India is blessed with many hidden treasures from God and Goddess. It is the land of rivers, temples, lakes, mountains and numerous other natural things. India is a country where people visit from various parts of the world. There are many places in India which are very beautiful and worth to explore. One of the most amazing places is Arunachalam temple which is located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. It is regarded among the panchabhootha sthalams of India. Let us know more about this temple in detail.
Something about the temple
Arunachalam temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It represents one of the elements of nature which is fire. This temple is also known as Annamalaiyar Temple and Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple. It has much significance in Hindu culture.According to the historical stories and beliefs, it is believed that walking around the sacred hill frees the devotees from sins and the cycle of rebirth. Because of this belief, people from all over India visit this temple. They perform giri pradakshina and do prayers to Lord Shiva.Many devotees come on full moon day to do giri pradakshina at this place. They start at midnight and finish the giri pradakshina by early morning before sunrise.
Construction of Arunachalam temple
This temple was constructed before thousands of years by Chola Kings. As per research and studies, it is founded that Arunachalam temple was built around the 9th century. There are several inscriptions in the temple which show the evidence of the construction of this temple.
One can find the mention of this temple in Tamil culture too. There are many samadhis and ashrams around this temple. These ashrams are built in memory of respected Indian saints and gurus.People get positive vibrations and mental peace at this place. Even today, there are many holy men who meditate deeply around this temple.
Rituals and festivals of the temple
Pradosham is the ritual which takes place every 14 days in Arunachalam temple. There are also many rituals which take place every month in this temple. They include Girivalam, Amavasai, Sathurthi, and Kiruthigai.
Karthigai Deepam is the festival which takes place in the month of Karthigai as per Hindu calendar. Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Agni at this place. A lamp is lighted by thousands of devotees with the help of oil and tonnes of ghee. This lamp is dedicated to Lord Shiva.There is also another festival called Chitra Pournami which is celebrated in this temple. On this day, the procession is carried out in which 5 temple cars carry the deity.
Conclusion
Arunachalam temple is an example of how rich Indian heritage is. Endless devotees come here every year to light the lamp and do giri pradakshina. The intriguing interior and the carvings of the temple attract many people to visit here.Since the 9th century, Arunachalam temple has taken an important place in Hindu culture and sacred books. So if you get a chance, do visit this historic temple.