Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple

Lord Murugan’s second Arupadai Veedu is Thiruchendur Murugan Temple. After defeating the asura Surapadma, Lord Murugan worshipped Lord Shiva in this hallowed location. The temple is located on the Bay of Bengal’s coastlines. The Raja Gopuram is typically seen on the eastern side of Tamil Nadu temples. However, only at Thiruchendur is the Raja Gopuram located on the western side. It is stated that because the water is so close to the eastern side, the Raja Gopuram was not built there. Approximately 137 feet above Yalimattam, Mela Gopuram is nine stories tall, 90 feet long from north to south, and 65 feet wide from east to west.It is twenty feet wide and forty-nine feet long at the summit of Temple Gopuram. There are nine Kalasams (holy copper pots) at the summit of the Gopuram, which signifies that it is nine stories high.

Attraction

A collection of six highly esteemed temples in Tamil Nadu, the Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temples each honor a different facet of Lord Muruga’s life and his fabled conflicts. Set on the southeast coast, Thiruchendur honors Muruga’s conquest of the demon Surapadman, drawing followers who come together for the yearly Soorasamharam festival and engage in rituals involving the sea. With its historic rock-cut architecture carved into a hill, Tirupparankundram, close to Madurai, represents his marriage to Devasena and is particularly colorful during the Panguni Uthiram festival. Pazhamudircholai, the sole Arupadai Veedu temple tucked away in a verdant woodland, emphasizes Muruga’s intellectual prowess. The peaceful natural beauty of the area is enhanced by its proximity to the holy Noopura Ganga. In Kumbakonam, Swamimalai represents Muruga’s function as a teacher to his father, Lord Shiva, elucidating the significance of “Om.”Devotees ascend 60 stairs, which represent the Tamil calendar years, from the hillock where the temple is situated. Thiruthani, which offers a tranquil hilltop location with expansive vistas and is well-known for the Aadi Krithigai festival, highlights Muruga’s meditative temperament following his victory. Lastly, Muruga makes an appearance as the lowly ascetic Dhandayuthapani in the Palani temple, which is situated atop Palani Hill. Due to customs like the Thaipusam and Kavadi Attam festivals, it is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations. Since these temples collectively embody all six of Muruga’s heavenly attributes, they are revered sites for followers looking for enlightenment and blessings.

History

The building of the Arupadai Veedu Murugan temple began in 1995 and was finished in 2002. Lord Muruga is worshipped at the Aru Padai Veedu Murugan Temple, which is situated in Kalakshetra Colony in Besant Nagar, Chennai. All six of the Lord Murugas are present at the temple. The temples are thought to be connected to a number of occasions in Murugan’s life, such as his conquest of demons, his marriage to his consorts, and his function as a spiritual teacher. As such, they hold great historical and spiritual value. Every place represents a different facet of Murugan’s holy trip. For example, he defeated the demon Surapadman in Tiruchendur, his renunciation is associated with Palani, and he taught his father, Shiva, at Swamimalai. As a sign of compassion and love, the temples also honor Murugan’s ties with his consorts, Valli and Deivayanai.

Inside/Outside Views

The temples typically include impressive gopurams (tall, elaborate towers) at the entryway that are decorated with colorful sculptures of Hindu deities and scenes from Muruga’s life. These towers, which have layers of elaborate carvings and Dravidian architectural styles, are incredibly detailed. The surroundings are frequently verdant and tranquil; some temples, like Thiruthani and Palani, are positioned against hillsides, and followers must go upstairs to enter the sanctum; others, like Thiruchendur, are close to the sea, which contributes to their serene allure. The primary idol of Lord Muruga is kept in the sanctum of each temple; it is frequently depicted in a particular manner related to the temple’s past. Depending on the temple, these idols are dressed as warriors, teachers, or ascetic figures with divine expressions. Inside, there are shrines and pillars with elaborate carvings honouring Muruga’s family and other deities. The style of Palani is more austere and straightforward, emphasising Muruga’s renunciation, but the layout of temples such as Swamimalai highlights his function as a teacher. A strong spiritual atmosphere is created by the murals and carvings that frequently cover walls, recounting the events of Muruga’s life. When devotees are praying or meditating, the heavenly atmosphere is enhanced by the oil lamps that are usually used to dimly light the temple interiors.

How to Reach

By Air: The closest airports are in Tuticorin, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai. Buses or taxis can transport you to the temples from there.

By Rail: Thiruchendur (for Thiruchendur Temple), Palani (for Palani Temple), Kumbakonam (for Swamimalai), Thiruthani (for Thiruthani), and Madurai (for Tirupparankundram and Pazhamudircholai) are the locations of the railway stations that are closest to each temple.

By Road: Well-served by private and public buses, as well as taxis and rental automobiles from major cities like Coimbatore, Madurai, and Chennai.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed here?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

Que-03: What can you see at the temple?

Ans: The temple features all six forms of Murugan in separate mandapams. Some say the temple is well-maintained and clean.

Que-04: When to visit?

Ans: Some recommend visiting early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. Darshan and puja times may be extended on auspicious days, and opening and closing times may change during festivals, rituals, and eclipses.