Thiruvallur
How to Reach
Air
The nearest International/ Domestic airports is Arignar Anna International Airport/ Kamarajar Domestic Airport at Tirusulam (47Km).
Train
Tiruvallur Railway Station plays an important transit point to many places in Southern parts of India like Salem, Erode, Bengaluru, Mangalore etc. and Western parts of India like Pune, Mumbai etc. Further, it is well connected to holy places like Tiruvalangadu, Tiruttani, Tirupati, Mantralayam amd Shirdi. In addition, EMU Services to Chennai Central, Arakkonam and Tiruttani are available from early in the morning to late in the night.
Road
Three important National Highways namely, NH 16, NH 48 and NH 716 are passing through the District boundary. Bus Stand is situated in the heart of the town and buses are available to outstation and mofussil routes from early in the morning to late in the night.
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The History of Tiruvallur
Tiruvallur was originally called Tiruevullur, a name associated with the reclining posture of Lord Vishnu in the renowned Veeraragava Temple. Over time, the town’s name evolved to Tiruvallur, becoming well-known, especially for the temple’s significance. The new moon day holds special importance for both the deity and the town’s residents.
Formation of the District
Tiruvallur District was created by dividing the former Chengalpattu District, now known as Chengalpattu-MGR/Kancheepuram. The newly formed district included Tiruvallur, Tiruttani, Uthukkottai, Ponneri, and Gummidipoondi taluks. Currently, Tiruvallur District consists of eight taluks and three revenue divisions.
Historical Significance
In earlier times, the region was ruled by a series of regimes, starting with the Pallavas in the 7th century, followed by the Mughals, the Nawab of Arcot, and later the British. This region witnessed pivotal moments in history, including the Carnatic Wars fought between the English and French. Pulicat, a coastal town, was once the first Dutch settlement in India, which later fell under British rule in 1825, before India gained independence in 1947.
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Tourist Places
- Lighthouse, Pulicat Pulicat is a town located in the Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu, situated approximately 60 kilometers north of Chennai.
- Poondi Dam Poondi Reservoir, also known as Poondi Lake or Sathyamoorthy Reservoir, is located across the Kotralai River in the Tiruvallur district.
- Panchamukha Anjaneyaswami Temple The Sri Viswaroopa Panchamukha Anjaneyaswami Temple in Tiruvallur is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is revered throughout India under various names such as Anjaneya, Hanumanji, Maruti, and Bajrang Bali.
- Vadivudaiamman Temple Located in Thiruvottriyur, the Vadivudaiamman Udanurai Thygarajaswami Temple is a significant site in North Chennai, an area known for its industrial activities.
- Bhavani Amman Temple The Bhavani Amman Temple in Periyapalayam, near Chennai, attracts numerous devotees, with Bhavani Amman as the principal deity.
- Devi Karumariamman Temple The Devi Karumariamman Temple in Thiruverkadu is dedicated to Ambigai, who is associated with the sun. The temple features stories of divine blessings.
- Murugan Temple, Tiruttani The Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple, perched 700 feet above sea level on a single rock in Tiruttani, is a stunning shrine dedicated to Lord Muruga.
- Veeraraghava Perumal Temple The Lord Veeraraghava Perumal Temple in Tiruvallur is steeped in legend, tracing its origins back to the Krita Yuga and a sage’s devotion.
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In Tamil Nadu, the city Pulicat is located in the district of Tiruvallur. It is situated almost 60kms north of Chennai city particularly on the seaward side of Sri Harikota island blockade that segregates Pulicat Lake from the Bay of Bengal. A narrow water lagoon Pulicat Lake is integrated to the Pulicat city and also got its name from it.The city Pulicat has a rich history behind it. In the earlier period of 1609, the Dutch settlers had constructed a fort. In fact this Pulicat city turned out to be their main dwelling ground. Numerous invaders took possession of Pulicat city, the last being the British rulers. Britons had occupied Pulicat in 1825, thus becoming an integral part of Madras Presidency. Due to passage of so many long years much of the treasures of Pulicat had gone in to oblivion. Still aura has remained, to a large extent, by the ancient lighthouse that was erected just opposite to the Pulicat Lake.
Pulicat is also thronged with beautiful birds especially near the water banks of Pulicat Lake. Almost every year between the months of October and March, myriads of wandering birds take shelter. Although varies bird species are seen, the flamingos are significant, thronging the swamplands adjacent to the lake.
To attract the tourists from nearby region and also from abroad, the traveling system of Pulicat city has been improved over the years. To reach Pulicat, one needs to travel almost 54kms from Koyambedu (CMBT). Then he needs to follow 100 feet long road stretching from Koyambedu. After going straight to “Ennore Port Trust” one enters Minjur, after taking a right turn, one needs to cross then turn first left follows the road, at a stretch of almost 17kms. After one reaches “Ponneri- Pulicat” central road, from where a right turn is needed to take and continue driving for 4kms till one reaches the “Pulicat Jetty”.
As far as other Industries are concerned, a Cottage Craft with gentle Palmary Leaves by Women, particularly those of Muslim Communities, mainly established at Pulicat. The local Palmyra Leaf Co-operative Society exports service and beautiful articles made from Palmyra leaves. Pulicat is also rich in seafood export center including white and Tiger prawns, jellyfish, finfish and live lagoon etc.
With a legacy of 600 years, Pulicat, also known as Pazhaverkaddu, is situated 55 km north of Chennai. Pulicat was a major settlement of the Dutch on the Coromandel coast. They had built a fort called “Geldira” here in 1609 to trade with the East Indies. The Dutch and the British waged several wars over Pulicat and finally, the British captured it in 1825. The place is renowned for the eco-tourist spot of Pulicat Lake.
The Buckingham Canal, lighthouse, villages on the seaside, fisher folk, bullock carts and ferry boats forms the back drop to Pulicat. The Dutch and the British is believed to have berthed their ships at Karinmanal village, which is a historical site nearby. The highly guarded Sri Harikota Island located here houses India’s space center. Jamilabad is a nearby village totally dedicated to boat building and Senjiamman Nagar is a tribal hamlet. Church of Our Lady of Glory, and the Dutch cemetery protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, which has beautifully carved tombstones and mausoleums are the other interests.
Fancy and utility articles, made out of palm leaves by women, are a specialty of Pulicat. Sea food export is another major activity. The nearest airport and railhead are at Chennai. Pulicat is well connected by road to Chennai.
Poondi Reservoir
Poondi Lake or Sathyamoorthy reservoir is the reservoir across Kotralai River in Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu State. It acts as the important water source for Chennai city which is 60 km away.Frequent buses are available from Chennai and Tiruvallur to reach this place.
Poondi Reservoir (later named as Sathyamoorthy Sagar) was constructed in 1944 across the Kosathalaiyar River or Kotralai River in Thiruvallur district with a capacity of 2573 Mcft and placed in service for intercepting and storing Kosathalaiyar River water. Surplus water flows down the river which is again intercepted by Tamaraipakkam Anicut and diverted to Sholavaram Lake and Puzhal lake. (A lined canal known as Poondi Canal was later constructed in 1972 to convey water from Poondi Reservoir to Sholavaram Lake). This reservoir was constructed at the cost of Rupees 65 lakhs. Satyamurti who is remembered today as the political mentor of Kumaraswami Kamaraj, who was the Chief Minister of the State between 1954-1963.[3] Because of his strong devotion to Satyamurti, Kamaraj got the Poondi reservoir named after Satyamurti.
Pre Historic Museum – Poondi
The chain of discoveries had started off when Sir Robert Bruce Foote accidentally discovered stone tool at Pallavaram in the year 1863 CE, followed by the discovery of many number of artefacts in and around Poondi near Chennai. This tremendous discovery in the field of Pre -historic archaeology pushed back the antiquity of man in Tamil Nadu to more Palaeolithic Toolsthan half a million years ago and placed this region on the world map of pre historic culture.
Interestingly the Poondi reservoir, from where Chennai derives its water, turns out to be significantly important for archaeologists and geologists around the world .The Gudiyum cave the first of its kind in India, discovered by geologist Sir Robert Bruce Foote exists near Poondi in Tiruvallur taluk of Tiruvallur district, and reaching there takes some adventurous paths into the silent forests, which can actually turn out to be a nice expedition for trekkers and even nature lovers.
The Department of Archaeology, Government of Tamil nadu has its museum exclusively for the exhibits of the pre-historic artefacts found in around Poondi and in other parts of Tamil Nadu. This Museum was established in the year 1985. Poondi is situated at 13 km from Tiruvellore Railway Station, in Tiruvellore District.
Antiquities on Display
Palaeolithic implements, Neolithic Celts, Sarcophagus (small and big), Megalithic Storage pots & cups, Fossilised Snail and wood, three legged Urn, Iron Spade & Axe, and Terracotta pipes (Tuyeres) for iron smelting.
Lord Hanuman
Lord Hanuman is worshipped all over India with various names like Anjaneya, Hanumanji, Maruti, Bajrang Bali, Mahavir, Pavan Kumar. He was born to the Wind God and Anjana Devi. He is one of the seven chiranjeevis (immortal ones). The Sun God Surya is considered as his Guru.The Valmiki Ramayana has a seperate section called Sundara Kandam or Sundar kand, which describes in detail the leelas of Lord Hanuman is his search for Sita , across the sea.
The Sundara Kandam comprises 2885 verses and the word Sundara means beautiful. The esoteric significance of the sundara kandam is important. The ocean represents the ocean of samsara. Lord Rama represents the paramatma and Sita Devi represents the jivatma. Hanuman represents the Guru or Divine teacher.
Origin of Sri Panchamukha Hanuman
The origin of Sri Panchamukha Hanuman can be traced to a story in the Ramayana. During the war between Lord Ram and Ravana, Ravana took the help of Mahiravana who was the king of pathala. Lord Hanuman in order to protect Lord Ram and Lakshman formed a fortress with his tail. But Mahiravana took the form of Vibeeshana and took Lord Ram and Lakshman to pathala loka.
Hanuman entered pathala loka in search of Rama and Lakshmana. He found out that to kill Mahiravana he had to extinguish 5 lamps at the same time. So he took the Panchamukha form with Hanuman, Hayagriva, Narasimha, Garuda and Varaha faces and extinguished the lamps. Mahiravana was killed immediately.
The story apart, Sri Panchamukha Hanuman was the upasana deity of Sri Ragavendra Tirtha, the saint of Mantralaya. The place where he meditated on Panchamukha Hanuman is now known as Panchamukhi, wherein a temple for Panchamukha Hanuman has been built.
There is also a shrine for Panchamukha Hanuman at Kumbakonam. This is taken as the reference for the sculpturing of the Swami Murti in our ashram.
The Mahapradishtai of 32 feet tall Sri Viswaroopa Panchmukha Anjaneyaswami at Periakuppam Village at Tiruvallur ( 45 kms from Chennai, enroute to Tirupathy ) was performed on the 6th June, 2004 with the blessings of Gurudev Poojyasri “Mantramurthy Dasan.” S. Venkatesa Bhattachariar Swamigal, Fonder Trustee of Sri Viswaroopa Panchmukha Anjaneyaswami Foundation, a registered trust.
This happened to be a unique event for the entire humanity. The uniqueness is due to the fact that this is the one and only Pradishtai in the entire world under the MANTRA SHASTRA.
The main objective behind this Mahapradishtai is Gurudev’s commitment to pass on, for the benefit of the entire humanity, the all powerful Moola Mantras of Sri Anjaneyaswami, Sri Narasimhaswami, Sri Mahaveera Garudaswami, Sri Lakshmivarahamurthi Swami and Sri. Hayagreevaswami which he inherited from his Guruji.
Gurudev was an exponent of Mantra Shastra and he had alleviated the miseries of so many individuals / institutions by conducting poojas/ homams by way of pariharams. He had the good fortune of having, as his Guru, Sri Rengaswami Bhattachar of Aanathandevapuram who was conferred with the tiltle of “Mantramurthy” by none other than the great Paramacharya of Kanch Mutt in recognition of his mastery of Mantra Shastra.
After the construction of the Mandapams, it is proposed to engrave the Moola Mantras on the walls facing each Mukha so that any one, without any discrimination whatsoever can chant the Moola Mantra in the prescribed manner and get their wishes fulfilled and prayers answered. The powerful Shakthi of Guru Parampara will make this happen.
Significance of the Five Faces
- The face towards the East is “Sri Anjaneyaswami Mukha” which removes all blemishes of sin and confers purity of mind
- The South facing mukha of “Sri Marasimhaswami” removes fear of enemies and confers victory
- The West facing mukha of “Sri Mahaviragarudaswami” drives away evil spells, black magic influences and removes all poisonous effects in one’s body
- The North facing mukha of “Sri Lakshmi Varahamurthyswami” wards off the troubles caused by bad influences of the planets and confers all prosperity Ashta Aishwarya
- The face looking upwards of “Sri Hayagreevaswami” confers knowledge, victory, progeny and mukthi
Some Highlights of the Pradishtai
- Tallest (32′) Sri Panchamukha Anjaneyswami in Viswaroopa form, magnificently sculpted out of a massive monolithic green granite stone (36′ X 20′ X 10′) transported from Hassan, Karnataka
- The Only pradishtai in the whole under Mandra Shastra
- The place of pradishtai was known as Rudhra Vanam in legendary times where great sages like Agasthya have done penance.
Objectives of the Foundation
- Annadhanam
- Establishment and running of Vedha Patashalas
- Propagation of Mantra, Yantra and Tantra Shastras
- Medical and Educational assistance to poor and needy
- Establishment and maintenance of Ghoshala
- Establishment and maintenance of old age homes / Orphanages
Location of Asramam
Tiruvallur is situated at 45 kms from Chennai on the Chennai – Tiruttani – Thirupati route and the famous Vaidhya Veera Raghavaswami Temple is situated here. The nearest Airport is Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is is also connected by rail. You need to get down at Tiruvallur railway station. From Chennai, to reach the Panchamukha Anjaneya Swami Ashram, take the road identified by a Ashram sign board from “oil mill junction” at Tiruvallur and be guided by sign boards placed at every intersection.
Temple Address :
10, Devi Meenakshi Nagar, Rajajipuram Part – III, Periyakuppam, Tiruvallur – 602 001, Tamil Nadu.
North Chennai, the industrial face of Chennai, from refineries to the transport offices North Chennai stands as the densely populated place of the city. Thiruvotriyur is nestled in this part of the city is the place of importance at the month of Aadi as VADIVUDAIAMMAN THYGARAJASWAMI TEMPLE is located here.
Vadivudaiamman is the form of Gnana Sakthi who blesses the people with wisdom and knowledge to survive in this world, visiting the temple at the noon and participating in the mid day pooja with a red colour saree and jack fruit as a humble offering to Amman will bless the needs of the devotees stepping in to the temple, the temple is said to be the first temple created in this world hence the name for Lord Shiva is known as Aadhipurishwarar (the first form of Shivan) Thygaraja Swami in the temple resemble Thygaesar of Thiruvaaroor.
The temple is preserved with its ancient touch, on entering the temple the divine silence welcomes you and its rare to have sand floor in the temples in Chennai and which makes our legs soothing and pleasant walk makes you to reach Vinayagar Sanidhi and have a glimpse and get the blessings of the elephant god, get a garland for Amman and a ticket for 25 bucks at temple counter for Special Dharshan will give you a near and clear vision of Vadiudaiamman as her name Vadivu (divine beauty) + Udai (with) + Amman (Mother) yes, Amman stands in the temple facing south with divine beauty with four hands and the merciful eyes will bring tears in our eyes, Kungama Archanai is also special for Amman and having blessed by Amman within a few steps of walk we reach Thyagarajaswami Sanidhi after having Viboothi in your fore head move towards Aadhipurishwarar Sanidhi he is the first form of Shivan to bless the world he is also known as Kaarani Vidangar, Padambakka Naadhar in the inner praharam of Aadhipurishwarar, 63 Nayanmars, Dhakshina Murthy, Durgai Amman, Vishnu, along with Aadishankarar, Vattaparai Amman stay here to bless us.
The outer praharam of the temple has many surprises, 27 Lingams for 27 stars of astrology people perform prayers for the Lingam corresponding to their birth star, Valar kali, Aagaya Lingam stands in the open air, Annamalaiyar, Naagalingam, Infant Shiva, Kaalahastheeswarar, Bhairavar, Subramaniyar have separate Sanidhi’s here. Next to the temple tank is the Kalyana Sundareswarar Sanidhi and the temple tree, the Maghizhamboo tree stands here beneath which Sundarar, one amongst the four saivite married to Sangiliyar the marriage was conducted by the blessings of Lord Shiva and still the marriage occasion is celebrated every year as a big carnival in the temple.
If you plan to visit the temple plan your visit earlier as the roads in the North Chennai will test your patience, Thiruvottriyour is well connected by MTC buses from round the city.
Bhavani Amman Temple in Periyapalayam near Chennai stands as an attraction to many devotees, Bhavani Amman is the main deity of the temple, people throng here in thousands on weekends and in the month of Aadi and Avani. Located in about 45kms from Chennai in Chennai-Kolkata highway near Red Hills people can reach Periyapalayam.The Temple is busy throughout the year and people visit the temple with their families and seek the blessings of Bhavani Amman especially on the weekends people visit here in groups and have a divine get together here.
The Temple is well maintained and well organized to help the devotees to have a memorable Dharshan of Sri Bhavani Amman. According to the legend people refer Amman as the sister of Lord Krishna who managed to escape from the clutches of Kamsan (Demon King) and after warning Kamsan about his death she decided to settle in this place in name of Sri Bhavani.
The temple after recent renovation shines as of Bhavani Amman, on entering the temple Vinayagar has a separate Sanidhi in name of Sri Arpudha Sakthi Vinayagar, followed by Sri Sarva Sakthi Mathangi Amman and now people can reach the queue to start their Dharshan towards Bhavani Amman, free Dharshan and Special Dharshan for Rs.5 and Rs.25 are also available (Rs.25 ticket is the best option to hace a closer view of Amman). In the Moolasthanam
Amman seen with Sangu Chakram in the upper hands while sword and Amirtha Kalasam on her lower hands, a thousand watts vision (be ready to withstand the power of Amman eyes). Crossing the Moolasthanam Utsavar Amman welcomes us sitting in a well-decorated seat, Kungumam and Theertham is offered as Prasadham, which is known to cure many ailments in human body.
After having the Dharshan people can now visit Sannidhis of Sri Subrammaniyar, Srinivasa Perumal with Mahalakshmi, Anjaneyar, and Sri Prasuramar (one among the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) and Naga Sannidhi. People offer their prayers and also thank Amman for her blessings, they wear Neem leaves as clothes (Vaepanjalai), offer Pongal, shave their heads and perform Angapradakshinam. Timings include 5am – 9 am for Angapradkashinam, 5am – 12pm and 4pm – 6pm for Vaepanjalai and 5am – 12pm for Garagam.
Ambigai who blessed the Sun
One of the sportive arts of Devikarumari. One day Devikarumari took the image of old nomadic lady and went to Sun to forecast his future. Without realising her as Devikarumari, He simply neglected her. Devikarumari immediately vanished. Sun has lost its brightness and its glory started declining. Realising his mistake he begged Devikarumari to forgive and excuse him.
Sun also requested Devikarumari to celebrate Sunday as the day of Devikarumari. Devikarumari also accepted it. He also got permission from her to pour on her sunrays twice in a year in the month of Panguni and Purattasi. So Sunday is celebrated as the day of Karumari. We can happily witness the scene of sunrays falling on the head of Devikarumari twice in a year.
Devikarumari made Narayanan Seat there
Once upon a time Lord Thirumal came to Thiruverkadu to witness the grace rule of Umadevi. When Thirumal personally met his sister Karumari, she requested him “to seat there as Srinivasan of Thirumurai and assist her and bless the devotees who worship Navagraham and stand towards southern direction”. He was happy and promised her, that he would sit by her side and protect the position of Nine Planets. Veda Viyasar was extremely happy to see Annai Parasakthi and Lord Venkatesan together.
The city of Chennai is well connected by Air, Rail and Road Routes. At Chennai, we have International and Domestic Airports facilitating the people from all over the world to reach the city with ease. Chennai have two Railway Terminals facilitating the movements of North South, East and West bound trains. Large number of Government and Private buses are plying between Chennai and other major Cities. Chennai is well known for hospitality where accommodation is available to suit the purse of all walks of people from dormitory to Five Star Hotels. All kinds of foods are also available. Thiruverkadu is just 18 KM from Chennai. Bus facilities are available from Chennai
The beautiful temple of Lord Muruga at Tiruttani crowns a single rock 700 feet above sea level. It is situated amidst a range of hills with a dramatic panoramic view. This sacred place is on the Chennai-Mumbai, 13 kilometers from Arakkonam and 84 kilometers from Chennai.
Around this town are famous religious places such as Kancheepuram (Banares of the South) on the South, Sholingar and Vallimalai on the West, the popular and renowned pilgrimage centre, Tirupati (otherwise called Balaji) and Kalahasti (with its Vayu Lingam) on the North and Tiruvalangadu (of puranic fame) with Lord Nataraja on the East.
Greatness of Tirutanikai – Puranic Importance
Of Lord Murugan’s six Padaiveedus, Tirutanikai ranks prominent as the crown jewel of our Lord. As its very name indicates, when we propitiate our Lord in this holy shrine, He blesses us with mental peace and bodily happiness. His righteous indignation towards the asuras for their cruelty is said to have been quelled and cooled at this place which is, therefore, known as Shantipuri (Abode of Peace). As the prayers and desires of the devotees who worship our Lord Tanikesan on this hill with unserving faith and intense devotion are fulfilled in no time, this hill is also called Chanikasalam.
When Lord Murugan came to this hill after wedding Goddess Valli at Vallimalai, She implored Him to enlighten Her on the importance and greatness of this hill. In reply, our Lord said that if one worshipped Him with heart and soul for five consecutive days in this hill temple, that person would be blessed with all that is best in this life and hereafter.
In Treta Yuga, Lord Rama, after putting an end to Ravana, worshipped Lord Siva at Rameswaram, at whose request Rama came to Tiruttani and found perfect peace of mind by worshipping our Lord Subrahmanya here. In Dwapara Yuga, Arjuna got the blessings of Lord Murugan here by offering prayers to Him on his way to the South for Teertha Yatra (pilgrimage to take sacred immersion). Lord Vishnu prayed to our Lord at this place and got back His powerful Cakra (sacred wheel), Shanku (sacred conch), which were forcibly seized from Him by Tarakasura, brother of Soorapadma.
Lord Brahma propitiated Lord Murugan here at the holy spring (by the sides of the steps to the shrine) known as Brahmasonai after his imprisonment by Lord Murugan for his failure to explain the Pranava (‘Om’ mantra) and got back his creative function of which he was deprived by Lord Murugan due to his egotistic impudence in neglecting to worship Lord Subrahmanya on his way to Mount Kailasa to worship Lord Siva.
Lord Indra planted and reared in the pool known as Indrasonai adjoining this hill temple the rare plant known as Karunkuvalai, which gave three flowers a day and worshipped our Lord thrice daily with these flowers and , thus, got back the precious wealth of Deva Loka such as Sanghaneeti, Padmaneeti, Chintamani, etc seized by the asura titan.
Nanda Devi worshipped our Lord here on the bank of the Nandi River and got His peerless initiation to realize the unique relationship between the soul (jeevatma) and God (Paramatma), which is the quintessence of Saiva Siddhanta philosophy, the choicest product of the Dravidian intellect according the pioneering dravidologist Dr. G.V. Pope.
On worshipping our Lord at Thanikai, the king of snakes Vasuki got his bodily wounds healed, which had been caused during the churning process in the Milky Ocean to secure the Amrita (nectar of immortality) by the devas and asuras when the Mantotra Mountain was used as the churning base and the snake king Vasuki as the rope. Sage Agasthyar Muni (of Potikai Hill) worshipped our Lord at Tanikai when he was blessed with the rare divine gift of the ever-sweet peerless Tamil language, the beauty of which has been extolled by all the great saints and poets of Tamil Nadu.
Literary Importance
Apart from the puranic greatness of Tirutanikai, Saint Arunagirinathar, the illustrious devotee of Lord Muruga who lived 600 years ago, praised this hill as the chosen place for worship by devas and the favorite abode of saints performing prolonged tapas (austerities). He also compared this hill to Sivaloka (Bhuloka) and as the very soul of the world. Saint Ramalinga Swamigal (Arutprakasa Vallalar), who lived 150 years ago, was invited to come here by our Lord of Tanikai (seated on this hill) Who appeared before our saint in the mirror of his puja room at Madras after which the sour-stirring arutpa songs flowed from his lips in chaste Tamil like a torrential stream.
Sri Muttuswami Deekshitar, who lived 200 years ago (one of the trinity of Karnatic music) had his inspiration in Tiruttani when our Lord (in the guise of an old man) met him on the steps and sweetened his tongue with the prasadam of this temple, which impelled him to sing his first song — of course — on Lord Murugan of Tanikai. Many a miraculous event takes place at this shrine from time to time by the grace of our Lord. Oh, how grand and glorious is our Lord Tanigesan on this sacred hill of ancient fame and name!
Specialities of Tiruttani
Saravana Poikai
The sacred tanks of the shrines of our Lord are all known as Saravanapoikai (‘sacred pond of the reedy marsh’ where Lord Karttikeya was born). The tank at Tiruttani, which (unlike in other places) is at the very foot of the hill, is particularly renowned for its sacred water (teertham) having curative effect for ailments both bodily and mental, as it is rich in minerals such as sulfur, iron, etc. A bath in this holy tank refreshes the devotee and makes him hale and healthy to propitiate our Lord with faith and devotion.
Sapta Rishi Teertham
At the lovely garden on the south side of this sacred hill amidst a thick cluster of shady trees and seven cool sprints, the Seven Rishis (who today form the Great Bear stellar constellation) are said to have worshipped Lord Muruga and the Sapta Kannikas (Seven Virgins) enshrined at this place in a tiny temple.
On the outskirts of the Tiruttani town, on both sides of the Nandi River, are the ancient temples of Lord Vijayaragama Swami, Arumuga Swami and Veerateeswarar, the latter two of which are more than a thousand years old. In the temple of Arumuga Swami, there is sun worship every year for three days in March when the rising sun is said to worship our Lord by casting its rays upon the holy Feet of the deity on the first day, Breast on the second day and Head on the third day through a hold in the wall, which reveals the marvellous intellect of the architects of ancient days.
Festivals
Besides the monthly Krittikais which attract a large number of devotees to this shrine, the two outstanding annual festivals are the Aadi Krittikai and the 31st of December New Year Step Festival.
December 31st Step Festival
When the old (Gregorian) year is rung out and the New Year sets in (ie at the stroke of midnight on December 31st each year), lakhs of devotees are present on the sacred Tanikai hill to have the darshan of their Lord. They come to Tiruttani to offer their heart-felt prayers to our Lord on that day and night to be blessed with peace and plenty during the New Year.
This festival came into vogue during the British Raj when the famous Vallimalai Swamigal persuaded his followers to offer their homage first to Lord Tanigesan, the giver of all good, and only then to their official bosses. On this day, numerous bhajana parties gather and ascend the hill, singing the melodious Tiruppugazh songs and burning camphor on each of the hill’s 365 steps, one for each day of the New Year.
The entire atmosphere is filled with the music of these devotional songs, which is a feast to the eyes and ears. The sight of the Vel Kavadi taken to the shrine by some devotees on this day with the thin, sharp ends pricked and pierced all over the body above the hip (in spite of which they carry it with ease and grace) inspires and elevates our thoughts to adore our Lord for His mighty, marvellous and miraculous powers.
Devasthanam Amenities
The following amenities have been provided by Tiruttani Devasthanam for the benefit and convenience of the public:
Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Library on the site of his birth in Tiruttani town
Ghat Road for easy and speedy access to the temple with Devasthanam buses and vans plying the route
Self-contained, well-furnished Devasthanam cottages and rooms within easy reach of the temple
Kalyana Mandapams for performance of marriages
Kalyana Utsavam (wedding ceremony) may be performed for a nominal fee
A Golden Car (Thanga Ther) 18 feet in height gilded with nine kilos of gold and crafted with exquisite craft man ship may be taken out and pulled in procession around the temple upon payment
Pure cow’s milk (for abhishekam) and other puja articles are sold at the Fair Price Shop
Publications, calendars, rosaries and souvenir momentos are available for sale
Palliyarai Puja (to obtain His Grace in divine slumber) may be performed. On payment of a lump sum, the puja will be performed in perpetuity for one day each year from the accrued interest
Orphanage and Karunai Illam for poor, parentless boys who are given free meals, lodging, clothing, public education and other facilities
Sri Subramanya Swami Government Arts College at Tiruttani supported by Devasthanam donations
Siddha Vaidya Dispensary
The legend connected with the origin of this temple shows that once upon a time, in Krita Yuga, a sage by name Purupunyar lived with his wife Satyavathi in Badarikashram. They had no children. Purupanyar performed a Sali Yajna. (Putrakameshti Yaga) with great fervor and devotion. The Sage offered 1000 Ahutis (oblations of gheeto the sacrificial fire after chanting the mantra each time) every day, for one full year. ‘On the last day, when Purnahuti (the final offering) was performed, Lord Narayana was pleased with the austerity of the ritualistic observances of the Sage, and appeared in the sacrificial fire in a blissful mood to offer boons. The Sage prayed for a noble son.The boon was granted with the condition that he should be named after the name of the Yajna as Salihotran. With this blessing, Lord Narayana disappeared. Then the Sage collected the ash strewn around the Yajna Peetha and gave a handful of it to his consort to take in with great veneration as Prasadam. In the tenth month after that, a glorious son was born to Sage Purupunyar.
The child was named Salihotran as ordained by Lord Narayana. With the growth of years, the child showed signs of precocity and started on a pilgrimage-visiting temple after temple. On Tai Amavasya day (New Moon day in January-February), he reached Tiruvallur where he found that Lord Brahma, other Devas and great sages like Vasishtha, were engaged in taking bath in the Hrittapanasini tank.
Next year, on the same Pushya Amavasya day, he completed one year of penance and took a holy bath in the Hrittapanasini tank and observed his morning prayers. As he was fasting for one year without food or drink, he collected on that day some paddy and prepared prasadam out of that. He divided it into three parts; the first part was offered to Lord Narayana.The second part was kept for offering as charity and the third for his own consumption. At this juncture, Lord Narayana took the form of an old Brahmin and came the way where Salihotran was waiting to offer the share to a guest. When Salihotran saw the old Brahmin, he immediately requested him to grace his hermitage. He respectfully offered to the Brahmin the prasadam meant for the guest. Quickly the Brahmin ate up the offering and Salihotran felt from his facial appearance that he was not satisfied.
On inquiry, he learnt that the old Brahmin had had no food for the last 4 or 5 days and his hunger was not fully satisfied. At this, th-2 portion kept for himself was offered to the guest. The guest was satisfied and – left the place. Salihotran commenced another year’s penance without food and drink. Again, on the day of Pushya Amavasya at its close, he took his holy bath in the tank and noticed many unusual good omens on his way. After finishing his morning rituals, he procured some paddy and prepared oblations. Like the previous year, he offered a portion to Lord Narayana and was waiting for a guest to offer the second portion, leaving the. Last portion for him.
This time also, Lord Narayana took the form of an old Brahmin and was coming by that way. Salihotran-welcomed him and while accompanying him to the hermitage, the old Brahmin expressed that he was feeling extremely hungry and thirsty and needed a place for rest also. In the hermitage, Salihotran offered the entire prasadam meant for the guest as well as for himself. The old Brahmin was greatly pleased and asked Salihotran, “Where is the place for me to lie (Evvul)?” The prince was so charmed by the beauty of the princess that he voluntarily expressed that he, a prince was on the lookout for a bride. The princess advised the prince to go and worship Lord Veeraraghava in the temple situated on the northern bank of Hrittapanasini tank, if he wanted to marry her.
But the prince did not move, but argued that if the mutual love was real, God Himself would come down to approve of it. The princess then sent for her parents. Arriving there, they enquired about the prince’s lineage but the prince would not divulge his identity. However, he swore by Lord Veeraraghava that after his marriage with the princess, he would stay there. This being a very sound proposal, the marriage was fixed; and performed. Following the traditional custom of offering prayer at the temple after marriage, by the newly wedded couple, the prince and princess, accompanied by the parents and the invited guests, went to the temple of Lord Veeraraghava.
When they approached the sanctum sanctorum, to the utter amazement of all present, the newly married couple merged into the deity and stood transformed as Lord Veeraraghava, and his divine consort Kanakavalli, who blissfully blessed the parents and the assembly to attain salvation after their preordained, stay in the world.
The sacred tank here is known as Hrittapanasini. The following Sanskrit sloka describes the sanctity of the tank:
“Darsanat sparsanat snanat, Sadyo hrittapanasanah,
Ato sarveshu lokeshu, Namna Hrittapanasanah”
The tank is so holy that evens a sight or a touch or a bath would immediately dispel all anguish of heart. The local tradition attaches greater importance to this tank than to the Ganga, the Godavari, etc Unfortunately, the tank is now dry. As usual, at the centre of the tank there is a mandapam, where seasonal Festivals are performed. Tiruvallur was also known as Bhikshwaranyam (the forest where, sages lived on alms) in ages gone by. During January 1999, Kumbhabhishekam was performed in this temple after all the gopurams were renovated and repainted. It is a marvelous sight to see the glorious specimens of Dravidian art in sculptures depicting the mythological legends of Hindu scriptures in the pinnacles of the gopurams.