The Skandapuranic legend centering round Vighneswara is doubtless known to many but is narrated here not only in the interests of accuracy and authenticity of the anecdote but also to include it as part of a fairly comprehensive series of legends that throw light on the greatness of Arunachala and to focus attention on the... Continue Reading →
The Antaryamin
The real greatness of Arunachala lies in its being the embodiment of jyoti (divine light) and in the fantasy and phantasmagoria of the aurora of Arunachala. The profound secrets of Arunachala are known only to Rishis, Sages, Yogis and true devotees of Arunachaleswara and Apeetha Kuchamba. The jyotirlinga kshetra, which is unique for the manifestation... Continue Reading →
The greatest kshetra – A profound secret
There was once a great desire on the part of Sages in Naimisharanya forest to know which among the many Shiva kshetras on land was the greatest one. Earlier, this indeed was the question which bothered Sage Markandeya who however preferred to seek an answer from Nandikeswara. “Deveswara, Ocean of Kindness!” said Markandeya, addressing Nandikeswara,... Continue Reading →
Nakshatra pujas
It has been repeatedly mentioned in Skandapurana that Arunachaleswara will always have a soft corner for those who undertake pradakshina, thapas and austerities in Arunachala. There will be no experience of physical and mental aliments wherever the linga of Arunachaleswara is worshipped. Offering during 27 Nakshatras Arunachaleswara likes different offerings on each day of... Continue Reading →
Chandrasena
Once the Rishis wanted to know from Suta Maharshi, the repository of the vignettes of Vedanta, the secret about any jyotrilinga kshetra (apart from Arunachala) the knowledge of the greatness of which would promote the quality of bhakta in one. The repository replied that the jyotrilinga of Mahalinga which had the reputation of being the... Continue Reading →
Regulation of worship
Arunachaleswara wishes that utsavams at the temple are celebrated in a fitting manner at least once a month. The shishyas who process the pujas, according to him, must be well-versed in the Vedas, virtuous, gifted, pure in mind and always radiating a pleasant attitude and exuberance. They should be disciplined and display internal and external... Continue Reading →
Worship of Arunachala
“I have already told you”, said Arunachaleswara addressing Sage Gautama, “how I had settled in Bhu-loka as Arunachaleswara. You are very dear to me. Many among the fortunate start worshipping me right from early times by virtue of their “punya” of the previous life. I want you to excel all and, as the foremost among... Continue Reading →
The jyothi of Arunachala
Devi assumed the role of Mahishasuramardini - as Durga and put an end to the life of the mighty rakshasa. Although there was widespread jubilation of a justifiable nature, Parvathi’s calculations and conclusions were different. Addressing Durga, she said, “Vindhyavasini! As a result of your unique accomplishment, my thapas reached its fitting finale without impediments.... Continue Reading →
A visit for visible fruits
“Great thapasvi!”, said Parvati Devi to sage Gautama, I have a feelings of complete fulfillment from what you have told me about the greatness of Arunachala. I am struck by its mystic glory. Namaskarams to you! You will be glad to note that Shiva himself has directed me to carry on the balance of thapas... Continue Reading →
Vedic therapy for the fiery flame
“How did the fiery lingam of Arunachala”, Parvathi asked Gautama Maharshi, “come within reach of all living beings? How did it cool down? How did holy waters originate in Arunachala? Cooled down for universal protection : “As the fiery Arunachaleswara stood and occupied a radius of several miles”, replied Gautama, “all Maharshis did a... Continue Reading →
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