Palani has been mentioned in the Tamil Sangam Literature as Podhini, which came to be called as Palani later, according to the historions. In Thirumurukatruppadai ( a Sangam Literature ) Palani has been mentioned as the 3rd PadaiVeedu. This was the southern end of the Kongu Nadu and edicts refer to this place as Vaiyapuri Nadu , which was ruled by king Vaiyapuri Kopperumbaegan. Many Siddhas are said to have lived in this region. The idol of Palani Andavar is said to have been made of Navapashanam ( a combination of Veeram, Pooram, Rasam, Jathilingam, Kandagam, Gauri Pasanam, Vellai Pasanam, Mridharsingh, Silasat), by a siddhar called Bhogar.It is also claimed by many that the materials of abhishegam like milk, sandalpaste, etc., attain medicinal properties on being poured over Lord Palaniandavars idol and they have cured many diseases, when taken by the patients. It is a speciality of Palani.
PALANI STHALAPURANAM
The History of Palani written by Balasubramania Kavirayar speaks about the glory of this place. This contains 23 chapters in 987 verses, and was written in 1628AD. The Temple Office has released a new and revised book in 1998.
The story of Lord Muruga, why He left Kailasa and came to Palani, and how Palani got its name.Lord Siva and Goddess Parvathi are seated atop Mount Kailas. One day, Lord Narada comes and gifts them a celestial fruit. The two sons of Lord Siva, namely Ganapathy and Murugan, demand the entire fruit for each of them. Siva announces a competition and promises to give the fruit to the one who wins the test. The condition is they should go round the world and reach back first. Both agree to it and Ganapathy makes a circumambulation of His parents, reaches first, and wins the fruit. Murugan who goes on his peacock around the world reaches later and finds that Ganapathy has won the prize. He therefore gets disappointed and, renouncing the world, stands atop the Palani Hill. Siva and Parvathi come to Palani and pacifies Murugan telling him Muruga, you are yourself a divine fruit ; then why do you need a fruit? Fruit, in Tamil, is called Pazham. Hence this place came to be called as Palani, as Muruga was addressed as Palam Nee. Some say that Palani got its name from Pazhanam (meaning paddy fields )
Kavadi (How kavadi tradition came to palani?) :
Sage Agastya wanted to take two hills — Sivagiri and Sakthigiri to his abode in the South and commissioned his disciple Idumban to carry them. Idumban bore the hills slung across his shoulders, in the form of a kavadi one on either side. When he was fatigued, he placed the kavadi near Palani to take rest. At this stage, Subrahmanya or Muruga had been outwitted in a contest for going round the world. Ganapati had won the prized fruit (pomegranate or mango) by simply going round His parents. Long after, this, Subrahmanya came sweating on His peacock to find that the prize had already been given away. In anger, the frustrated child left the divine parents and came down to Tiru Avinankudi at the Adivaram (pronounced Adivâram. It means foot of the Sivagiri Hill). Siva pacified Him by saying that He (Subrahmanya) Himself was the fruit (pazham) of all wisdom and knowledge; neeyou. Hence the place was called 'Pazham Nee' or Palani.
Later, He withdrew to the hill and settled there as a recluse in peace and solitude. When Idumban resumed his journey, he could not lift the hill. Muruga had made it impossible for Idumban to make it. In the fierce battle that ensued, Idumban was killed but was later on restored to life. Idumban prayed that: whosoever carried on his shoulders the Kavadi, signifying the two hills and visited the temple on a vow, should be blessed and he should be given the privilege of standing sentinel at the entrance to the hill. Hence we have the Idumban shrine halfway up the hill where every pilgrim is expected to offer obeisance to Idumban before entering the temple of Dandâyudhapani. Since then, pilgrims to Palani bring their offerings on their shoulders in a kavadi. The custom has spread from Palani to all Muruga shrines worldwide.
Temple (An Oceanic Life Story) :
Bogar is a Siddhar, he is considered as one of the 18 siddhars born in the world. According to epigraphical sources and his book Bogar Seven thousand his period is around 3000 B.C. Bogar born at India and visited China in search of truth of life, he gained knowledge in medicine, astrology, spritiuality, yoga etc. Bogar anticipating that in due course of period, human beings will suffer from large number of disease. As an expert in medicine he used 4448 rare herbs and made 9 poisonous medicine, mixing these 9 poisons into one needs great knowledege and skill, to make a Master Medicine ( One medicine to cure all disease ). Thirumoolar also discuss one such Master Medicine in his book Thiru Mandiram. With the consultation of Agasthiar ( Father of Ayurvedic Medicine) and other siddhars Bogar mixed the 9 poisons ( Nava Bashanam ) and made the Master Medicine in the form of Lord Murugan which is currently worshiped at Palani Murugan temple. There is a place near Palani Hill called Thanasiappan Temple which is the place were Bogar mixed the Nava Bashanam and made the Murugan idol.
Bogar and others then decided that by using the milk and panchamirtham ( a sweet recipe ) poured on the idol, one can extract the medicine from the idol. The milk and panchamritham then becomes medicine to cure disease. After installing Lord Murugan Navabashana idol at the Palani Hill, Bogar used to worship it with milk abishegam ( pouring milk on the idol ) and panchamirtha abishegam ( pouring panchamirtham on the idol ). His disciple Pulipani siddhar then took over the job of Lord Murugan pooja after Bogar went into Nirvigalpa Samadhi - the highest samadhi stage; where the Mind dissolves with Matter and Energy.
Bogar Samadhi is inside Palani Murugan temple at Palani Hill. Actually Bogar himself constructed his samadhi exactly under the Lord Murugan Navabasha idol and went into Nirvigalpa Samadhi there. The entrance to his samadhi is a cave like structure, now also worship for this great siddhar is conducted at this entrance where he is last seen by his disciples which is at the Palani temple.
Navapashanam (The icon made by siddha Bhogar by combining nine poisonous substances) :
The deity of Palani is known as Dandayudhapani Swami, the Lord having the Staff in his Hand. The deity at the sanctum sanctorum is made out of an amalgam of nine minerals popularly called Navapashanam. Some people say it is a combination of medicinal herbs. It consits of the following items : Veeram, Pooram, Rasam, Jathilingam, Kandagam, Gauri Pasanam, Vellai Pasanam, Mridharsingh, Silasat. The deity is in a standing position with a baton in his hand. He has the look of a person who has renounced all worldly pomp. He has just a loincloth besides the baton. He is a mute messenger of the great precept 'Renounce all to reach Me'. The icon is unique in the whole world. It was made by siddha Bhogar by combining nine poisonous substances (Navapashanam). Murugan signifies beauty and Lord Murugan of Kurinji land is the god of Beauty and Youth
Palani-Geoghraphical Location :
India is a land of spirituality, with the vast and fertile Ganges plateau. Spanning 3214 KM south-north and 2933 KM east- west, it has an area of 32,80483sq.km.The beautiful state of Tamil Nadu is situated is the Southern region of India, with Chennai as its Capital. Palani town is 472 KM away from Chennai. It has area of 6.63Sq.KM and is located at 10.3 N and 77.3 E of the meridian. It is about 309-323 m above sea level, and has a rainfall of 560mm annually. Getting rain by the North-East Monsoon, this town is situated 10 KM away from the range of the Western Ghats on the South, called the Palani Hills. Kodaikanal a famous tourist township is situated and these hills, at a height of 2133 M. The Shanmuga River (consisting of Palar, Porundalar, Varadhamanadhi, Pachaiyar, Kallar and Kanar) flows from these hills and is 3KM away from Palani. Its length is 19KM .
Palanis temperature is 22 c - 35 c. Details of the Palani Hills The Palani Hills, famous in the Sangam Literature, has a height of 160 Meters. It has a path around it, admeasuring 2.84 KM. The Hill has 689 steps to reach the top, and is surrounded by various medicinal herbs and trees like Sandalwood ,Kadamba, etc., as also fields and groves. Important places around Palani Kodaikanal, the Queen of the south Indian Hills is situated near Palani and is an import tourist centre.
Perianayagi Amman temple, Periyavudaiyar temple, Dams at Palani Porundalaar, the garden of herbs etc., situated in an area of about 7KM radius around Palani. The Kurinji Andavar temple at Kodaikkanal is a famous shrine. There is a temple for Lord Muruga at Poomparai. The Kurinji plant which blossoms once in 12 years is seen in this area. Location of Palani The Palani temple is considered to be the foremost among Murugan temples of Tamil Nadu. Thousands of devotees come and worship here throughout the year. Apart from the people of Tamil Nadu, those from Andra , Karnataka, Kerala, etc., also come from large numbers and worship here. So the temple here always has a festival look. Lord Gnanadandayudhapani, in the form of Guru, showers his grace on the devotees. This place is situated at a distance of 56 KM from Dindigul, 472 KM from Chennai, 114 KM from Madurai, 103 KM from Coimbatore, 126 KM from Erode and 156 KM from Trichy.
Kodaikkanal is 64 KM away on the South of Palani. There is train facility to reach Palani from all the above places, except Kodikkanal, which can be reached by bus or car. As the above towns have air travel facility, visitors can reach Palani by car after reaching the above town by air from elsewhere.
Archaeological Details :
The Palani Hill temple has been constructed on the top of a hill. It is said that the temple was built by a Chera King.
The Palani Hill temple has been constructed on the top of a hill. It is said that the temple was built by a Chera King.
1. EDICTS On the outer walls of Lord Murugas shrine there are many edicts, made by some Pandya Kings, Sadayavarman sundarapandiyan, Sadayavarman veerapandian, Veera Nanjana wudaiyar , Mallikarjuna Devarayar II and others. The edict by Sundarapandiyan is the oldest of all. He was also Known as Kongupandiyan and was the famous king of the later Pandya Dynasty . He ascended the throne in 1251 AD. From the inscriptions on the wall, he come to know that many kings have gifted lands and villages to the temple to enable the conduct of regular Poojas. In 1300 AD king Jatavarman sundrapandian gifted a village for carrying a special daily Pooja in his name. It is called Avani Vendha Raman Sandhi.
2. SCULPTURE AT THE HILL TEMPLE :
In the front Mandapam of the temple there are many beautiful and artistic sculpture pieces live Siddhas in penance, parrot, peacock, deer, Karpaga vriksha (Divine Tree ) and so on. There are also icons of Dhandayuthapani. His devotees, as also Yaali . At the entrance near the Raja Gopuram there are two nice sculpture pieces - a young lady carrying her child in the right arm and carrying a flower basket in the left; another beautiful lady , the friend of the first standing in front of her. There are pillars with Yaali in the Paaravel Mandapam. In the Ardha Mandapam there are sculptures of young, good looking damsels. They create a sense of admiration in the minds of the visitors. The Tamils belive that Murugan resides where there is beauty. The Sanctum of Dhandayuthapani Swami is full of art-work. The ceiling here having the Kodungai design speaks of the talent of the sculptors. The balcony - like structure on the outer side of this area adds beauty. Such artistic work can be seen on the pillars of Thiruvavinankudi temple and Periyanayagiamman temple. In the Navaranga Mandapam here there are two pieces the divine dance of Lord Siva and (opposite to this ) the dance of Kali after her shedding her ego .
3. PAINTING: In the temple walls of Periyanayaki Ammam Temple there is a beautiful ancient painting, revealing the art of singers, artists and dancers. It belongs to the Nayak period.
4. ANCIENT COINS : In Palani area , old coins of ancient kingdoms were also found.
The Glory of Palani :
The ancient Palani is a sacred place, praised by Saint Arunagirinathar in his Thiruppugazh and in Kandar Alankaram.
The ancientPalani is a sacred place, praised by Saint Arunagirinathar in his Thiruppugazh and in Kandar Alankaram. He says: Adored by the people of fourteen worlds, the Lord resides atop the Palani Hills In the Thiruppugazh, he praised this place as Palani that is greater than Kasi and as Palani Hill that has many miracles. He also feels sorry for his failure to start early worship of Palani. In Kandar Alankaram he regrets that he missed reading about Palani, worshipping at the feet of Muruga Devotees, calling the divine name of Muruga, offering charities and sobbing with love and joy He doubts whether there is any salvation for him. Many Tamil saints and scholars have sung in praise of the Lord of Palani.
For example: Arunagirinathar has sung 97 songs (Thiruppugazh): Dhandapani swamigal has given as Palani Thiruvayiram and Vijayagiri Velachinnavaiyam Palani Pillai Tamil . Palani Malai Vadivelar Sannadhimurai speaks of the discipline of Palani worship, the good results of this , the sacred ponds of Palani, and the Kavadi offered here. It points out the great benefits, as also the sure remedy for many ailments of the people. PLACES OF THEERTHAM Saravana poigai, near Thiruvavinangudi, and the Shanmuga River are the sacred water- sources of Palani, where the devotees bathe before worshipping at the Temple. TEMPLE TIMINGS The temple is open on all days from 6 AM to 8-30 PM. On Krithigai and other festival days it opens at 4 AM. Without any fee, all can have dharsan here.
Vallisunai:
In the Hill temple, Valli sunai considered to be the most ancient and holiest, was not properly cleaned for the part 15 Years. The Sunai was cleaned (for more then 10 days) and transformed into a cleaned Holy Sunai.
Lord Murugan is the deity of the Tamil Land. Palani (Tiru Avinankudi) is the third Padai Veedu. The temple at Palani is an ancient one, situated at an elevation of 1500 feet above sea level. It is a charming campus from where one can take a look at the Idumban Hill, the Kodaikanal Hills, the Western Ghats, the greenery of the paddy fields, rivers, tanks, Palani town and the colleges. On a lovely, clear and mist-free day, the Kurinji Andavar Temple is visible from here against the bright Sun. In daytime, Palani is Hill Beautiful; at night, it is Hill Resplendent.
The deity of Palani is known as Dandayudhapani Swami, the Lord having the Staff in his Hand. The deity at the sanctum sanctorum is made out of an amalgam of nine minerals popularly called Navapashanam. The deity is in a standing position with a baton in his hand. He has the look of a person who has renounced all worldly pomp. He has just a loincloth besides the baton. He is a mute messenger of the great precept 'Renounce all to reach Me'. The icon is unique in the whole world. It was made by siddha Bhogar by combining nine poisonous substances (Navapashanam). Murugan signifies beauty and Lord Murugan of Kurinji land is the god of Beauty and Youth.
Periyanayaki Amman
Popularly called 'Town Temple', 'Ûr-k-kovil' and 'Ûr-Ambalam', this large and spacious temple is in the heart of Palani town, two kilometres from Adivaram. Built four centuries ago by the Nâyaks and enlarged by chieftains of Palani, Ayakudi and Neikkarappatti, it has Goddess Periyanâyaki as the presiding deity; there are sanctums for Muttukumâraswâmi, Subramanyar, Kailâsanâthar and Nâtarajar. In the Muttukumâra Swâmi shrine, within the iron railings are a series of festival deities, the last of which Uchi Mahâkâli is an amazing piece of art.
This temple is essentially a Muruga shrine with other shrines added perhaps at later stages. This is clear from the fact that the central tower is over Muruga's shrine. The flagstaff and image of the vehicle are all in front of Muruga only. Kailasanatha is on the northern side and Periyanayaki on the southern side with Muruga in the centre, or in between father and other. This seating arrangement is known as Somâskanda Murtam.
In the Palli Arai in the Amman shrine, it is worth taking a look at the mirror reflecting the chamber. Ask for the shutter to be raised up. Almost every pillar is extravagantly covered with a filigree of sculpture. The supreme climax of South Indian architecture in its most prodigal plastic manifestation.
In one pillar of the Kailâsanâthar shrine and in another in the Navaranga Mandapam, Gnana Dandayudhapani has been remarkably produced by stone masons. The pillars and sculptures therein add to importance of the Navaranga Mandapam, which has been built by the Nadar community.
On Vijayadâsami day, the Lance of the Lord is brought from the hill temple to this temple and the Utsava deity Muttukumâraswâmi uses it to destroy evil and usher in an era of hope and good cheer after Navaratri.
In the month of Aadi (July-August) 100,000 archanas (laksharchana) are performed in this temple. Particularly, the Fridays of this month are crowded days here and one has to inch his/her way to the sanctum.
This temple houses the vâhanas of all the temples under the Devasthânam and from this point of view, this temple is an art gallery. Do not miss the silver car, a galaxy of various vehicles, the ivory palanquin, several vâhanas in silver, brass and wood. Their beautiful workmanship needs close observation.
Near the Periyanâyaki Temple is the Mari Amman Temple, very popular with the local folk. It is crowded on Fridays. Increasing attention is being paid to this temple.
Bhogar Shrine :
The Bhogar Shrine is in the southwestern corridor of the hill temple. Siddhar Bhogar created the icon (the amalgam of nine minerals) and did daily services. He lived long ago, perhaps 3000 BC. A medical prodigy as he was, he could prepare the amalgam on nine medicinal minerals in proper proportion. In this shrine, pujas are offered to Navadurga, Bhuvaneswari and Maragatha Lingam that were worshipped by Bhogar. It is said that there is a subterranean tunnel linking the shrine with the sanctum sanctorum through which Bhogar is said to go to the main idol and perform daily pujas as he is said to be only in nirvikalpa samadhi.
Edumban Temple :
Palani, Kavadi and IdumbanHow Murugan, Idubam and Kavadi came to Palani.
Sage Agastya wanted to take two hills -- Sivagiri and Saktigiri -- to his abode in the South and commissioned his asuran disciple Idumban to carry them. Idumban was one of the very few asuran survivors of the suraasuran war between Murugan's forces and those of Surapadman. After surviving the war he had repented and became a devotee of Lord Murugan.
Ganapati employs cunning to cheat Murugan Idumban finds the kavadi is too heavy at Palani At this stage, Subrahmanya or Muruga had just been outwitted by His brother Ganesa in a contest for going around the world and He was still smarting over the matter. Ganapati had won the prized fruit (the Jnana-pazham) by simply going around His parents. Long after this, Subrahmanya came seating on His peacock to find that the prize had already been given away. In anger, He vowed to leave His home and family and came down to Tiru Avinankudi at the Adivaaram (meaning 'foot of the Sivagiri Hill'). Siva pacified Him by saying that Subrahmanya Himself was the fruit (pazham) of all wisdom and knowledge. Hence the place was called Pazham-nee ('You are the fruit') or Palani. Later He withdrew to the hill and settled there as a recluse in peace and solitude.
Idumban bore the hills slung across his shoulders in the form of a kavadi, one on each side. When he reached Palani and felt fatigued, he placed the kavadi down to take rest. ced the kavadi down to take rest.
Palani, the timeless centre of Murugan devotion When Idumban resumed his journey, he found that he could not lift the hill. Muruga had made it impossible for Idumban to carry it. Upon the hilltop the great asuran spotted a little boy wearing only kaupeenam and demanded that he vacate at once so Idumban could proceed with his task. The boy, who was yet in a fighting mood, refused. In the fierce battle which ensued, Idumban was slain but was later restored to life.
Idumban belatedly recognised the boy as none other than his ista devata Murugan and prayed to Him that :
1) whosoever carried on his shoulders the kavadi, signifying the two hills and visited the temple on a vow should be blessed; and 2) he should be given the priviledge of standing sentinel at the entrance to the hill. Hence we have the Idumban shrine half-way up the hill where every pilgrim is expected to offer obeisance to Idumban before entering the temple of Dandayudhapani Swami. Since then, pilgrims to Palani bring their offerings on their shoulders in a kavadi. The custom has spread from Palani to all Muruga shrines.
Muruga, in His aspect as Lord Dandayudhapani, stands for tyaagam or renunciation. Eschewing all wordly possessions, the only apparel He has chosen to retain is a loincloth called kaupeenam. But His bhaktars never tire of offering Him costly garments and enriching His wardrobe with luxurious royal clothes which are used to adorn Him when His devotees yearn to see the Lord in the vesture of a King. For indeed, His state is that of a Swami or sovereign Lord.
Thiru Aavinankudi (Kulandai Vêlâyudhaswâmi Thirukkovil) :
This ancient and large temple at the foot of the hill is the third Padai-Vîdu celebrated in song, classics, legend and tradition since antiquity. The official name of the shrine is Kulandai Vêlâlyudhaswâmi Temple; Thiru Avinankudi is the name of the place. A sacred tank is attached to the temple.
Thiru Avinankudi is among the earliest abodes of Muruga and perhaps it had humble beginnings under the shade of the Nelli tree (amla). Poet Nakkirar says that God Muruga holds at Thiru Avinankudi a Royal Court of all gods with saints emancipated and clad in saffron-dyed clothes and deer skin. The presiding deity is Muruga as a child sitting on a peacock. A convenient and full view can be taken by the worshippers since the sanctum is on an elevation. He is like a kindly monarch on His throne who receives the humble tributes and petitions of His loyal subjects. The festival deity and the Nelli and Nagalinga flora and the shrine of Arunagirinâthar are worth your notice.
The temple was renovated lavishly between 1898 and 1910 by N. M. Subramanian Chettiar of Karaikudi and K. P. S. Palaniappa Chettiar of Kandanur. SP. Ramanathan Chettiar and other members of the first donor's family have added in 1968 a majestic râja gopuram — one of Palani's landmarks visible from the hill-temple. Since the late 1970's, a few small shrines and an artistic mandapam have been constructed, adding to the beauty of an already beautiful temple.
Saravana Poikai :
Saravana Poikai is the name of a pool in the Himâlayas, from whose waters the divine child, saravanapoikaiMuruga, is believed to have emerged. Hence the name Saravana Bhava. Saravana Poikai pools in Muruga shrines are sources of redemption. Accumulated sins are thought to be destroyed by a dip here. As fire consumes fuel, so too this sacred pool consumes the sins of the wicked.
The Saravana Poikai at Thiru Avinankudi has drawn uncounted millions to its banks. It has a hoary tradition and a bath or at least a symbolic use of its waters over your head is a prerequisite for entering the sanctum sanctorum. Bath taps are provided at separate enclosures for men and women.
Mariyamman Temple :
The seated Mariamman is small in stature. She is covered with a golden sheath, and on Fridays there will always be a crowd. This too is owned by the Devasthanam. In the exterme south at the end of this street, a Vinayaga of Chettiar Madam, a Mahakali, in old Dharapuram road, and Chowndamman are all worth seeing.
Shanmuga Nadi group of temples :
The bathing ghats on this river are at a distance of three kilometres from Palani town and can be reached from Adivaram by town buses 3, 4, 9 and 14. During the eclipses and on the days of the waning moon (new moon or Âmâvasya), thousands flock here to have their sins absolved in the purifying waters. Kavadi bearers have a bath here before marching to the temple. This is also a place for oblations to the dead; the devout perform post-mortem rites to deceased ancestors. There are many shrines on the banks of the river near the bathing ghat and
Periya Avudayar Kovil :
Of all these temples, that of Peru-Udayar (called Periya Avudayar Kovil) is by far the most important and deserves special mention. Located near the railway line on the banks of the Shanmuga Nadi in sylvan setting, it is about four kilometres from the bus-stand reached by two stages, by buses going on the Old Dharapuram road for three kilometres and by walking one kilometre from the arch on that road. It is convenient to go by a taxi or auto rickshaw and alight at the doors of the temple. In the evening and in the pre-dawn period, sounds of birds are heard and if you have a tape-recorder, you cannot afford to miss recording these. The air here is unpolluted and good breeze can be had. The Devasthânam has put up a Kalyana Mandapam behind the temple.
The temple is dedicated to Peru Udayar or Brihadeesvarar a name that became a legend in the days of the great Raja Raja Cholo. The deity here is a swayambhu linga (i.e. naturally formed lingam) and so, local belief is that it existed even before Bhogar. Only male gods are found in the temple. A majestic figure of Dakshinamûrti, a rare Rudran and other gracious images in stone, as also the 16 old inscriptions should be taken note of.
Lord Muruga had just been outsmarted by his brother Ganesa in a contest for going who around the world first and He was still smarting over the matter. Ganapati had won the fruit (the yhana-pazham) by simply going around his parents. Long after this, Subrahmanya came seating on his peacock to find that the fruit had already been given away. In anger, He consecrated to leave his home and family and came down to Tiru Aavinankudi at the Adivaaram (meaning 'foot of the Sivagiri Hill'). Siva pacified him by saying that Subrahmanya Himself was the fruit (pazham) of all wisdom and knowledge. Hence the place was called Pazham-nee ('You are the fruit') or Palani. Later He withdrew to the hill and settled there as a hermit in peace and solitude.
Lord Muruga, in His aspect as Lord Dandayudhapani, stands for repudiation. Shunning all wordly possessions, the only apparel He has chosen to retain is a breechcloth . But His bhaktars never tire of offering Him costly garments and enriching His wardrobe with luxurious royal clothes which are used to adorn Him when His devotees yearn to see the Lord in the vesture of a King. For indeed, His state is that of a Swami or self-governing Lord.
It is also claimed by many that the materials of abhishegam like milk, sandalpaste, etc., attain medicative properties on being decanted over Lord Palaniandavars idol and they have healed many diseases, when taken by the patients.
The avatar of Palani Andavar is said to have been made of Navapaashanam ( a combination of Veeram, Pooram, Rasam, Jathilingam, Kandagam, Gauri Pasanam, Vellai Pasanam, Mridharsingh, Silasat), by a siddhar called Bhogar.
Bogar is a Siddhar, he is considered as one of the 18 siddhars born in the world. According to epigraphical sources and his book Bogar Seven thousand his period is around 3000 B.C. Bogar born at India and visited China in search of truth of life, he gained knowledge in medicine, astrology, spritiuality, yoga etc. Bogar anticipating that in due course of period, human beings will suffer from large number of disease. As an expert in medicine he used 4448 rare herbs and made 9 poisonous medicine, mixing these 9 poisons into one needs great knowledege and skill, to make a Master Medicine ( One medicine to cure all disease ). Thirumoolar also discuss one such Master Medicine in his book Thiru Mandiram. With the consultation of Agasthiar ( Father of Ayurvedic Medicine) and other siddhars Bogar mixed the 9 poisons ( Nava Bashanam ) and made the Master Medicine in the form of Lord Murugan which is currently worshiped at Palani Murugan temple. There is a place near Palani Hill called Thanasiappan Temple which is the place were Bogar mixed the Nava Bashanam and made the Murugan idol. Bogar and others then decided that by using the milk and panchamirtham ( a sweet recipe ) poured on the idol, one can extract the medicine from the idol. The milk and panchamritham then becomes medicine to cure disease. After installing Lord Murugan Navabashana idol at the Palani Hill, Bhogar used to worship it with milk abishegam ( pouring milk on the idol ) and panchamirtha abishegam ( pouring panchamirtham on the idol ). His disciple Pulipani siddhar then took over the job of Lord Murugan pooja after Bogar went into Nirvigalpa Samadhi - the highest samadhi stage; where the Mind dissolves with Matter and Energy.
Bogar Samadhi is inside Palani Murugan temple at Palani Hill. Actually Bogar himself constructed his samadhi exactly under the Lord Murugan Navabasha idol and went into Nirvigalpa Samadhi there. The entrance to his samadhi is a cave like structure, now also worship for this great siddhar is conducted at this entrance where he is last seen by his disciples which is at the Palani temple.
Sage Agastya wanted to take two hills — Sivagiri and Sakthigiri — to his abode in the South and commissioned his disciple Idumban to carry them. Idumban bore the hills slung across his shoulders, in the form of a kavadi one on either side. When he was fatigued, he placed the kavadi near Palani to take rest.
At this stage, Subrahmanya or Muruga had been outwitted in a contest for going round the world. Ganapati had won the prized fruit (pomegranate or mango) by simply going round His parents. Long after, this, Subrahmanya came sweating on His peacock to find that the prize had already been given away. In anger, the frustrated child left the divine parents and came down to Tiru Avinankudi at the Adivaram (pronounced Adivâram. It means foot of the Sivagiri Hill). Siva pacified Him by saying that He (Subrahmanya) Himself was the fruit (pazham) of all wisdom and knowledge; nee —you. Hence the place was called 'Pazham Nee' or Palani. Later, He withdrew to the hill and settled there as a recluse in peace and solitude.
When Idumban resumed his journey, he could not lift the hill. Muruga had made it impossible for Idumban to make it. In the fierce battle that ensued, Idumban was killed but was later on restored to life. Idumban prayed that:
1. whosoever carried on his shoulders the Kavadi, signifying the two hills and visited the temple on a vow, should be blessed and
2. he should be given the privilege of standing sentinel at the entrance to the hill.
Hence we have the Idumban shrine halfway up the hill where every pilgrim is expected to offer obeisance to Idumban before entering the temple of Dandâyudhapani. Since then, pilgrims to Palani bring their offerings on their shoulders in a kavadi. The custom has spread from Palani to all Muruga shrines worldwide.
THAI POOSAM :
This is a very important festival , associated with pilgrimage to Palani. Devotees from Tamil Nadu reach Palani by foot (Pada Yathra) and worship. Begining with flag-hosting at Perianayagiamman Temple, this festival runs on for 10 days. Kavadi of various types (with holy water, sugar, flowers, tender co-conuts, etc., ) are offered to Murugan at Palani.
On the 6th day, there is procession of Lord Muruga with Valli and Deivanai in the Silver Car. During this, Kavadi dance and rural musical-dance are performed. On the 7 th day there is “Thai Thaer” (wooden Car) and thousands of devotees participate in this. On the 7th day “Chinna Kumarar” goes round in His Golden Car.
PANGUNI UTHIRAM :
This also is a very important festival here, and is celebrated for 10 days, devotees carry Kavadies with holy water (from sacred rivers), sugar, tender co-conut etc. During these 10 days, we can see various rural dances like ”Oyilattam, Thappattam, Dhidumattam,Velanattam, Samiyattam”etc., along with rural songs. The rural music is an important part of Paunguni uthiram festival.
The main feature of Panguni Uthiram is the offering of “Theertham” (Posts of Holy water) from Kodumudi. Lord Palaniandavar is given abhishekam with this holy water. The devotees carrying Kavadi to Palani sing Kavadi - songs throughout their ‘Padayathra’ and these songs are ancient oral songs.
On the 1st day, there is flag hoisting at Thiruvavinankugi Temple and on all the 10 days Lord Muthukumara Swamy with Sri Valli and Sri Deivanai goes in procession around the Palani Hill. On the 7th day there is “Car Festival” and this is attended by thousands of devotees. During these days the Lord also is given special reception and pooja at many ‘mandapams’ in the Palani Adivaram area. It is a grand sight to see Lord Muruga with his concerts during these processions.
Cithirai Festivals:
Chitra Pournami:
On this day, a ten-day festival is conducted at Arulmigu Lakshminarayana perumal temple. At the Periyanayakiamman Temple also, Lord Muthukumara Swamy, along with Valli and Deivanai, rides in the silver car along the streets around the Temple.
Agni Nakshatram :
This is one of the important festivals at Palani. During the last 7 days of Chitrai and the first 7 days of the following month(i.e.Vaikasi) the devotees of Lord Muruga go around the Hill by foot, early in the mornings. As per the Palani mythology, it is considered holy to worship the Hill temple from afar or from near or go around it. It is also called Girivalam. It is an age old practice. In ancient days the siddhas, rishis, saints and other noble persons followed this practice. Girivalam gives mental peace, the medicinal herbs around the hillock cure many physical diseases. Nowadays people go around the temple by wearing Kadamba Flower.
On the 1st day, there is flag hoisting at Thiruvavinankugi Temple and on all the 10 days Lord Muthukumara Swamy with Sri Valli and Sri Deivanai goes in procession around the Palani Hill. On the 7th day there is “Car Festival” and this is attended by thousands of devotees. During these days the Lord also is given special reception and pooja at many ‘mandapams’ in the Palani Adivaram area. It is a grand sight to see Lord Muruga with his concerts during these processions.
Vaikaasi Festivals :
VAIKAASI FESTIVAL (VISAKAM):
This is celebrated for ten days. At the Perianayaki amman temple, it is celebrated for 10 days with procession every day. There is car festival on the 10th day(i.e Visakam). Visakam is Lord Muruga’s birthday star. This is celebrated at all Murugan Temples.
AANI-ANNABHISHEKAM :
During the Tamil month of Aani(3rd month of the Tamil year) Annabhishekam (abhishekam with fragrant cooked rice) is conducted at Thiruvavinankudi Temple, Hill Temple, Periyanayagi Amman temple and Periyavudaiyar Temple. On Aani Uthiram Day, abhisekam is performed to Lord Nataraja and a procession is conducted with the Lord in the Company of the icons of the four Tamil Saints.
Festivals in Aadi :
1. Aadi Perukku : From Perianayaki amman Temple, Lord Kailasanathar and Amman go to Periyavudaiyar Koil and after performing “Kannimar Pooja” return in a procession .
2. Aadi Krithigai : This is celebrated in a grand way at Palani. Devotees carry flower-Kavadi to Lord Muruga and Worship.
3. Aadi Amavasai : On this day many devotees offer ‘tonsure’ on the banks of Shanmuga River and climb the Hill for worship. In the book of Palani mythology this has been mentioned in the chapter on ‘Shanmuga Nadi’. Devotees consider that they get cleansed of their sins once they bathe in the Shanmuga River.
4. Aadi Laksharchana : At Periyanayaki Amman Temple, this is conducted well , and Amman (Goddess Periyanayaki) is given special abhishekam and decoration . On the last day of the function, Amman is adorned with the “Golden Kavacham”.
KANDHAR SHASTI (SOORA SAMHARAM) :
This is a very important festival at Palani, during the 6 days in the month of Aippasi (7th Tamil month). This is based on the mythological story of Lord Muruga Killing the demons. On this day only (once in a year) the Lord comes down the Hill, and after vanquishing the demons, ascends the Hill again. This is associated with Kandhar Shasti. The four demons (Gajamugan, Tharagan, Singamugan and Surapadman) are won by the Lord. It is a grand sight to see the dramatic representation of this. On this day devotees observe total fasting as they consider that this will offset all their sins.
THIRUKKARTHIGAI :
From Thirugnanasambandar’s statement “Ancient Karthigai day”, we known about the age-old practice of this festival. It falls on Karthigai Day in the Tamil month of Karthigai. It is celebrated for 10 days and daily “Chinna Kumarar” goes in processionin the small golden carriage. On Karthigai day, he goes inthe Golden Car. On the 10th day, woman devotees light lamps and worship Murugan. This is done in Thiruvavinankudi, Periyanayagi Amman Temple and the Hill Temple.This is a very important day for devotees. Every month also, an Karthigai day, devotees visit Palani.
MARKAZHI POOJA :
During the Tamil month of Markazhi (9th month) the Hill Temple opens at 4 A.M, and recital of Thiruvembavai is done. The early morning Pooja is done in all the main Temples in Palani. The recital of Thiruppavai is done at Perumal temple.
3 comments:
Post a Comment