Arunachalam

Arunachalam (Tiruvannamalai) - is one of the PANCHA BHOOTA (five basic elements) LINGA kshetrams, representing FIRE.

 

 To settle a dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, Lord Siva took the form of a column of bright light and then the form as Arunachalam.

Arunachaleswara Swamy is the AGNI LINGAM here. The SUKSHMA (micro) ROOPAM of swamy is in the main temple of Arunachalam town. The STHULA (macro) ROOPAM of swamy is the ARUNACHALAM HILL (Tiruvannamalai) itself.

 

 Arunachalam is considered to be one of most precious / magnificent / miraculous pilgrimages of Lord Siva. Right from many centuries, many YOGI's and sages have been performing severe penance in the deep forests / caves of Arunachalam Hill till date. Even today, many devotees could get a glance of such YOGI's and sages in Arunachalam. Many devotees experienced countless miracles at Arunachalam, when they were caught in the most complex of difficulties.

Mother Goddess Parvathi performed severe penance on Lord Siva here at one instance - as per mythology. The penance was very severe that she even forgot to feed her little kids (Ganesha and Kartikeya) while doing penance. Mother is called 'Apeetha Kuchalambal'.

 

 GIRIVALAM (Circumambulation - Giri Pradakshina) around Arunachalam is the most famous custom for the devotees. Also, 'Karthigai Deepam' lit on the highest peak of Arunachalam Hill during KARTHIKA POURNAMI every year is considered to be the most sacred and attracts lakhs of devotees to the city during that time.

 

 Some of the most prominent devotees/Guru's who stayed at Arunachalam are - Sri Raman Maharshi, Sri Kavya Kantha Ganapathi and Sri Seshadri Swamy