Saraswathi – Koothanur.
Legend says that Koothanur is also associated with the mingling of the three revered rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi. These rivers merge here as the Harisol river or Arasalaru colloquially. It is believed that Ganga attained Lord Shiva here. Ganga was separated from Him in order to facilitate Lord Shiva marry Parvathi and give birth to Muruga, who would thence kill the demon, Tarakasuran.
On the other hand, Saraswathi who had an ego clash with Brahma was born on earth. After worshiping Lord Shiva both Brahma and Saraswathi got emancipation. Saraswathi could mingle as a river in Harisol and was also allowed to have a shrine on the bank of the river as the Goddess of learning. However Brahma, who was already with another curse, was deprived of a shrine. Eventually, after prayers Lord Shiva allowed him to have poojas in the rituals performed towards departed souls. Thus Brahma Pooja has come to be associated with rituals, and the rituals if performed here have a special significance.
The story associated with the river Yamuna is that she was tempted by the acts of Lord Krishna with the gopikas. Subject to a curse she prayed for emancipation and came as a river here.
History tells us a different story. The origin of the word Koothanur was a village gifted by Raja Raja Chola II to the songster Ottakkootthan The temple has attained popularity by gaining the status of the only temple dedicated to Saraswathi. Devotees throng the place praying for their children’s education, liberation from previous births by taking a bath in the Triveni Sangamam.
Bhaskarar, who wrote the Sri Lalitha Sahasranama Bhashyam, said that only if a person has done good deeds in previous births he would be able to admire the Goddess. The Devi Mahatmiyam praises Her as follows: Clad in a white garment, seated in Padmasana in a white lotus, holding a book in the left hand, a veena in the right hand, with eyes expressing compassion and the third eye revealing knowledge, along with the lips rendering a warm smile.
Koothanur is a small village located near Poonthottam in the heart of the Temple belt of Tamil Nadu. This village is especially famous for the Saraswati Temple and its association with Ottakoothar, the Tamil poet.
Ottakkoothar rushed to the spot upon hearing of this incident, and recognising the identity of the courtesan, the poet prostrated before her seeking her blessings. Only after this incident, the fame of Ottakkoothar spread throughout the Tamil land. In fact, the name Koothanur derives from the poet’s name Ottakoothar.
The uniqueness of this temple lies in the fact that it is dedicated exclusively to the Goddess of learning Saraswati. Although there are shrines to Saraswati in most Shaivite temples as well as niche shrines to Brahma, temples dedicated exclusively to Brahma or Saraswati are very rare.
It is believed that the poet Ottakoothar erected the shrine very early in the 2nd Millennium. He is also said to have celebrated Vijaya Dasami, the day following the 9-day Navaratri festival in the Tamil month of Purattasi. There are several stone inscriptions, validating the antiquity of the temple.
On full moon nights, children are brought here in droves and the word “Om” is written on their tongues, with a stick dipped in honey. It is believed that such children blossom into fine orators, poets and musicians.
PRAYERS WITH ENGLISH MEANING
Saraswathi Namasthubhyam, varade Kama roopini,
Vidhyarambham karishyami, sidhir bhavathu me sada.
"My salutations to Goddess Saraswathi,
Who can take any form,
Who is the bestower of all boons,
And I start learning now,
With the prayer to her,
To make it very effective."
She has the swan as her vehicle. Just as the swan separates milk from water, She sees only the good part of Her devotees and blesses them. The temple buzzes with activity during Saraswathi Pooja and Vijayadashami. Apart from these Poojas are performed daily in the morning at 9.30 (Kalasandhi), evening at 6.30 (Sayarakshai) and in the night at 8.30 (Arthajamam). The other deities in the temple are Valampuri Vinayakar, Brahma, Nagaraja, Muruga, The Swan and Narthana Vinayakar, the last one being a self originated idol.
The kumbhabhishekan was conducted in the temple in 1941, 1968 ,1987 and 2003. Great people like Ottakoothar, Ovathakoothar, and Purushotham Bharathi have worshipped here. The grace of the Shankaracharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt is being bestowed on the temple authorities.
Here is a rare example in Kuthanoor, Tamil Nadu.The only dedicated temple in India.Near to karikal.Temple dedicated for goddess saraswathi devi.
Sri Amirtha kadesvarar temple is located in Thirukadiyur which is near Mayiladuthurai in Nagappatinam district in the state of Tamilnadu, India. It is around twenty kilometers from Mayiladuthurai. It is situated in the chidambaram- Nagappatinam East Coast Road.
There are a few temples that are well known for the Lord and his Consort and Tirukkadaiyur is one among them.The Amritaghateswarar - Abirami Temple of Tirukkadaiyur is associated with the legends of Markandeya and Abirami patter. When devas and Asuras churned parkadal to get Amirtham , they forgot to Worship Lord Ganesa (Sri vinayagayar), Lord Ganesa stole the pot of Amirtham and kept at Thirukadiyur, it is believed that the Sivalingam in this temple is made of Amirtha Kudam . Since the pot of Amirtham was hidden here, the lord Ganesa is called “Kailavarna pilliyar”. Markandeya, son of sage Mrikandu was predicted to live for only 16 years. As advised by his father, Markandeya worshipped Amritaghateswarar in Tirukkadaiyur, bringing the water from Ganges through an underground passage to the temple. On the destined day,
Yama appeared with his noose, kala paasa . Markandeya sought refuge in the Lord and embraced the Siva Lingam. The Lord warned Yama not to touch Markandeya as he was under his protection. Yama did not listen and threw the noose that bound Markandeya and the Lingam together. Angered by this act of rashness, the Lord kicked him with the left leg and held him under his left foot, making him inactive. Markandeya was blessed with Ever sixteen . Abirami patter has sung 100 hymns about Goddess Abirami. This is called Abirami Anthathi. The last word of previous song will be the first word of the next song. It is known as Andhathi in Tamil poetric literature.
Thirugana sambandar, Navukarasar and Sundarar have sung devotional songs, hymns about this temple, this temple faces West Side. It is believed that Sri Abirami Devi was evolved here from the meditation power of Sri Mahavishnu. Among sixty-three Nayanmars, Kungilinayanar and Karinayanar performed siva thondu and attained Moksha (mukthi) here. Images in the temple depict the Lord with a raised forefinger, warning Yama . The mark of the kala paasa is visible on the Lingam. With Yama being rendered inactive, there were no deaths on earth. As nature should have its way, the Kala-samhara-moorthi, the other name by which Amritaghateswarar is known - Lord Siva brought God Yama to life. It is here that the significance of 'kicking with the left leg' is spoken about.Had he desired to quell Yama forever, He would have held him under his right leg - as in the case of Muyalaka . The very fact that he used his left leg points to the fact that he intended it as a punishment for an act of rashness and not otherwise.
The worship services are offered six times a day in the temple. Almost every day dawns with one celebration or other, as hundreds of pilgrims throng the temple to celebrate their 60th or 80th birthdays.celebration of 60th and 80th birth days (birth star) called as Sashti Aptha poorthi and Sathabishekam respectively is held very auspicious by the people as their longevity will increase. The annual 'Brahmotsavam' is celebrated in the month of Chithirai (April-May); the 'Shankhabishekam' celebrated in the month of Kartikai (November-December) is also of great importance here. Few other festivals being celebrated over here include Navaratri and 'Aadi Pooram' .
It is believed that Lord Siva dimnished Kalan (Yaman) in Thirukadiyur. So Lord Siva in Thirukadiyur is called Mritunga jaya murthi . Devotees completing 59 years and starting sixty have to perform Ukira ratha Santhi ; completing sixty years and starting sixties have to perform Sashtiyapatha purthi . Completing sixty-nine years and starting seventy have to perform Beema ratha santhi. Starting eighty has to perform Sathabishekham and Ayusha homam. According to astrology devotees can perform Mrutinji jaya homam.
Devotees perform here Sasthiaptha Purthi (61st. birthday, Ukratha shanthi, Bheemaratha shanthi (70th birth day), Sadhabishekam (80th birth day) birth star days, Ayush Homan (prayer for longevity) are performed in this temple. To perform pujas and prayers on these important days in life, people come here not only from Tamilnadu but from all states. Also from other countries.
Devotees visit the temple to pray on the 50th anniversary of their wedding days and for relief from planetary problems according their horoscopes. Abirami Amman is both powerful and merciful. The devotees are blessed with prosperity, marriage alliances etc. She blesses them with children and wisdom. The Kalasamharamurthy blesses the devotees with longevity; health, remedy from ailments and the devotees will be free from the fear of death. Thirukadayur is a place noted for remedies from many problems in life.
Tiruvannamalai the home of Annamalayaar or Arunachaleswarar (Shiva worshipped as a Shiva Lingam) and Unnamulaiyaal (Apitakuchambaal – Parvati), is one of the largest temples in India. It occupies a special place in the Saivite realm and is regarded as one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams (one of the five grand temples associated with the five basic elements) – associated with the element Fire, the other four being Tiruvanaikkaval (Water), Chidambaram (Space), Kanchipuram (Earth) and Sri Kalahasti (Wind) respectively. Shiva is said to have manifested himself in the form of a massive column of fire, whose crown and feet, Bhramma and Vishnu attempted in vain to reach. A celebration of this manifestation is seen today in the age old traditions observed in the Shivaratri and the Kartikai Deepam Utsavams held here.
There is an air of deep mysticism around the temple, the hill and its environs and the town itself has been known for its long association with Yogis, Siddhas, the well known spiritual savant Ramana Maharishi and several others. The origin of this temple dates way back in time, although much of the temple structure as seen today, is a result of building activity over the last one thousand years. Seventh century Tamil poetry glorifies this temple. All of the four Saivite Saints Appar, Sambandar, Manikkavacakar and Sundarar have sung the glory of this temple and it was at this temple that Arunagirinathar began composing his immortal work Tiruppugazh. Muthuswamy Deekshitar’s kriti Arunachalanatham pays tribute to the presiding deity of Tiruvannamalai.
The ancient and vast Arunachaleswarar Temple as it stands today is the result of several centuries of building, alteration and extension. A Nandi faces the main shrine in each of its five prakarams. The outermost prakaram houses the thousand pillared hall and the Shiva Ganga tank and is pierced on four sides with colossal Gopurams. . The fourth prakaram includes the Bhramma Tirtham, and its eastern gateway Vallala Gopuram holds a statue of King Ballala. The third prakaram which dates back to the 12th century AD has several Linga Shrines, and the Kili Gopura Entrance. In the East side of the prakaram stands the Flag Staff while the Northern side is home to the massive shrine of Unnamulai Amman. The 3rd prakaram surrounds the roofed 2nd prakaram which houses the pantheon of deities associated with Shiva, which in turn surrounds the shrine of Annamalaiyar.
An elaborate protocol of worship services marks each day at the Tiruvannamalai temple where about a hundred and fifty people are attached to the temple including priests, musicians, singers, carpenters, potters, washermen, palanquin bearers, garland makers, administrators, guards etc.
The day begins with the ceremonial arrival of Ganga to the shrine, from a tank in the Southern part of the town on an elephant through the Southern, Tirumanjana Gopuram. This water cleanses the entrance to the second prakaram, and then the next ritual involving the waking up of Shiva and Parvati in the bedchamber. The Shiva-Meru returns to the Annamalaiyaar shrine while the image of Parvati returns to the Unnamulaiamman shrine.
Six other pujas are offered at the temple, the first one at 6 am, and the last one at night where the Shiva Meru and the image of Parvati are processionally brought into the bed chamber. Each service is accompanied by chants of invocation, dedication and praise. In the south west corner of the prakaram, the sacrificial fire ritual takes place, ending with the consecration of vessels of water which are used in the ablution of Annamalaiyaar and Unnamulai Amman.
Several festivals dot the Tiruvannamalai temple town’s calendar. IEach occurrence of the full moon is a celebration in itself, as hundreds of thousands throng to circumambulate the Annamalai Hill, considered to be a reperesentationof Annamalaiyar himself. The festivals of the temple are remarkably intertwined with the life of the locals, marking the so called subtle transcendence between the human and the divine states. In addition to the various festivals, Tiruvannamalai celebrates four annual Bhrammotsavams (10 day festivals) the most famous of which is the Kartikai Bhrammotsavam (in the Tamil month of Kartikai Nov 15 – Dec 15).
The Arudra Darisanam in the month of Margazhi (Dec 15 through Jan 15) is a celebration of the cosmic dance of Shiva. The Tai Poosam festival which occurs in the month of Tai (Jan 15 through Feb 15) is also of great significance. The Tiruvoodal festival, enacting a mock quarrel between Annamalaiyaar and Unnamulai Amman is enacted in the presence of Sundaramoorthy Nayanaar in the Tiruvoodal Street, a street that has been earmarked for this annual event. During this quarrel, Parvati enters the temple alone by herself, leaving Shiva outside, and Shiva (Annamalaiyaar) circumambulates the Annamalai hill (himself), and during his trip, grants liberation to the rishi Bhringi. His jewels get stolen in the West side of the town and he then recovers stolen jewellery in the eastern side of the town, and then returns to the temple the folowing morning.
In the month of Maasi, (Feb 15 through March 15) Shiva is crowned as the King in the absence of a royal heir to King Ballala of the Hoysala dynasty (an early 14th century ruler) whose statue adorns the Vallala Gopuram. Interestingly Ballala’s death is announced as an element of the festival tradition during the Tai Poosam celebration season. Associated with these events, Annamalaiyaar visits Pallikondapattu, one of the villages to the east of Tiruvannamalai, where the King’s palace is said to have stood.
The Parivettai (Royal Hunt) festival is a part of the two Bhrammotsavams celebrated during the winter and summer solstices. This festival represents a royal hunt on the borders of the town.
The celebration of Kartikai Deepam marks the conclusion of the ten day Bhrammotsavam in the month of Kartikai (Scorpio , Nov 15 through December 15). Each of these festival days is marked by the procession of the Pancha Murthys (Somaskandar (Annamalayar), Unnamulaiyaal, Ganapati, Subramanyar and Chandikeswarar) in gaily decorated mounts. Most noteworthy among these are the Rishabha Vahana Utsavam celebrated on the fifth evening of the festival and the Rathotsavam, celebrated on the seventh day of the festival.
Kartikai Deepam is preceeded by the Bharani Deepam celebration when a lamp is lit in the main shrine of the temple following a fire sacrifice before the shrine of Surya. A small bowl of ghee lighted at this fire is used to light five other lamps representing the five aspects of Shiva. Preparations begin for the Kartikai Deepam which is to be celebrated in the afternoon. A group of fishermen carry a portion of this fire inside a container of baked earth to the summit of the mountain where a large copper utensil filled with offerings of ghee and pieces of cloth has been placed.
Crowds begin to throng the temple complex, and a discernible order prevails among the crowd as the tens of thousands gathered begin their patient wait for the auspicious moment when the Deepam celebration would reach its peak.
In the meanwhile, preparations go on for the afternoon’s climax. Four of the five decorated Pancha Murthys are are brought out from the main shrine of the temple and housed in Vimanams in the 3rd prakaram of the temple, facing the flag staff and the Annamalai Hill. The last to arrive is Annamalaiyar who comes out of the second prakaram, dancing with his consort.
The crowd waits to catch a glimpse of the deepam which is then brought out of the inner shrine towards the Utsavar Annamalayaar. The anticipation of the lakhs gathered there can only be experienced, not described in words. The deepam is brought out in a gait by the bearers and a deeparadanai is offered to the Utsavar, and at this very instant, the lamp on the hill is lighted as the crowd breaks into a frenzied devout cheer, yet retaining the order that was there when it was just
beginning to assemble.
The human mass gathered within and around the precincts of the temple, along with the residents of the town and neighboring towns catch sight of the flame atop the Annamalai hill, cherishing the age old belief that it is a representation of Shiva himself, who appeared in the form of a flame whose origins could not be deciphered by the other two of the Trinity namely Bhramma and Vishnu. Keeping with tradition, the inner sanctum doors close, with the arrival of the deepam outside, and it is believed Annamalaiyaar is to be worshipped only as the beacon until the next morning when the shrine is reopened.
The vedas and Puranas say that Goddess Lakshmi has emerged out of the oceans when the Devas and Asuras churned the Milky Ocean. Mahavishnu married Her and They both fulfill the desires of the devotees. Goddess Lakshmi is the deity who grants the Eightfold Achievements (Ashtama Siddhis) and Eightfold Wealth (Ashta Iswaryam). As both Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi(with Her eight forms) reside in this temple it is known as the Ashtalakshmi Temple. Itis befitting to have a temple constructed and consecrated on the shores facing the sea for Goddess Lakshmi whose birthplace is the sea.
The temple was contructed at the efforts taken by the devotees under the leadership of the erudite Scholar Mukkur Srinivasa Vardachariyar and others. The foundation was laid in the year 1974. The First Consecration Ceremony. (Kumbhabhishekam – Kudamuzhukku) was done on 5th April,1976. The department of Hindu Religious and charitable Endowments, Tamil Nadu, are administering it. An Executive Officer is functioning as the care-taker to look after the day- to-day affairs.
Omkhara (AUM) Shape
The temple was designed and constructed in the shape of ‘AUM’, the First Vedic Mantra, Pranava. The everlastion roaring waves of the Bay of Bengal reverberate the Pranava Sound and remind one that the God and Goddess reside in the Pranava Sound. As the temple is in the AUM shape it is well known OMKHARA KSHETRA.
Ashtanga Vimana
As the temple is dedicated to mahavishnu and Ashta Lakshmi, the construction is on the models of Ashtanga Vimana (Eight Parts) style. This is one of the very ancient styles of temple construction. This Ashtanga vimana style is found in Tirukkotiyur where Sri Ramanuja learnt the meaning of the Ashtakshara Mantra at the feet of Tirukkotiyur Nambi, Madurai (Koodalazhagar), Tiruttangal, kanchi (Vaikuntanathar Temple) and Uttiramerur. This temple has three floors, the Ground floor, the First floor and the Second floor and steps to each floor. This three tier system is the speciality of the ashtanga Vimana Style. The three forms of Lord Vishnu – Standing, Sitting and Reclining – are depicted in each floor . In the ground floor Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi are in the standing posture. In the four corners of each of the other two tires are the shrines for the Eight Lakshmis.
Generally, temple are built on the basic six principles viz., Adishtanam (Stationary Place -abode), Paadam ( Feet – pedastal ), Prastaram (Walls), Khandam (Neck), Sikaram (Head) and Stupi (Copula -towar). This is known as Sashtangam (Six Parts or Divisions). In Ashtangavimanam, on Khandam, another floor is constructed with Prastaram (Walls), Khandam (neck), Sikaram (head) and Stupi (tower).
In this temple, below the Stupi, in the Sikaram area, is consecrated the Dhanalakshmi. On the precincts, are the other shrines for Gajalashmi, Santhanalakshmi, Vijayalakshmi and Vidyalakshmi in the Khandam aresas. On the Groundfloor, in the Prastara areas, are consecrated the three Lakshmis – Adi Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi and Dhairya Lakshmi.
In the main Sanctum Sanctorum is consecrated the deity of Mahalakshmi with Mahavishnu, as the presding deity of the Tample.
As this temple is considered the abode of the Eight Lakshmis (Ashta Lakshmi), it is well known as Ashtalakshmi Temple at Chennai.
Under one Vimanam (Turret), eight shrines ate constructed sideways and above on the two tiers.
ASHTALAKSHMI SHRINES
Adhi Lakshmi
Dhanya Lakshmi
Dahirya Lakshmi
Gajalakshmi
Santhana Lakshmi
Vijaya Lakshmi
Vidya Lakshmi
Dhana Lakshmi
Other Shrines
Dasavathara Sannadhi, Guruvayurappan Sannadhi, Kamala vinayagar Sannadhi, Chakkaratalvar and Yoga Narasimhar Sannadhi, Anjaneyar Sannadhi, Dhanvantari Shrine, Main Sannadhi, Garudalvar Sannadhi.
Stala Vriksha
Every Hindu Temple and Pilgrim Centre has a Sacred Tree known as Tala Vriksha(Tree of the Place). Here in this shrine it is the Vilva tree that is Tala Vriksha.. It is apt and unique in the sense that the Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi resides in Vilva leaves.
Pushkarani
As the temple is on the sea shore it as no special tank dedicated to it. On the other hand, the Great Ocean itself is considered the sacred tank for this temple. Indeed it is apt in the sense that Goddess Mahalakshmi came out of the Milky Ocean . Hence, the ocean is the Mothers home for the goddess.
Navaratri, Pavitra Utsavam Markazhi Masa Pooja, Gokulasktami, Deepavali, Kartigai, English New Year Day (I January), Pongal, May Day.
Goddess Garbharakshambika is one of the most popular form of shakti in Tamilnadu.She is the lovely embodiment of womanhood and in this avatar as Garbharakshambika she has been ever gracious upon all womanhood to be the Goddess responsible to take care of women with uterus related disorders and pregnancy. Once you walk past the temple tank, you reach into the temple complex of Shri Garbharakshambika Sameta Shri Mullaivana Nathar.There is a main Raja gopuram on the east and the temple has also got an entrance on the south side.Both the shrines of Lord Mullaivana Nathar and Goddess Garbharakshambika are situated in the outer Prakaram, which is the main Prakaram facing the east direction.
The main sanctum of this temple has the Shiva lingam and Goddess Garbharakshambika is situated to the left of the Shiva temple. It is believed that the Nandi *at this temple is in Swayambhu vigraham (Self manifested) and so is the Karpaga Vinayagar inside the temple which is also a Swayambhu (self manifested) and as such commands unique devotion from the worshippers. There is also a shrine for Lord Subramanian.(*The sacred bull on which Lord Shiva rides)Devotees pay their respects to the presiding deity, Shri Mullaivana nathar ( Lord Shiva) first, as is the custom that is followed in Shiva temples anywhere in TN and then to Goddess Garbharakshambika.
Thirukkarugaavoor Mullaivananathar Sri Garbharakshaambigai temple
The fame of this temple rests largely upon the Goddess Shri Garbharakshambika (an avatar of Goddess Parvati) who offers protection to, the human embryo. And it is no wonder that this temple draws worshippers from all sects.
The uniform experience of the people of these parts bears unfailing testimony to the said characteristic attributed to the Deity. The inhabitants of the village speak to the fact, that within Irving memory, there has been no case of fatality to the mother or child during confinement.
Pregnant women from elsewhere come here and pray to the God and Goddess for a safe child birth. No one in this place has ever had a miscarriage or pregnancy problem.
The Shri Garbharakshambika Sameta Shri Mullaivana Nathar temple is spread over a wide expanse with huge towering Gopurams and a beautiful water tank in front of it. The temple is surrounded by tall coconut – palms, the whole atmosphere is very calming and serene and lends the place sanctity.
The brides have to clean foot -steps of ambal sannathi with ghee and (beautifying the floor with kolams)
Those who are not having children have to do the above in addition to intake the ghee with her spouse for 48 days before going to bed.
The couple those are required to be blessed with a child has to intake the ghee(that is given as prasatham from the feet of Godess Garbharakshaambigai) by mixing the same with required amount of pure Cow -ghee for 48 days before going to bed.(Even if the husband is not in a position to intake the ghee at times , the wife has to intake the ghee continuously for 48 days days ) This does not have any restrictions or any barriers.
Those who take some other medicines also continue while they are in course of taking this ghee.Ladies during menstruation should not take the ghee for 5 days.if this is followed piously,the godess Garbharakshaambigai would bless them with a child.
To get easy delivery ,the caster oil,enriched by performing poojas at the feet of goddess Garbharakshaambigai,could be applied on the abodmen of the pregnant ladies,to make it easy delivery.
The castrol might be applied on the lower abdomen of the pregnant lady at the time of delivery.Like that the same may be done if she gets pains at times ,during the period of pregnancy.
People in whose case marriages are often held up and married people who have no children for a long time are blessed by the Goddess here. As a result of their worship and prayer, marriages take place, Children are born to the childless, Pregnancies are protected form all dangers and easy deliveries occur.
Virgins whose marriages are delayed for long periods and married women who have no issue for a long time should come to this Temple in person, wash the steps with a little ghee draw ‘ Kolam and perform Archana to the Goddess. If done so, their marriages will take place and the childless women will be blessed with children.
Couples who remain childless for a long time should offer ghee which will be placed at the Feet of the Goddess, charged with manthras and given to them. If the couples eat a little of this Ghee at night daily for 48 days the women will certainly conceive soon an they will be blessed with children.
Pregnant women expection deliveries should offer castor oil which will be placed and Feet of Sri Garbha Rakshambikai, charged with manthras and offered to them. This castor oil has wonderful property. When the women get labour pains, this oil should be smeared on their abdomen. This will eliminate all complications, dangers and after effect of delivers and make the deliveries quite easy.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam
The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, India is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu. It is the first and foremost among the 108 Divya Desams, the holy abodes of Lord Vishnu. It is also considered to be one among the eight Svayam Vyakta Ksetras ("self-manifested shrines") of Lord Vishnu.
[1] The temple is also well known for its architectural grandeur. The annual 21 day chariot festival conducted during the month of Margazhi (Dec-Jan) attracts lot of visitors. Everyday during the festival, the sacred Vaishnavite text, Tiruvaimozhi is recited before Lord Ranganatha.
the largest non-functioning temple). The temple occupies an area of 156 acres (631,000 m²) with a perimeter of 4,116m (10,710 feet) making it the largest temple in India
[2] and one of the largest religious Srirangam temple is often listed as the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world (Angkor Wat being complexes in the world. The temple is enclosed by 7 concentric walls (termed prakarams or mathil suvar) with a total length of 32,592 feet or over six miles. These walls are enclosed by 21 Gopurams. The space within the outer two prakarams is occupied by several shops, restaurants and flower stalls. For this reason, other massive Hindu temples like Chidambaram (Nataraja swamy Temple), Tiruvannamalai (Annamalaiyar temple), Meenakshi Amman Temple, Tirunelveli Nellaiappar Temple claim to be the biggest Hindu temples (Note - all these magnificent temples are entirely dedicated for the religious rituals and are "massive" in every sense of the word - size, grandeur and the accompanying traditions).
Among the marvels of the temple is a Hall of 1000 Pillars (actually 953) which has intricately carved stone pillars.
Though the term Kovil is generically used in Tamil to signify any temple, for many Vaishnavas the term Kovil exclusively refers to this temple, indicating its extreme importance for them (for saivas the term kovil refers to Thilai Natarajar Golden Shrine (Chidambaram Temple)). The presiding deity Lord Ranganathar is praised in many names by His devotees, including "Nam-Perumal" (our Lord in Tamil), "Azhagiya Manavalan" (The beautiful groom in Tamil), while His divine wife Ranganayaki is affectionately called "Thayar" (Holy Mother).
Apart from the main shrine of Ranganathar, the complex also houses shrines of dozens of forms of Lord Vishnu including Sudarshana Chakra, Narasimha, Rama, Hayagreeva, Gopala Krishna, separate shrines for Ranganayaki and dozens of other shrines for the major saints in the Vaishnava tradition, including Ramanuja. The temple follows the Thenkalai sect of Iyengars, but it is also worshipped by traditional Vadakalai sect of Iyengars, as is the case with all Vaishnavite shrines. Non-Hindus are allowed up to the sixth prakaram but not inside the gold topped sanctum sanctorum.
[3]
Sriranga Mahathmiyam is the compilation of religious accounts of the temple, detailing the origins of its greatness. According to it, Lord Brahma, the Lord of Creation in Hindu mythology was once in a state of deep meditation and in His supreme trance received the gift of the Lord Vishnu's idol, "Ranga Vimana". He was told by the Supreme Lord that there would be seven other appearances of such idols on earth -- Srirangam, Srimushnam, Venkatadri (Tirumala), Saligram (Muktinath), Naimisaranya, Totadri, Pushkara and Badrinath.
[4] The idol was then passed on by Brahma to Viraja, Vaiswatha, Manu, Ishwaku and finally to Rama. Lord Rama, himself an Avatar of Vishnu, worshipped the idol for a long time, and when he returned victoriously from Sri Lanka after destroying Ravana, he gave it to King Vibhishana as a token of appreciation for the latter's support for Rama against his own brother, Ravana. When Vibhishana was going via Trichy en route to Sri Lanka, the Lord wanted to stay in Srirangam.
The location where the Ranganathan idol was placed was later covered by an overgrowth of deep forests, due to disuse. After a very long time, a Chola king, chasing a parrot, accidentally found the idol. He then established the Ranganathaswamy temple as one of the largest temple complexes in the world.
According to historians, most dynasties that ruled the South—Cholas, Pandiyas, Hoysalas, Nayakkas—assisted with renovation and in the observance of the traditional customs. Even during periods of internal conflicts amongst these dynasties, utter importance was given to the safety and maintenance of these temples. It is said that a Chola king presented the temple with a golden serpent couch. Some historians identify this king with Rajamahendra Chola, supposedly the son of Rajendra Chola II. But it is of interest to note that he never figures in the latter's inscriptions, neither in the 4th year (that shows various members of the family going on rampage in different regions) nor in the 9th year (that shows only one member of the second generation).
The temple is mentioned in Tamil works of literature of the Sangam era, including the epic Silapadikaram (book 11, lines 35-40)
[5]
“ On a magnificent cot having a thousand heads spread out, worshipped and praised by many, in an islet surrounded by Kaveri with bellowing waves, the lying posture of the One who has Lakshmi sitting in his chest
āyiram viritteḻu talaiyuṭai aruntiṟaṟ
pāyaṟ paḷḷip palartoḻu tētta
viritiraik kāviri viyaṉperu turuttit
tiruvamar mārpaṉ kiṭanta vaṇṇamum
”
However, archaeological inscriptions are available only from the 10th century AD.
[6]
List of Shrines inside Srirangam Temple
Srirangam temple has around 360 shrines dedicated to various deities and Gurus.The following list provides some of the names
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 an ancient temple built by the Cholas in 1053 and one of the 108 divyadesams the holy abodes of Vishnu. It is located in part of Kanchipuram called the Vishnu Kanchi that is a home for a lot of famous Vishnu temples, including this temple and one of the greatest Hindu scholars, Ramnujacharya is believed to have resided in this temple . The temple is a huge one on a 23-acre (93,000 m2) complex and is famous for its holiness and ancient history. Another significant thing about the temple are beautiful carved lizards and platted with gold, over the sanctum.The temple is originally built in 1053 and it was expanded during the reings of the great Chola kings Kulottunga Chola I and Vikrama Chola. In 14th century another wall and a gopura was built by the later Chola kings. It has got a huge Prakaram. The tower is also huge and beautifully carved. It is one of the 108 Divya desam. Lord Varadharaja Swamy resides in the upper prakaram. Beneath the sannidhi there is a shrine for Lord Narasimha. There is a separate Shrine for Perundevi Thayaar. Sudarshana, Azhwar’s Shrine is near the temple tank and it is in the outer prakaram. The architecture was from Chola and Vijayanagar kingdom. The stone chains in hundred pillared mandapam depicts the complicated architecture.
The Legend is that Lord Brahma worshipped Lord Varadharaja Swamy in Krita Yuga, Gajendra in Treta Yuga, Brihaspati in Dvapara Yuga and Ananta Shesha in Kali Yuga. It is believed that Airavata, the elephant of Indra in the form of a hill bears the image of Lord Varadharaja Swamy. The wonders and the greatness of this temple and the Lord Sri Varadaraja, who is also in other forms in the nearby temples in the Kanchipuram and the holy water are very much elaborated in the sacred text called “Sri Hastigiri Mahatmayam”.This is a great temple.
Kanchipuram Idli is a special prasadam available in temple. It is a huge Idli which is added with spices. Other Prasadams are also available.
The temple tank, under which the deity Atthigiri Varadar is preserved. Annual Brahmotsavam will be held on Tamil month of Vaikasi. Garuda Seva and Rath Yatra is very famous. Adhyayana Utsavam during Margazhi is also famous. At the temple pond, one finds the shrine of ‘Atthigiri Varadar’. The deity of this shrine is carved out of a special type of wood, called Atthi wood. The deity is preserved under the pond, and is brought out only once in 40 years, for a period of 48 days. The next viewing of this deity is scheduled for the year 2019.
Bhoothathalvar, Peyalvar, Thirumangai Alvar have composed many paasurams in praise of Lord Varadharajaswamy. Vedanta Desika has composed lot of scripts praising the Lord. Thirukkachi Nambi is a noted devotee in this temple, who is one of the acharya of Sri Ramanuja. He serves the Lord here with Tiru Aalavattam (fan) daily. It seems Lord will speak to him regularly. Sri Koorathazhwan, the famous disciple of Ramanuja after arguing and got the success in proving Sri Vishnu Paratvam in the Chola’s court(KirumiKanda Chola) lost his eyes there.
After that, by the compulsion of Ramanuja he came here to this temple and compose “Sri Varadaraja Stavam” in praise of this lord. “Sri Sthuthi” was sung in praise of Goddess Perundevi Thayaar. On account of that, there was a huge sum of gold coins fell from sky in order to acknowledge the work. Varadaraaja Panchaasath was also written by Vedanta Desika and Devaraja Mangalam by Swamy Manavalamamuni in praise of Lord Varadharaja Swamy.
The temple on top of the hill is reached by a staircase of about 3200 steps. Lord Narasimha sits in a Yoga posture and is called ‘Yoga NarasimhaSwamy’. There is a separate shrine for Amrithavalli Thayaar. Lord Bhaktavatsala Perumal resides in the base of the hill and Thayaar has a separate shrine. Lord Anjaneya is present in a separate small hill around 800 steps. Lord Anjaneya has four hands and holds Conch and Chakra. There is also a shrine for Varadaraja Perumala mounted on Garuda near the temple tank. There are several Theerthams around the hill.
It is believed that Sage Vishwamitra got his Brahmarishi title on worshipping Lord Narasimha here for ‘one kadigai’ around 24 minutes. After Lord Rama left the world Lord Anjaneya started doing Tapas here facing Lord Narasimha. It is also believed that even today Lord Indra with his devas would come, take bath in the pushkarni and pray to Lord Narasimha. The temple tank has medicated water which cures all diseases. Lord Budha worshipped here and was cured from the curse given by Durvasa muni. Saptarishi and Sage Valmiki got the vision of Lord Narasimha who appeared here.
Vaitheeswaran koilis a popular place of pilgrimage in South India. According to tradition the place is known as Pullirukkuvelur: Pul-bird-jatayu, Irukku – Rig veda, Velmurugan, Oor-sun. All these four offered their work ship here. The place also goes by the names: Jatayupuri, Vedpuri, Angarakapuram and many more. People familiarly call it Vinaitheerthan koil and Thayyalnayaki koil. The Sthala Vriksham is Vembu (Margosa), The beautiful tank goes by the name Siddhamirtha Theertham. The Jadayu Kundam of Ramayana fame is in the southern praharam in this Temple. Ravana Who was abducting Sita to Lanka was obstructed by Jadayu. Ravana, in the fight, cut off the wings of jadayu and so Jadayu fell at this place and kept his breath till Rama came and apprised Rama of the abduction, and later died. Rama performed his last rites. This place is Angaraka Kshetram. There is a fine bronze image of Angaraka to which pooja is done daily. It is said that Murugan got his vel (Lance) here. People who are possessed by evil sprits come here and get cured by bathing in the tank for a stated period. Vaidyanathaswamy is the curer of all diseases and He is said to cure 4,480 diseases with Amritha Sanjeevi and Vilvathadi Mann.
The Goddess Thayyalnayaki is said to accompany Him and Holy oil-vessel. Nethrapidi Sandhanam and Thiruchandu Urundai are two of the prasadams which are believed to cure all ailments. Selva Muthukumaraswamy (Lord Murugan) attracts the attention of one and all who visit this place. Every month during the Karthigai day a grand abhishegam is performed to Sri Selva Muthukumaraswamy. Every Tuesday the idol of Angaraka is taken in procession on his Goat mount. Though not is such large numbers for a temple of this size and importance, one sees some Pallava Arts such as the Yali pillars. Thirugnanasambandar, Thiruvanukarasar and Arunagirinathar have sung in praise of the Lord. Almost every child in these parts is brought to Vaitheeswarankoil to have its locks of hair offered to Vaithianathaswamy. Devotees deposit salt and pepper also in front of the Sannadhi. The temple at Vaitheeswarankoil promises to cure all the ills of the body, mind and spirit of every devotee. The margosa with thick foliage standing beside the eastern gopuram murmurs through its leaves the song of His praise as the celestial healer of all human diseases.
The nectar utilized by the Siddhas for the ablutions of the deity mixed with the water of the temple-tank which came to be called Siddamirtha Theertham. Ankaraka was cured of his leprosy when he bathed in this tank. By reason of the anathema pronounced by Saint Sadananda, the tank is freed of snakes and frogs. It is so till to-day.
The temple tree was Kadamba during the Kritayuga Bilva during the Tretayuga, Vakula during the Dwaparayuga and in the Kali Age it is neem. Medicinal pellets are compounded with the mud of Angasantana tank, the holy ashes from the Vibuti Kundam, bilva and neem leaves as well as sandal paste. These are taken with the water of the siddhamirtha-tank constitute a sure remedy.
Suryannar Koilis located in the hamlet of Tirumangalakkudi near kumbakonam and mayiladuthurai near Thanjavur in Tamilnadu. This is a one kind temple dedicated to the sun god and it also houses shrines to each of the other eight celestial bodies – The Nava Grahams very close by, are the shivastalam Tirumangalakkudi and Kanjanur (sukrastalam).
Vision problem solving – to wipe off patemala evil effect – over come from the curse.
Chandra Bhagvan Temple is situated on the Thiruvaiyaru- kumbakonam route and south Tirupazhanam (Tiruvaiyaru). The greatness of this temple where chandran, (Moon) offered worship to lord Shiva and obtained his blessings, as the puranas It is believed that if one visits this place and worships the lord here, they will be rid of diseases and also it is believed that no one has died of snakebite in this place.
To cure shoulder and neck diseases – Relief from the curse through matemal side.
Vaitheeswaran Temple It is hailed as one of the 9 Navagraha stalams, sacred to Mars –Angarakan it is visited by thousands. It is located in close proximity to sirkazhi and Chidambaram.
The temple tank, known as the sidhdha –amrita –theertham, whose water is considered divine and is believed to cure many incurable diseases.
Lord Subramaniyan: Evil effect through king –Abdominal discomfort – breathing problems –Evil effects through brothers – Hurdles in the marriage – land and court cases – to get salvation.
Suvedaranyar temple –Thiruvenkadu is located near mayiladuthurai and is 10km from vaitheeswaran koil and seerkazhi railway stations. Pilgrims can alight at any of these stations to reach the temple. Wednesdays are very auspicious to Budan Bagavan, offering pooja to Budan Bagavan on Wednesdays is believed to rectify Budan Dhosham.
Lord Vishnu : To acquire intelligence, education and children.
SriAbathsagayeswara Swamy Temple, the sthalam of Guru Bagavan is Alangudi. It is located in Thanjavur District of Tamilnadu, India. Alangudi is 17kms away from Kumbakonam Enroute to mannargudi. Jupiter or Guru is the planet of good luck, optimism, success and generosity. Jupiter brings joy to life. The position of Jupiter in your birth chart can indicate where your fortunate opportunities are to be found. This benevolent planet shows where you have the most room to expand and the areas in which you will get the best out of life. Jupiter has always been identified with the idea of expansiveness and abundance.
Lord Bhirma: To rectify the non birth of child and delay in child birth.
Sri Agniswara Swami Temple Is situated on the north bank of river knavery. It is 15km to the north east of Kumbakonam, Thanjavur, District of Tamilnadu, India. The planet Venus stands for our sense of aesthetics, the arts (especially music) and how we interact in our intimate relationships.
Lord Bhirma: To rectify the non birth of child and delay in child birth.
Sri Dharbarenyeswara Swamy Devasthanam. Thirunallar is one of the famous Lord Siva temples in India. Thirunallar is located 5km west of karaikal in the bus route of karaikal mayiladuthurai and kumbakonam. Whoever visits this temple and prays before Lord Saneeswaran is believed all the curses and sufferings and get the blessing of Lord for a happy and prosperous life. Saneeswaran is reputed to be both, a giver and destroyer. Aperson who prays to Sneeswaran will be blessed with not only riddance from the problems and worries faced, but a life that one desires.
Lord of Death, Yemen: To have more life span-To erase the fear of death –prolonged loans – risk through fire – vomiting and dysentery – problems through enemies.
Sri Naganatha Swamy Temple, Which is also the Ragu Abode, is a magnificent Temple situated 7km east of kumbakonam, in Thanjavur District, Tamilnadu state of India. Ragu is the source of plenty. Kalathra dosham, puthira dosham, communicable diseases, mental disorders, leprosy, fall in grace are caused by Ragu dosham. Praying to Ragu at this sathala helps rid a person from these factors and also saves the person from all poisonous life forms.
Goddess Durai: Maternal uncle and their sisters relationship with you – cobra effects (NAGA DOSHAM) Fever un- curable diseases imitational jealousy view on your progress – To rectify the setback.
The Naganathar Temple known as the Kethu Navagrahastalam is located in the hamlet of keezhperumpallam in the vicinity of Tiruvenkaadu near mayiladuturai / Chidambaram in Tamilnadu. Persons afflicted by Kethu Dosham are stricken with fears of dacoity, bad habits, loss of property, loss of face, putra dosham. By praying to Kethu Bhagavan, one can be rid of the doshams. Motcham, sight, property, land, gold, vehicle, fame, wife, children, happiness, unexpected property gains are the beneficial aspects of Kethu Bhagavan.
Sub Lord Chitra Guptra:To acquire spirituals knowledge – To neutralize poisonous effects – alchemic efforts.
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