Maruthamalai Muruga

Lord Muruga, - Utchavamoorthy, Maruthamalai

The ancient past of the temple can be traced to the period of Sage Kachyapar's PERUR PURANAM. The origin of the temple is rooted in legendary antiquity and dates back to the age of Surapadama, the demon destroyed by Lord Subramanya referred to in SKANDAPURNAM. Evidance of existence of this temple has been found in the inscriptions of Thirumuruganathaswami Temple, Thirumurganpoondi to 12th century A.D. 

According to Perurpuranam, unable to bear the agony and anguish of Soorapadama, the scourge of the gods aided by his mighty brothers, Singamukha and Tharaka, the gods approached Lord Siva and sought His succour. Lord Siva comforted the Gods that Lord Muruga would come to their rescue, root out and destroy Surapadama and his aides. The gods should hurry to the Marudhamalai Hills and await the arrival of Lord Muruga, their Saviour! Perupuranam also alludes to a king called Kusathvajan, who, it is said, was blessed with a male issue, only after worshipping Marudhamalai Muruga. 

Temple Entrance - Maruthamalai

The Divine Cow Kamadhenu(Komatha) is reported to have grazed in the pastures of the hills of Marudhamalai. 

Main Shrine - Maruthamalai

In the temple premises, we can find Aathimoolasthanam, Edumban temple, Kuthirai Kulampadigal, abodes of Siddhas  - Pambatti Siddhar and Pancha Vrutcham( 5 entangled divine trees).

Raja gopuram at dusk

Aathimoolasthanam

As we approach the hill top present is the prime shrine were Lord Subramanya with his two consorts, Valli and Teyvannai, enshrined in the form of linga .The first pooja is performed for these deities.

Edumaban temple 

In the shrine of Idumba the image of the deity is carved on a huge round rock in the posture of carrying a Kaavadi. Married couples having no issues worship the deity and offer toy cradles with the firm faith of being blessed with progeny by the Grace of god.

Pancha Virutcham

Under the cluster of trees entangled with one another. is an Idol of Lord Ganesha - Heramba Ganapathy. The breeze wafting along the foliage has an unfailing cure for all diseases of the people. A host of saints, invisible to the common man's eyes, are supposed to dwell here doing meditation. An aged Irula tribesman, 80 years old identified the entangled trees as Korakattai, Ichi, Banyan, Vakkanai and Ottu maram and added there was one tree in the group, Peepal in the days of yore, and it is extinct now. The tribalman also said that this tree existed in the same manner even during his childhood. This is a unique phenomenon which has attracted botanists apart from devotees.

Kuthirai Kulambadiagal

Continuing our ascent, we find a beautiful mandapam, enshrining what is called 'Kudirai Kulambu' (hoof marks of the horse). It is believed that the horse of Lord Muruga caused the marks, as he marched against the Demon Surapadma or the horse on which Lord Muruga rode and chased the robbers referred to earlier might have imprinted by them.

Pambatti Siddhar cave

The Pambatti Siddhar Cave is another shrine drawing our attention. It is located on the slopes towards the east and can be approached by a narrow path, protected by a stone hedge or parapet. One can notice a natural image of a snake on the rock. There is an underground passage from the cave to the primal shrine through which the Pambati Siddhar wended his way everyday to worship Lord Subramanya in the Company of his consorts .Pambatti Siddhar used this cave as his abode for meditation on Lord Muruga and attained salvation here. A snake comes to the cave everyday and feeds itself on the fruit and milk kept for it. Devotees offer milk and fruit for the snake.

Golden Chariot of Lord Muruga 

Golden chariot or car festival happens mostly in the evenings of Kiruthigai especially on Aadi Kiruthigai. The clippings here portrays the grandiose appearance of God of Youth smiling in the golden car wishing good luck to all his sincere devotees.

Lord Muruga - Magnificant look in Golden Chariot

Where is Maruthamalai?

Maruthamalai is a small hill in Coimabatore 15KM away from Gandhipuram  - the center of Coimbatore. Perurpuranam lists the three neighbouring hills, vellingiri, Nili and Marudhamalai as the very manifestations of Lord Siva, Parvathi and Subramanya respectively and the three hills taken together as the very symbol of Somaskanda.

Buses from Gandhipuram to Maruthamalai -  1,  1-B,  1-D,  I-E,  S-12,  S-13,  S-15,  S-16,  S-26,  46,  70,  70-A,  70-B,  76,  92

Note:

Siddhas are mystic philosophers who exercise their mental faculties to the utmost and attain godhead by means of meditation and reflection. They are endowed with incredible powers of the mind by which they perform great miracles and astound the common world. Siddhas can set at rest all their senses and awaken their spirit alone. Thus they are bodily asleep and spiritually awake. In this blessed mood they enter into a personal communion with god. 

It is believed that there were 18 Siddha’s. One of the 18 siddha’s used to animate dead snakes and dance with him, so he was popularly known as Pambatti Siddhar. Pambatti Siddhar greatly revered in the Kongu region, he is credited with having lived in the company of snakes and made them dance to his tunes. Once, in the course of his wanderings, he chanced to meet one, Sattai Muni Siddhar, a contemporary and counterpart who initiated him into the art of entering into trances - the Jeeva Samadhi Nilai. 

Once he transmigrated into the dead body of a king and performed great miracles. He composed songs of enlightenment. 'Siddharudam' is a work, attributed to his prophetic genius. Lord Muruga took joy in teasing and tantalizing the Siddha with his spiritual pranks. Once as an enormous boulder came down, rolling gaining momentum, the siddha tried to halt it, arrested its movement and averted a great havoc.

Sri Ranganatha Ahstakam

Sri Ranganatha Ashtakam is an octet on Sri Ranganathaswamy of Srirangam with beautiful flowery by Sri Adisankarachaarya. Sri Adisankara being overwhelmed by Lord Ranganatha - incarnation of Lord Vishnu, sings in praise of the God. This Ashtakam (an octet) reveals that Adi Sankara was instantly captivated by the vision of Sri Ranganatha and he venerates the fulfilment he experiences as he stands before the deity.

Adi Sankara sings in praise of Sri Ranganatha in 8 slokas, of which 7 of them end with the words ‘Ramathaam manomay’. He is immensely captivated by the Lord and he sings by bringing out all the attributes in every word.

Sri Ranganathaswamy, Srirangam

Sri Ranganatha Ashtakam

Shree:

shreemathe nigamaanthamahadesikaaya nama:

shreeman venkatanatharya: kavitharkkikakesaree |

vedantasaaryavaryo me sannidathaam satha hruthi ||

Sri sankaraacharya virasitham

|| Sri ranganatha ashtakam ||

aananda roope nijapotha roope

brahmaswaroope sruthimoorthyroope |

sasaangaroope ramaneeyaroope

sri rangaroope ramathaam manomay ||

kaaveritheere karuna vilole 

mantharamoole thrutha saarukele |

thaithyanthakaleskila logileele 

sri rangaleele ramathaam manomay ||

lakshmeenivase jagatham nivase

hruthpadmavaase ravipimbavaase |

krubanivase gunavrundhavase

sri rangavaase ramathaam manomay ||

brahmathivanththye jagathegavanththye

vaikundaraaje suraraajaraje |

thrilokaraajyeskile lokaraaje 

sri rangaraaje ramathaam  manomay  ||

amogamuthre paripoornanithre

sriyoganithre sasamuthranithre |

shrithaiga bathre jagtheganithre

sri rangabathre ramathaam manomay  ||

sachithrasaaii bujakendrasayee

nandhaangasayee kamalaangasayee |

ksheerapthisayee vadabathrasayee

sri rangasayee ramathaam  manomay  ||

hitham hi rangam dyajadaamihaangam

punarnasaangam yathi saangamethi |

panou rathaangam saranembu kaangam

yaane vihangam sayane bujangam ||

|| pahalasruthi ||

ranganathastakam punyam

praatharuthaaya ya: padeth |

sarvand kamanavapnothi

rangisaayujyamapnuyaath ||

ithi sriranganathastakam sampoornam ||

Praising words addressed on Lord Sri Ranganatha in this ashtakam:

In the first sloka:

Aananda roopay -  cause of all happiness

nijabodha roopay  -pure consciousness

brahma swaroopay - manifestation of the ultimate truth

srutimoorthi roopay  - as the embodiment of the learnings of the Vedas

In the second sloka:

karuna vilolay  - extremely merciful

Daithyaantha kaalay  - the lord of all times

akhila loka leelay - the whole world sings in praise of Sri Ranganatha

In the third sloka:

Lakshmi nivaasay - in whom Goddess Lakshmi resides

jagathaam nivaasay -  in whom the whole world resides.

ravi bimba vaasay  – in the sunshine around him  and in the heart of every devotee

In 4^th and 5^th slokas:

A reference to the fact that Sri Ranganatha was worshipped by Brahma, Vyasa, Indra, Sanakaathi rishis and by every devotee in the world is brought out.

In the sixth sloka:

paripoorna nidray  - is in blissful sleep on the bed  Anantha or the serpent king, in the milky ocean – Paalaazhi.

srithaika bhadray - Goddess Lakshmi is at his feet   These attributes find mention in the 6^thsloka.

In the 7^th sloka:

nandaanga sayee -  References to Lord Krishna’s childhood– of sleeping on the lap of Nandagopa, his foster father.

bhujagendra sayee - who sleeps with his head resting on his right arm

vata pathra sayee - is the one who slept on Nandagopa’s lap, on the leaf of peepal tree

ksheeraabdi sayee - he is referred to as the one who sleeps in the milky ocean

In the 8^th sloka:

Adi Sankara Bhagavatpada praises Srirangam, as the place where if a devotee leaves his body, will attain nirvana.

About Srirangam:

Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu . It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). This temple is also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, Bhogamandabam. The temple of Sri Ranganathaswami at Srirangam boasts an historic past of great kingdom and a civilization thousands of years old. In the Vaishnava parlance the term "KOIL" signifies this temple only. The temple is enormous in size. The temple complex is 156 acres in extent. It has seven prakaras or enclosures. These enclosures are formed by thick and huge rampart walls which run round the sanctum. There are 21 magnificent towers in all prakaras providing a unique sight to any visitor. This temple lies on an islet formed by the twin rivers Cauvery and Coleroon.

Legend:

The deity of Sri Ranganatha in Srirangam was first worshipped by Lord Brahma himself, before passing it onto the kings of Ikshwaku clan in which is born Lord Ram. After defeating Ravana in the war, Lord Ram thanks Vibheeshana by gifting the deity of Sri Ranganatha to him. On en route from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka, Vibheeshana stops at Srirangam on seeing river Kaveri. He places the deity of Sri Ranganatha on the banks of the river and goes for his shower. On his return he was shocked to see that the idol had turned up into a gigantic vigraha – idol of Sri Ranganatha and so he leaves for Sri Lanka as he could not carry it from Srirangam. Though Vibheeshana leaves to Srilanka, he prayed God that he should also have an eye on his country and so Sri Ranganatha is placed facing south, looking at Sri Lanka whereas in other temples, the deities face east.

As by the ‘phalasruti’ which says the benefit of singing Sri Ranganatha Ashtakam mentioned outside of the octet, the devotee who sings this in the morning will fulfil his desires and will attain the abode of Sri Ranganatha.

|| Om Namo Narayana ||

Courtesy,

http://www.srirangam.org/

Temple for Duryodhana

Front view of Duryodhana Temple in Jakhol village

Duryodhana is the eldest son of the blind king Dhritarashtra by Queen Gandhari, the eldest of the one hundred Kaurava brothers. Duryodhana's body is said to be made out of lightning, and he is extremely strong, second only to Bhima. He is revered by his younger brothers, especially Dushasana. Learning martial skills from his gurus, Kripa and Drona, he proved to be extremely skilled with the mace. He then went to specialize in mace fighting under Balarama and went on to become his favourite pupil. With the mace he was equal to the much stronger Bhima.

The Duryodhana Temple is located in Jakhol Village in the Tons Valley in Uttarkashi District. The temple is dedicated to the Kauravas and is believed to have been constructed by the local people of Saur Village.

Mori’s local inhabitants claims or believed themselves as the ascendants of the Pandavas and Kauravas. They worship the Kauravas as the God. The Duryodhana temple, the temple for the eldest Kaurava, in Jakhol near Mori was constructed by the local folks. The main deity is Duryodhana. This is the biggest temple in the state dedicated to Duryodhana.

It is believed that the local people wept so much at the defeat of the Kauravas and the death of Duryodhana at the battle of Kurukshetra  - Mahabharatha, that their tears became a river named Tamas (literally meaning sorrow). Tamas is also known as Tons. This river water is not being used for drinking, since according to the local belief, still the tear flows. Duryodhan Temple is 13 km from Sankri. Duryodhana is worshipped in the upper valleys of the rivers Tons, Yamuna, Bhagirathi, Balganga and Bhilganga. This is the biggest temple dedicated to Duryodhana in Uttaranchal and other Duryodhana temples can be seen at Osla, Gangar and Datmir.

There is a temple for Duryodhana in south India also at Malanada Temple in Kerala's Kollam district, Duryodhana is worshipped as the main deity. It is the only temple in South India, where a Kaurava is considered a demi-god.

Lokambiga, Vadakara - Panja Bagavathi Kshetras

Lokanarkavu is located at Vadakara, a small town in Kozhikode - the renowned temple which is frequently alluded to in the Vadakkanpattu of kerala (ballads of North Malabar). The deity in this temple was worshipped by Thacholi Othenan, the legendary martial hero of Kerala. It is the abode of Goddess Lokambiga. This is said to be one of the Panja Bagavathi Kshetras.

Lokanarkavillama represents Amba, the feminine counterpart of the universal creator. It is believed that the goddess dwells in the sanctum's jewel studded pillar. The idol of goddess Durga is made of Panchaloha (an alloy of five metals, gold, silver, copper, brass and iron). With the 'Shanku' and 'Chakra' in two of her hands, the four handed deity also depicts the 'Abhaya' and 'Varada' mudras.There are numerous legends about the arrival of the goddess eulogized by Parasurama. One story holds that the local chieftains or landlords brought the Goddess from Lokamaleswaram in Kodungallur to Kadathanad. Another story is that the goddess is the patron deity of the Aryans who migrated to Kerala. In addition to the main deity of Lokanarkavillamma, this temple also has two adjacent shrines dedicated to Mahavishnu and Mahadeva. The shrine dedicated to Mahavishnu is at the south and the one dedicated to the goddess is at the north. At the centre lies the shrine dedicated to Siva. The deity of Vishnu is believed to be the oldest.

Note: The image of Amba is not available. If any of the devotees had it please share it with us, so that everyone can have a glimpse of Her and be blessed.

Ashtadasa Sakthi Peeda Stotra

Sakthi Peeda means holy places of cosmic power. They are places of worship consecrated to the goddess 'Shakti'.

Legend of Sakthi Peeda:

There was a great king called Daksha Prajapati who was the son of Lord Brahma, He had 27 daughters. Sati devi(avathar of Godess) was one of them.  Daksha gave his daughter Sati in marriage to Lord Shiva.

During the conduct of a fire sacrifice, when Daksha entered the arena, every one except Lord Shiva stood up to respect him. Daksha felt very insulted by Lord Shiva’s behaviour. So when he conducted a yaga again, he did not invite his daughter Sati and his son in law Lord Shiva. Sati felt sad because of this and went to the Yaga against the wishes of Lord Shiva.

She argued with her Father for his mistake of not inviting his Son-in-law and herself. Her father badly insulted Her and Her husband infront of  all guests and relatives. Powered with anger, distress and insult She jumped in to the sacrificial fire. Shiva hearing this and rushed to the place but could not save Parvathi. He cut off the head of  Daksha and took the body of  Sati in his hand and started dancing furiously. The body of Sati was cut in to 18 pieces and these pieces fell down in different places of India. These places are called Shakthi Peethas. Some people are of the opinion that there are 51 Shakthi Peethas and yet others of the opinion that there are 108 Shakthi Peethas. Adhi Shankara, the great saint names 18 places of Shakthi Peethas and the name of the Goddess in temples there in his Ashtadasa Sakthi Peeda Stotra..

The so called 18 peedas are:

1. Bhramaramba - Srisailam, Andhra pradesh
2. Mahakali - Ujjain, Madhya pradesh
3. Jogulamba - Alampur , Andhra pradesh
4. Ekaveera - Mahur,  Maharashtra
5. Manikyamba - Andhra pradesh
6. Maha lakshmi  - Kolhapur, Maharashtra
7. Puruhutika - Pithapuram m , Andhra pradesh
8. Girija  - Biraja, Orissa
9. Kama rupini - Gauhati, Assam
10. Sankari - Sri lanka
11. Mangala gauri - Gaya, Bihar
12. Kamakshi - Kanchi, Tamil nadu
13. Vaishnavi  - Jwalamukhi, Himachal pradesh
14. Shrinkhal -  West bengal
15. Saraswati - Sarika, Srinagar,  Jammu&Kashmir
16. Madhaveswari /Lalitha - Prayaga , llahabad, Uttar pradesh
17. Chamundeswari - Mysore , Karnataka
18. Visalakshi - Kasi, Varanasi, Uttar pradesh

Ashtadasa Sakthi Peeda Stotra
 
It is believed that Aadi Shankara wrote this stotra in Kohlapur Mahalaxmi Temple, Maharashtra.
 

Mahalakshmi, Kolhapur

Lankayam Shankari devi, Kamakshi Kanchika pure /

Pradyumne Shrinkhala devi, Chamunda Krouncha pattane //

Alampure Jogulamba, Sri shaile Bhramarambika /

Kolha pure Maha lakshmi, Mahurye Ekaveerika //

Ujjainyam Maha kali, Peethikayam Puruhutika /

Odhyane Girija devi, Manikya Daksha vatike //

Hari kshetre Kama rupi, Prayage Madhaveshwari /

Jwalayam Vishnavi devi, Gaya Mangalya gourika //

Varanasyam Vishalakshi, Kashmire tu Saraswati /

Ashtadasha Shakti peethani, Yoginamapi durlabham //

Sayamkale pathennityam, Sarva shatri vinashanam /

Sarva roga haram divyam, Sarva sampatkaram shubham //

Kollur Mookambigai - Panja Bagavathy Kshetras

Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Muktislala pilgrimage sites in Karnataka which are (kollur), Udupi, Subrahmanya, Kumbasi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna. Kollur is known for its association with Aadi Sankara. Mookambika is said to have appeared before Aadi Sankara here, and he is said to have installed her image at this shrine. There is a room  near the sanctum - enshrining the Sankara Simhasanam which is regarded as the very spot where he meditated and had a vision of Mookambika. Mookambika is regarded as a manifestation of Shakti, Saraswathi and Mahalakshmi.

Mookambigai, Kollur

This is the place where devi killed the demon,  Mookasura is known as "Marana Katte". Since that day, the Goddess has resided at this holy place Kollur by the name Mookambika, fulfilling the wishes of all her devotees. Here resides Sreedevi in the Padmasana posture, of a serene countenance, and with three eyes, bearing always a shankha, a chakra and with a pleasant appearance as the embodiment of mantra to bless the devotees.

The Goddess Mookambika is in the form  of Jyotir-Linga incorporating both Shiva and Shakthi. The Panchaloha image (five element mixed metal) of the Goddess on Shree Chakra is stated to have been consecrated by Adi shankaracharya during his visit to this place.

 

Location

Kollur, Kundapur Taluk, Karnataka State, India. About 135 Kms from Mangalore, one of the major city in Karanata State. The nearest railhead is Udupi. Kollur is well connected to Mangalore, Bangalore (Capital of Karnataka State) and Mysore. Regular buses are there from Udupi. Also Kollur is well connected with tourist centers such as Mangalore and Shimoga in Karnataka and Kannanur in Kerala.

Sree Mookambika Devi Ashtakam

Namasthe Jagadatri Sadbrahma Rupe

Namasthe Haropendra Datryadivandye

Namastheprasanneshtadhanaikadakshe

Namasthe Mahalakshmi Kolapuresi

Vidhikrithi Vasa Harirviswmethath

Sijathyathi Patheeyathath Prasidham

Kripalokana Devathe Shakthirupe

Namasthe Mahalkshmi Kolapuresi

Thuayamayayapyapthamethathsamastham

Dritham Leelaya Devi Kukshu Hi Viswam

Sthithambudhirupenasarvathrajanthou

Namasthemahalakshmi Kolapuresi

Yayabhakthavargahi Lakshyanthaetho

Thouyatraprakamkripapoornadrishtya

Athogeeyasedevilakshmeerithithuam

Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Punarvakpaduthuadiheenahimooka

Naraistharnikamkhaluprarthaseeyath

Nijeshtayathethasyamookambikathuam

Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Yaduaditharoopathparabrahmnastham

Samuthapunarviswaleelodyamstha

Thadahoorjanasthamhigowreemkumarim

Namasthemahalskshmikolapuresi

Hareesadidehothejomayapra

Sfurachakrarajyakyalingaswaroope

Mahayogikolarshi Hridpadmagehe

Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Namasankachakrayabishtahasthe

Namasthambikegowripadmasanasthe

Namaswarnavarneprasannesaranye

Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Panja Bagavathy Kshetras

Bagavathy is celebrated as an incarnation of Godess Durga, eliminator of evil of any forms and blesses with good will power. The term  'Bagavathy' is popular in southern part of Tamilnadu especially Kerala. Bahavathy meaning goddess in Sanskrit is the general way people refer to the Hindu goddesses in  Kerala. It can be used to refer any of the Hindu goddesses like Durga, Kannaki, Parvati, Saraswati, Lakshmi, Kali etc.

Temples of these goddesses are referred to as Bhagavathi temples. Kshetras are the abode of  God. Panja means five in Sanskrit and Hindi. Panja Bagavathi Kshetras is said to be a collection of five Bagavathy temples. According to myths, and also devotees it is a proven truth that one who visits these five kshetras is relieved from  worldly miseries and attains tranquilty with ever prosperous life.

The so called Panja Bagavathy Kshetras are..

1. Mookambigai - Kollur
2. Lokambigai - Vadakara
3. Hemambigai - Palakkad
4. Bagavathy - Kodungallur
5. Balambigai - Kanyakumari

In the following weeks these kshetras will be explored by the grace of  Goddess Durga.

Thirukarukavur - Temple that blesses for babies

Thirukarukavur is abode of Shri Karparakshambigai (also pronounced as Garbharakshambikha or Garbharakshambigai) and Arulmigu Sri Mullaivannathar. 

Temple History
This is an ancient Siva temple about 20 kms East of Thanjavur. It is a huge temple spread over a wide expanse with grand Gopurams and a tank in front of it. The Linga here is self-manifested and made of ant-hill mud.Therefore there is no water abhisekam worship is only offered with "Punuhu". This Punuhu Chattam is offered by devotees who want to be cured from diseases. Also in ancient times, the temple was hidden in midst of garden of jasmine( mullai poo) and a evidence of it can still be witnessed on Linga as it has prints of creapers over it.
It is believed that childless people who worship here with devotion and faith are blessed with pregnancy and pregnant women with safe deliveries. Shri Karparakshambigai is 'The Mother Who Protects the Womb'. She not only protects the womb, but also blesses the women who dont have child to yield a healthy child if bowed to her with faith and patience. Unmarried women also pray here for their marriages.

The legend behind the temple
Its origin speaks of the story of Sage Nidhruva and his wife Vedhika who conceived after many prayers. Once while the sage was away, thepregnant Vedika was deep asleep when Sage Urdhvapada came to her door asking for alms. Therefore ,she did not hear him and failed to respond. He cursed her and the foetus slipped out of her womb. She prayed to the Goddess who appeared and protected it , keeping it in a pot till it developed into a male child Naidhruvan.

Sloka to get normal delivery
Sloka to have baby

Route to Temple
The temple, is situated at Thirukarukaavur, Papanasam Taluk in Tanjore District in TamilNadu. From Chennai, you have to take a train or bus to Kumbakonam and from Kumbakonam, there are buses going straight to Thirukarugavur where the temple is situated. Car rental from Kumbakonam is also feasible.



The address:
Karparakshambigai Temple

AGRAGARAM,
THIRUKARUKKKAVUR,
Papanasam (T.K)
THANJAVUR (D.T)

Abirami Sthothram

Abirami anthathi is written and sung by abirami pattar of Tirukadaiyur, Kumbakonam Dt., Tamilnadu.The song is composed of 108 individual slokams where each sloka has a specific value when said wholeheartedly to the Goddess. Ma Abirami hears all the prayers of her devotees and in return she fulfils all their desires, and blesses them with all prosperity, health and wealth in their life.
A gist of Abirami slokas from Abirami anthathi has been presented here with its meaning. One who reads it as many times as much will be much gifted by Goddess Abirami’s blessings.

Sri Abirami Sthothram

Namasthe lalithe DeviSrimath simhasa neswariBakthanam ishta dehi matha:Sri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: Sree lalithadevi, I bow to you. Sitting without fear on the Lion, you bless all your devotees with the fulfilment of their wishes. Sri Abirami, I bow you once again.

Chandrithayam kruthavathiThadankane maheswari Ayurdehi jaganmathaha:Sri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: Maheswari, you are so powerful that you made a earring to a Full moon. I bow you Sri Abirami as you bless your devotees with a prolonged life span.

Sootha kadesa Sri kantheSaranakatha vathsaleAarokyam dehime nithyamSri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: With Lord Amirthakadeswar as your beloved, you bless all your devotees with a healthy life due to your merciful heart. I bow you Sri Abirami.

Kalyanam Mangalam DehiJagath mangala karini Aishwaryam dehime nithyamSri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: Kalyani, You give us prosperity! You enlighten the whole world with your blessings! You give us all wealth with stability! I bow you Sri Abirami.

Chandra mandala mathyastheMahathiripura sundari Sri Sakraraja nilaye hiSri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: Mahathiripura Sundari, You sit and rule in the midst of Chandramandalam. I bow you the queen of Sri Chakra.

Rajeeva losane, PoornePoorna Chandra vithayini Sowbagyam dehi nithyamSri Abirami namosthuthe

Meaning: You have lotus eyes! You are the first Lady of the world with all perfection! You bless me all the fortune! I bow you Sri Abirami.

Ganesa sa skantha jananiVetharoope, thaneswariVithyam sa dehime nithyamSri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: Mother of Lord Ganesha and Kaarthikeya! Gist of all vedhas! Goddess of Wealth! You give us all the fortune in education! I bow you Sri Abirami.

Swasinipriye matha:Sowmangalya vivarthiniMaangalyam dehime nithyamSri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: You increase the period of togetherness of husband and wife! You bless us with stable fortune! I bow you Sri abirami.

Maarkandeya mahabakthaSubramanya soobujithe Srirajarajeswari thvam hiSri Abirami Namosthuthe

Meaning: Sri Rajarajeswari, You were worshipped by Markandeya and subramanya (Abirami Pattar) and offered Poojas! I bow you Sri Abirami.

Sanithyam guru kalyaniMamapooja gruha sube Bimbe deepe thatha pushpeHarithrakunkume mm

Meaning: Kalyani, You be in my heart, flower, in deep and kumkum and bless so that it lasts for me ever.

Sreeabiramya itham sthothramya: padeth sakthi sannithou Ayur balam yaso varchoMangalam sa bavethsoogam

Those who pray these slokas of Abirami from heart will have healthy long life with all sorts of prosperity, wealth, and fortune in his/her life.

Pandaripuram

Sculptered by many divine stories the famous Pandaripur temple's origin dates back to 13th and 17th centuries as noted from the worship to Lord Vittala, a incarnation of Sri Krishna by saints Dnyaneshwar, Namdev, Sant Eknath, Purandara Dasa, Vijaya Dasa, Gopala Dasa, Jagannatha Dasa, Chokhamela, Janabai and many others. The sanctum enshrines a standing image of Vithoba(Vittala). Stylistically the image dates back to the 5th century BC.

The main deity is Vittal and the Goddess is Rukmani devi. Rukmani devi embraces her devotees with her enchanting beauty and smile giving kukkum as prasad. Within the main sanctum, there is a pillar which is still a mystery as it whispers the name of Vittal as we keep our ears on it. And can visualise all devotees dancing and singing the fame of vittal over there.

The temple is noted for its construction made of wood. Its really amazing and the Gopuram from inside the temple gives us a breadthaking view.

It is located 65 km west of Sholapur, on the banks of the river Bhima, which is also known as Chandrabhaga. It is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra. The temple premise celebrates Ekadashi of every month, Gudhi Padawa, Ram-Navami, Dasehara and Deepavali festivals. Every wednessday is regarded as an auspicious day here.

Nearest railhead is Pandharpur on the Kurduwadi - Miraj line of South Central Railway. But a more convenient railhead is Solapur, 74 kms. Shirdi Saibaba temple is the nearest pilgrimage. Apart from it Pandaripur is also noted as a good shopping place for bags, and textiles.

Panchabooda sthals of Lord vishnu

Lord Vishnu is adored as the panchabootha(water, air,akash, boomi, akni) of the universe. The following temples witness it with Lord Vishnu as its main deity.water - Thirumalirunjolai

• Vayu(air) - Thiruvenkatam(Tirupathi)


• Akash(Sky) - Thiruvarangam(Tiruchi)


• Boomi(Earth) - Thirukannapuram


• Akni(Fire) - Thiruathanoor

Uppiliyappan-Kumbakonam

The Uppiliappan Temple which is also called ThiruVinnagar is near Thirunaageshwaram, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The deity here is Lord Uppiliappan Perumal with his consort Bhumi Devi and her father Sage Markandeya.

The Moolavar is Uppiliyappan (Srinivaasan) seen in standing posture, similar to Venkataachalapathi, facing east. Those who cannot visit Thirupati worship the Lord at this sthalam. On the request of the wife of Marukandu Maharishi, the naivediyam to the Lord is without salt. Thaayaar - Boomi Devi seen in seated posture at the Lord's feet. No separate temple. Mangalasasanam done by Thirumangaialwar,Peyalwar and Nammalwar. Theertham - Ahoraathra Pushkarini, Aarthi Pushkarini.

The Prasadam is made without salt. It is told that people who eat salt inside the temple premises will be going to hell. The prasadam given without salt is very very tasty. Puliyodharai (Tamarind Rice), Dhadhyonam (Curd Rice), Pongal, Chakkarai Pongal, Vada, Adhirasam, Murukku are offered to Lord as Prasadam. While eating the Prasadam inside the temple, one would never realize that it was cooked without salt.

The temple contact number is country code + 0435 246 3385. The temple is at SouthEast of Kumbakonam located 1/2 mile distance from the Sirgazhi railaway station, Tamilnadu

Alarmelumangai,Tiruchannor

Sri Padmavathi Devi's temple is away from Lord Sri Venkateswara's temple( Balaji in Tirumala). Legend has it that the Lord (Sri Maha Vishnu, who later took on the incarnation of Sri Venkateswara) showed his reverence towards the sage, Bhrigu Maharshi, even though the sage had insulted Vishnu by kicking Him on the chest. In anger, Sri Maha Lakshmi (the Lord's consort) reached Patala Loka, where she heard a divine voice stating that a pushkarini was dug on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi, and here She immersed herself in penance for 12 years. In the 13th year (during the month of Karteeka, on Panchami day in the last fortnight, highlighted by the nakshathram Uttarashadha), Sri Padmavathi emerged from a golden lotus. It is believed that Goddess MahaLakshmi herself emerged as Sri Padmavathi.

It is said that a visit to Tirumala is fruitful only after visiting the Sri Padmavathi Devi temple as by custom, Lord Balaji will be happy to hear from his visitors that they has visited his consort Sri Padmvati and had sought her blessings.

Tiruchanoor, also known as Alamelumangapuram, is about 5 km from Tirupati.

Important Festivals in Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
Navarathri Festival(Dasara)
Kartheeka Brahmotsavam
Float festaival
Vasanthotsavam
Rathasapthami

Accomodation
1. Sri Padmavathi Guest House (AC)
Chittoor Road Deputy Executive Officer (Reception), Phone : 0877-2249629; 2248993

2. Sri Venkateswara Dharmasala
(opposite the Tirupati Railway Station) The Superintendent, Phone: 0877-2225144

3. Sri Venkateswara Guest House
(to the north of the Tirupati Railway Station) (Non-AC) Deputy Executive Officer (Reception), Phone : 0877-2225144

4. TTD Alipiri Guest House (at the foot of the seven hills)
(Non A.C.) Phone : 0877-2230080

5. Sri Kodandarama Dharmasala
(to the south of the Tirupati Railway Station) The Superintendent, Central Reception Office, Tirupati. Phone:0877-2251259

Sholingar - Temple of the week

Sholingur is a divine abode of Lord Narasimhar in medidating form with Amruthavalli(Goddess Lakshmi) and Hanuman also in medidating form. It is an astonishing place with two hill temples both nearby and laid opposite to each other. Sholinghur or CholaSimhapuram is anciently known as Thirukadigai. This fact is evident from the sacred poems of the Third Thiruvanthathi of Peyalvar and from ThirumangaiAlvar. It is one among 108 divyadesam. The name of this place is Kadighachalam as known from ancient legend. There is an inscription of 14th century in the Big Hill and another of 17th century in Small Hill and also a inscription in Telugu Language.
On the main hill,which has 1305 steps and is about 750 feet high,the temple of sri Yoga Narasimhar with goddess Amruthavalli is situated.The temples will be Open between 8 am to 5.30 pm. This is the place where incarnation of Lord Narayana in the famous form of Yoga Narasimha gave mukthi to Prahalatha and gave Darsan to all and to fulfill all the wishes of the devotees.
There is also a Temple for Sri yoga Anjaneyar on the small hill, which is about 350 feet High. Lord Anjeneya who is in the yoga stage helped Indrathymna Maharaja in killing the Arakkan Nikumban and saved his country. It was held on Sunday and hence evey Sunday is an important one for Siriya Thiruvadi. People take a bath in the Chakkra Theertham of the small hill and worship the Lord.
There is a small window opposite to Lord Narasimha’s Shrine at Big Hill, through which the Lord give darsan to Yoga Anjeneya at Small Hill. Yoga Narasimhar is facing east and the Small Hill is at the eastern side of the Big Hill.
It is a pleasant sight to see the Lord Narasimha in the Yoga form with Sanguchakram,Salakirama Haram,yoga peetam, korai teeth, long nails and strong hair give darsan to the people as santhamurthi. Also the Lord Anjaneyya in the Yoga form with Sanguchakram. This form is the unique one in the Bharatha Kandam.
It is just 27 K.m. away from Arakkonam on the Bangalore-Madras Train Route. Easy transport facility is also available from Chennai, Vellore,Chittor, Tiruttani, Arakkonam and Arcot. People alight at Arakkonam junction and come to this place. There are several cottages of the Devasthanam and the rent is Rs. 60/- ,75/- and 100/- per 24 hours according to the facility.
Temple officers can be reached as:
Assistant Commissiner/Executive Officer, Arulmigu Lakshmi Narasimhar Temple,Sholinghur, Vellore. email: perumalkoil_shr@yahoo.com

Kethu Bagawan

Kethu - Keezhaperumpallam - The sthalam is located 6 kms from Thiruvengaadu, enroute to Poompuhar. His wife is Chitralekha. The presiding deities are Naaganaadaswamy and his consort Ambal. He faces the North-West direction. The Adi Devatha is Chitraguptan and the Prathyathi Devatha is Brahma.

His colour is red and his vahana is the eagle; the grain associated with him is khollu; the flower - red alli (lily); fabric - multi coloured cloth; gem - Vaidooriyam (cat's eye); food - rice mixed with khollu powder.

Kethu gayatri

om aswadhwajaaya vidmahae

soola hastaaya dheemahi

tanno ketu: prachodayaat

Raahu Bagawan

Raahu - Thirunageswaram - The sthalam is located 6 kms from Kumbakonam, enroute to Karaikal. The presiding deities are Naaganaadar and Girigujaambigai. He faces the South-West direction. The Adi Devatha is Durga and the Prathyathi Devatha is the snake.

His colour is black, his vahana is blue lion; the grain associated with him is orid; the flower-mandarai; fabric-black cloth; gem- Komedagam; food-rice mixed with orid dhal powder.

Raahu gayatri

om naakadhwajaaya vidmahae

padma hastaaya dheemahi

tanno raahu: prachodayaat

Saneeswara Bagawan

Sani - Thirunallaru - 5 from Karaikal. The Sthalam is located 3kms from Karaikal, enroute to Peralam. His wives are Neela Devi and Manga Devi. The presiding deities are Dharbaranyeswarar (Swaymbumurti) and his consort Bogamartha Poon Mulayal. He is the Lord of Maharam and Kumba Rasis and faces the West direction. The Adi Devatha is Yaman and the Prathyathi Devatha is Prajapathi.

His colour is black; his vahana the crow; the grain associated with him is gingelley; the flower - vanni and black kuvalai; fabric - black cloth; gem - neelam (blue saphire); food - rice mixed with gingelley powder.

Sanishwara gayatri

om kaakadhwajaaya vidmahae

khadga hastaaya dheemahi

tanno mandah: prachodayaat

Sukra Bagawan

Sukran - Kanjanur - 3 km from Suryanar Temple. The sthalam is located 3kms from Suryanar koil, enroute to Mayavaram. His wives are Subakirthi, Sundari and Sringini. The presiding deity are Agneeswarar and his consort Iswari. He is the Lord of Rishaba and Thula Rasi and faces East direction. The Adi Devatha is Indra's physician.

His colour is white; his vahana is the crocodile; the grain associated with him is mochai; the flower - white lotus; fabric - white cloth; gem - diamond; food - rice mixed with mochai powder.

Shukra gayatri

om aswadhwajaaya vidmahae

dhanur hastaaya dheemahi

tanno shukra: prachodayaat

Guru Bhagawan

Guru Bagavan - Alangudi . The sthlam is 17 kms from Kumbakonam enroute to Mannargudi. His wives are Tharai, Sangini. The presiding deities are Kasi Aaranyeswarar and his consort Elavarkuzhali. Guru is the Lord of Dhanusu and Meena Rasi and he faces North direction. The Adi Devatha is Brahma and the Prathyathi Devatha is Indran.

His colour is yellow and his vahana is elephant. The grain associated with him is kadalai; the flower - white mullai; fabric - yellow cloth; gem - pushparagam (white topaz); food - rice mixed with bengal gram dhal powder.

Guru gayatri

om vrishabadhwajaaya vidmahae

kruni hastaaya dheemahi

tanno guru: prachodayaat

Butha Bhagawan

Buthan - Thiruvenkadu - The sthalam of Budan is located 15kms from Sirgazhi enroute to Poompuhar. Budan's wife is Ilai. The presiding deities are Swedharanyeshwarar and his consort Ambal. Budan is the Lord of Mithunam and Kanni Rasi and he faces the North-East direction. The Adi Devatha is Vishnu and the Prathyathi Devatha Narayanan.

His colour is light green; his vahana - the horse; the grain associated with him is full green moong dhal; the flower - white kanthal flower; fabric- green cloth; gem - maragadam; food - rice mixed with moong dhal powder.

Butha gayatri

om gajadhwajaaya vidmahae

sukha hastaaya dheemahi

tanno budha: prachodayaat