Lord Siva as Vayu Lingam in Srikalahasti

Srikalahasti:-

The unique Shiva Linga here is located in picturesque soundings with the Dakshina Kailasa mountain at the back and the north flowing river Swarnamukhi in front.

Srikalahasti derives its name from His ardent devotees :-
1 . Spider called sri 
2 . Serpent called kala & 
3 . Elephant called Hasti 
From time immemorial countless gods, sages, saints, sinners and other devotees worshiped here and attained salvation. This holy place continues to draw thousands of devotees seeking fulfillment of their desires.

Realising the omnipresence and the omnipotence of the supreme, one will revel in Ananda. The eternal bliss can be achieved only through implicit faith humble submission and absolute devotion to the Almighty.

Everyday men in distress, men seeking knowledge and wealth and men imbued with wisdom flock to this sacred place and return with contentment.

The Vayu Lingam located in the temple, represents the element wind. The other four elements of Earth are Agni, Vaayu, Aakasam, Jalam and Prithvi. This temple is known for performing Sarpadosha (Rahu Ketu) Nivaarana Pooja. This temple was originated in the 12th century by the Chola King, Rajarajendra Chola.
In this temple during the Kalahasti Temple Festival, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kalahasteeswara. A lamp burns inside the inner sanctum that constantly flickers despite the lack of air movement inside.
One can see the Vayu-Linga inspite of the doors being closed. The sanctum also has no windows, the lamp flames keep moving despite no air movement. The color of the linga is white and is considered Swayambhu – self manifested. Lord Siva, the destroyer among the Trimurties. The remaining two among the three Murties (also known as Trimurties) are Brahma and Bishnu.
The linga, here, is one of the Panchabhuta lingas (made up of the five elements) - wind, water, fire, earth and ether. The linga at Srikalahasti is Vayulinga or one made of wind.

There is a lamp burning inside the inner sanctum that constantly flickers despite the lack of air movement inside. The vayu-linga can be seen moving despite the doors being closed. The sanctum has no windows, the lamp flames keep moving despite no air movement. The linga is white and is considered Swayambhu - self-manifested.

Kalahasti is surrounded by two hills. The Durgamba temple on the north hill and the shrine of Kannabeswara on the south hill, in memory of the Sage Kannappa, who offered an eye to the Lord. There is also a temple dedicated to Subramanya on one of the hills. A river flowing in the north washes the foot of the temple. The main linga remains untouched by human hands, even the priests do not touch it. Abhishek (bathing) is done by pouring a mixture of water, milk, camphor and panchamrita. Sandal paste, flowers and the sacred thread are offered to the utsava-murti, and not the main linga. It has an enormous, ancient gopuram over the main gate, which is 36.5 metres (120 feet) high and the entire temple is carved out from the side of the hill. King Krishnadeva Raya built this temple in1516. The temple is very ornate with elaborately designed pillars, altars, etc.

According to ancient Tamil sources Sri Kalahasti has been known as the ‘Kailas of the South’ for slightly more than two thousand years and the small river on whose banks it sits, the ‘Ganges of the South.’ Kailas is perhaps India’s most revered spiritual symbol. It is the abode of Shiva, from whose head, according to legend, the Ganges is said to flow. Shiva, ‘that which is auspicious at all places, times and in all circumstances’ is a symbol of the Self and the Ganges flowing from his head represents the spiritualized or awakened mind. A mind sourced in Spirit is a river of immeasurable power and life-giving goodness. The claim that Kalahasti is the ‘Kailas of the South’ simply means that the small hill near the temple is to be taken as the spiritual equivalent of the Himalayan Kailas. Likewise, the small river flowing in a northerly direction beside the temple is to be taken as the mighty Ganges.

The God Dakshinamurthy whose name means ‘the one facing south’ and whose idol (murthy) is installed in the Kalahasti Temple, sits in the North and faces south. East often represents the dawning of wisdom, the sun being another common Self symbol.

SriKalahasti got its name because in days of yore a spider (sri), serpent (kala) and elephant (hasti) elephant worshipped Shiva with great devotion. A spider lived in the inner sanctum and worshipped the Lord by weaving elaborate temples and images of Shiva. One day a breeze came up and caused the altar fire to destroy the spider’s offerings. It became angry and was about to gulp down the flame, (realize the Self) endangering its (ego’s) life. Appreciative of its devotion, Shiva appeared and granted the spider a boon. The spider requested moksha, release from the cycle of births and deaths. Accordingly it became one with Shiva, the Self.


Legend:-

There is a legend that Lord Shiva was worshipped by a snake, spider and an elephant. The spider (Sri) built the web over it to protect it from the sun and rain. The snake (Kala) would placed a gem on the Lingam and perform worship. The elephant would get water with its trunk and bathe the lingam (perform abhisheka). Each of these devotees had offered prayers in their devotion and worshipped the Lingam. Lord Shiva granted salvation to all these three devotees. Sri, Kala and Hasti put together becomes the name of this temple Srikalahasti.

The marks that correlate the legend are still visible on the Lingam, which is a swayambhu (natural). The main lingam is shaped like an elephant trunk, with tusks on each side and a figure of the spider at the bottom. If you look at the lingam from above it looks like a snake with five hoods.

In the sanctum sanctorum of this temple is a hanging lamp that always keeps swinging with a flickering flame though there is no visible inlet for wind. No one knows where the wind comes from is a mystery. The presence of vayu devata cannot and should not be mistaken for anything else!

The Kalahasti Sthalapuranam states that when Brahma the creator began to perform penance in the presence of this lingam, Lord Shiva left Kailash and took his abode in this idol. It didn't matter anymore that our yatra to Kailash Manas Sarovar did not materialize this year. I was simply elated that yena kena prakarena I got to see the Lord of my heart!!!

Significance of the temple:-

This temple is also known as the Rahu-Khetu kshetra. The Rahu-Khetu Sarpa dosha nivarana pooja is performed in this temple and devotees who have any of these doshas or other problems like no children or unmarried men and women can participate. It is believed that after performing this pooja whole heartedly, all the problems in life will be solved.

The temple architecture is a treat to the eyes for all those who visit Srikalahasti. A huge white architecture with three lofty gopurams speaks volume for its construction that dates back to Krishnadevaraya and Chola dynasty. Srikalahasti Temple was built by Chola Kings including Todaman Chakravarti. Historically, the temple was constructed in parts by different kings of Chola Dynasty. It is the Chola Dynasty which is credited for renovating and embellishing the temple with intricate sculpture and art. Kulottunga Chola, the great Chola King, contrived and built the beautiful gopurams, located at the entrance facing south, during the 11th century AD. In the late 12th century, Veeranarasimha Yadavaraya festooned the temple with outer Prakaras and four other gopurams connecting four entrances.

The Mantapams and Galigopurams facing east were developed by the Vijaynagar rulers in 16th century. Finally, the Natukottai Chettiars of Devakottai gave a final touch to the temple in 1912 by contributing 9 lakhs of rupees.The tower built by Krishnadevaraya in 15th century over the main gate stands at an imposing height of 120 ft. Alongside, the hundred pillared Mantapam (hall inside temple) is another architectural splendour that Srikalahasti is famed for. The Prakara or the compound and four gopurams were built by Veeranarashimha Yadavaraya in 12th Century. The Mantapam or 100 pillared hall was contrived and built by Krishnadevaraya during 1516 AD.

In the centre of the bustling street and bazaars on the sides, Srikalahasti Temple stands elevated with an architecture enwrapped in old world charm. Estimated to be a 1000 and more years old, during a recent repair work, the Shiva temple reflects oodles of culture and antiquity in look.

Sculptures of sage Kannappa, Shakti Vinayak and Saivaite bronze figures are quiet old and the exact date of these idols are known till date. Even the lingam of the temple dates back to more than 1000 years. An inside view and study of the pillar and carvings in the temple prove its antiquity beyond 1000 years.


Srikalahasti Temple:-

                                 SriKalaHasti temple is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalam and , represents the Vayu Sthalam . This temple is located in Chitoor district in Andhra pradesh. Sri Kalahasthi temple is situated 36kms away from Tirupathi and it is the only shrine for the God of Vayu . This temple was constructed by the Chola King, Rajendra Chola . Vayu is incarnated as Lord Shiva and worshipped as Kalahasteeswara. Goddess Parvathi devi is worshipped here as Gnanaprasunambika. 
                                  
                          This temple is also associated with Rahu and Ketu, (of the nine grahams or celestial bodies in the Indian astrological scheme). Sri Kalahasti Temple is also famous for performing poojas for Sarpa, Rahu, Ketu Doshas.
The temple is considered as the Kailash of the south or Dakshin Kailash.

                         Vishwakarma brahmin Sthapthis was the one who sculpted this temple. This temple features an enormous, ancient Gopuram over the main gate. The entire temple is carved out of the side of a huge stone hill. The temple is surrounded by two sacred hills, The Durgamba temple is found on the northern hill, while Kannappa Nayanar temple on the southern hill. It is found on the banks oif the river Swarna Mukhi.

                         The Lingam here is swayambu , and it is white in colour. The Main lingam is untouched by the human beings , even by the priest. Abhishekam is done by pouring a mixutre of water , milk, camphor and panchamrita. Sandal paste , flowers, and the sacred thread are offerred to th e Uthsava murthi , not the main Lingam.

                         There is a lamp inside the inner sanctum that is constantly flickering despite the lack of air movement inside. The air can be observed even when the priests close the main deity room, which does not have any windows. When all the lamps in the sanctum glow steadily, one can notice two lamps flickering now and then, proving the Lord's inhalation and exhalation.

                         

                         This ancient Sri Kalahasti temple dedicated to Lord Siva is one of the five Panchabhootha stalams (temples celebrating Lord Siva as the embodiment of the five primary elements), air (wind) being the element in this case; the other elements being water at (Thiruvanaikaval), fire at (Annamalaiyar Temple), earth at (Ekambareswarar Temple) and space at (Chidambaram Temple) that Siva embodies.

Importance  of This Srikalahasti Temple:-

The Srikalahasti Temple is additionally related to Rahu and Kethu (of the 9 grahams or celestial bodies within the Indian astrological scheme). The river Suvarnamukhi takes the northerly course at SriKalahasti virtually laundry the west wall of the celebrated Srikalahasti Temple. Within this terribly massive temple, located between 2 steep hills Sripuram and Mummidi-cholapuram, is that the Sivalinga set to represent the part of Vayu.

This Srikalahasti Temple is taken into account because the Kailash of the South or Dakshin Kailashi. Saivaite saints of the primary century herb concerning this temple.

What is sarp dosha puja :-

Sarp dosha occurs if a persons planets fall on one side of Rahu (head of a snake )and ketu (tail of a snake ) or if the moon is in the eighth house from rahu .There are several other methods in which this dosh occurs and it requires an astrologer -a real good one (I would say a super specialist) to diagnose such dosh.Sarp dosh or Kal Sarp Dosh results in
* unhappy or no marriage* spouse prone to fighting* endless struggles in life* No children* Lack of peace of mind* Enmity in family or society etc.

Teerthas :-

Sahasra Linga Teertham, from the Kalahasti it is about 5 miles far
Narada Teertham
Harhar Teertham
Mayura Teertham
Suka Teertham
Kalinga Teertham
Bharadwaja Teertham
Markandeya Teertham
Tatwa Prakasa Teertham
Manikarnika Teertham
Brahma teertham
Saraswati Teertham

Gnana Prasunambika Devi:-

There are many alternative legends connected to the glory of the Srikalahasti Temple. Distinguished among them is of Parvati WHO was cursed by Lord Shiva to discard her natural object and assume the human type. To induce free off the on top of curse Parvati did an extended penance here. Happy along with her deep devotion Lord Shiva once more restored her body – 100 times higher than her previous natural object and initiated varied mantras together with the Panchakshari. Sequent of this, Parvati gained and came to be called Shiva-Gnanam Gnana Prasunamba or Gnana Prasunambika Devi.

Gnanakala  of Srikalahasti Temple:-

Cursed to become a ghost Ghanakala prayed at Srikalahasti for 15 years and when singing Bhairava Mantra over and over Lord Shiva restored her original kind.


Devatas  prayed:-

Mayura, Chandra and Devendra were additionally free of their curses when taking bathtub within the stream Swarnamukhi and prayed at Srikalahasti.

Markandeya prayed:-

To Bhakta Markandeya, Lord Shiva appeared in Sri Kalahasti and preached that a Guru alone may build esoteric teachings and, so he’s Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara.

Kannappa prayed:- 

At Srikalahasti Temple, Lord Shiva tested the unshakable devotion of Thinnadu (Later became Bhaktha Kannappa) before the sages gathered at SriKalahasti. together with his divine power, Lord Shiva created a tremor and also the roof first-rate of the temple began to fall. All the sages ran far from the scene except Kannappa WHO lined the linga together with his body to stop it from any harm.

                                            Kannappa Placed his Eyes to this Lingam


In another incident, Kannappa plucked out one in every of his eyes and placed within the eye of Linga that was oozing with blood and tears. once the tears and also the blood were still trickling from another eye, Kannappa set to remove his second eye and placed one of his feet on the spot of the correct eye of the Shiva Linga. Before he may pull out his second eye with the arrow, Lord Shiva appeared and restored  his eye whereas granting him a boon to occupy an area near him.

According to Hindu Sivananda’s book, 63 Nayanar Saints, pg. 44, some Saivite traditions believe that Kannappa was the reincarnation of Arjuna. Arjuna, loved Shiva for seeking the Pasupatha Astra and didn’t acknowledge Him within the style of a hunter. Thus, in keeping with this tradition, Arjuna had to change state as a hunter and love the Lord before attaining final liberation.

Places to be seen:-

Sri Durga Temple
Hillock
North from temple
Sri Subrahmanya Temple
Hillock
East from temple
Sri Kannappa Temple
Hillock
South from temple
Sri sukabrahmashram
Close to the Main temple
Sri Pancha Mukeswara Temple
Adjacent to Main Temple
South from temple
Sri Dakshina kali Temple
Approximately 06 km
South from temple
Sri Veyi Lingala Kona (Hills)
Approximately 08 km
South from temple
Sri Varadaraja Swamy Temple
0.5 KM from Main temple
Sri Mutyalamma Temple
1 KM from Main temple towards Court road
Sri Chakreswara Swamy Temple
1 KM from Main temple towards Court road
Sri Dharmaraju Temple
2KM from Main temple towards Sullurpet Road
Sri Shiridi Saibaba Temple
2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from Main temple towards Sullurpet Road
Sri Neelakanteswara swami Temple Urandur
1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) form Railway station
Gudi Mallam
Approximately 20 kilometres (12 mi)
South from temple
Thala Kona
Approximately 120 kilometres (75 mi)
West from temple (Via Tirupati)
Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple
Approximately 100 km
East from temple (Via Nagalapuram)
Thondamanadu sri venkateshwara swamy temple built by thondaman chakravarthy brother of sri padmavathi ammavaru(brother-in-law to sri venkateswara swamy) and Temple is located 10 km away from sri kalahasthi, good transport facility is available and this is only temple where u can see swamy will be sitting along with sri lakshmi devi and padmavathi ammavaru.
kodandaramaswara kamashidevi temple lord siva Bokkasampalem village
8 km form srikalahasti main temple is located in bokkasampalem village near thodamanadu.

it has an historical place, there is available aptourism rooms.temple located 0.5 km away from thondamanadu sri venkateshwara swamy temple.

Festivals of Srikalahasti Temple:-

Maha Shivaratri which occurs in the Tamil month of Maasi (Feb 15 through March 15) is one of the greatest festival seasons here, and the celebrations are marked by processions of the deities. The fifth day of the festival in the month of Maasi coincides with the Maha Shivaratri the Shiva Linga of Srikalahasti Temple is considered to be one of the five important Lingas. According to Hindu mythology the five lingas represent the five great elements namely – Water, Fire, Ether, Air and Earth, established in the five great ‘Kshetras’. At Srikalahasti Temple Lord Shiva is worshiped as Vayu Linga of the wind God. A flame present in the Garbhagraha of the temple flickers even though no wind can enter the shrine.

Darshan Timings:-

Rituals of the Temple

S.No	Seva	Timing
1	Suprabatham	5-30 AM
2	Sarvadarshanam	6-00 AM
3	Pradhama Kala Abhishekam	7-30 AM
4	Dwthiya Kala Abhishekam	9-00 AM
5	Ucchi kala Abhishekam	10-30 AM
6	Rudhra Homam	11-00 AM
7	Chandhi Homam	11-00 AM
8	Nityothsavam	11-00 AM
9	Nithya Kalyanam	11-30 AM
10	Prodhosha Kala Abhishekam	5-30 PM
11	Nirajana Manthra Pushpam	7-00 PM
12	Ekantha Seva	9-00 PM
13	Temple Closing time	9-00 PM (every day)  9-30 PM (on Saturday to Monday)

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6 am to 9 pm and on other days fom 6 am to 9.30pm.

How to reach:-

Air:-

The nearest airport from the place is the Tirupathi which is at the distance of 60 kilometers from Srikalahasti. Tirupati is connected to Madhurai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore. Taxis are available to connect to the temple directly to Kalahasti.

Road:-

 There are many such state owned buses that are available from the nearby town like Vijaywada, Tirupati, Bangalore, Chennai and Nellore. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation is operating number of buses from the city.

Railways:-

 Tirupati is the railway head that is connected to almost all the major cities of the country as well as from the state. From Renigunta railway junction there, a traveler can proceed to the Srikalahasti (45 meters) through Erpedu.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3908014

Agni lingam - Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara

Tiruvannamalai:-

Tiruvannamalai is the home of a big temple for Lord Shiva built around 700 A.D, rich in history, tradition and architectural splendor. Tiruvannamalai is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalangal of Lord Shiva (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, Bramma and Vishnu attempted in vain to reach. It is dedicated to Arunachaleswarar (God Shiva, venerated as Agni Lingam (Lingam of Fire) and his divine consort is Unnamalai Amman. This is the birth place of Saint Arunagirinathar who composed the Tirupugazh hymns.

Annamalaiyar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is significant to the Hindu sect of Saivism as one of the temples associated with the five elements, the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, and specifically the element of fire, or Agni. Shiva is worshiped as Annamalaiyar or Arunachaleswarar, and is represented by the lingam, with his idol referred to as Agni lingam. His consort Parvati is depicted as Unnamulai Amman. The Karthigai Deepam festival is celebrated during the day of the full moon between November and December, and a huge beacon is lit atop the hill. It can be seen from miles around, and symbolizes the Shiva lingam of fire joining the sky. The event is witnessed by three million pilgrims.

About Legends:-

The history about the temple and the incarnation of Lord Siva in this place of Tiruvannamalai is desribed in many Sanskrit and Tamil scriptures. According to the mythology, there was an argument between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma regarding who is greater god. Hence Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma wanted to have a competition and asked Lord Siva to judge and decide who is greater between them.  Lord Siva agreed to the competition and told both the Gods, who ever can reach the crown and the feet of the Siva lingam will be judeged as Supreme.  Thus Lord Siva transformed himself into ‘Agni Lingam or Jyothi Lingam’.

Lord Vishnu transformed himself into a wild Boar and started digging into earth to reach Siva’s feet. Time elapsed for long time, but Lord Vishnu couldn’t reach the feet of ‘Shiv Lingam’, understanding it is a futile effort, Lord Vishnu accepted his defeated.

At the same time, Lord Vishnu took the form of a Swan and started flying high to see the crown of Lord Siva. After flying for a many years , he couldn’t reach the top of the Crown of Lord Siva. He saw the “Thazhambu” flower (Lotus flower) which is used for decorating Lord Siva’s crown falling down. Lord Brahma asked the flower as to how long he has to travel to reach the crown, for which the flower replied that it has been dropping down for the past 40,000 years from the time it fell from the top of Lord Siva’s crown but still didn’t the foot of Lord Siva. Understanding that it is impossible to reach the crown, Lord Brahma manipulated the flower in such a way that the flower be the witness that Lord Brahma reached the crown of Lord Siva and took the flower from there. Thus the flower and Lord Brahma went to Siva and told that Brahma could reach the Crown of Lord Siva. Lord Siva, understood the conspiracy and cursed Lord Brahma that no where on earth will any human being pray for him and that the “Thazhambu” flower will not be used for any prayers.

Lord Vishnu and Lord Bramha requested Lord Siva to cool down from his “Agni” form and Lord Siva cooled down and tranformed into a Siva Lingam.

It is said that this mountain was in the form of ‘Agni’ (fire) during Kritayugam, Emerald during Threthayugam, Gold during Dwaparayugam and rock during Kaliyugam.

The Annamalai Hill was Agni (fire) during Krithayugam, was Manikkam (Emerald) during Threthayugam, was pon (Gold) during Dwaprayugam and rock during Kaliyugam as per the ancient legends.

another Legend :- 

Parvati, wife of Shiva, once closed the eyes of her husband playfully in a flower garden at their abode atop Mount Kailash. Although only a moment for the gods, all light was taken from the universe, and the earth, in turn, was submerged in darkness for years. Parvati performed penance along with other devotees of Shiva. Then her husband appeared as a column of fire at the top of Annamalai hills, returning light to the world.He then merged with Parvati to form Ardhanarishvara, the half-female, half-male form of Shiva.The Annamalai, or red mountain, lies behind the Annamalaiyar temple, and is associated with the temple of its namesake.The hill is sacred and considered a lingam, or iconic representation of Shiva, in itself

    
History of Thiruvannamalai:-

The temple town of Tiruvannamalai is one of the most ancient heritage sites of India and is a center of the Saiva religion. The Arunachala hill and its environs have been held in great regard by the Tamils for centuries. The temple is grand in conception and architecture and is rich in tradition, history and festivals.

In ancient times, the term "Annamalai" meant an inaccessible mountain. The word "Thiru" was prefixed to signify its greatness, and coupled with the two terms, it is called Tiruvannamalai.

The history of this town dates from the early Chola period i.e. the period of Aditya I and Parantaka I (A.D. 871-955) when the Chola empire had expanded northwards to include practically the whole of Tondaimandalam. After Parantaka I till the reign of Rajendra I, Chola rule over this region is not attested by the Tiruvannamalai inscriptions, possibly on account of the Rashtrakuta invasions and occupation of this area by Krishna III. This is perhaps indicated by a single inscription of Kannaradeva (Krishna III) found in this temple. (475;63). the recovery of this region by the Cholas was a slow process and reached its successful conclusion only towards the close of Rajaraja I's reign i.e. AD 1014, for even Rajaraja is conspicuously absent in the inscriptions of Tiruvannamalai.

While the rule of Rajendra I and Rajadhiraja I over this area is attested by their inscriptions, once again a fairly long gap of over a hundred years is indicated by the absence of any Chola inscriptions till the beginning of Kulottunga III's reign (AD 1183)


Large scales activities in the period of Kulottunga III and Rajaraja III are indicated by a number of records in the temple. Further, the frequent references to a number of Chola feudatories of this period would also show a gradual ascendancy in their power and importance till the final establishment of independence by the Kadavaraya chieftains in the second quarter of the 13th century A.D. In this connection mention may be made of an interesting inscription at Tiruvannamalai, which records the agreement entered into by a number of feudatory chieftains to support one another and swearing allegiance to the ruling Chola king (Kulottunga III-A.D. 1210), pointing to a period of great political tension under the late Cholas (516;106).

The inscriptions of Kopperunjinga clearly show that by the second quarter of the 13th century, the Kadavarayas had established complete mastery over this region leading to the final decline of Chola power.

A brief period of Pandya supremacy over this region is indicated by the inscriptions of the Pandyas of the second empire such as Jatavaraman Srivallabha and Tribhuvanachakravartin Kulasekhara in the 13th century AD (481,571 etc; 70,162 ect,).

The Hoysalas under Vira Vallaladeva (Ballala III) also exercised sway over this area (459, 509; 89 and 99 - dated AD 1340) indication that the Hoysala power continued to influence Tamil politics even after the Muslim invasions of Malik Kafur.

About temple:-

Temple is an externalized aspect of faith, and it is a place to restore peace and harmony. What great seers have visualized has been made outwardly real in a temple. This temple is safely edifice consecrated to the Lord of Light and other deities, built centuries ago at the foot of the hill to form the seat of worship. The main entrance to the sanctum sanctorum is in the eastern tower, the tallest structure in proportion to the other dimensions of this largest temple forming part of it. The tower rising heavenward is marvelously massive and magnificently majestic one with its imposing structural elegance and inviting architectural excellence and awes people at a distance.

      Temple is the world's only social hope and the sole promise of peace and harmony; It purifies the society, and looks at the world with the intention of serving it, and strengthening society spiritually uniting people. The temple stands for the eternal, and the great glory of god where people praise the name of god and sing his glory. The temple offers you something you simply cannot get else where.
 One can obtain salvation (Mukthi) by remaining in one's place and thinking of Thiruvannamalai.

This Mukthi sthala spreads an expanse of 25 acres containing the temple of Lord Arunachala with tall towers piercing the sky. This shrine is famous not only in India but throughout the world.

Legends declare that those who pronounce the name of this sthala once, secure the bliss of repeating three crores of times the panchakshara (the Mantra of five words) and that not only those who visited and worshipped in this sthala, but also their descendents up to 21 generations will get liberation.

As one enters the city Thiruvannamalai, the Rajagopuram standing majestically, soaring a height of 217 feet comes to view first. It has 11 stories. This tower is a standing testimony to the artistic genius of the Vijayanagar Dynasty.

The Paathala (underground) Linga which is inside the temple in the south west corner of thousand pillared hall is one where Ramana Maharishi worshipped and secured liberation. Next comes Kambath Illayanar Sannadhi where Arunagiri Swami, the author of Thirupugazh was granted Mukthi.

The temple has Six enclosures which includes 9 gopurams(Towers).

                    In the West -  Pey Gopuram

                    In the North - Ammani Ammal Gopuram

                    In the South - Thirumanjana Gopuram.

Among the Gopurams Raja Gopuram is the big tower in the east and it was built by the King Vallala. And also the Entrance to the temple.

About Enclosures:-

The first and second enclosures are the oldest one which has been structured very long back. The second enclosure has the idols of 63 Nayanmars. Third enclosure was structured by the King Kulothunga. It includes 16 pillars mandabam.

The fourth and fifth enclosures were constructed in 16th Century. This includes big Nandhi, Sivaganga Thirtha(Tank) and the wall enclosing huge structures.

The Katchi Mandapam or hall of Darshan.  During the famous festival  Karthigai Deepam  the five deities are brought to this Mandapam, to be worshipped by the devotees when the grand and gigantic lamp (Deepam) is lit on the top of the holy hill.

The third enclosure  houses the temple of  Unnamalai Amman the name of  Parvathi, Shiva's consort in  Thiruvannamalai.

The second enclosure houses the Isanya Lingam, Indra Lingam and several deities. The Utsava Murthis , made of  Pancha Lohas or five metals, which are taken out for processions.

The first prakaram which has the sanctum sanctorum (Garba Graha) of lord Annamalai,  the presiding deity of the temple and the holy place.

Thousand Pillar Hall:-

On entering the temple through the east tower the big structure one faces on the right is the thousand pillared hall. There are indications that it was built by Krishnadevaraya. The thousand pillared hall sports exactly 1000 pillars. the pillars are carved , with sculptures of Naik periods and some divine images. Sages, Vishnu's incarations too find a place with floral designs.

Siddhi Vinayagar:-

The prime God Lord Ganesha also resides near the Sivaganga Theertha (tank) in the name of "Siddhi Vinayaga" and also called "Sivagangai Vinayagar".

Annamalai sthala has a special place in the history of our Culture and Religious life. The hill Annamalai has been responsible for the blossoming of several Saints and Ghanis. Many saints have attained liberation here.

Kartika Deepam:-

The first day :-

Karthika Deepam festival begins with the hosting of the flag signifying the commencement of the festival also known as Dwajaroghanam. In the morning and night Lord Arunachaleswarar will be taken out on the silver vahana for procession. The Panchamurthis(Panchamurthigal) are also taken out in the procession. The Panchamurthigal are Lord Ganapathi, Lord Murugan, Lord Sandeswarar, Lord Arunachaleswarar and Goddess Parvathi.These processions are carried out on different vahanas after the Deeparadhana is done at the kalyana mandapam.

The second day :-

Karthigai Deepam festival commences with the Lord Panchamurthigal coming on Indira Vimanam the chariot of Lord Indira.

The third day :-

Karthigai Deepam festival the ceremony begins at night with the Lord Panchamurthigal coming in procession majestically on the Simha vahana, the chariot of lion.

 The fourth day:-

  Karthikai Deepam the Lord Panchamurthigal comes in the procession that starts at night on the kamadhenu vahanam. The auspicious tree Karpaviruksha is also on the side of the lord. This tree is believed to grant all the wishes that the devotees seek without fail.

The fifth day :-

Karthikai Deepam festival begins at night. This procession on the silver rishaba vahanam is very appealing and splendid to witness. Lord Panchamurthigal goes on this vahana that is about 25 feet tall. A big umbrella with about 17 feet in diameter is carried along in the procession.

The sixth day :-

Karthigai Deepam festival commences with a night procession of Lord Panchamurthigal on the silver chariot that is beautifully crafted and simply imposing when it comes around the temple.

The seventh day :-

Karthikai Deepam festival Lord Panchamurthigal starts with the procession on the Maha ratham that is very huge and it almost occupies the full width of the road. This ratham is made of pure wood that is strong and rugged.

The eight day :-

Karthigai Deepam festival begins at night with the Lord Panchamurthigal going out on procession on the huge horse vahana. The speciality of this horse is that all the four legs of this horse are in the air and they do not touch the ground.

The ninth day:-

Karthigai Deepam festival the devotees can witness Lord Panchamurthigal going out procession on the Kailasa Vahanam. This ceremony is mostly conducted on the ninth night.





The tenth day :-

Karthigai Deepam festival starts at around four o clock in the early hours and the Bharani Deepam is lit at the temple. In the evening the Mahadeepam is lit on the top of the hill at around six o clock. This is a very important ceremony during the Karthigai Deepam festival at Tiruvannamalai. Arunachaleswarar is said to be visually represented in the form of agni on the hill top. There is a very mammoth gathering on this day at the Arunachaleswarar temple to witness this glorious and sacred event. The night ceremony starts with Lord Periya nayagar going out procession on the Rishaba vahanam that is made of gold. This is another spectacular event at Arunachaleswar temple at Tiruvannamalai.

Theppal :-

Lord Chandrasekarar, Lord Parasakthi,Lord Subramaniar goes in the boat and this is called Theppam, since it carried out in the tank. Lord Arunachaleswarar goes procession round the hill, known as Girivalam or pradhiksahana. With this ceremony the Karthigai Deepam festival at Arunachaleswarar temple comes to a grand conclusion with the devotees taking back home some divine blessings and memories from this ancient holy city Tiruvannamalai.

Girivalam means Going Round of Arunachala Hill:-

Girivalam (also called Giri Valam)spiritual festival observed on every full moon day at Tiruvannamalai for sacred Mountain Annamalai.In tamil language, "Giri" means mountain and "Valam" means circumambulation. People with spiritual seeking choose to walk around the mountain and worship Aruanachala temple of Tiruvannamalai on pournami day called Girivalam.

Girivalam is connected to the hill Annamalai , considered as a deity and god Shiva temple called Arunachaleswarar an Tamil ancient massive shrine found at the bottom of the Tiruvannamalai hill. This Arunachaleswarar temple named after "The mountain of fire" . The god who lives there also called by the same name. In sanskrit "Arunam" stands for fire with red colour, "asalam" can be read as "malai" or hill. In fact the mountain is red in color, stand high for 2668 feet with 16 KM in diameter (approximately).

During the Girivalam(Giri valam) circling, people visit eight siva lingams located around the Arunachala mountain. Each lingam represent one direction, if you watch closely Tiruvannamalai town itself structured around this lingams in octagonal dimension. Each lingam has its own name Indra Lingam, Agni Lingam, Yama Lingam, Niruthi Lingam, Varuna Lingam, Vayu Lingam, Kubera Lingam and Esanya Lingam.
Malaivalam (Girivalam)

A monthly ritual, a token of devotion working a stage in spiritual developments. The illumination of the entire disc of moon, is a monthly feature devotees drawn from different parts of the land visit the temple and phallic symbol placed in the sanctum sanctorum, and the mother Goddess 'UMA' and dextrally move in a circle in large numbers keeping the hill as the centre covering in a complete round a distance of nearly fifteen kilometers.

Viewing the vicissitudes of the vesture by which the nature covers the vertical monument.

Observing on all sides from the ground floor to the heavenly peak the changing moods of the hill.

Worshipping all along the way the hundred and odd lingams the masculine means of majesty, the phallic symbols used extensively in the cult of worship of 'Siva' and erected at regular intervals the procreative force (lingam).

Having a sense of detachment

Felling their oneness with the nature as they are

On  joyous journey as

Go  round the world, the universe, the constellations, all of which are his myth and manifestations.

Seeking spiritual union with the savior of all and for sometime the aspirants of higher aims are away from the harassing material world.

Indian spiritual history has it that even today a number of siddhars are living on the hill. During the fullmoon Maha Girivalam (Giri Valam) or Deepam festival day of Karthigai month It siddhars movement would be there and the whole atmosphere would be filled with perfumes of herbal plants. This will provide peace of mind and good health to body. It is a proven fact that Tiruvannamalai girivalam pulls 100,000 of devotees to circumambulate the Arunachala mountain and obtain seeken wish comes true by praying to siva Annamalai.The giri valam circumambulation path has been well maintained with rows of sodium lights around the hill.People can walk round the clock 24 hours a day without any fear or getting lost. To improve the devotees experience, Tiruvannamalai town government has established many road side stores as well as strict vigilant Police patrol around the mountain


Full Moon pulls people and swells the crowd:-

Earthlings enjoy every full moon night. On every full moon day, the temple wears a festive look and draws devotees from all parts of the land as the nectar of the floral disc attracts bees with an osmotic pull of an astounding force. The full moon not only swells oceans and seas but also the crowd of devotees who throng about the temple. The moon shows its whole disc illuminated and this illumination exerts an influence upon earnest adherents by imperceptible means. While the waning  phases of moon bring in depression its waning phases waken up soul of  men to winsome elation; and the lovely luminous (full) moon brings in the devotees a magical sense of spiritual awakening. A glow with aspirations the adherents find a promise of new life, new spring in the severe summer of the earthly life.

Annamalai in Literature:-

Annamalai has found place in all kinds of literatures such as Puranas, Anthathis, Venbas, Prabandhams, Pathikams, Vannam, Sathakam, Kovai, Maalai, Viruththam, Keertanas, Sthothras, Kummi and plays.

More than 60 Sthal Purans are available in Tamil, and in Sanskrit we have Arunachala Stotras and Arunachala Ashtakam. Tiruvannamalai is mentioned even in Keno Upanishad.

Annamalaiyar Mountain:-

Annamalaiyar hills are spread over an extent of 24 acres. The Annamalai, or red mountain, lies behind the Annamalaiyar temple, and is associated with the temple of its namesake. The hill is sacred and considered a lingam, or iconic representation of Shiva, in itself.

Shiva is associated with each of the five elements namely Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Sky in five different holy places with Tamilnadu. As Lord Shiva attained the mountain roopam and enlightened as a dense volume of fire here in Thiruvannamalai, he is considered as Fire here.
Experience Hinduism - Annamalaiyar mountain
During the full moon day a huge fire is lighted as a memory of the fire that Lord Shiva left behind on the hill. It is believed, on every Full moon day lakhs of devotees get all benefits by praying to Lord Annamalaiyar.

The Annamalai Hill was Agni (fire) during Kirthayugam, was Manikkam (Emerad) during Threthayugam, was Pon (Gold) during Dwaparayugam and rock during Kaliyugam.

A Siddha Bhumi known for Sevas:-

Siddhas are considered representatives of God with complete mastery over the powers of nature. They are believed to have conquered death and live anywhere and everywhere without being seen, recognized or identified by ordinary humans, and other living beings. Certain places in general and mountain ranges in particular are considered permanent seats of Siddhas; Annamalaiyar is one such sacred place.

"All stones in that place [Arunachala] are lingams. It is indeed the Abode of Lord Siva. All trees are the wish-granting trees of Indra's heaven. Its rippling waters are the Ganges, flowing through our Lord's matted locks. The food eaten there is the ambrosia of the Gods. When men move about in that place it is the earth performing pradakshina around it. Words spoken there are holy scripture, and to fall asleep there is to be absorbed in samadhi, beyond the mind's delusion. Could there be any other place which is its equal?" [Arunachala Puranam] .

Asta Lingams:-

Arunachala is surrounded by eight lingams (Asta Lingams) each residing in one of the eight directions of the four cardinal points (South – Yama, West – Varuna, North – Kubera, and East – Indra) and four intercardinal points (South East – Agni, South West – Niruthi, North West – Vayu and North East – Esanaya).

The guardians of the four cardinal directions are called the Lokapalas and are the deities who rule the specific directions of space. The name for the eight deities, four of the cardinal and four of the intercardinal directions is 'Asta-Dikpalas.’

By the turn of the Twentieth Century many of the shrines, temples and theertams at Arunachala were in a state of neglect and decay. In the case of the Asta Lingams the areas around the shrines were filled with squatters and encroachments and the Asta Lingams shrines themselves were unmaintained and their worship ignored.

It is believed by many that the work done by I.S.V. Arunachala Moopanar (Moopanar Swamigal) renovating and restoring the Asta Lingams and their adjacent land, was responsible for helping to re-establish the energetic power of the sacred geometry of Arunachala.

Moopanar Swami came to Arunachala from Tiruveneli around 1968 and became very well known throughout the Arunachala area. He was a devout, spiritual man who placed great emphasis on spiritual service. When he arrived at Arunachala, things were rather different to the present time and what particularly distressed Moopanar Swami was the dreadful, neglected condition of the Asta Lingams (eight Lingams) that surround Arunachala. Moopanar Swami used to spend a lot of time meditating and praying at the Arunachaleswarar Temple and he eventually came to believe that his mission directly imposed by Lord Arunachaleswarar was to renovate the Asta Lingams.

He was convinced that the restoration of the Lingam Shrines was essential to the revitalisation of specific fields of energy and influence surrounding the Hill. Through a combination of various social reasons, over the last few centuries Temples and Shrines throughout India had fallen into disuse and decay. This certainly occurred at Tiruvannamalai where the situation had become so bad that The Asta Lingams were even taken over by squatters and homesteaders. It is said that Moopanar Swami would even resort to driving the squatters off the Lingam premises with a stick!

The Hill which is octagonal in shape is surrounded by a total of eight Lingam Temples (Asta Lingams). Each of these Temples are located at the four cardinal and four inter-cardinal points. This was also believed by the ancients who originally constructed the Lingams at their eight cardinal and inter-cardinal points to represent, characterise and vitalise certain aspects and qualities of life.

Asta lingams:-

Indra Lingam (East)
Agni Lingam (South East)
Yama  (Ema) Lingam (South)
Niruthi Lingam (South West)
Varuna Lingam (West)
Vayu Lingam (North West)
Kubera Lingam (North)
Esanya Lingam (North East)

The Lingams have the dominant Navagraha of the God to whom they are associated. It is believed that placating a specific Lingam will bring various benefits that are associated with the  respective Navagraha.

Indra Lingam (East):-

The Indra Lingam has east as its direction. It is associated with the celestial Lord Indra. This Lingam is situated on Car Street close to the eastern tower of Arunachaleswarar Temple.

Lord Indra is the king of Heaven according to Hindu mythology. His consort is Indrani. His vehicle is the celebrated four-tusked white elephant Iravathi. Indra manifests seated on his elephant wielding in his hand the weapon Vajra with which he destroys ignorance and bestows spiritual knowledge on his deserving devotees.

The Indra Lingam is dominated by the Navagrahas, Lord Surya and Lord Shukra (Venus). Devotees are blessed with long life and with prosperity, on worshipping Indra lingam.


Agni Lingam (South East):-

The Agni Lingam has south-east as its direction. It is situated close to Seshadri Ashram on Chengam road and is the only Lingam located on the right side of the Girivalam Path.

Lord Chandra (Moon) is the dominant Navagraha of Agni Lingam. Lord Agni, is the God of the fire of Knowledge. He has seven hands and seven tongues. Agni is the light of the lives of all creatures and is invoked in the performance of Homa. His vehicle is the goat Saga who serves as the sacrificial beast in the fires of Homa.

Worshipping this Lingam helps devotees get relief from disease, to maintain good health and also helps them face problems and difficulties in their lives.

Yama Lingam (South):-

The Yama Lingam has South as its direction. It is associated with Yama the God of death. It is situated beside the cremation grounds on Chengam road.

The dominant Navagraha of this Lingam is, Mangala (Mars).  Yama is portrayed sitting on his mount, a powerful black buffalo named Mahishan and with two  monstrous dogs by his side. He is supposed to carry a huge lasso with which he drags each being at the time of death to face heaven or hell according to the being’s karma.

Devotees get rid of their financial constraints on worshipping the Yama lingam. This Lingam is also conducive for longevity of life span

Niruthi Lingam (South West):-

The Niruthi Lingam has South West as its direction. It is situated on the Girivalam pathway near the Shantimalai Compound. It is associated with Lord Rahu.

Niruthi is the king of the Asuras (demons) and he jointly rules the Southern realm along with Yama. His associate is a dog.

Legend reports that king Nala bathed in Niruthi Lingam Theertham to be relieved of sins incurred due to his karma. This Lingam is specially renowned to help people recover from the bad effects of black magic and other negative energies.

Health, wealth and fame are the beneficial aspects of this lingam. It is also beneficial for couples to worship at this Lingam if they wish to have a child. Worshipping this Lingam is believed to help devotees achieve detachment to worldly desire.


Varuna Lingam (West):-

Varuna Lingam has the West as its directions. This lingam is situated on the outer girivalam pathway about one kilometre before the village of Adi Annamalai.

Varuna’s vehicle is Makara (that lives both on land and water) which is an animal with the head and front legs of an antelope and the body and tail of a fish.

This Lingam has Lord Shani as its dominant Navagraha. Varuna Theertham, a holy tank, is located here. Devotees are protected from illness, particularly water related diseases.

Legend has it that the eye of Varuna is Surya and when Surya appears in the constellation of Makara, its  a special event and honoured as Makara Sankarathi. This day falls each year in mid-January and is celebrated as Pongal Festival in Tamil country.

Varuna is the king of appreciation and enjoyment. He governs the whole world. He is the God of rain and God of all the waters in the three worlds. He surveys the deeds of man according to his karma and keeps them under his control. Placating Varuna is believed to wash away accumulated sins.

Vayu Lingam (North West):-

Vayu Lingam has the north-west direction as its direction. It is situated on the girivalam pathway, about one kilometer after the village of Adi Annamalai

Vayu is the Hindu god of wind and he is often associated with Indra. His vehicle is the deer. Kedhu (Kethu) is the dominant Navagraha of this Lingam. As Vayu is the God of wind, He provides creatures with vital life-giving breath thus sustaining the entire Universe.

It is reported that at any time of the day, and in every season, when one enters this shrine one is always greeted by a gust of wind.

Relief from heart diseases, stomach problems, lung problems and general illness are conferred to the devotees on worshipping this Lingam.

Kubera Lingam (North):-

Kubera Lingam has the North as its direction. It is located on the girivalam pathway before entering the town and a few hundred metres before the Panchamukham.

The Kubera Lingam has Lord Brihaspati (Guru or Jupiter) as its dominant graham. He has three legs and eight teeth. His vehicle is a female goat. His abode is in the capital of the Himalayas. His consort is Yakshi. He is the Chief of the Yakshas who safeguards the riches of the Devas. He is a very friendly with Shiva.

It is believed that Lord Kubera came to this place to worship Arunachala in order to maintain his wealth and prosperity. Hence a Shiva lingam was installed and consecrated at a point exactly north from the mountain.

Kubera is the God of wealth and material possessions. He does not create wealth, but he is believed to be the one who distributes wealth amongst his devotees.

Esanya Lingam (North East):-

Esanya Linga has the north east as its direction. It is located on the old girivalam road to town, beside the  main cremation grounds.

This lingam was installed by Esanyan and has Lord Budha (Mercury) as its dominant Navagraha.

Esanya is one of the  seven Rudras of Shiva. He is covered with ashes and surrounded by ghosts, he has matted locks and fierce eyes and is seated on a tiger skin. He holds the crescent moon and the river Ganga in his locks. His body is adorned by coiled serpents. In his hands he holds the mortal drum and the trident of Shiva.

Devotees are blessed with peace of mind on offering prayers to Easanya Linga.

Daily Pujas For Arunachaleswara:-

1. Ushathkalam
   
05-30 a.m.

2. Kalasanthi
   
08-00 a.m.

3. Uchikalam
   
10.00 a.m.

4. Sayarakshai
   
06-00 p.m.

5. Irandamkalam
   
08-00 p.m.

6. Ardha Jamam
   
09-30 p.m.

Annul Festivals:-

Chitrai:-
   
Vasantha utsavam - 10 Days beginning from Mrigeseerisha Nakshatram

Ani:-
   
Dakshinaya Brahma Utsavam- 10 Days

Adi:-
   
AdiPuram - 10 Days ; Last day Fire Walking festival

Purattasi:-
   
Navarathri - 10 Days

Aipasi:-
   
Kanntha Sashti - 6 Days

Karthigai:-
   
Brahma Utsavam; Deepam festival - 10 Days

Margazhi:-
   
Manikkavasagar Utsavam - 10 Days

Thai:-
   
Sankaranthi Utsavam - 10 Days

Panguni:-
   
Uthram Festival - 6 Days

Special Festivals:-

Chitrai:-

    Natarajar Abishekam-Thiruvona Nakshatram.
    Thirunavukkarasar Festival-Sathaya Nakshatram.

Vaikasi:-   

    Abishekam-Visaka Nakshatram.
    Thirugnanasambandar Festival-Mula Nakshatram.

Ani:-   

    Manikkavasagar Festival-Maga Nakshatram.
    Natarajar Ani Thirumanjanam Uthra Nakshatram.

Adi:-   

    Ambal Niramani(Varalakshmi Nonbu)
    Sundarar Festival-Swathi Nakshatram.
    Arunagirinathar Festival.

Avani:-   

    Srikrishna Jayanthi.
    Pittu Tiruvizha-Mula Nakshatram.
    Natarajar Abishekam-Sukla Chathurthai.

Purattasi:-   

    Saraswathi Puja-Ambal Niraimani,Sukla Navami.
    Natarajar Abishekam-Sukla Chathurthasi.
    Arunagirinathar Festival-Mula Nakshartram.


Auspicious Day: -

Pournami (Full Moon) Day and also yearly once karthigai deepam.

How to Reach:-
  
By Air:-

Thiruvannamalai the world renowned abode of Lord Shiva is ideally located with ample access options by air, train and road. The nearest access via air travel to Thiruvannamalai can be through Chennai. Chennai is the nearest airport and it lies around 185 kilometres away by road. People coming from top metros in India namely Mumbai, Delhi, Calcutta, Bangalore and Hyderabad can take the air travel via Chennai.

By Road:-

 From Chennai the travel time is around 3.5 hours. The travel by car or by public transport is quite comfortable. The fare by taxi may cost around Rs 2500 Bus services are available in plenty from Chennai, Tirupathi, Salem, Madurai and from other important cities in Tamil Nadu.

By Train:-

 People can also avail the train service and Thriuvannamalai is located on the railway route in between Katpadi and Villupuram.. From Bangalore there are plenty of bus services to Thiruvannamalai operated by government corporations. The journey is also very pleasant by road during night travel. Thiruvannamalai can also reached from Kanchipuram very conveniently by road by traveling due south. From here it is mere hundred kilometers by road. The bus station and the railway station at Tiruvannamalai are within walking distance from the temple of Lord Shiva.