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Monday 19 December 2011

Arasilinathar Temple at Arasili

Location : Arasili (Irumbai Maakalam) near Puducheri.
Main Deity : Arasilinathar.
Nearest Town : Pondicherry District : Pondicherry State : Pondicherry

Aratturai Nathar Temple at Tirunelvayil

Tirunelvayil Arathurai is 10km from Pennadam. Sambandar was visiting temples and singing in praise of the Lord as a child. The Lord gave Sambandar Pearl Palanquin & Pearl UMbrella (Muthu Chivikai & Kudai) so that he can travel in ease. This is the sthalam to visit to get fame, recognition and andhasthu.


When Thirugnana Sambandar was visiting the temples in Cauvery River, he has to stay in Eraiyur Temple as it was past dawn. He was hungry. The Amball(goddess) came to him and gave food. When he was eating he got hiccups. It is then the Lord Shiva appeared and created a pond for him to drink(Now part of the pond is taken over by the Co-Operative Society for its building. This is the pond which we used to see full of water during rain seasons just infront of ASHS School in Eraiyur)

Because the Goddess gave food the Goddess was from then called as "Anna Poorani" and because the Lord Shiva gave water and quenched his thirst, he was named as "Thaakam Theertha Pureeswarar". 

 
In the night, in Thirugnana Sambandar's dream, Lord Shiva came and told that Thirugnana sambandar does not have to walk anymore as he is just a child. Instead Lord Shiva has asked a thanavandar (A Big Business Man with lots of money) in Thiruvattathurai or "Thirunel vaayil arathurai" to give him a "Muththu Chivigai" - a pallackku(cart carried by humans in thier shoulders) decorated with pearls.

In the morning, Thirugnana sambandar did not wait for the "Muththu Chivigai" to arrive. He started his journey. A Big Surprise was on its way for him. Lord Shiva has told the thanavandhar in Thiruvattathurai to send a "Muththu Chivigai" for Thirugnana sambandhar. They met Thirugnana Sambandar at a place called "Koodalur"(Or Gudalur). 

From there on, Thirugnana sambandar travelled to many places in Muththu Chivigai and also wrote a poem on Lord Shiva in Thiruvattathurai or "Thirunel vaayil arathurai".

The Major River that flows through Virudhachalam or Virudhagiri to Pennadam or Penn Aavu Kadam to Eraiyur to Thiruvattathurai, Thittagudi and Thozhudur... is named as Vellaaru - Vellai Aaru - Means: White River.

How to Reach Theertha Pureeswarar (Aratturai Nathar) Temple:
 
This temple is located 6 Kms to the south-west of another paadal petra sthalam Pennadam. One has to travel by Pennadam - Thittakudi road and reach a place called Kodikalam. A branch road from here goes to this sivasthalam which is about 3 Kms. from Kodikalam.

Theertha Pureeswarar (Aratturai Nathar) Temple Information:
 
Arulmighu Arathurai Nathar Temple
Tiruvarathurai
Tiruvatturai Post
Thittakkudi Taluk
Cuddalore District
PIN 606111
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Aravindalochanar Temple

Aravindalochanar Temple is a delightful shrine situated at Tiruttolaivillimangalam, near Alwar Tirunagari, in Tirunelveli District of Tamil Nadu. The temple enshrines Aravindalochanar as the presiding deity along with his consort Karuntadankanni Nachiyar. Thousands of devotees visit the shrine every year. 

It is said that the Shri Namm Alwar has sung in praise of the deity. Aravindalochanar Temple can be accessed through Tirunagari.

Ardhanareeswarar Temple at Nanganallur

In the 1960s, the Paramacharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam discovered this ancient temple when he was performing a morning puja at the abandoned temple tank here. He spotted an ancient Lingam in the tank as “Ardhanareeswarar”. Since then the temple was functioning in thatched sheds and the Kumbaabhezam took place in March 2004. This temple is also a “Kethu sthalam”.

When we went, the temple tank has been deepened, compounded and maintained giving an excellent view. 



A life-size idol of Sri Ashtabhuja Shanthi Durga, said to be bigger than that of ancient Patteeswaram temple near Kumbakonam is installed in a separate shrine just at the rear of the Ardhanareeswarar temple. The well sculpted durga is a please to the eyes of the devotees and is well known as sarvabhishta pala nayaki.

Ardhanareeswarar temple at Rishivandiam

Rishivandiyam is known for the Ardhanareeswara Temple (Swayambu). Once it was a dark, dense forest ideal for performing penance by saints (Rishis). Rishi vandha vanam has become Rishivanam and Rishivandiyam. Saint Agasthia was given dharshan of the holy wedding of Lord Shiva as Ardhanari (half Shiva and half Parvathi) on the holy Linga when he performed abishekam with honey. Lord Indra, Lord Rama and many Rishis have visited this holy place.

The present day temple was built in 1282 AD by Jatavarman Sundarapandiyan. The temple is classified as Siddhar temple. Renovation works were completed and Mahakumbabishekam was performed in January 2007.

It is a Divine rule that all the Rishis should gather at this temple on the Rishi Panchami day. This day is celebrated by offering Argyam to all the Rishis and Saints.

General Information

Rishivandiyam: a town in Tamil Nadu, India.
This place is nearby villupuram and thirukovilur. Buses are available from thirukovilur but few.

Ardhanareeswarar Temple, Tiruchengode


Location of the templeTiruchengode
Lord Shiva known asMaathoru Paagar, Arthanareeswarar
Female deity known as
PathigamSambandar - 1
How to reachThis Shivasthalam is situated 18 Kms from Erode and 32 Kms from Namakkal. Bus facilities are available from Erode, Salem and Namakkal to go to Tiruchengode.
Temple addressArulmighu Arthanareeswarar Temple
Tiruchengode
Namakkal district
PIN 637211



Temple Gopuram


Temple inside view


Ghat road to temple


This Shivasthalam was known as Kodimaada Chenkundrur during the time of Sambandar's visit to this temple. Now known as Tiruchengode, it is famous for its hill and the temple on the top. The hill is 1900 feet height from the mean sea level. A motorable ghat road is also available to go to the top of the hill and one can reach the temple by bus or car. Another way to reach the temple is to alight 1200 steps to the top of the hill. There are many mandapams on the way for people to take rest. Once on top of the hill, the main Gopuram (Tower) with 5 tiers is on the north side of the hill. The compound wall of the temple is 260 feet length east to west and 170 feet length north to south.


The main shrine for Lord Shiva known as Maathoru Paagar and for Lord Subramanya known as Chengottu Velar is located on a flat surface atop the hill. The image of the main deity is 6 feet in height, the right half of the image as male and left half of the image as female. Hence the main deity is also known as Arthanareeswarar. Chengottu Velar shrine is on the back side of the main sanctum sanctorum. The sculptures found in the mandapam in front of the Chengottu Velar shrine are of intricate designs and workmanship. Saint Arunagirinathar has also composed Thirupugazh on Lord Subramanya here.

Saturday 17 December 2011

Arulvalla Nathar Temple at Keezh Tirumanancheri

Location : Keezh Tirumanancheri near Mayiladuturai.
Main Deity : Arulvalla Nathar.

Nearest Town : Mayiladuturai District : Nagapattinam State : Tamil Nadu

Keezha Thirumanancheri is One of the 275 Padal Petra Sthalams.



Arunachaleswarar Temple at Tiruvannamalai


 

Significance: 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.



 Tiruvannamali (located in the erstwhile North Arcot district of Tamilnadu) has several hotels and ashrams and it attracts visitors from all over the world Ramanashramam and Seshadri Swami ashram being examples. Each occurrence of a full moon attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims. The Kartikai Deepam celebration also attracts lakhs (hundreds of thousands) to the extent that all incoming traffic is halted at the boundary of the town on the day of the festival. The government of Tamilnadu runs special bus and train services during the occasion. By car, it is a four to five hour drive from Chennai, and there are several 'point to point' non-stop bus services. Tiruvannamalai is located on the railway line linking Villuppuram and Katpadi, and is therefore connected conveniently by rail to centers such as Tirupati and Thanjavur. Tirukkoilur with the Trivikrama temple and the Veeratteswarar temple, Saathanur Dam, and Vellore with its Jalakanteswarar Fort Temple are some of the nearby attractions.

ASHTALAKSHMI TEMPLE Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamilnadu

The Chennai Ashtalakshmi temple is situated in Besant Nagar(SEE IN MAP), on the shores of the Bay of Bengal.  That stretch of beach is known as the Elliot's beach.  The temple was constructed on the express wishes of Sri Mahaa Periyavaal of Kanchi Mutt, Sri Chandrasekara Saraswati Swamigal.

The temple's architecture is unique, with the deities installed in four levels.  The shrine of Mahaalakshmi & Mahaavishnu (the principal deities) is in level two.  Here one can see the imposing, bigger than life vigrahams facing the eastern horizon overlooking the sea.

Walking up the stairs to the third tier, the path leads to the shrine of Santaana Lakshmi (bestower of offspring) facing south.  Next we get the darshan of Vijayalakshmi (bestower of success in all ventures, vijaya - success), on the western side on the 3rd tier.  Vidyaalakshmi (associated with learning & wisdom) sits facing the northern side & the shrine of Gajalaskhmi (bestower of all round prosperity) is located facing the eastern side on the 3rd tier.  A flight of few steps above leads one to the 4th tier, where the Dhanalakshmi (Goddess of wealth) shrine is located facing eastward.  Her's is the only shrine on the 4th level.

Exiting the main shrine - the principal deities, at the ground level on the southern flank of the gopuram is the shrine for Aadhi Lakshmi.  One the western flank is the shrine for Dhaanya Lakshmi (Goddess of food grains).  Dhairiya Lakshmi's (the Goddess of courage & strength) shrine is situated on the northern flank.






There is a huge hundi for Venkataachalapathi within the complex.  There is a sannadhi for the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu, to the left of which is the Madapalli (the kitchen for preparing naivedhiyam for the Gods).  There are shrines for Tumbikai Aazhwar (Ganesha), Guruvaayurappan, Chakrathaazhwar & Narasimhar (on either side of the same idol), Aanjaneyar & Dhanvantri.  
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Ashtabuja Perumal Temple at Pillayarpalayam

District : Kanchipuram Location : Pillayarpalayam, Kanchipuram

Ashtabuja Perumal Temple is located at Pillayarpalayam near Kanchipuram, 1.5 km west of the Varadaraja Perumal Temple. It is one of the 108 holy places of Vaishnavites. The presiding deity is Adikesava Perumal along with his consort Alamelumangai. The Perumal in this sthalam is Aadhikesava Perumal and he is seen with 8 hands. He holds Chakaram, Sword, a Flower and an Arrow on the 4 right hands and Sangu, Bow, Kedayam (which is used to protect while fighting using a sword) and Gadha (Which can be found along with Hanuman and Bhima).
 The temple occupies an area of one acre with a three-tiered Rajagopuram in the northern side. The temple tank is known as Gajendra Pushkarani. The temple holds separate shrines for Bhuvaraahar, Aandaal, Peyalwar and Hanuman. The deity in the shrine has got eight hands which is something super natural. Lord Vishnu is portrayed in a standing posture, facing the Western side. This is a very old temple and tourists can find many stone carvings in this temple.

The sthalapuranam of this temple is also associated with that of Saraswathi and Lord Brahman. After all the demons were killed by Sriman Narayanan, who were sent by Saraswathi to destroy the yagam done by Brahma devan, she finaly sent a ferocious Sarbham (snake). Sriman Narayanan to kill the dangerous snake, took the form of Ashtabhuja Perumal holding 8 different weapons to kill the snake. And using all those 8 weapons, he killed the snake sent by Saraswathi. The snake is found on the Vaayu end of the yaaga sala as “Sarabeswaran” in this temple.

The main festivals celebrated are Bhramotsavam in the month of Chittirai (April-May), and Gajendramoksham in Aadi (July-August). This is a very old temple and tourists can find many stone carvings in this temple.

Avanashi Lingeswarar Temple at Avinashi

Location : Avinashi near Coimbatore.
Main Deity : Lingeswarar.

Nearest Town : Coimbatore District : Coimbatore State : Tamil Nadu
This temple is 15 centuries old, constructed by Sundarapandiya is closely associated with the great Saiva saint Sundaramoorthy Nayanar. On his way to meet Cheramaan Peruman, nayanar happened to visit Avinashi. As he was passing through one of the streets, he heard two discordant notes coming from opposite houses, one echoing joy and another sorrow. The puzzled saint understood the cause for the strange phenomenon. The incident took place some three years ago. Two boys of the same age went to bathe in a tank from which emerged a crocodile and devoured one of them.

There was being celeberated the "Upanayanam" (Thread ceremony) of the surviving boy, now 8 years old. Hence there was joy and mirth in the house. While the other people were unable to bear their sorrow. Had their boy been alive, they too would be celebrating his "Upanayanam".
 

Intensely moved by this, Sundaramoorthy Nayanar poured out of soulful song, praying to Lord shiva to resurrect the dead child. His prayer was answered .The empty tank started surging with water from which emerged the crocodile and ejected the child as a fully grown boy of 8 years.
The car festival is the most exciting of the festivals in this temple. This temple's car is one of the biggest in Southindia and is noted for its fine wooden carvings.Since the old car was destroyed by fire recently,it has been rebuilt.
Coordinates 11°11′43″N 77°16′7″E
Temple phone : 04296-273113

Ayikudi Balasubramania Swami Temple at Ayikudi near Sengottai Tirunelveli

Location(SEE IN MAP)

Situated in Thenkasi Taluk, in Thrunelveli District of Tamil Nadu, on the banks of Hanuman Nadi near Kutralam is Ariyar kudi or Arya Kuti – 'the abode of noble people', popularly known as Ayikudi, is this beautiful temple for Young Bala Muruga Peruman,. 

Main Deity

The main deity is a beautiful small mulavar murthy of Balasubramanya Swamy, also popularly known here as Rama Subramanya Swamy.He is believed to have been found by a villager in the nearby Mallapuram Eri (irrigation tank). A similar looking Utsavar Murthy of this temple is Muthukumaraswamy, standing next to a peacock on a Padma peetam. Both the Moolavar & Utsava Murthys are so beautiful that the darshan of Karunamurthi Bala Muruga is a treat to all the bhaktas who visit this temple.


Pancha Vruksha
This Lord Muruga temple is on the banks of Hanuman Nadi, depicted under five trees. The main Sthala-Vruksha(sacred tree) is Arasa Maram or the Pipal tree. The other four are Vembu – Neem tree, Karuvepilai – Curry leaf tree, Madhulai- Pomegranate Tree and Mavilangu. 

Pancha Devas

The importance of this temple is that many Devatha are worshiped in this Sthala (holy site). On the right side of the Moola Vigraha (main deity) are Mahadeva, Mahavishnu, Ambikai, and Ganesha and on the left side of the Moolavar is Aditya (Surya) and these are the Pancha-Devatas of this temple. The main Moolavar Sannadi is of Balasubramanya who is located under the Pancha-Vrukshas and in the middle of the Pancha Devathas. Sri Rama & Hanuman are always remembered on these riverbanks. The temple is known for attaining Karya Siddhi or success in endeavors and Pillaiperu or childbirth for bhaktas who visit and participate in the pujas and sponsor the special offering of 'Hanuman Nadi Padi-Payasam'. 

Legend

On the way in search of Sita Devi, Hanuman was very thirsty. He did not want to go in search of water. It is believed that with the sharp edge of his tail he created a Nadi(stream or a small river) and quenched his thirst. Hence the Nadi here is called Hanuman Nadi. Sri Rama drank water from this Nadi and rested on its banks. Since this temple and the Nadi are devoted to Lord Subramania and Sri Rama, the nama Rama-subramanian is a popular name given to children born in this area. Rama Sita Anjaneya images are carved in the pillars of this temple Mandapam. 

History

Once upon a time there lived a Bhakta in Ayikudi Kezh (lower) Agraharam, who become a saint and attained siddhi in this area. His Kaushika vamsa descendants made his Samadhi on the banks of the Hanuman Nadi, where he had propagated Hindu Dharma and his Bhakthi for Sri Rama and Lord Subramanya, and planted the first Pipal tree there. The Balasubramania vigraha was later found and was installed on his Adhishtaanam with Subrahmanya Shadaksharikalpa Agama Sastra traditions and a small temple was built and pujas conducted by the descendant families.
Until 1931 the roof of the temple was made by coconut & palm leaves. The Travancore Maharaja who happened to visit this area appreciated the devotion of the villagers and decided to help in completing this temple. In about mid 1800s the temple management was taken up by Travancore Samsthanam and they renovated the temple, building the roof and Gopuram, Mayil Mandapam, Mani Mandapam, Praharams and Padithurais around this with all the Pancha Vrukshas and the Pancha Devatas. Then the Utsava Murti was made and grand festivals were arranged by the government, which the villagers enjoyed and participated. Until 1947 the temple was under the Travancore government management. 

Pushkarni

Earlier days many pundits got down into the Hanuman Nadi and did ablutions in the water. The water was used for ceremonies and ritual cleansing by devotees. The sweet tasty water from this Nadi is believed to cure diseases and maladies and gives complete wisdom and long life to the Bhakta. The Padi Payasam Prasad used is made on the shores from this water. 

Festivals 

Skanda Shashti Soora Samhara festival, Chithirai Vishu, Vaigasi Vishakam, Masi Makam, Thaipusam are special festivals of this temple. Hanuman Nadi Padi Payasam, Palkudam, Kavadi are important forms of worship in this temple. This temple Arasa Elai Vibhudhi Prasadham that is the holy ashes given folded in a pipal leaf, is very popular and auspicious. This is one temple where several deities are adored and divine Balasubramanya bestows all boons to bhaktas who visit this shrine. 

Address 

Sri Balasubrtamanya Swami Devasthanam Ayikudi P.O, Tenkasi Taluk, TN 627 852 Telephone: 91- 4633 - 267636
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Friday 16 December 2011

Aymoortheswarar Temple at Moongipattu near Ponneri (Chennai)

Location : Moongipattu near Ponneri.
Main Deity : Aymoortheswarar.

Nearest Town : Ponneri(SEE IN MAP) District : Thiruvallur State : Tamil Nadu

Ayyappan Temple at Chennai (Annanagar)


The Ayyappa temple, located in the 2nd Avenue, Anna Nagar, Chennai is the most popular Ayyappa temple in Chennai. The temple is visited by a large number of devotees.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Ayyappa (incarnation of Lord Sastha, son of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu). There are also shrines for other Gods and Goddesses such as Ganesha, Subramanya, Durga, Hanuman, Navagrahas, and Nagaraja.

This 25 year old temple, which was built in Kerala architecture style can be easily reached either by public transport or by auto rickshaw/taxi, as the temple is located in a prime location of Chennai. The distance is around 15 km from Chennai Railway Station.

Ayyappan Temple at Chennai (Mahalingapuram)


LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE:   Sri Ayyappan Temple,is situated at Mahalingapuram(SEE IN MAP), Chennai, the headquarters of Tamilnadu, India. 
HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE:  A few Ayyappa devotees of Nungambakkam to form the Sree Ayyappa Bhaktha Sabha in 1968. They wanted to conduct weekly bhajans and 'vilakku pooja' during Mandalam/Jyothi period.




The sabha's original aims were to spread the worship of Lord Ayyappa by doing selfless socio-religious activities, to try to have a premise of its own to perform religious activities, to help the pilgrims going to Sabarimala and the like. In the early 1970s, the sabha constructed a temple complex on a plot donated to it by Lady Madhavan Nair.

Old-timers speak of the citing of a garuda (hawk) flying thrice above the temple when Ayyappa's idol was installed by the high priest of Sabarimala on March 25, 1974. They take the sighting as a divine blessing, keeping in mind the garuda of Erumeli.

DIVINESS OF THE TEMPLE: This temple that is fashioned in the Keralite style lies in Chennai. A lot of pujas are conducted here during Nov-Dec. This temple is a fine example of the Kerala art and architecture. Sri Guruvayurappan, Sri Devi are also enshrined. The temple priests are Keralites who conduct puja in the Keralite fashion.

AUSPICIOUS DAYS:    The two important festivals of the temple are those of Guruvayoorappan, which starts on October 28 and ends on November 4, and of Ayyappa, during December/January. Both festivals end with 'arattu' on the Marina. In addition to the two festivals, 'prathishta' days and daily poojas are also conducted in the temple.

Ayyappan Temple, Nanganallur, Chennai suburb (சுவாமியே சரணம் ஐயப்பா)

Location: The Ayyappan Temple is located at Nanganallur, Chennai suburb near Ram Nagar.

Description:

The Ayyappan Temple is dedicated to Sri Ayyappan Swami.

Shrines and Deities:

Main Shrines:

  • Sri Ayyappan (சுவாமியே   சரணம்   ஐயப்பா)

Devi:

  • Sri Maligaipurattu Mansa Maha Devi (மாளிகைபுரத்து     மஞ்ச     மாகா   தேவி)

Sri Ganesha:

  • Sri Gannimula Ganapati (கன்னிமூல   கணபதி)

Others:

  • Sri Nagaraja (நாகராஜா)
  • Sri Valiyagatutta Swami (வலியகடுத்த   சுவாமி)
  • Sri Karuppu Swami (கருப்பு   சுவாமி)
  • Sri Karuppayi Amman (கருப்பாயி   அம்மன்)
Address
2nd Main Road, Ram Nagar, Nanganallur(SEE IN MAP), Chennai 600061
Landmark: Behind 32Feet Anjaneyar Temple
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Ayyappan Temple in R.A.Puram

 Temple website : http://www.iyyappaswami.com/

HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE:  

This temple at Rajah Annamalaipuram, built on a site donated by Rajah Sir Muthiah Chettiar of Chettinad, is well maintained by his illustrious son, M. A. M. Ramaswami, who is the Pro-chancellor of Annamalai University, founded by his grandfather, Rajah Sir Annamalai. When it was established in 1981, the Panchaloha idol was made by the sculptor of Nagercoil, Sri Bhattanachariar. It was taken in a procession from January 25, 1981, from the Krishnan Temple in Nagercoil to various places before it was installed in the temple at Rajah Annamalaipuram.

DIVINESS OF THE TEMPLE: 

Unlike the temple in Sabarimala, which remains closed for most of the year after the Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku, to reopen only for Chithirai Vishu, the temple at Rajah Annamalaipuram is open throughout the year. Devotees can offer "Irumudi Kaanikkai" only for 41 days as in Sabarimala during the Mandala Pooja, which began on November 17. There are Moolavar and Utsavar idols in the temple and during the Mandala Pooja, "Irumudi Neyyabishekam" is performed to the Moolavar for 35 days and Brahmotsavam (main festival) is celebrated for six days. The temple has all sub-shrines as in Sabarimala for Sri Maha Ganapathi, Sri Nagaraja, Sri Maligaipurathu Amman (Manja Matha), and other "Parivara Devatas".  

AUSPICIOUS DAYS:   

 Mandala Pooja is the main festival. Music performances, religious discourses etc., are held here during the festival and other important days. 

ADDRESS:

No 82, Santhome High Road, R.A.Puram, Chennai 600028
Landmark: Opposite Ambedkar Manimandapam
Telephone: 044-24938239
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Ayyappan Temple at Gobichettipalayam


 Festival:
Thirukarthikai in November-December and Panguni Uthiram in March-April are the festivals celebrated in the temple.


Opening Time:
The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m.
Address:
Sri Aiyappan Temple, Gobichettipalayam, Erode district.
Phone:
+91-4285-321854
 General Information:
Shri Sakthi Vinayaka graces majestically in the corridor – prakara – of the temple greeting the devotees first. Shri Adhikesavaperumal with His consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi, Thumbikkai Azhwar, Anjaneya and Garudazhwar at the back grace the devotees in special dressings.
Prayers
For remedy from serious illnesses and for developing the speech skills of those suffering from serious stammering problems, people throng the Aiyappan temple. Ghee abishek is performed to the Lord thrice a day and ghee is offered to devotees as Prasad as a medicine. Devotees are blessed with mental peace and health.
Thanks giving:
Devotees perform abishek and offer vastras to the Lord.
 Greatness Of Temple:
Lord Shiva and Lord Muruga are facing each other gracing the devotees. The Manjal Madha shrine is very famous in the temple where special pujas are performed for those suffering from impaired speech.


On the left and right of the temple are the shrines of Sun (Surya) and Moon (Chandra). Aiyappa Mandapam follows then.


During the months of Karthigai and Margazhi (from November December and December-January) about 3000 Aiyappa devotees come here for pujas before starting their pilgrimage to Sabarimala. The Irumudi (a package with two sections containing contributions to Lord Aiyappa in Sabarimala) procedures and special pujas are taken up during this season.


Shrine of Nagaraja is near the Irumudi hall. There are shrines for Lord Aiyappan, Kasi Viswanatha with Mother Visalakshi. Shrine of Balamurugan is in front of Lord Shiva blessing the devotees. The Manjal Madha shrine, who performed penance to marry Aiyappa is very famous in the temple. The Veena Dakshinamurthy as in the Madurai Meenakshi temple is in this temple too whom devotees worship on all Thursdays. Shiva Durga, Chandikeswara and Kalabhairava protect the devotees from their shrines on the left.


Sri Aiyappa Samajam was formed in the year 1977. Special abhisheks were performed to the Kalasas in the temple in the year 1987. The consecration of the temple was performed with all devotion and splendour in the year 2000.

Thursday 15 December 2011

Azhagamman Temple at Nagarkoil near Nagarkoil(Kanyakumari)

This temple is dedicated to Vadivambal and Sundareswarar from whose names the name of the village is derived. The village is also home to four other temples: Perumal Kovil, Idar Theertha Perumal Kovil, Sastha Kovil and Pillayar Kovil.
Coordinates8°10′46″N 77°26′20″E
SEE IN MAP : http://g.co/maps/b2wwz

Festivals

The Azhagamman Temple, the biggest in the area presides car festival annually. The temple has two cars which was parked on the middle of the East car street ( Keezha ratha veedhi / Kizhakku ratha veedhi/ கீழ ரத வீதி ). The four prominent streets was named after the car festival which was held in the streets was named as North, East, West & South Car streets respectively.
Another important festival worth to mention was the soorasamhaar/ soora samhaaram (சூரசம்ஹாரம் ) which too was held under azhagamman temple at keezha radha veedhi.