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Tamilnadu Subramanyaswamy Temple
Subramanya Swamy Temple at Marudamalai near Coimbatore is a very popular temple of the deity Lord Muruga located at a distance of 15 kilometers on Western Ghats, near city Coimbatore. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, with hilly ranges flanking the temple on three of its sides. The temple is second in importance to the six main Arupadai veedu temples. In fact many people unofficially consider this temple as the seventh most important temple after the six Arupadai veedu temples. This shrine displays a picture of the great deity Lord Muruga, mounted on a peacock- which is his vehicle. Thousands of devotees visit this temple since it is believed that Dandayuthapani- the residing deity performed many miracles here.
History
The Marudamalai temple is situated at a height of 500 feet and the temple is supposed to belong to the period of 12th Century. There are several stone inscriptions during the 12th Century that indicate that words Marudhan as well as Marudhachalam were popular in that period. References to the temple can also be found through inscriptions within Thirumuruganpoondi temple which has been in existence for a minimum of 1200 years. Marudamalai also means mountain of medicines referring to the growth of medicinal herbs on the mountain. Perurpuranam the ancient work by Sage Kachyapar mentions the origin of the temple and dates it to the time of Surapadam, a demon who was destroyed and killed by Lord Subramanya.
Discovery Of The Temple
While the exact date of discovery of the temple has not been known, it dates back to the 12th century and is mentioned in several ancient texts and stone inscriptions.
How To Reach
By Air
The airport closest to Marudamalai is Coimbatore. Coimbatore is fairly well connected to all domestic airports around the country.
By Bus
Many buses ply between Coimbatore and foothills of Marudamalai. Devotees are then required to board mini buses that take them to the temple.
By Rail
Coimbatore Junction railway station is the nearest and there are many trains that pass through Coimbatore junction.
By Road
Coimbatore is well connected through road from most cities like Chennai, Mangalore, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, etc. The state transport corporation of Kerala as well as of Tamil Nadu operate several buses that connect Coimbatore to other cities.
Important Shrines
Approaching the foothills, visitors can seek blessing from the deity Ganesha. This Ganesha deity is not a chiseled one but is Swayambhu or of spontaneous origin. The stairs of Pathinettam Padi or eighteen steps is meant to remind the visitors of Lord Ayyappa. The Idumba shrine is located in the middle of the ascent and it consists of an image of the deity carrying Kaavadi. This image is carved in a large rock. Married couples that do not have any children worship the Lord and make offerings of toy cradles with the faith that they will be blessed with children. Visitors can view a beautiful mandapam with Kudirai Kulambu or hoof marks caused by Lord Muruga's horse. The primal shrine of the temple includes Lord Subramanya along with two consorts, Teyvannai as well as Valli. The temple also has Pambatti Siddhar Cave which is a shrine located towards east direction, on the slopes. This cave contains a natural image of snake etched on a rock. This cave was used by Panbatti Siddhar for meditating on Lord Muruga and he attained salvation in this cave.
Significance Of The Temple
Thousands of people visit this temple to seek blessings from the deity. Since the mountain is rich in medicinal herbs, several nature cure clinics have also mushroomed in this area. It is believed that the shrine of Marudamalai can remove physical as well as mental afflictions and so many people visit this place to get relief from their physical and mental problems.
Weather And Time To Visit
The best time to visit Subramanya Swamy temple at Marudamalai is between the months of September and March. The weather between April to August is quite hot.
Accomodation
There are several hotels in Coimbatore where visitors can stay while visiting the Subramanya Swamy temple at Marudamalai. The temple administration also has a rest house with twelve rooms that can be let out to visitors. However, it is advisable for visitors to make a booking in advance.
Tips For Devotees
If you are unable to climb up the hill, then you can opt to take one of the three buses provided by the Devasthanam. These buses start from the foothill and go right up to the top of the hill. This is particularly beneficial for devotees that are physically handicapped.
- Since the temple dates back to the 12th century it is a connoisseur's delight. Take your time in observing the swayambhu deities and understand the significance of each shrine.
Rules And Rituals For The Temple
Daily poojas as well as archanas are performed at the temple. Devotees can opt to perform abhishek as well as archana as per the available schemes. The Vishwaroopa dharsanam, Kalasandhi and Uchikkalam pooja are performed before noon, while the Thirukkappiduthal, Sayaratchi are performed during the afternoon and Rakkalam is performed at night.
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