Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple Or Arupadai Veedu List
Arupadai Veedu denotes the six revered abodes of Lord Murugan, an esteemed deity who holds a prominent place in Tamil culture and spirituality. These sacred temples, each with its own unique characteristics and architectural grandeur, are strategically located across various regions of Tamil Nadu. The six significant temples that constitute Arupadai Veedu are Tiruchendur, Thirupparamkunram, Palani, Svamimalai, Thiruthani, and Pazhamudircholai.
Tiruchendur, situated along the shores of the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal, is known for its stunning sea views and elaborate rituals that are performed in honor of Lord Murugan, particularly during the festival of Skanda Sashti. Thirupparamkunram, perched atop a hill, showcases impressive rock-cut architecture and is celebrated for its vibrant ceremonies, attracting numerous pilgrims who seek blessings and partake in its annual festivals. Palani is widely recognized for its unique hilltop shrine and the significance of its offerings, particularly the famous sweet dish known as "Panchamirtham," which appeals to both devotees and tourists alike.
Svamimalai, located on a small hillock, is not only a pilgrimage site but also symbolizes the educational and spiritual guidance imparted by Lord Murugan. The temple is particularly known for its rituals that emphasize the connection between the deity and devotion through learning. Thiruthani, another important abode, is distinguished by its serene surroundings and the significant role it plays in the auspicious festival of Karthigai Deepam, which attracts thousands of devotees each year to witness the festive celebrations. Finally, Pazhamudircholai, enveloped in lush greenery, is a testament to the divine presence of Lord Murugan and features rituals that reflect the intimate bond between the deity and nature, further enriching the spiritual experience of its visitors.
The significance of these six temples extends beyond their religious importance; they are emblematic of the rich tapestry of Tamil history, art, and culture. Each temple narrates stories of devotion, tradition, and spirituality that have been preserved and celebrated for generations. The Arupadai Veedu temples serve as crucial pilgrimage destinations, where devotees gather not only for spiritual fulfillment but also to connect with the deep-rooted traditions that define Tamil identity. The vibrant festivals, unique rituals, and the breathtaking architecture of these sacred sites collectively contribute to their status as vital cultural landmarks, encapsulating the essence of Tamil heritage and devotion.
The foremost deity of Tamil Nadu is Lord Muruga. In Tamil, Arupadai Veedu is the abode of the Lord, total six in number described by the poet Nakkirar in a 3 rd century Tamil classic, Tirumurugatrupadi. Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple List are Tiruttani Temple, Swamimalai Temple, Pazhamudircholai Temple, Palani Temple, Tiruchendur and Tirupparankundram Temple.
Tiruttani Temple
This beautiful temple atop a 213m rock is the most prominent of the Muruga temples, reached by a steep flight of 365 steps, or a vehicle. Also called Shantipuri ( Abode of Peace) it is the place where the Lord reportedly quelled his righteous indignation towards the Asuras (Demons). It is believed that a devotee worshipping here for five consecutive days is blessed with the best in this life and after. On the day of Tamil New Year, hundred thousands of devotees climb the steps to seek blessing of the Lord. Temple Phone Number: 044-27885243. Located from Chennai at a distance of 87km.
Swamimalai Temple
Built on an 18m high artificial hillock, the temple has a dazzling golden chariot. The Valli Kalyana Festival in the month of April is popular. It celebrates the marriage of Goddess Vallinayaki to the Lord at the temple. Located in Thanjavur district the temple is 32km from the city of Thanjavur and 4km west of Kumbakkonam, Swamimalai is one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga, standing on the banks of the river Kaveri. The deity is called Swaminathan or Thagappanswami (God of Father) as Lord Muruga preached the meaning of Pranava Mantra to his father Lord Shiva. This is the only temple where Lord Muruga is seen with his consort Devayani. The sixty steps to reach the temple represent the sixty years of the Tamil Calendar. A rather unusual feature of this temple is that an elephant instead of the usual peacock, the mount of Lord Muruga stands before the deity. Temple Phone No: 0435-2454421.
Pazhamudircholai Temple
This temple is located not far off from the revered Vishnu Temple Complex of Alagarkovi. Beyond the Muruga Temple is Noopura Ganga, a perennial waterfall with a temple dedicated to Rakkayi Amman. The spring is believed to originate from the anklet of Tirumal (Vishnu). It is said that Ilangovdigal wrote one of the five mahakavyas in Tamil viz. Silapppathikaram, sitting in Madavi Mandapam near the Noopura Ganga. It is a cave temple and known from the Sangam age, descriptions of its natural splendor were sung by the poet Nakkirar.
A good motor able road connects Alagarkovil 21km from Madurai.
Palani Temple
Located at an elevation of 457m on Sivagiri Hill, King Cheman Perumal built this 7-century temple and added to by the Nayaks. The deity of Palani is Dhanda (Staff) in his hand. It is believed that this idol of the Lord is crafted out of a amalgam of nine minerals popularly called Navabashana. A network of rail and road connects Palani and the nearest town, Dindigul is only 54km.
Palani is about 68km from Dindigul or 35km kodaikanal, the hilltop temple (140m) at Palani dedicated to Lord Muruga, also called Dhandayuthapani, is second only to the Balaji Temple of Tirupati. The idol is made of Medicinal herbs and hence the ablated water of this idol is believed to cure all diseases. The devotees perform tonsure and carrying of 'kavadi' as vows. Legend has it that the sage Agastya worshipped Muruga at this spot and carrying of Kavadi relates to the myth, which surrounds the origin of the shrine. Kavadi are shoulder-poles with elaborate bamboo with hanging baskets at two ends filled with offerings like milk, rose water, flowers, and sandal paste etc. At full moon in January-February, many walk with Kavadi for up to 80km around to the shrine. an electrically operated rope car is also available to go up the temple Phone: 04545-242293.
Tiruchendur
Its history dates back to 2-century AD and this is the only one of Lord's abode located on the seashore rather than a hilltop. The foundation of this temple was laid on the Kanda Mandana Parvata, a hill of red sandstone. A portion of the cliff was bored in to create the holy sanctum for Subramanya. There are several ornate mandapams inside the temple with their pillars and ceilings carved with exquisite sculptures. The temple as a huge tower, over 42m high.
Tiruchendur is about 40km from Thoothukkudi, Tiruchendur is one of the six Arupadai Veedu (Abode) of Lord Muruga. The temple tower and the sculptures of this seashore temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya re worth seeing. It is believed that it is the place where Lord Muruga or Subramanya offered his thanksgiving prayers to Lord Shiva after defeating the demon Surapadman. Devotees still celebrate the victory during the Tamil Month of Aippasi as a festival.
The 6 day skandha shakti Festival is a major event that attracts huge crowds. By road, it is 64km from Tirunelveli or 40km from Thoothukkudi. Kayalpattanam is the nearest railhead.
Tirupparankundram Temple
This is a cave temple deicated to the element, earth. Muruga was married to Devasena here and for many centuries, this has been regarded as the most auspicious place to conduct marriages. It is referred to as the place where the Sun and Moon abide. The various classical Tail texts refer this as the place where the Gods assemble. Easily approachable, it is just 8km south of Madurai.