All DattaGuru places

All DATTA GURU Places.

Kuravpur:

Introduction.

Bhagwan Shri Dattatrayas Kaliyuga’s first incarnation is SHRIPAD SHRIVALLABH. His place of birth is PITHAPURAM (East Godavari). His working land (Karma Bhumi) & TAPSYA BHUMI is Shrikshetra Kuravpur, Dist. Raichur (Karnataka). His work and greatness is described in Dattatraya’s Holy Book GURUCHARITRA in its Chapter No. 5 to 10. SHRIPAD SHRIVALLABH, himself lord incarnation staying there for upliftment of people and his behaviour made Shrikshetra Kuravpur a sacred land and holy place. The person who is fortunate enough to visit the land and take darshan will experience the calmness. It will be great experience of its kind in his life.

Kuruvapur is a famous place of lord Dattatreya. It is situated in the state of Karnataka In India.The first incarnation of Lord Dattatreya in kaliyuga is Sripada Vallabha. The birth place of Sripada vallabha is Pithapuram which is situated in Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. He was taken his birth in the family of Appalaraju Sarma and Sumathi. He has performed penance at about 35 years for Gnana, Viragya siddhi at Kuravapur and closed his avathara On Ashweeja bahula dwadasi (Hastha star) in Krishna river of Kuravapur . The day is known as “GURUDWADASI”. But till today he is in sukshma rupa there and giving indirect darshan to the devotees who are having full faith on him. This place Is termed as Gurudweepa in Scanda purana.

Scanda purana explained that 28000 yogis and siddhis of Himalayas were visited this place and had darshan of lord Dattatreya. This place was named as Kuruvalaya in the days of Nizam government Period. The place is completely surrounded by Krishna river and is called as Dweepa. Tembe swamy majaraj (Sri Vasudevananda saraswathy) performed “Chaturmasya vratha” here in the year of 1911.The disciples of Tembe swamy Sri Rangaavadhootha, Gunavani maharaj were also performed penance here.

Information of KuravpurSHRIKSHETRA KURAVPUR is in Karnataka State, Dist. Raichur. It is situated on the Banks of Krishna River, 25 Km from Raichur. It is an island surrounded by holy waters of rivers Krishna. SHRIKSHETRA KURAVPUR is also known as KURGUDDI. This holy land is donated by a Rajak devotee. Since it is donated to temple priest, it is called AGRAHAR Temple is built as per Hemad Pandit Style. Old Banyan Tree, Audumbar, Gaytri Suryodasana and Cave where his holyness Sripad Srivallabh has done Dhyna. Now the cave has been refurnished and Nirgun Paduka (Foot Print) are kept for Darshan. Nagarkhana has been built by SHRI TUKDOJI HOLKAR. PARAMPUJYA VASUVANANDA SARASWATI MAHARAJ came to this place in 1911 (Vaishakh Shukla 6.) Maharaj did his 21st Chaturmas during his stay. A scorpion bite him when he missed his daily stostra offering prayers to shripad Shrivallabh is also one of the attractions. Mandir Utsav and religious rites performed here are a legacy of Parampujya Vasusanand Sarawati Maharaj. Parampujya Shridhar Swami has also stayed here. In the recent times Dattasam ptradayees Parampugya Gulavani Maharaj, Rangavdhut Maharaj, Nana Maharaj Taranekar, Mama Deshpande have done the Tapasya at this holy place. Recent period Datt Bhakta Also completed the construction work in Puratan Vatvruksha & also Audumbaras. Construction work of Shivaling and caves narrow point, part rooms also constructed for “Sadhakas”. P.P. Vasudevanand Saraswati Dharamsala is also constructed. Shridhar Bhavan constructed work is completed.

Daily Programme

• Early Morning 4.30 Kakad Aarti
• Early Morning 5 to Noon 12 Puja 1 Abhishek, Noon Mahaprasad
• Evening : Palkhi & Shejarati.

SHRIKSHETRA KURAVPUR is in Karnataka State, Dist.Raichur. It is situated on the Banks of Krishna River, 25 Km from Raichur. Once can reach kuravpur by train or road.

Route to Kuruvapur
This is about 30 kms distance from the district head quarter Raichur of Karnataka. There is bus facility from Raichur to Aathkur which is 1.5 hours journey. From Aathkur to Kuruvapur, every Person has to travel in Krishna river for 20 minutes in small boats or “butti”. (charge around 15 to 20 rupees).The connection Conveyance facility is available for each bus reaching Aathkur.

Second route: This is about 2.50 hours journey from the district headquarter Mahaboobnagar of Andhra pradesh. Mahaboobnagar is about 2.50 hours journey from state capital Hyderabad . The persons can catch direct buses from Hyderabad to Raichur and have to get down at Makthal. From Makthal to Kurugadda (kuravapur) autos and jeeps Are available. The devotees have to engage an auto or jeep to reach Krishna river. From there also buttis and small boats Are available to reach temple.

Railway
Raichur Station is the Nearest Destination. To get down at Raichur Station then go to Bus stand. From bus stand go to Atakur at 7.30 morning & 11 am. only two bus is available From Village we have to go from bullock cart, boat and sand (walking) we come to Kuravpur Temple. Following are some important trains coming to Raichur.
6011 CST Madras 14.00pm
1081 Kanyakumari 3.35pm
2163 Chennai Express 8.20pm

Narsobachi Wadi (Narsobawadi) Sri Kshetra

Sri Kshetra Narsobachiwadi or Narsobawadi is approximately 22 kilometers from Sangli city in Maharashtra State.

From Guru Charitra Chapter 19: “I am leaving my Padukas here. I will be ever present where my Padukas are worshipped. Whatever wishes to be prayed for, offering worship to the Padukas, they will be granted and fulfilled.” – Sri Narasimha Saraswati.

Following is an extract from Guru Charitra Chapter 18:

Sri Narasimha Saraswati visited the Pancha Ganga Sagar, which is the confluence of the five holy rivers, Siva, Bhadra, Kumbhi, Bhagwati and Saraswati, where they all meet and merge in the Krishna river. Here is the temple of Amareshwar and hence the place is called as Amarapur. Nearby is the Sakti Teertha, where reside Sixty-four Yogini Shaktis, serving and worshipping Amareshwar, but unseen by others. Nearby was Papa Vinasini and other holy Teerthas. Sri Krishna Saraswati stayed at Amarapur for 12 years. This place came to be later called as Narsobawadi (Narsobachi Wadi), after Sri Narasimha Saraswati.

How to reach Narsobawadi (Narsobachi Wadi)
Nearest Train Station is JaiSinghpur which is 5 kms from Sangli Railway Station.
Sangli city to Narsobachiwadi Distance 22 kms.
JaiSinghpur to Narsobachiwadi Distance 14 kms.
Sangli ‘City Bus’ fare to Narsobachiwadi is approx. Rs.15 /-
Private Jeeps/Trax/Sumo are also available from Sangli.
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Sri Kshetra Amrapur (Amareshwar)

It is approximately 23 kilometers from Sangli city in Maharashtra State.
Following is an extract from Guru Charitra Chapter 18 :

Sri Kshetra Gangapur, 


One of the most famous Dattatreya Peethas, is associated with Sri Narasimha Sarasvati Swami, an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. It stands on the bank of the river Bhima in Afzalpur taluka in Gulbarga district of Karnataka. This Nirguna Math is adorned with the Nirguna Padukas. The water of the rivers Bhima and Amaraja, especially at the spot of their confluence, are considered extremely holy.
More about Gangapur and Sri Narasimha Saraswati can be read in Guru Charitra.


Below is extract from Guru Charitra Chapter 15
“Bhima-Amarja Sangam at Gangapur, is very sacred. There are Koti Theerthas there. The Aswatha Tree at Gangapur is as powerful as tha KalpaVriksha. Near the Aswatha Tree is Narasimha Teertha, and northwards to it are the PapaVinasini Teertha, Varanasi Teertha, Rudrapada Teertha, Chakra Teertha, Koti Teertha, manmadha Teertha etc. There is the Kalleshwara temple there. It is holy as Gokarna.”

“Sri Narasimha Saraswati lived in Gangapur continously for a period of 24 years”  from Guru Charitra Chapter22.

How to reach Gangapur.
The Train Station at Ganagapur is called as ‘Ganagapur Road’.
Mumbai to Ganagapur Rail Distance – 526 Kms
Mumbai to ‘Ganagapur Road’ Rail 2nd Class Fare – Rs.232/-
Mumbai to ‘Ganagapur Road’ Direct and most convenient Train is 1013 Dn L.T.T. Kurla Terminus
Coimbatore Express, which departs from Kurla Terminus at 10.10 PM & departs from Kalyan 11.15 in the night. It reaches Ganagapur at 8.08 in the morning next day.
From ‘Ganagapur Road’ to Ganagapur City (town), where Datta Mandir is situated is around 30 minutes journey by road. Trax/Jeep/Sumo drivers charge Rs 15 Per Passanger. It takes around 2 hours maximum for a family to perform Pooja/Abhishek at Ganagapur. Local people arrange for accomodation, bath and if required food also, on pay basis.

Nearest City is GULBARGA : 40 Kms.
Gangapur to Sholapur Distance: 94 km (approx.)
Gangapur to Sholapur State Transport (S.T) bus fare – Rs.45/-
Gangapur to Sholapur bus travel time – 3 hours.
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Mahur (Mahurgad)

Mahur is a well known religious place and a birth place of Lord Dattatray, which is visited by thousands of devotees and pilgrims throughout the year. The ancient Mahurgad Fort constructed in the 12th century, is just two and a half kms. from the place. There are many temples in Mahur like Anusaya Temple, Kalika Temple. The most important one is the temple of Renuka Devi, which has a special place in the Hindu pilgrimage. A big fair is held here every year on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami (Dassera).

Shri Nrusimha Saraswati Gurumaharaj is the 2nd avatar (incarnation) of Lord Dattatreya. Born in Karanja, He travelled far and wide in what are now known as the States of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. He achieved Sainthood and performed several miracles. He imparted spiritual knowledge to his disciples, many of whom themselves attained Sainthood.
The Gurumandir Temple conducts several major events to celebrate the various avatars of Lord Dattatreya. Over the past 70 years, Gurumandir has become a nucleus for religious and social welfare activities in the North Maharashtra (Vidarbha) region.

Karanja is located in North-Central Maharashtra in Washim District. It lies just off the main State Highways connecting Shegaon, Nagpur, Amravati, Akola, Aurangabad, Nanded, and Adilabad. It is just 30 kilometers from the main Central Railway line from Mumbai to Howrah (via Nagpur).
The nearest broad-guage railway stations to go to Karanja are Murtijapur and Akola. These are located on the rail route between Mumbai and Howrah (via Nagpur).

Accomodations
Dharamshala (Lodging/Boarding House) The Gurumandir Temple Trust operates a Dharamshala (Lodging/Boarding house) for out-of-town visitors to the temple. This is located just across the temple and is free of cost to the devotees.

Temple Priests
It is not uncommon for the temple priests to invite visitors to stay at their homes for short periods of time. Please provide advance notice of your visit so arrangements can be made.
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Pithapur

1. Sreepad spent his whole childhood in pithapur
2. Lord Dattatraya (kukuteshwar) a very powerful temple located in pithapur.
3. All Sreepada miracles were carried in Pithpur.
4. He always used to take rest under Audumber Tree.
5. As per his instructions, Paduka and his Idol are located at his birth place.
6. He gave assurance to humankind though who will visit and carry out worship he shall be blessed by him.
7. Those who will help to develop the Mahasanstanam and donate or worship through way of feeding food, financial help or read Sreepada Charitramurtam he will get Abhi Shiddhi.
8. Those who worship in Chitra Nakshatra in his place he will get his karma.
9. Those who wish to  get married he will get benefit and will get married early.
10. Those who are visiting Pithapur on Nearly Purnima (Rakhsha Bandhan day) in shravan month they will be blessed by him and he will instruct Chandragupt to write all good efforts you have done in life. It is only by his permission one can visit in this auspicious day else no one can visit Pithapur.
11. Those who are suffering from ghosts, black magic or any other external evil effects that will get reduced by visiting this place.

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Datt Guru Avatar & their rare details. ( These details are mentioned in Guru Charitra also )

Avatar	Parents	Birth Place	Home Town	Vesh	Jayanti
Shri Guru Datatarey	Anyusa – Atri	Mahur (Nanded)	Girnagar (Saurashtra)	Avdoot	Margashish 15
Sree Guru Sreepad Sreevallabha	Sumati -Appalraja	Pithapur (A.P)	Kuruguddi (Kuravpur-Karnataka)	Bhramachari	Bhadrapad 4
Shri Guru Narshinasaraswati	Amba – Madhav	Lad Karanja (Akola)	Narsobawadi, Audumber, Gangapur	Sanyasi	Paush 2

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Kardali Ban :

This is located in remote area surrounded by jungle and mountains. here no accommodation or means of transport is available. Not a single lodge to stay or shops are there. One has to carry each and everything with him while traveling here. From Shailayam you have to travel by boat to reach here and then should walk through hills and jungle. The road is between jungle where you shall find many wild animals too, for old people this is very tough to climb up and down.   Approximately travel distance as follows:-
1.Shailya to Pathal ganga one can travel by road.
2.From Pathal ganga to Venkatesh Kinara its approximate 22 km’s 1-2 hrs.
3. From Venkatesh Kinara one has to travel by foot and climb hilly area and reach caves which are there its approximate 5-7 hrs journey. Usually people travel her in large groups this cave can accommodate around 200 people. One has to take food, torches, candles or any other required things while traveling. While traveling here one has to climb up and down around 6 hills with thick forest.
4. From this cave Kardali Ban ( where swami were sighted first) is approximate 4 hrs.
5. From Akal devi cave to Kardali Ban its 4 km’s to reach another small cave here one can find Lord Shankara.
6.These all caves are approximately 100ft long and 30ft wide, and 10ft height.Here in one cave you can see Lord Narshima Saraswatis idol which is 2ft. Also Akkamahadevi, Mallikarjun, Nagarjun.
7. On way through jungle you can view cattle’s grazing and also big anthills. From one of these anthills Akkalkot’s Swami Smarth had appeared.
8. On sixth hill there is one big water hole.

SREEPADA’S FAMILY :-

It is observed that no Sattapurush is born or came into world in regular path of human being. Sreepada appeared in form flame entering this world. His mother’s name was Sumati Maharani & fathers name was Appalaraju Sarma. During maternity time of sumati she fainted and wonderful sound was heard from sky by all people gathered there and asked them to leave the room. When Sreepada Sreevallabha was born, a cobra with three hoods was holding its hoods as an umbrella.  He was kept for 18 days. He came out of the mother’s womb as a dazzling illumi­nation.Sumati Maharani fainted immediately after he was born. Auspicious musical notes from musical instruments were heard from the labour room. After some time an invisible voice warned all people to leave the room. Four vedas, eighteen puraanas, great persons arrived in the shape of brilliant lights to Great Sreepada. Sacred Vedic mantras were heard outside the room. Silence spread after sometime.

During early morning Sreepada used to have milk from his mother sitting in her lap. In afternoon his mother used to feed him cod rice and sometimes wheat mixed in milk.  Sreepada says that ” I will drink milk in morning in Pithapur in mother sumatis lap. In afternoon mother sumati will feed me with little lumps of food. During night time i shall ear halwa (sweet preparation with wheat flour) from lap of mother sumati. I will remain in Gandharvapura in the form of Nursimha Saraswati just as i am in Pithapur. I will seek bhiksha in Gandharvapura exactly during midday. These will clearly seen by those who have the sight of internal eye”.

Family Tree of Shreepad :-

Grandfather – Bapannavadhlu
Father – Appalaraju Sarma
Mother – Sumati Rani
Elder brother – Sreedhar Raj Sarma (Was blind)
Younger brother – Ramraj Sarma (was handicapped)
Three Sisters – Sree Vidhayadhari, Radha & Surekha

Name of the incarnation	Name of the father	Name of the mother	Period of birth	Native Village	Site of the mission	Total surrender	Renunciation of the body
1. Shripad Shrivallabh	Apalraj	Sumatibai	Shake 1245	Pithapur (Andhra Pradesh)	Andhra Pradesh	At 7 years	Twelfth day of the dark fortnight of Ashwin Shake 1275
2. Shri Nrusinha Sarasvati	Madhavrao	Ambasati	Shake 1339	Karanja (Vidarbha)	Gangapur (Karnataka)	At 12 years	Third day of the bright fortnight of Magh Shake 1380
3. Shri Manik- Prabhu	Manohar- pant	Bayamma	Shake 1739	Ladvanti (Karnataka)	Maniknagar	In child- hood	Tenth day of the bright fortnight of Margashirsha Shake 1787
4. Shri Swami Samarth (Akkalkot)	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	Akkalkot (district Solapur)	Unknown	Thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Chaitra Shake 1800
5. Shri Saibaba	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	Pathari	Shirdi	Unknown	Tenth day of the bright fortnight of Ashvin Shake 1839
6. Shri Bhalchandra Maharaj	Parshuram	Anandibai	Shake 1825	Mhapan	Kankavli (district Sindhudurga)	At 22 years	Seventh day of the bright fortnight of Margashirsha Shake 1899

Implied meaning of the family

• The cow (behind the idol): The earth
• The four dogs: The four Vedas
• The holy fig tree (oudumbar): A symbol of Datta, worthy of worship as the Datta principle exists in it in a greater amount.

Shri Datta Mahatmya

This book is written by Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati alias Shri Tembe Swami. He had also written in Sanskrit a book by name Dattapurana. The Marathi Datta-Mahatmya book has 51 chapters and total of 5513 stanzas. This book also has the form of disciple-teacher conversation, where the disciple is Deepak and his Guru is explaining him the importance (Mahatmya) of Dattatreya. The book has full coverage of Dattatreya’s disciples and devotees and their stories. It also mentions the 24 gurus of Dattatreya and Dattatreya’s philosophy. The book also describes several vratas (specific strict rituals) to be followed. This is also book revered and respected by Dattatreya devotees.[citations needed]

Ayyavadi Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi

This temple for Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi is situated in a small village called Ayyavadi around 6 kms from Kumbakonam.

Located just 500 mts from Uppiliappan temple, this village was once called as Aivar Padi.According to legends, the 5 Pandavas visited this place, kept their weapons under a tree, worshipped Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi and went around in the forests. As the five Pandavas worshipped here, it is beleived that the place was called as Aivar Padi which later changed as Ayyavadi.

Lord Vishnu took the Narasimha Avatar to kill the demon king Hiranyakasipu who is the father of Prahalada. After being so furiously fought with so much of power to kill the king, the anger and the fierce of Narasimha didnt come down. With so much of hyper Narasimha couldn't make out between good and bad people and started disturbing everyone and no one could control him. People prayed Lord Shiva to save them.

Lord Shiva took a new and more powerful form or Avatar as Sarabeswara, with lion's face and eagle's wings. Shakthi accompanied Lord Shiva in the form of Sri Mahaprathyangira Devi seated on one of the wings of Sri Sarabeswara. Sarabeswarar went and subsided Narasimha's anger to bring back peace. Hence both Sri Mahaprathyangira Devi and Sri Sarabeswara are beleived to be more powerful than any other powers.

In Ramayana, Indrajit, son of Ravana performed a Yaga called "Nigumbalai Yagam", worshipping Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi. It is beleived that from this Ayyavadi he performed the Yaga. If he had completed the Yaga successfully, he would have got the powers to kill Rama.

But somehow it was spoiled by Lakshmana and Anjaneya before completion. Here the Devi is seated on the chariot with 4 lions, 8 arms with weapons possessing Lion's face.

Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi's worship will take away all evil forces and unsolvable problems from one's life. In this temple Homams are conducted every Full moon day and No moon day, after which huge volumes of Red Chillies are offered to the Goddess.

Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi is an important Goddess in Shakthi worship. There is a Gayatri Mantra too for worshipping Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi.

A rare and wonderful temple for Shakthi Devotees.

Singaperumal Koil Sri Ugra Narasimhar

Singaperumal Koil is about 25 kms from Tambaram and the temple is just 100 meters off the GST Road.

The village itself is named after the deity of this temple. The main deity here is Lord Narasimhar. This is a beautiful rock cut temple. The temple and even the deity is carved out of a small hillock. Here the Lord is known as Sri Paatalaadri Narasimhar. In Sanskrit Paatalaadri means a reddish hill. The original name of this place itself is Paatalaadripuram.

According to temple sources, this temple has been referred in Brahmaanda Puraanam. Lord Vishnu took the form (Avataar) of Sri Narasimha and killed the demon king Hiranyakasipu. At the time of Narasimha Avataar, this place was surrounded by dense forests. A sage called ‘Jaapaali’ was performing Thapas, praying Lord Vishnu. As wished by him, the Lord gave dharshan to him in the form of Ugra (fierce) Narasimhar.

The main sanctum itself is a rock cut shrine on which the deity too is carved out of the hill itself. So, whoever wants to circumambulate around the temple has to actually go around the small hillock as Giri Pradhakshinam. Hence, Giri Pradhakshinam is very popular here.

There are Bali Peetams seen at certain directions, while going around the temple.

The main deity is seen here as Ugra (fierce) murthy, holding Paanchajanya (conch) and Sudharsana Chakra, showing Abhaya Hastha in one of His hands. Sri Narasimha Swamy here has 3 eyes and the third eye is shown by the priest while performing Haarathi.

The Goddess here is Sri Ahobila Valli Thaayaar. There is a separate shrine for Lord Vishnu too.

The Urchavar here is called Sri Prahalaadha Varadhar.

While walking around the temple, there is an Azhinjal tree in this temple, which is considered most sacred. It is said that this tree has mentions in the ‘Naachiyaar Thirumozhi’ composed by Sri Aandaal. People praying for marriage or children tie a small piece of thread from their clothes on the branches of this tree. By doing this with a wish, it is believed that their wishes are granted.

Sri Anjaneyar (Hanuman) is seen on the pillar adjacent to Dwajasthambha, where many people light Ghee lamps for the God.

While entering into the street of this temple, there are 4 pillars welcoming us, which look too ancient having beautiful sculptures.

The Theertham for this temple is called Suddha Pushkarani and Sthala Viruksham is Paarijaatham.

Suruttuppalli Sri Pallikondeeswar temple

Suruttappalli is a small village located around 60 kms (approx.) in the north of Chennai and just 8 kms from Puthur if you are en route to Thirupathi.

If you are traveling from Chennai, after Poondi once you cross Oothukkottai and enter the Andhrapradesh by road you can reach the temple within 1-2 kms.

Believed to have been built during Vijayanagara period, Pallikondeeswarar temple is a rare and probably the only temple where Lord Shiva is in reclining position like Sri Ranganathar of Sri Rangam or Trivandrum.

Lord Shiva has 5 faces; Isaanam, Thathpurusham, Vaamadhevam, Sathyojaatham and Agoram. There are 5 Shiva temples (called Pancha Brahma Sthalams) near Chennai, representing each of the 5 faces of the Lord. Out of 5, this temple represents the Thathpurusha face of Lord Shiva.

The other 4 being Aarani Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswarar (Vamadhevam), Ramagiri Sri Vaaleeswarar (Isaanam), Ariyathurai Sri Varamoortheeswarar (Sathyojaatham) and Karungaali Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar (Agoram). Interestingly, these entire 5 temples lie on the banks of Brahmaranya (Arani) river, till the river merges into the ocean at Karungaali.

According to mythology, when Devas and Asuras churned the mighty ocean (Paarkadal) Alakala Poison got generated from the ocean. To save the universe from the poison, Lord Shiva Himself drank the whole poison. After consuming the poison, as He was feeling a bit dizzy with the power of Alakala, it is said that He rested in Suruttuppalli.

Once he woke up the following day, he saw all Devas, Rishis and other Parivars surrounding him with happiness and relief. And that day is celebrated as Pradhosham by devotees. It is said that Pradhosham worship originated from this temple.

This is the only place where one can get dharshan of Lord Shiva in human form (around 6 feet) that too reclining in Anantha Sayana position on the lap of Godess Parvathi. He is holding his Conch and Deer in his hands and is surrounded by Rishis like Markandeya, Sanakathi Rishis, Lord Muruga, Lord Ganesha and Nandhikeswara playing Veena. The Godess here is known as Madhuravalli.

Pradhosham is celebrated in a big way here. Hundreds of people from various places gather here for Pradhosham festival. But on the other days, this temple is in the state of neglect.

Though situated in Andhrapradesh, this unique temple is very close from Chennai and can be accessible by road by car / bus or even a 2 wheeler.

An ancient and rare temple is a boon to visit, for devotees.

Thiruverkaadu Sri Karumaari Amman

Thiruverkaadu is situated about 20 kms from Chennai city. It lies on the road branching out off Mount Poondhamalli Road near Kumananchaavadi.

Apart from an ancient temple for Lord Shiva called as Sri Vedhapureeswarar temple, Thiruverkaadu also has a temple for Sri Karumaari Amman, which is more popular in Chennai.

According to the legend, once Sri Karumaari Amman took form of a fortune teller and went to Sun God for predicting his future. Sri Surya Bhagawan neglected Her and Sri Ambaal vanished from his sight, because of which Sun God lost his powers and glory. Then Surya Bhagawan realized that it was none other than the Goddess Herself and came and worshipped her here at Thiruverkaadu, seeking apologies. Goddess pardoned him with mercy and Sri Surya Bhagawan requested her to bless that Sunday (Sun God’s day) be the auspicious day for the Devi here. Goddess obliged to it. Also the Sun God spread His rays on the Goddess here during the Thamizh months Panguni and Purattaasi to show His devotion to the Goddess.

In ancient days, this place was a forest filled with VeLvela trees (வெள்வேல மரம்) and hence was called as Velankaadu (வேலங்காடு), which later turned to get its present name. It is also said that Lord Muruga, before His battle with the demon king Surapadhman, got His weapon ‘Vel’ (வேல்) from Sri Karumaari Amman here and so the place was called as Velankaadu.

It is said that Sri Vinayagar (Lord Ganesha) worshipped the Goddess here by performing Abhishegam using Valampuri Sanghu (Conch). The Goddess got pleased with His worship and blessed Him that the poojas at the temple will first be performed to Sri Vinayagar and then to Her. Sri Vinayagar can be seen present in the temple just as we enter the temple near the Dhwajasthambham. While entering the temple, one has to pray Him and then go further to worship Sri Karumaari Amman.

Once, when the Asuras gave troubles to Devas, they came and worshipped Lord Shiva at Thiruverkaadu, to save them. Lord Shiva called His Devi Sri Verkanni and directed Her to look after His duties till He is back from Devaloka. Lord Shiva gave her the holy ashes from His body and blessed Her. The Goddess asked Sage Agasthiyar to look for a holy place where she can perform the heavenly duties assigned by Lord Shiva. When Sage Agasthiyar was thinking of such place, he heard an Asareeri (அசரீரி – a holy voice) saying that the place where he was standing itself is a holy place. Goddess took abode here as Sri Karumaari Amman and also blessed the place that one will be removed of all the sins by worshipping Her at Thiruverkaadu.

Thiruverkaadu is the place where all 3 Gods, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva have worshipped the Goddess. Hence She is called as Sri Karumaari here. Ka means Brahma, Ru means Rudhra or Shiva, and Ma means Vishnu.

The temple here is facing east. There is a beautiful Rajagopuram to enter the temple. Once we enter Sri Vinayagar is seen on an elevated shrine under a tree.

After crossing Sri Vinayagar, the sanctum of Goddess Sri Karumaari Amman is seen. The Goddess is facing east. It is said that originally the Goddess evolved from an ant hill. Amman is so beautiful with a smiling face and decorated well with lots of flowers.

Sri Subramanyar is found at the praakaaram around the sanctum. Navagrahas are found at the north eastern side of the temple. Sri Brahma is found on one of the walls facing north.

There is another small shrine adjacent to this temple, where a huge ant hill is found under a Peepul tree. Devotees offer milk and eggs for the snakes in this ant hill. Camphors are also lit here to offer worship. The entire ant hill is yellow in color as devotees have applied turmeric powder on it.

The temple pond is found in front of the temple which is so beautiful with a small Mandapam in the middle.

A tall and beautiful temple Chariot is parked in a separate Mandapam adjacent to the temple.

Thiruverkaadu attracts thousands of devotees and tourists everyday from various parts of the country. Sri Ambaal here is believed to be so powerful granting the wishes of the devotees worshipping her

Sabarimalai Sri Ayyapa Swamy Story

Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa!!

Sabarimalai is situated amidst the dense forests in Sahya hill (Sahyadri) range in Pathanamthitta District of Kerala. The temple (Sannidhanam) is located on the hill top, at an altitude of 4135 ft.

To reach the temple, one has to trek through the hills by walk in the dense forest range.

According to both history and mythology, Lord Ayyappa is the last and only God belonging to the present Kaliyugam.

A demon female called Mahishi, performed severe penance towards Lord Brahma to take revenge against Devas who were responsible for the death of her brother Mahishasura. Mahishasura was killed by Mahishasuramardhini (Kali) as per Devas’ prayers.

Lord Brahma appeared to Mahishi and told her that she can ask for any boon except immortality. Mahishi prayed Lord Brahma that she should get such powers that no one should be able to kill her except a son who is born out of the union of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. She cleverly asked such a boon as both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu were male Gods. Brahma offered her the boon. Mahishi started troubling Devas as the revenge.

A demon king called Bhasmaasura performed penance praying Lord Shiva. When Lord appeared to him, he asked for a boon that whoever he touches should turn into ashes. The Lord granted him the boon. Bhasmaasura just couldn’t believe it and wanted to test it on Lord Shiva Himself. Lord Shiva went and requested Lord Vishnu to rescue him. Lord Vishnu took the form of a Mohini (a beautiful woman), and went to Bhasmaasura. On seeing her beauty, he wanted to marry her. Mohini agreed to it with a condition that he should touch his head and swear that he will not think of any other woman after marrying Mohini. Bhasmaasura innocently touched his own head and turned into ashes.

Lord Shiva saw Lord Vishnu who was in the avatar of Mohini. He got attracted with the beauty of Mohini, and there happened the union of Lord Shiva and Mohini (Lord Vishnu), out of which a male child was born to them. He was named Dharma Saastha who was growing up in Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva. He was also called Hariharan as he was born to Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva).

During the Pandya dynasty, while the Pandyas were ruling parts of Kerala apart from Tamilnadu, the descendants of the dynasty were given the rights to rule the country of Pandalam.

One such king called Rajasekara, who was the direct descendant of the Pandya dynasty was ruling Pandalam region. King Rajasekara was very successful as a king, keeping his kingdom prosperous. The king had only one worry in life that he had no children to take up the responsibility after his tenure. The king and the queen prayed Lord Shiva for blessing them with a child.

Lord Shiva decided to answer their prayers through Dharma Saastha. He directed Dharma Saastha to be born as a baby and grow up in Pandalam. Lord Shiva along with Mohini left the baby in the dense forests on the banks of River Pampa, which was in Pandalam territory of Rajasekara.

One day, while Rajasekara went for hunting, he was resting in a place after a tiresome hunt. He heard a noise of a baby crying. He went around and saw a beautiful male baby left alone in the forest. He was astonished to see the baby with a golden bell tied around the neck.

While he was confused on what to do with the baby, a sage who was passing by told him that the baby is so divine and reminded the king of his prayers to Lord Shiva for blessing him with a baby. He also said that the baby is not a normal human being and an avatar of God himself.

As there was a bell tied around the neck, the sage named the baby “Manikandan” (Mani means bell and Kanda means neck in Tamil) and advised the king to take the baby to the palace and bring him up. He also told that the king would realize the purpose of the boy’s birth when He turns 12.

The king was too happy and took the baby to the palace and brought him up. The queen and everyone in the kingdom were very happy that the king now had an heir to succeed.

There was a Diwan (minister) in the kingdom, who was planning to take over the rule as the king didn’t have a successor, now got worried as his dreams were shattering.

As the child grew up the king put him Gurukulam, where he learnt various arts and excelled. Everyone was surprised to see Manikandan being the best among others, with his brilliance and divinity.

After completing his studies from his Guru, Manikandan wanted to offer Guru Dhakshina to him. Guru said that his only worry was about his son, who was dumb. Manikandan made him speak instantly. Guru was too happy about his son who got back his speech and to see the divine powers of Manikandan.

Few years later, the queen gave birth to another male child. They named him Raja Rajan. Both the sons grew up happily. One day king Rajasekara decided that the time has come to crown Manikandan as his successor, as he was the eldest. He ordered the Diwan to make necessary arrangements. But the Diwan was not for it as he already had a grudge against Manikandan.

He went to the queen and spoiled her mind and made her go against the king’s decision. He told the queen that only Raja Rajan is qualified to be a successor, as he was actually born to them. The queen took his words and started believing him. He also told that he will take care of elimination of Manikandan, so that the queen won’t be blamed. He told the queen to act as if she had a severe stomach pain.

The queen followed his words and started acting as if she suffered an intolerable stomach pain. Diwan arranged for a doctor who told the king that, the only medicine for queen’s pain is the Tigress’ milk.

While the king was planning to send his men for it, Manikandan volunteered to go to the forest and fetch the tigress’ milk, for which the king refused, as Manikandan was proposed to be crowned. But Manikandan insisted and made the king to accept him go.

Manikandan went alone into the forests to fetch milk from tigress. He carried a bag on his head containing necessary food etc., during his search in the forest.

On his way, he realized the purpose of his incarnation on earth. As Mahishi had a boon that she can only be killed by a son born to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, Ayyappan realized his duty to save Devas from Mahishi. By then Mahishi was at her peak in devastating Devas and their places. Manikandan on his way to forest pulled her for a fight and waged a strenuous battle with her. Knowing this, Lord Shiva came down to earth along with Parvathi Devi on His Rishaba Vaahana (Ox – His carrier). He tied the Ox in a near by tree in the forest and watched Manikandan fighting with Mahishi. The place where he tied the Ox is called as Kaalaikatti (Kaalai means Ox and Katti means tying) which is on the banks of River Azhudha, on the way to Sabarimalai. There is a Shiva temple now at Kaalai Katti.

Manikandan defeated Mahishi and threw her on the ground. Doubting that she may come alive again, Manikandan threw huge stones on her to ensure that she can’t come up again.

This place is called Kallidum Kunru on the Azhudha hill, where even today, pilgrims pick up a stone from Azhudha River and throw it in this place marking Mahishi’s defeat.

Once Mahishi died, Manikandan blessed her to reach heaven. Mahishi who got relieved of some past curse with an opportunity to die from the hands of God Himself, prayed Manikandan to marry her. But He refused saying that, his birth on earth had a different purpose and he was meant to live as a Brahmachari throughout. But as Mahishi insisted, Manikandan told her that she can take abode in the same forest meant for him and assured her that whenever there is no new devotee coming to see Him, He would marry her.

From then Mahishi took abode just near the Sannidhanam with the name Maligapurathamma. Till today, she is eagerly waiting to see that no new devotee is visiting Ayyappan, but in vain. Because, every year, thousands of first timers (called Kanni Samis) visit Sabarimalai. To mark their visit, they bring a sharp bamboo stick called Saram and fix it on a tree at a place called Saram Kuthi. It is believed that when there is no “Saram” fixed on the tree, Lord Ayyappa would marry her, which never happened.

On seeing Manikandan killing Mahishi, Lord Shiva and all Devas were too happy and showered him with praises. Lord Indra, along with all Devas volunteered to become tigers and tigresses and accompanied Manikandan back to the kingdom.

Manikandan entered the palace sitting on a tiger, followed by a huge group of tigresses. The entire Pandalam and Palace was shocked to see this happening. Everyone started running for life on seeing this.

Rajasekara realized that Manikandan was not an ordinary child. As told by the sage in the forest that Manikandan’s intent of birth would be known at his age of 12, Manikandan had reached the age of 12 by then. The queen and diwan fell at Manikandan’s feet for His pardon. But Manikandan said it’s not their mistake and everything happened for a cause, with God’s blessings.

King Rajasekara apologized with Manikandan and requested him to take up the throne which was his dream of life. Manikandan politely refused and said that, becoming a king was not the purpose of his birth. He said His duty on earth is over and wanted to perform penance to reach back to Kailash.

King Rajasekara told Manikandan that he wished to construct a temple for Him, in a place wherever He chooses. Manikandan took his bow and shot an arrow, saying that he would be on Thapas in the place where the arrow falls. The arrow went and fell at this place called Sabarimalai, which was already a holy place, where an old lady called Sabari, a devotee of Rama lived. She always was chanting the name of Rama and wanted to meet Him at least once in her life time. Rama met her in this place and accepted her hospitality. As Sabari lived in this hilly forest, it was called Sabarimalai.

Manikandan said that he would be meditating in Sabarimalai and would be called as Ayyappan by his devotees. He also said that whoever visits him has to undergo a severe Brahmacharya Vratham (fast) and must abstain from worldly pleasures for 41 days before coming to Sabarimala. He would be blessing the devotees from Sabarimala near the river Pampa, which is as sacred as River Ganga.

Rajasekara who was eager to see Ayyappan as a king, felt very sad to see him as a Sanyasi with saffron clothes. Ayyappan granted a boon to Rajasekara that, every year on Makara Sankaranthi day, He would give Dharshan to the world as a king, with all costumes and weapons, a king would adorn. He also said that He would give appear in the form of a Jyothi (light) on that day, which happens till today on every Sankaranthi. After this, Manikandan proceeded to Sabarimala on his celestial journey.

Later, king Rajasekara, as per advice of Sage Agasthiyar, laid the foundation for constructing the shrine for Ayyappan in the said place. When king Rajasekara didn’t know how to personify the image of Ayyappan in the temple, Sage Parasurama came to his help, carved the image of Lord Ayyappan and installed it on the day of Makara Sankaranthi.

The temple shall be reached by walk either from Erumeli or from Pampa. The trek from Erumeli (called Peruvazhi) is strenuous and about 48 kms (approx.) by walk. The route from Pampa is about 6 kms which is shorter but steeper too. People also take another route to reach the temple which is called Pul Medu (meaning Grass Hills).

The temple (Sannidhanam) is located amidst a serene beauty of nature, surrounded by hilly forests. One has to climb 18 steps to reach the sanctum. It is believed that the holy 18 steps denote 5 Indriyas (senses), 8 Ragas, 3 Gunas (characters), Vidya and Avidya. It denotes that once a person crosses these 18 stages he can reach the supreme God.

Devotees undergo severe austerities during 41 days fasting and start their pilgrimage to Sabarimala. One has to carry the Irumudi (a bag containing 2 portions) on his head throughout the journey. In the front portion, the Ghee is carried inside a 3 eyed coconut for Abhishegam to the Lord. The back portion contain the food stuff is carried for cooking in the forest, as one won’t get any food in the forest. When one reaches the Sannidhanam, the back portion would be empty and the front portion containing Ghee is offered to the Lord.

It signifies that, only when we reduce all our sins and worldly pleasures, we can reach the Almighty.

Devotees break a coconut in front of these 18 steps (Pathinettaampadi) before ascending. People without Irumudi are not permitted to climb the holy steps.

On Sankaranthi day, the jewels, clothing and weapons which from the Pandalam Palace is brought to Sabarimala to be adorned by the Lord. This entire Jewel box (called Thiruvaabaranam) is carried by the persons or their representatives belonging to the Pandalam King’s family ancestrally, who walk down all the way from Pandalam to Sabarimala. The Thiruvaabaranam is kept at a Sri Parthasarathy Swamy Tempe at Aranmula, as a ritual, on the way to Sabarimala. A Brahman Kite (Garuda) accompanies Thiruvaabaranam right from Pandalam till Sabarimala.

Sankaranthi is the only day, where one can have dharshan of the God dressed up like a king. For the rest of the year, God gives dharshan here as a Sanyasi wearing Saffron clothing and a garland made of Thulsi beads with the bell tied around his neck.

On Makara Sankarandhi day, a star appears on the sky at a particular time in the evening, after which a light, Makara Jyothi appears for a while, amidst the adjoining hill called Ponnambala Medu. Lakhs of devotees excitingly witness this rare event every year, chanting “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa”.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Vavar near the Sannidhanam which is called Vavaru Nada. Vavar is a Muslim friend of Lord Ayyappa who was a bandit in the forest. Vavar first had a fight with Ayyappa on his way to Sabarimala. Later knowing the powers of the Lord he surrendered to Him. Ayyappan accepted him as his best friend, who accompanied and helped Ayyappan throughout his way to Sabarimala. One can see a Muslim priest here blessing the devotees. Thus, Sabarimala marks the Hindu – Muslim unity. A Muslim shrine inside a Hindu temple is a rare sight which is not seen anywhere else in the world.

Even these days, people who start their trek from Erumeli, visit Vavar’s Mosque situated opposite Dharma Saastha temple to seek his blessings and guidance throughout the hilly forests.

Other deities of the temple are Sri Ganapathy, Naagar, Maaligappurathamman, Nava graham, Kochu Kadutha Swamy and Valiya Kadutha Swamy.

The temple attracts crores of devotees every year and it has the record of being the world's second largest annual pilgrimage, next to Haj.

A must visit temple at least once in the life time.

There are also few other mythologies and history connected to this temple. I have narrated the above, with what is widely told and believed by many, for generations.

Maangaadu Sri Kamakshi Amman

Maangaadu is a small beautiful village located at the outskirts of Chennai near Poonamallee.

As per the legend, one day in Kailash, Parvathi Devi playfully closed the eyes of Lord Shiva from behind, with her palms. As a result of this, the whole universe was surrounded with darkness and all the living beings suffered. Lord Shiva became angry and the Goddess craved for his pardon.

Lord Shiva guided her to the earth and asked her to perform a severe penance to join him again. As per the God’s instructions she came down to earth and reached this place of dense Mango grove called Maangaadu. (means ‘Mango forest’ in Thamizh)

She started her rigorous penance here in the standing posture on the Panchagni (Fire). She stood one legged on Panchagni with right leg folded. She was holding her right hand raised above her head holding the Japamala (Rudraksha). Even today we can see this Moorthi of Sri Tapas Kamakshi at Maangaadu.

This Panchagni Sadhana is not an easy task. This Panchagni penance is performed to kill five evils which dominate people and lead to misery. The five evils are Kama (Desire), Krodha (Anger), Lobha (Greed), Madha (Ego) & Maacharya (Attachment). If one wins over all these five they can attain the supreme bliss.

Lord Shiva, who was happy with her penance, came down to earth to marry her. He gave dharshan to her in Maangaadu and married her at Kanchipuram, where even today they both bless the devotees at Ekambareswarar Temple.

There is a temple for Lord Shiva where he came down to meet her. This temple is Velleeswarar Temple located nearby Kamakshi Amman Temple.

Also there is another temple for Lord Vishnu (Vaikunda Perumal temple) in Mangadu. It is said that Lord Vishnu, being the brother of Goddess Parvati came for the wedding with Kanayazhi (gem stone ring) for Parvati as his gift (சீர் வரிசை) is still waiting here, as the wedding didn't happen at Mangadu.

Even after Goddess left the place, the power of the Agni didn’t subside, out of which the whole place in and around Maangaadu suffered with unbearable heat and the Ugram of the Goddess.

Sri Aadhi Sankaracharya, during his visit here, installed an Ardhameru Sri Chakra and brought down the heat and ugram of the place. This Sri Chakra is a rare of its kind in the country and not seen anywhere else.

Even today, no abhishekams are performed to the Sri Chakra as it contains rare herbs. Only Kumkuma Archana is performed that too only to the Sri Chakra and not the idol, as the powers of Sri Kamakshi Amman has been instilled in the Chakra by Sri Aadhi Sankaracharya.

The idol Sri Aadhi Kamakshiamman made of Panchaloha (5 metals) was installed by Sri Kanchi Paramacharya Swami in the later years.

Six weeks worships are very popular here. The devotee who has some prarthana or wish can choose any one day of the week and to visit the temple along with 2 lemons, of which one will be retained at the temple and the other one has to be taken back home.

Again the following week, on the same day, he or she has to carry the old lemon from home along with 2 other fresh lemons. Like wise, if one visits on the same day for six weeks continuously, the Ambaal grants the wishes of the devotee.

Golden Chariot is very popular here which is pulled everyday between 6.30 and 7.30 pm.

Maangaadu is just 24 kms from Chennai city and is located off the Chennai Bangalore highway on the way from Poonamallee to Kunrathur.

Temple Address:
Mangadu Sri Kamakshi Amman Devasthanam, Mangadu, Chennai – 602101. Tel: 91 44 26272053. email : mangadukamakshi@sancharnet.in

SRI ARDHAMERU SRI CHAKRA

  When Goddess Left the place without extinguishing the fire the whole area suffered from the unbearable heat for a long time. Sri AdiSankara of Kaladi came here and installed SRI ARDHAMERU CHAKRAM and extinguished the fire. SRI CHAKRAM in Mangadu is very rare in India.
      The Ardhameru Sri Chakram is the cheif divinity in this temple. Kumkum Archana is performed and no abhishekam for Sri Chakram, since it is made up of herbals. Sri Adhi Kamakshiamman (in Panchalogam) has been installed in the sanctum by Sri Kanchi Paramacharya Swamigal.