Special significance of Thiruvannamalai and associated aspects!

There is a magnificent mythical aura carrying spiritual enlightenment whenever the place Thiruvannamalai is mentioned along with its special aspects.Thiruvannamalai temple, built centuries ago, is one among the 5 temples of Lord Siva representing the 5 basic elements (Water, air, fire, land, and sky). This temple represents the element of fire and thus the temple is dedicated to the Lord of Light.Other deities are located the foot of the hill to form the seat of worship.

The main entrance to the sanctum sanctorum is in the eastern tower, the tallest structure in proportion to the other dimensions of this largest temple forming part of it. The tower rising heavenward is marvellously massive and magnificently majestic one with its imposing structural elegance and inviting architectural excellence and awes people at a distance.The temple stands for the eternal, and the great glory of god where people praise the name of god and sing his glory.

The day is divided into 6 segments – 05.30 AM – Ushathkalam, 08.00 AM – Kalasanthi, 10.00 AM – Uchikalam, 06.00 PM – Sayarakshai, 08.00 PM – Irandam Kalam, and 09.30 PM – Artha Jama.

There are sacred spots (Pancha Bootha Sthalas ) of these five elements.Thiruvannamalai is the Theju sthala. To think about Thiruvannamalai alone bestows liberation and this sthala naturally stands first. One can obtain salvation (Mukthi) by remaining in one`s place and thinking of Thiruvannamalai.This Mukthi sthala spreads an expanse of 25 acres containing the temple of Lord Arunachala with tall towers piercing the sky. This shrine is famous not only in India but throughout the world.

As one enters the city Thiruvannamalai, the Rajagopuram standing majestically, soaring over a height of 217 feet comes to view first. It has 11 stories. This tower is a standing testimony to the artistic genius of the Vijayanagar Dynasty.The Paathala (underground) Linga which is inside the temple in the south west corner of thousand pillared hall is one where Ramana Maharishi worshipped and secured liberation. Next comes Kambath Illayanar Sannadhi where Arunagiri Swami, the author of Thirupugazh was granted Mukthi.The temple has Six enclosures which includes 9 gopurams (Towers).

In the West – Pey Gopuram

In the North – Ammani Ammal Gopuram

In the South – Thirumanjana Gopuram.

Among the Gopurams Raja Gopuram is the big tower in the east and it was built by the King Vallala. And also the Entrance to the temple.

The first and second enclosures are the oldest one which has been structured very long back. The second enclosure has the idols of 63 Nayanmars. Third enclosure was structured by the King Kulothunga. It includes 16 pillars mandabam.The fourth and fifth enclosures were constructed in 16th Century. This includes big Nandhi, Sivaganga Thirtha (Tank) and the wall enclosing huge structures.The Katchi Mandapam or hall of Darshan. During the famous festival Karthigai Deepam the five deities are brought to this Mandapam, to be worshipped by the devotees when the grand and gigantic lamp (Deepam) is lit on the top of the holy hill.

The third enclosure houses the temple of Unnamalai Amman the name of Parvathi, Shiva`s s consort in Thiruvannamalai.The second enclosure houses the Isanya Lingam, Indra Lingam and several deities. The Utsava Murthis , made of Pancha Lohas or five metals, which are taken out for processions.The first prakaram has the sanctum sanctorum (Garba Graha) of lord Annamalai, the presiding deity of the temple and the holy place.

On entering the temple through the east tower the big structure one faces on the right is the thousand pillared hall. There are indications that it was built by Krishnadevaraya. The thousand pillared hall sports exactly 1000 pillars. the pillars are carved , with sculptures of Naik periods and some divine images. Sages, Vishnu`s incarations too find a place with floral designs.

The prime God Lord Ganesha also resides near the Sivaganga Theertha (tank) in the name of “Siddhi Vinayaga” and also called “Sivagangai Vinayagar”.Annamalai sthala has a special place in the history of our Culture and Religious life. The hill Annamalai has been responsible for the blossoming of several Saints and Ghanis. Many saints have attained liberation here.Arunachala is a sthala is as old as human civilization shines with its own glory, that burns the ego afflicting human beings.