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Thursday, August 22, 2013

thirumeeyachoor the place where the Lalitha Sahasranamam was originally sung.





moolavar:    meganatha swamy,mihara aruneshwar,muyarchinathar,
uthsavar:     panchmurthy,lalithambiga 
 amman thayar  :soundharya nayaki   
 thala virutcham : :mantharai,vilvam  
 theertham   :surya pushkarani    
 history   :  2000 years old    
  name   : tirumeeyachur   
 district   :tiruvarur    state   : tamilnadu

The glory of Lord of the temple is praised by Saint Gnanasamabandar in his Thevaram hymns.  This is the 56th Shiva temple on the southern banks of Cauvery praised in Thevaram hymns.
Rathasapthami is grandly celebrated in the temple in January-February. All Shiva and Devi related festivals are also observed
Lord Shiva is a swayambumurthi in the temple. Mother Lalithambika is seated on the Sri Chakra Raja Simhasana-throne with Her merciful Abhaya Hasatha Mudra-assuring all protection to devotees- with Her folded right leg placed on the left as an Empress. Mother Lalithambika is all powerful. They rays of Sun fall on the Lord from Chithirai 21 to 27 – April-May. Special Surya puja is performed during these days.
The temple is open from 7.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 4.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Devotees perform special pujas and Homas dedicated to Lord Meganathaswami on their birth star days for longevity.  60th and 80th birth days are celebrated in Lord’s shrine.  Women awaiting marriage pray to Lord Kalyana Sundarar with garlands for early happy results.  Those suffering from diseases offer Pirandai rice on lotus leaf as nivedhana and eat it as Lord’s Prasad for relief.
Lord Meganathaswami is a swayambulinga.  Those chanting Lalitha Sahasranama and Lalitha Navarathna Mala sitting in the Mother’s shrine are bestowed with all grace and prosperity in life.  This is the birth place of Garuda, Aruna the charioteer of Sun, Vali, Sugriva, Yama and Saneeswara.  Hence, people perform Ayush Homa and Mrutyunjaya Homa in this temple for longevity.  They also offer Pirandai Rice nivedhana placed on a lotus leaf to Lord and eat it for cure from diseases.
Sun worshipped in the temple for relief from a curse and got back His glittering power.  Mother Kali had worshipped Lord and Mother here.
Sage Kashyapa had two wives Vinatha and Karthru.  They prayed to Lord Shiva seeking child boon.  Lord gave them an egg each and asked them to keep it safe for a year.  Garuda was born from the egg of Vinatha.  Later Garuda became the Vahan of Lord Vishnu.  As nothing came out from her egg, Karthru hurriedly broke it only to find a disfigured child.  She sought the pardon of Lord Shiva for her hasty action.  Lord Shiva not only pardoned her and blessed the child to become the charioteer of Sun bearing the name Aruna and the Sun rise would be called Arunodhaya.  Aruna became a Shiva devotee and performed severe penance for His darshan.  Sun mocked at Aruna that one with physical defects cannot reach Kailash for Darshan.  Aruna did not give in his efforts and succeeded finally.  Lord Shiva granting darshan to Aruna, cursed Sun too to lose his shining.  Shocked Sun placed Lord Parameswara and Mother Parvathi on an elephant, worshipped them and got back his shining power.  That Lord Shiva is Lord Meganatha in this temple under the Gajabrushta Vimana designed as the back part of an elephant.  There are three Kalasas on the Vimana.  The name of the place Meeyachur has the story of Sun recovering his shining power. 
Presiding deity Meganatha Swami is facing east.  Mother Lalithambika, also praised as Soundarya Nayaki is seated on the Sri Chakra throne majestically as an empress.
As Mother Meenakshi in Madurai and Sri Andal in Srivilliputhur, Mother Durga in this Meeyachur temple is holding a parrot.  Durga with a parrot is rare in temples. 
Durga in Tirusuhula Nathar temple in Chennai Tirishulam and in Chinnamanur Manickavasagar Temple in Theni district have this feature.  Mother Durga with 8 hands in Tirumeeyachur temple is praised as Sukha Brahmma Durga Devi.  Proably, this name ought to have been derived after the name of Sukha Brahmma Rishi with a parrot nose, son of Sage of Veda Vyasa.  She looks all smiling though standing on demon Mahishasura – a Shanta Swarupini.  It is believed that this parrot is taking the message of the devotees to Mother Lalithambika through Durga Matha.  Even today, devotees can see a parrot flying from Durga shrine to Lalithambika shrine during evenings. 
Lord Hayagriva is the disciple of Mother Lalithambika.  He taught the greatness of Lalitha Sahasranama to Sage Agasthya.  Sage asked Hayagriva which was the suitable place to chant this great hymn.  Lord said that the sage should visit a place on earth where Mother graces in the name of Manonmani.  Sage, with his devout wife Lopamudra came to Tirumeeyachur and chanted Lalitha Sahasranama before Mother Lalithambika.  Pleased with his devotion, Mother appeared before the sage and his wife in the form of Navaratnas-nine precious stones.  Sage Agasthya worshipped Mother with his own hymn Lalitha Navaratna Mala.
There are two Shiva shrines in the temple. Lord is in Linga form.  Saint Tirugnana Sambandar had sung the glory of Lord in the shrine under the Rajagopuram and Saint Tirunavukkarasar had praised the Lord in the Ilankoil in the north prakara of the temple.  This is a temple of Mother importance. 
Yama the God of death and the deity of Sadhya Star worshipped Lord Shiva performing abishek with 1008 conches.  These conches have the power of granting longevity.  Yama brought the sacred plant Pirandai belonging to the creeper category to earth.  He offered rice nivedhana prepared with this pirandai to Lord.  This is followed now by devotees for relief from diseases and for longevity. 
Though Mother Lalithambika was dressed with all jewels as an Empress, one jewel,  anklets at Her feet were absent.  A devotee woman had a dream as if she was fixing the anklet to Mother. She immediately offered the anklets to mother.  Following this incident, now, devotees seeking wedding, child and education boons offer anklets to Mother Lalithambika.  
The devotee can have the darshan of the shrines of Lords Brahmma,Vishnu and Lingodhbava (Shiva) standing in between the two Vimanas.  Lord Chandikeswara graces with four faces.  The sculpture of Kshetra Puraneswara is very beautiful.  The Mother part of the sculpture appears angry from one side and smiling and soft from the other side.

Dreaded demon Pandasura was harassing sages and Devas.  They surrendered at the feet of Mother Parasakthi for protection.  Responding to their appeal, Devi rose from a Yaga Gunda, mounted on the Sri Chakra Rath with the name Lalithambika, waged the war against the demon and destroyed him.  She was  very furious then.  Lord Shiva asked Mother to go to Earth, assume the name Manonmani and perform penance and shed her fury.   Mother came to this place and became soft and merciful.  She created Vak Devathas-deities ruling words- and asked them to sing Her praise with 1000 names.  This became the holy Lalitha Sahasraname beginning with the words, Sri Mathre meaning “Mother of prosperity”.
Lord Shiva in the temple is a swayambumurthy. Rays of Sun fall on Lord from Chithirai 21 to 27 in April-May. Surya Puja is performed during these days in the temple. 
History:
Karththuru, vinathai are the two wives of kashyapa maharishi. They had a fight in between them about the black spot on the tail of uchchaisiravas – indra’s horse. Repenting they came to thirumIyachchUr and worshiped the Lord. The Lord blessed then and gave them an egg each, asked to preserve for an year to get splendid sons. They got garudan, arunan respectively.
When arunan took the form of mohini (charming girl) sun despoilt her. When aruNan pleaded to the Lord, He cursed sun to get darkened. As per His advise, sun worshiped the Lord at thirumIyachchUr for seven months.
Surya Bhagavan is believed to have workshipped Lord Siva as Gajaaruda seated on an elephant among thick clouds. Hence the Gajruda Vimana Still as his darkness did not change, he cried in grief, ”he migura”.
Hayagrivar conveyed to sage agasthiyar lalita sahasranamam
The Goddess got angry at the sun for shouting in Their abode. The God pacified her saying sun was looking for relief.(This Pacifying scene is depicted by the sculpture ) One of the key attraction of this temple is this sculpture where Lord Shiva is holding parvati’s cheeks …its said that Lord is pacifying the mother of universe. In one angle the sculpture godess appears to be in anger on the other angle she looks romantic.By His Grace sun was cured. The pacified Goddess does austerities getting the name sha.ntanAyaki.
As told by him agasthiyar came to this temple and worshiped the God in the “Amla phalAdi krana puja” as done by the sun and saluted “srI lalitAmbika”. yama dharma rAja worshiped the Lord here.
Sage Agastya is believed to have sung Lalita Navaratnamala in praise of the Goddess. He has also composed a hymn named Rahasyanamasahasram. Saivite saints Tirugnana Sambandar and Tirunavukkarasar have sung in praise.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Sri Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Thirupattur.


It is inferred that a person can change his fate by seeking blessings at Sri Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Thirupattur.
Mythlogical references relate that Lord Shiva blessed Lord Brahma, that every devotee who visits this Temple, and has Darshan of Lord Brahma would see their wishes fulfilled.
Mythological references recount Lord Brahma’s overwhelming pride as the Creator of the Universe. Lord Brahma felt that He was more prevailing than Lord Shiva – since He had the supremacy of creation.
This sense of pride provoked Lord Shiva, who destroyed Lord Brahma’s Fifth Head, and also cursed Him that He would lose His power of creation.
After loosing his fifth head and all his powers, Lord Brahma realized his mistake since his privileged duty of creation was affected and so worshipped Lord Shiva at various places.
During the course of His pilgrimage, Lord Brahma visited Thirupattur and worshipped Lord Shiva with a Shiva Lingam under a Magizha tree with water from the nearby tank, now called Brahma Theertham.
He also installed 12 lingams around in this place and worshipped Shiva for a long time.
Being moved by Lord Brahma's prayers, Lord Shiva, on Devi Parvathy’s appeal, gave Him darshan under the Magizha tree and liberated Him from His curse, so that He could start His privileged duty of Creation again. Hence Lord Shiva is called Sri Brahmapureeswarar here.
Also Devi Parvathi gave back Lord Brahma all His sheen and that’s why the Devi called Brahma Sampath Gowri.
Lord Shiva also blessed Lord Brahma that He would have a separate shrine at this temple. He also advised Lord Brahma that since Brahma himself had His destiny rewritten here; He should rewrite the destiny of His devotees visiting this temple.
Since the fate of Lord Brahma, the Creator, Himself was changed by Lord Shiva at Thirupattur, one can expect a turning point in life by praying at this temple.
The Temple finds mention in the hyms of the revered Saivite Saint Sundarar.
The presiding deity is Lord Brahmapureeswarar in the form of Swayambu Lingam.
The presiding deity is Devi Brahma Sampath Gowri.
There is a separate shrine for Lord BrahmaThe idol of Lord Brahma is in meditative pose sitting in Padmasana on a lotus.
Abhishekam to Lord Brahma - Timings

On all days except Thursday
08:00 am
On Thursday
06:00 am
The Temple complex consists of the 12 Shiva Lingams, installed and worshipped by Lord Brahma.
The Temple Complex also has the Jeeva Samadhi of Yogi Patanjali, the founder of Yoga.

The temple is under the administration of The Hindu Religious And Charitable Endowments Department, Government of TamilNadu.

The Legendary Connection between Sri Bitchandarkoil, Thirukandiyur, Tirupattur
Mythological references interpret that Lord Brahma considered Himself as overwhelming and dominating amongst the Hindu Trinity of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva; since He was the Creator of the Universe.
This demonstration of pride provoked Lord Shiva, who cut off Lord Brahma’s 5th head and also cursed Him to wander in the Bhoolokha (Earth).

Sri Bhikshandar Kovil
Having cut off Lord Brahma’s 5th head, Lord Shiva got the Brahmaharthi Dhosham, and the plucked head of Brahma stuck to his palm. Lord Shiva started out on a pilgrimage to liberate Himself from the curse by begging for food with Lord Brahma’s skull as the begging vessel.
But whatever food was put into the vessel immediately disappeared. It was at Bitchandar Koil; that Lord Perumal requested Devi Lakshmi, as Poornavalli Thayar to offer food to Lord Shiva. Devi Lakshmi filled the vessel with food to end Lord Shiva’s hunger.

Thirukandiyur
However, Lord Brahma’s skull was still stuck to Lord Shiva’s palm. At the behest of Vishnu, Shiva bathed at Thirukandiyur and prayed to Goddess Kamalavalli and Lord Vishnu. It was at Thirukandiyur that Lord Shiva finally attained salvation and got rid of the stuck head. The water tank in the Temple is hence referred to as Kapaala Theertham.

Tirupattur
Having lost His 5th Head, and His powers, Lord Brahma started out on a pilgrimage of Lord Shiva Temples.
During the course of His pilgrimage, Lord Brahma visited Thirupattur and worshipped Lord Shiva with a Shiva Lingam under a Magizha tree with water from the nearby tank, now called Brahma Theertham.
He also installed 12 lingams around in this place and worshipped Shiva for a long time.
Being moved by Lord Brahma's prayers, Lord Shiva, on Devi Parvathy’s appeal, gave Him darshan under the Magizha tree and liberated Him from His curse, so that He could start His privileged duty of Creation again. Hence Lord Shiva is called Sri Brahmapureeswarar here.
Having set out on a long pilgrimage, Lord Brahma had lost his complexion and good appearance. Devi Parvathi blessed Lord Brahma, and gave Him back all His sheen.
Hence the Devi is venerated as Devi Brahma Sampath Gowri - The one who gave Lord Brahma's wealth back.
Since the fate of Lord Brahma, the Creator, Himself was changed by Lord Shiva at Thirupattur, one can expect a turning point in life by praying at this temple.
In brief,
  • Sri Bhikshandar Kovil is where Lord Shiva’s hunger ended.
  • Sri Thirukandiyur Temple is where Lord Shiva was relieved of His curse.
  • Sri Brahmapureeswarar Temple is where Lord Brahma was relieved of His curse.
     
    Lord Vinayakar
    Widely reverred as the Remover of Obstacles, Lord Vinayakar is traditionally worshipped at the beginning of any ritual or ceremony.
    There are 7 idols of Lord Vinayakar within the main Temple Complex
    Sri Vinayakar : at the entrance to Sri Brahmapureeswarar Shrine
    Sri Sannathi Vinayakar : entrance to the Temple complex
    Sri Karpaga Vinayakar : behind the Jeeva Samadhi of Maharishi Patanjali
    Sri Narthana Vinayakar
    Sri Vinayakar : near Sri Kala Bhairavar Shrine
    Sri Vinayakar : in Devi Brahma Sampath Gowri Shrine
    Sri Vinayakar : adjacent to Sri Saptha Maataagal at Maharishi Patanjali Shrine
     Presiding Deity : Sri Brahmapureeswarar (Lord Shiva)
    In the form of a Swayambu (self manifested) Lingam
    Since Lord Shiva absolved Brahma of His sins, He is known as Brahmapureeswarar in this temple. 
    The sanctum sanctorum of Sri Brahmapureeswarar) is 300 ft from the main entrance.
    There are 7 entrances leading to the sanctum sanctorum, significant of the 7 days of the week
    Yet the sanctum is filled with natural light and the Presiding Deity can be seen clearly from the main entrance.
    Also, sunlight falls directly on the Presiding Deity three days in a year - on the 15th, 16th and 17th day of the Tamil month of Panguni.
     Pradosh is observed in the evening twilight on the 13th day (Trayodashi tithi ) of each lunar fortnight.
    It is the worship of Lord Shiva for the fulfillment of our desires.
    The basic disciplines to be observed on this day are:
    • Ahimasa (non-injury)
    • Satya (speaking the truth)
    • Brahmacarya (continence)
    • Daya (compassion)
    • Ksama (forgiveness)
    • Anasuyata (absence of jealousy).
    Pradosh on a Monday is known as Som Pradosh or Chandra Pradosh. Pradosh on a Saturday is known as Shani Pradosh. Som Pradosh and Shani Pradosh are considered as highly auspicious.

    Tamil New Year - 1st day of Tamil Month of Chitrai
    Chitrai is the 1st month in the Tamil calendar.
    And the Tamil Panchang marks this day as the beginning of a new year.
    Events at the temple include:
    Reading of the new year Panchangam
    Special Abhishekam
    Distribution of Buttermilk and Paanagam to the devotees.
    * Paanagam is a sweet drink made with jaggery, with a touch of lemon and ginger.

    Tamil Month of Aadi - Pooram Nakshatram
    This day marks the first major event at the Temple.
    Special Abhiskhekam is performed for Devi Brahma Sampath Gowri. Germinated Whole Green Gram is distributed as prasaadam to the devotees.

    Tamil Month of Aavani - Vinayaka Chathurthi
    Vinayaka Chathurthi marks the birthday of Lord Ganesha, who is widely worshiped as the god of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune.
    This festival is celebrated on the 4th day of the waxing moon.

    Tamil Month of Puratasi - Navarathri Festival
    The word Navaratri literally means nine nights in Sanskrit, nava meaning nine and ratri meaning nights. During these nine nights and ten days, nine forms of Shakti/Devi are worshipped.
    Throughout the 10 day Navarathri festival, special Abhishekams are perfomed for Devi Brahma Sampath Gowri. And special Alangarams are also done for all the 10 days.
    * Alangaram refers to the adornment of deities in Hindu temples. The three important things needed for an Alangaram are silk clothing, jewellery and flowers.

    Tamil Month of Aippassi - Pournami
    Pournami is the Full Moon Night of every month. And is considered most auspicious in Lord Shiva temples.
    Annabhishekam is performed for Lord Brahmapureeswarar.
    Abhishekam is a process of bathing the deity. Annabhishekam means covering the Shiva Lingam with cooked rice.
    It is believed that performing Annabhishekam to Lord Shiva on this day frees one of all their problems.

    Tamil month of Karthigai
    Shank Abhishekam is performed for Lord Brahmapureeswarar on every Monday of the Karthigai month.
    Karthigai Deepam, the festival of lights is celebrated on the Full Moon day of the month of Karthigai. The Lord is taken around the Temple praharam in a chariot.

    Tamil month of Margazhi - Pournami
    Special Abhishekam is performed for Lord Nataraja Perumal. And the Lord is taken around the Temple praharam in a chariot.

    Tamil month of Thai - 1st Day of Thai
    Special Abhishekams are performed for Panchamurthi - Lord Vinayakar, Lord Murugan, Lord Brahmapureeswarar, Devi Brahma Sampath Gowri, Sri Chandikeswarar.

    Tamil month of Maasi - Maha Shivarathri
    Mahashivarathri, the Great Night of Lord Shiva is celebrated from the 13th night (Trayodashi tithi ) to the 14th day of the Tamil month of Maasi.
    Lord Shiva is considered the Adi (first) Guru from whom the yogic tradition originates. According to tradition, the planetary positions on this night are such that there is a powerful natural upsurge of energy in the human system
    Special Abshishekam is perfomed to Lord Brahmapureeswarar on 4 occasions throughout the day.

    Tamil month of Panguni
    The ten day Brahmotsavam festival is celebrated during this month.
    On Puram Nakshatram day of Panguni month, Lord Brahmapureeswarar is taken around the Temple praharam in a chariot.
    Lord Brahma is the originator and the generator of all mankind.
    He represents the universal mind, as creation is the work of the mind and the intellect.
    He is considered as "Brahm", the Supreme God.
    Students, teachers and scholars worship the Creator to seek His blessings in acquiring knowledge.
    People meditate upon Lord Brahma to attain peace of mind.
    Brahma Mantra forms part of meditation on the Lord
    Om Namo Rajo Jushei Sristau
    Sthithou Sattwa Mayayacha
    Tamo Mayaya Sam-harinei
    VishwaRupayaVedhasei
    Om Brahmanyei Namaha
    Lord Brahma is the Creator of the Universe. He created the universe with its three nature gunas (qualities) - positive, negative and dormant. Lord Brahma represents Om, the eternal bliss. Lord Brahma is the supreme god, who brought all things to form. I bow to that Divine God Brahma.

    Sri Brahma Gayatri
    Aum Vedathmanaaya Vidamahe
    Hiranya Garbaya Dhimahi
    Tanno Brahma Prachodayat

    Sri Brahma Gayatri
    Aum Parmeshwaraye Vidmahe
    Paratattvaye Dhimahi
    Tanno Brahma Prachodayat
     
    Sri Brahma Gayatri
    Aum chatur mukhaya vidmahe
    Hamsarudhaya dhimahi
    Tanno brahma prachodayat
    “Let us meditate on the glorious lord with four divine faces, who is seated on a pure white swan. May that great Brahma, Creator of the Universe, inspire and illumine our mind and understanding.”

    Brahma Bija Mantra
    "Aum Satchit Ekam Brahma"
    “Om Eim Hrim Shrim Klim Sauh Satchid Ekam Brahma”
     Tirupattur is located 30 kms from Trichy in TamilNadu, on the Trichy Chennai National Highway 45.
    It is 10 Kms from Samayapuram towards Chennai.
    Landmark : After you cross Siruganur towards Chennai, there is a left detour from the main highway, towards Tirupattur.
    There is a signboard on the highway, which shows the way to Tirupattur.
    The temple is 4 Kms away from the detour on the highway.
    By Air
    Air India, (http://indian-airlines.nic.in), Air India Express (www.airindiaexpress.in) and have regular flights connecting Chennai and Trichy.

    By Rail
    Trichy is well connected by rail. Being centrally located, almost all trains to the southern region of the state pass through Trichy. You can access Southern Railway’s official website, www.sr.indianrailways.gov.in for more details.
    By Bus
    There are a number of Government Transport Corporation Buses, and also a host of private luxury bus operators from Chennai to Trichy.
    The distance is 320 Kms, and the travel time is approx 6 hours.
    The entire stretch is a Tolled 4 Lane National Highway No.45.
    Other Temples at Trichy
    Samayapuram – Devi Mariamman Temple – on NH 45 (www.samayapuram.org/)
    Srirangam - Lord Ranganathaswamy Temple (www.srirangam.org/)
    Thiruvanaikovil – Sri Jambukeshwarar & Devi Akhilandeswari Temple – on NH 45 (www.thiruvanaikkavaltemple.org)
    Rockfort – Sri Vinayakar Temple; and Sri Thayumanavarswamy Temple, Big Bazaar, Trichy (www.thiruchyrockfort.org)
    Devi Vekkaliamman Kovil – Woraiyur, Trichy (www.vekkaliammantemple.org)
    Gunaseelam – Lord Prasanna Venkatachalapathy, Musiri Road (www.gunaseelam.com)

    Temple opens at
    07:00 am
    Ucchi Kalam - Mid Noon Puja
    11:30 pm to 12:00 noon
    Temple closes at
    12:00 noon
    Temple opens at
    04:00 pm
    Sayaratchai - Evening Puja
    06:00 pm to 06:30 pm
    Artha Jamam - Night Puja
    07:30 pm to 08:00 pm
    Temple closes at
    08:00 pm


    Abhishekam to Lord Brahma - on all days except Thursday
    08:00 am
    Abhishekam to Lord Brahma - on Thursday
    06:00 am

    The above are the regular timings of the temple.
    On festival days, the timings are extended.


Monday, April 8, 2013

koothanur saraswathy


We can be proud that people the world over, when they get in search of theism, ancient arts, culture and spiritual knowledge, go now where else than our sacred nation-Bharat. It is because of the blessings of Goddess Saraswathi. Also known as ‘ Kalaimagal ’, the goddess of the total of 64 art forms that our nation is praised as the nation for spiritual knowledge or even,for that matter, any knowledge.

The rivers, Ganges, Yamuna, Indus, Narmadha, Godhavari, Krishna and Kaveri are given prominence when we hear praises of our nation. Kaveri, who spread out from the water container (kamandalam)of stage Agasthya, has brought about many famed places and incidents to the Chola region of Tamilnadu. There are many branches of the river Kaveri which run like blood vessels across the Chola region.

Among these, the very beautiful broad “Harisol” rivulet branches off from the Kaveri at Kumbakonam. There are quite a few holy shrines on the banks of Harisol.Of these, as if to symbolize her flow from the heavens to earth, Harisol flows the north to the south in Koothanur.

Many sages and savants chose the banks of the river in Koothanur to perform their penance in absolute peace. Right near the river, Harinatheswarar temple confers an absolutely peaceful for doing penance. A few feet away,Goddess Durga is found as the village protective deity.which is a rarity A nearby place known as ”Poonthottam” must have been a beautiful park full of lovely flowers in ancient times. People of the past, would have had their bath in river Harisol, and taken flowers from Poonthottam for worship of the Lord.

It is learnt, that this place was known as “Ambalpuri”, about a 1000years ago, even before poet Ottakoothan was born. So history has it it that Goddess Saraswathi did her penance towards Lord Brahma and conferred her blessings on her devotees for ages. Devotees offer their puja with lovely flowers that are known to be acceptable to the Goddess.
In a similar manner, ottakoothan, an ordinary mortal, earnestly sought the blessings of the Goddess Saraswathi and Lord Pillayar (Arul Gnana Vinayakar) to grant him the gift of the ability to compose poems. Bathing in the river Harisol daily and by offering floral tributes to the Goddess, he got his boon fulfilled when the Goddess, came in a very beautiful boat in the river,in the form of a lovely woman and gave him to wish.

Along with Goddess Saraswathi, Goddesses Lakshmi and parvathi too came by in this river and hence we can get the blessings of the basic grace of them all-Adhisakthi. Blessed with the beningn looks of Goddess Kalaimagal, and the betel mouth Blessings of “Then Kani vagadevi”, Ottakoothar became a poet with the ability to compose rhythmic poems.

The populace were enamoured of his ability to compose.His fame reached the ears of King Vikrama Chola,who invited him to his court and witnessed the blessed ability of Ottakoothar.

From the day King Rajaraja Chola (grandson of King Vikrama Chola), gifted this land to Ottakoothar. This Ambalpuri has come to be known as Koothanur.

It is learnt, that this place was known as “Ambalpuri”, about a 1000years ago, even before poet Ottakoothan was born. So history has it that Goddess Saraswathi did her penance towards Lord Brahma and conferred her blessings on her devotees for ages. Devotees offer their puja with lovely flowers that are known to be acceptable to the Goddess.

THE FAME OF KOOTHANUR


Ottakoothar and his grandson Ovathakoothar, established the beautiful temple for Goddess Maha Saraswathi.

Goddess Saraswathi, in a penance performing posture, confers Her blessings on this world as the prime deity, only in this temple. A beautiful three eyed form, with one leg folded in a yogasana pattern, is afeast for the eyes. Another special feature is that there is no veena in Ambal’s hands in the prime deity.

She is a seated on a white lotus,attired in white silk. She symbolizes her inherent Presence in studies, having a palm script in her hands. The other hand has the ‘Chinmudra’, blessing devotees.Another hand has the ‘Akshamala’, signifying penance. The fourth palm has the nectar pot, conferring happiness and spiritual bliss to devotees. With Her benevolent smile and eyes, she has Her third eye giving us the highest form of spiritual knowledge. In short she gives all who worship Her absolute bliss while giving us education, knowledge, intellingence and welfare.

POOJA


On all nine days navrathiri festival, ambal is bedecked specially and special poojas performed. Maha Ganapathi procession place in all directions of town.

On saraswathi Pooja Day and Vijayathasami Day, Maha Saraswathi is taken out in procession on the swan. In particular, devotees perform pooja directly to the beautifully decorated extended feet of the goddess on saraswathi pooja Day.

On each full moon day, special poojas are done for her. For growing children especially, she confers Her benevolence that day to gain in intelligence. Life can be journey of happiness and worships Her on Her Birth star day-Moolam .

Though one can worship Here on all days of the week, Wednesdays are specify chosen for excellence in education and knowledge. Devotees throng the temple on Vijaya Dasami Day with their children and begin their studies with a pooja at the feet of the Goddess others, who are not able to come in Day, choose some other auspicious day to start their children’s education. It is indeed a wonderful sight to see hundreds of children seeking Her blessings by placing their text books, note books, pencils and pens at her feet daily, and gain excellence in education and knowledge, the prime base for improvement in life.

Many schools and college students place their hall tickets at the feet of the goddess to pray for success in their exams. In fact, some students go to the extent of leaving their names, addresses and exam roll numbers written on paper and dropping them in the Hundial of temple. Children wanting to excel in the fields of music, dance and drama, inaugurate and continue to perform here on vijaya thasami Day and other auspicious days on their instruments. The sight of devotees with dump children praying for them scan indeed be soul stirring.

Children wanting to excel in the fields of music, dance and drama, inaugurate and continue to perform here on vijaya thasami Day and other auspicious days on their instruments. The sight of devotees with dump children praying for them scan indeed be soul stirring. Devotees within and abroad, who have had Her munificent blessings, have narrated wonderfully blissful experiences, because people now fully realize that a good education has a special value worldwide.

Her grace extending beyond age,wealth and religion or castle is well known throughout the world. By worshipping Her here at Koothanur, it has been established that children can do well in studies, reaching top ranks, improve in education and knowledge and be gift to their parents.

TEMPLES IN KOOTHANUR


1. Temple for the goddess of learning, Maha Saraswathi
2. Temple for Rama, God Protecting Dharma.
3. Temple for Harinatheswara, to perform penance.
4. Temple for Durga, the benevolent and town protecting goddess.
5. Temple for Draupathi.
6. Temple for Malaysia Sastha,Iyyanar,the family deity of people of this town.
7. The temple of Maha Ganapathi,(known as’Moola Vinayaka’ or, colloquialy ‘Moolai Vinayaga’)who is supposed to be the     root of koothanur.the deity here is the favourite of youth of this own,and they celebrate festivals for him regularly.




srivanjiyam


Vaanchinathar Temple, Tiruvaanchiyam

Location of the templeTiruvaanchiyam
Lord Shiva known asVaanchinathar, Vanchi Lingeswarar
Female deity known asMangalanayagi
PathigamThriunavukarasar, Sambandar and sundarar
How to reachThis temple is located 35 Kms from Kumbakonam. This sthalam is located near Achutamangalam which is located on the Kumbakonam - Natchiarkovil - Nannilam bus route. Srivanjiyam is about 2 kms. from Achutamangalam. Nearest town is Nannilam. It can also be reached from Tiruvarur.

Six Shivasthalams on the banks of river Cauvery are said to be the most sacred and on par with Varanasi (Benares). They are Tiruvenkaadu, Tiruvaiyaru, Chaayaavanam, Mayiladuthurai,Tiruvidaimarudur and Tiruvanchiam. Out of these, Tiruvanchiam is "one-sixteenth" more sacred than Varanasi. Lord Shiva is said to have told Parvati that he loves this place the most. The presiding deity of this sacred temple Vanchinathar is a Swayambu Lingam and the oldest among the 64 in the world.
This is one of the largest temples in Tanjavur district measuring 558 feet in length and 320 feet in breadth, with 3 gopurams (towers), three prakarams and a 5 tier main gopuram. A prominent feature of this temple is that Yama, the God of Death is having s separate shrine for Him and is given preference in the daily worship. There is a separate shrine for Bhairavar also in this temple in the inner prakaram. Bhairavar is in yoga posture, without his usual mount, the dog, is another rare feature of this temple. Next to the shrine of Bhairavar is the shrine for Rahu-kethu, both carved out in one composite sculpture which is another unique feature of this temple. Milk poured over this Rahu-Kethu sculpture turns blue. Performing prayers and worship at this shrine are said to bless devotees with marriage and progeny and cure nervour disorders.
There is no Navagraha shrine in this temple and Saneeswaran (Saturn) is housed in a separate niche.
The inner prakarams houses the images of 63 saivite saints (Nayanmars), a separate shrine for Goddess Mahalakshmi and another shrine for Goddess Mahishasuramardhini, standing beside her simha vahana. Worshipping Her with 108 lotus flowers during Rahu kalam is considered special.
The 3 sacred tanks at Tiruvanchiam temple - Lakshmi Theeratham, Naga Theertham and Chakra Theertham - were created by Lakshmi, Adiseshan and Chakrathazhwar. A holy dip in Lakshmi Theertham is said to reunite a person with his estranged family. A holy dip in Naga Theertham is said to liberate one of all Naga Doshas. It is said that by taking a holy dip in Chakra Theertham, one is absolved of Brahmahatti dosham.
Devotees are cured of illnesses after a bath in the Gupta Ganga, on the northern side of the outer prakaram. According to Puranas, a holy dip in Gupta Ganga is equivalent to one in Varanasi, Rameswaram and the Maha Maham tank in Kumbakonam. Lord Vinayakar on the banks of Gupta Ganga is to be worshipped first before taking the holy dip.
God of Death, Yama (who decides Heaven or Hell for the human beings according to their good and bad deeds) was pretty worried about Himself. He was wary and heavy with all the sins (or so, He thought) of taking away lives and wondered what he could do to atone for this. Well, Brahma allayed Yama's fears and sorrow and asked Him to scan the earth, saying, "Go ahead and see if you can spot a place by the banks of the Cauvery, where you find Sandal Trees growing in abundance; that is the holy place where you should sit for penance. Meditate on Lord Shiva and He will give you the answer."
So, Yama went and found this place called Gandhaaranyam (the fragrant forest) and sat there to do His penance. True, Lord Shiva appeared to Yama and asked Him to build a Temple . Yama built the Temple (Purana has it that Mayan built this.) and also stayed on as the vehicle for the Lord here. Lord Vanchinatha or Vancheeswarar is a Swayambu Lingam, the most ancient of the 64 Swayambhu Siva Lingams in the country. The Lord also told Yama that there will be a Temple for Him also here and that the people who visit the Lord should first offer prayers to Yama. So, we have the Temple or a Sannidhi to the Lord Yama in the first Prakaram. As you enter through the Raja Gopuram, there is the Gupta Ganga Temple Tank on your right and the Temple for the God of Death to your left. A dip in the tank is supposed to be a blessing and clears you of all the sins and a rebirth. The Sthala Vriksham is the Sandalwood tree. And the deities are worshipped with Sandal leaves and not Vilva.
The shrine for Yama is a small one where He is seated facing the South. There is a Moorthy of Kubera, in a standing posture near Him. We worship Him and enter the second prakaram. This has Vinayaka and Bala Muruga. As we enter the inner court we can see among other structures, the Sannidhi for Goddess Sugandha Kundalaambikai. There is the Kodi Maram, Bali Peetha and Nandhikeswara. In the third gopuram entrance, there are the Twin Ganeshas and Adhikara Nandhi. Inside, in the Garbha Graha the Lord Vanchinaatha gives us His darshan. There is a relief sculpture in a pillar in the first prakara; He is called the Vennai (butter) Pillayar and people with stomach ailments smear butter on His bulging stomach. One has to visit the Temple here to experience the spirituality and enjoy the beauty of the Sculptures and architecture. The style of architecture ranges from the Chola to the Nayakkar era. The Sundays of the month of Karthikai are supposed to be very blessed.
This Temple is supposed to be a very important one and the main Moorthy-Lingam is supposed to be a thousand times greater than the Holy Kasi. Here, even a Death in this small place does not have any impact on the routine Poojas conducted in the Temple. (In most other places, if there is a death in the village, the Temple remains closed until the Last Rites are conducted) .

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

kandanur palaiyur mahalakshmi



Palaiyur Shri Mahalakshmi Temple
Palaiyur, a developing village situated very close to Karaikudi city in South Tamilnadu, is proud to have an exclusive temple for Goddess Shri Mahalakshmi. Nattukottai Nagarathar alias Chettiars community who are the residents of Palaiyur were persuaded by Kanchi Mutt Shri Shri Chandrasekara Swamigal to construct an exclusive temple for Goddess Shri Mahalaskhmi in Palaiyur itself. Accordingly, the temple was constructed in 2000 and had a dip of holy water ('kumbabhishekam')
'Kanagadhara Sthothram' a sonnet recited by Shri Aadhi Sankarar depicts Shri Mahalakshmi'ssupremacy which poured golden amla over a poor's house. Here Goddess Shri Mahalakshmi who is in the sanctum sanctorum bless the devotees to lead a happy life by getting rid from obstacle in marriage, child issues, financial burden, employment etc.,
ContactShri Mahalakshmi Temple
Palaiyur, Kandanur 630 104
Sivagangai Dist (Tamil Nadu)
Mobile Ph: 9677922622
How to ReachCan reach Karaikudi by train from all parts of the country.
Excellent lodges available in Karaikudi.
Road MapFrom Karaikudi to Arantangi bus route, Palaiyur is
situated on 10 th KM. Ask ticket for 'Panickar Hotel'
and alight there. Temple is walk able distance from that spot.
Autos available from Karaikudi.
Temples in VicinityKundrakudi, Pillyarpatti, Ariyakudi (Vishnu Temple)
Koppudaiyamman (Karaikudi), Avudarkoil (Manickavasagar
staged Devaram here)


பாலையூர் அருள்மிகு ஸ்ரீ மகாலட்சுமி திருக்கோவில்
கலைநயம் மிகுந்த கட்டிடங்கள்; நாவிற்கினிய அறுசுவை; அறம் வளர்த்த ஆன்மீக பெரியவர்கள்; முத்திரை பதித்த தொழிலதிபர்கள்; அறிவு கண் திறக்கும் கல்வி கூடங்கள் என்று திக்கெட்டும் புகழ் பரப்பும் செட்டிநாட்டு மண்ணில், பாலையூர் என்ற ஸ்தலத்தில், பாற்கடலில் பள்ளி கொண்டுள்ள பரந்தாமனின் இதயத்தில் குடி அமர்ந்துள்ள ஸ்ரீ மகாலட்சுமி தாயாருக்கென்றே பிரத்யேக கோவில் அமைந்துள்ளது.
சிவகங்கை மாவட்டம், காரைக்குடியிலிருந்து அறந்தாங்கி செல்லும் பேருந்து மார்க்கத்தில் 10 கி.மி தொலைவில் உள்ள பாலையூர் என்ற ஊரில் வாழும் நாட்டுக்கோட்டை நகரத்தார் பெருமக்கள், காலம் சென்ற காஞ்சி பெரியவர்கள் ஸ்ரீலஸ்ரீ சந்திரசேகர ஸ்வாமிகளின் அறிவுரைப்படி இந்த ஊரின் நடுவில் உள்ள ஊரணி கரையோரம் ஸ்ரீ மகாலட்சுமியை மூலவராக பிரதிஷ்டை செய்து இவ்வாலயத்தை 2000ம் வருடம் நிர்மாணித்து இறையருளால் கும்பாபிஷேகம் நடத்தினார்கள். அன்று முதல் இந்த ஸ்தலம் வளம் கொண்டு விளங்குகிறது.
ஆலயத்தின் மூலவராக வீற்றிருக்கும் ஸ்ரீ மகாலட்சுமி தாயார் அருள் சுரக்கும் விழிகளால் தம்மை நாடி வரும் பக்தர்களுக்கு வேண்டும் வரங்களை வழங்கி வருகிறாள். ”சந்திர பிறை பூங் கண்ணி! சற்று நீ திரும்பி பார்த்தால் மேவிய வறுமை தீர்ப்பேன்” என்று ஆதி சங்கரர் அருளிய கனகதார ஸ்தோத்ரத்தை ஏற்று அந்த வீட்டில் தங்க நெல்லிக்கனிகளை பொழிய விட்ட கருணையின் வடிவமல்லவா இந்த தாயார்! திருமணம், குழந்தை பாக்கியம், தொழில் அபிவிருத்தி, வேலை வாய்ப்பு, கடன் நிவர்த்தி என்று பல்வேறு பாக்கியங்களை அருளி இல்லத்தில் லட்சுமி கடாட்சத்தை வழங்கும் இந்த அலைமகளின் ஆலயத்தில் அன்றாட வழிபாடுகளுடன் விசேஷ அபிஷேகங்களும் நடைபெறுகிறது.
ஆலய முகவரிஅருள்மிகு ஸ்ரீ மகாலட்சுமி திருக்கோவில்
பாலையூர், கண்டனூர 630 104
சிவகங்கை மாவட்டம், தமிழ்நாடு
அலைபேசி 9677922622.
பயணிக்கும் வழிகாரைக்குடி - அறந்தாங்கி பேருந்து
மார்க்கத்தில் 10வது கி.மி தொலைவில் உள்ள
பாலையூர் பணிக்கர் ஹோட்டல் பஸ்
நிறுத்தத்தில் இறங்கி வரவும்.
அருகிலுள்ள மற்ற ஸ்தலங்கள். 
குன்றக்குடி, பிள்ளையார்பட்டி, கொப்புடையம்மன் (காரைக்குடி)
அரியக்குடி (தென் திருப்பதி), ஆவுடையார் கோவில் (மாணிக்க வாசகர் தேவாரம் பாடிய ஸ்தலம்)
கருத்தாக்கம் மற்றும் உபயம் - ராம.சுப.முருகப்பன் , பாலையூர்

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