Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha

2012-01-23T14:11:00.004+05:30

Sastru Stotras

Sastha Stotram

Bhootha nadha,, Dayambhudhe,
Bhuvanadhi Nayaka, Pahi maam,
Bhoothalakhila pala, nirmama,
Sarma dayaka, Pahi maam., 1

Lord of all beings, sea of mercy,
Lord of all worlds, please save me,
Ruler of all earth, one who does not
Have selfishness, giver of pleasure, please save me.

Bhoothi poorna, surendra vanditha,
Sadhu rakshaka, pahi maam,
Bhoothi bhooshana, bhoori bhavuka,
Bhootha sevitha pahi maam., 2

He who is the complete pleasure, one saluted by Indra,
He who saves poor people, please save me,
One who uses ash as ornament, one who gives abundant blessing,
One who is served by bhoothas, please save me.

Aadhi nayaka, veda varnitha, nithya,
Nishkala, nirmala, Pahi maam,
Modha dayaka, dheena vathsala,
Deva vandhitha paduka, Pahi maam., 3

Primeval lord, Lord described by Vedas, one who is perennial,
One without stains, one who is clear, please save me,
One gives pleasure, one who likes depressed people,
One whose feet are worshipped by devas, please save me.

Nadha ranjitha, pada sevaka,
Bhaktha pala, krupaalaya, pahi maam,
Kheda bhanjana, manju roopa,
Miranjana prabha, pahi maam., 4

One who loves music, One who takes care
Of devotees serving his feet, temple of mercy, please save me,
One who cuts off sorrow, one who has a pretty mien,
One who shines of truth, please save me

Bhaktha manasa raja hamsa, samastha
Bhaktha vasamkara, pahi maam,
Nithyamuktha, nithantha bandhura,
Bandha mochana, nisthoola, pahi maam., 5

The royal swan in the mind of devotees,
One who can be influenced by all devotees, please save me,
One who is perennially free of ties, Always pleasing,
One who frees from ties, One who is very great, please save me.

Sathya dharma hithangarachyutha,
Sankara,pahi maam,
Nishthoola prabha, veera thunga-,
Thuranga vahana, pahi maam., 6

Lord Vishnu who comforts the mind with
Truth and dharma and Lord Shiva, please save me,
God with unmatched brilliance, one who rides
On the valorous and lofty horse, please save me.

Mara maraka veera nandana,
Deva raja supoojitha, pahi maam,
Saramanasa sarasasana nandaneeya,
Suravana, pahi maam., 7

The valorous son of Him who killed god of love,
God who is worshipped by Indra, please save me,
God with the firm mind, The son of Lord Vishnu,
God who lives in forest, please save me.

Ghora satrava sangha dandana vethra
Hastha, Bhayapaha,pahi maam,
Dheerasan mani kanda, paditha

Mandalarchitha, Pahi maam., 8

God whose hand punishes groups of terrible enemies,
God who removes fear, please save me.
Valorous God who wears a bead on his neck,
God who is worshipped by learned for forty days, save me.

Pahi mam bhava bhanjana Priya,
Manju bhashana pahi maam,
Pahi maam mahishee madhapaha,
Narthana Priya Pahi maam., 9

Please save me, Oh God who likes people who cut off the ties of birth,
Please save me, Oh God who has very sweet pleasing speech.
Please save me, Oh God who stole the pride of Mahishi,
Please save me, Oh God who likes to dance.

Pahi mam paramathmaka bodhaka,
Dharma saasana, pahi maam
Pahi maam nikhilamayardhana,
Bhootha nayaka, Pahi maam., 10

Please save me, Oh God who teaches about the ultimate God,
Please save me, Oh God who is a just ruler,
Please save me, Oh God who is the neighbor for the entire world,
And please save me, Oh God, who is the ;lord of all beings.

Sithi hayamadeeruhya sancharantham,
Sritha jana chinthitha poorane pravrutham,
Hithakaramanisam sadhaam mahantham,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 1

I always salute that God who is very great,
Who travels in a blue coloured horse,
Who fulfills wishes of devotees coming to him,
Who is partial to sages and is always greatest.

Hariharathanu sambhavam supoornam,
Suramuni chitha janaischa vandhyamaanam,
Varasithama vaaranedrayaanam,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 2

I always salute that God who is very great,
Who was made possible by Lord Vishnu and Shiva,
Who is complete, who is saluted by Sidhas and men,
And who travels on a white exuberant elephant.

Vanabhuvi mrugaayaam sada charantham,
Dhanujaa kulathakarodhya thoru kundam,
Kanakamani vichithra bhooshanam tham,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 3

I always salute that God who is very great,
Who always hunts animals that wander in the forest,
Who is the reason for destruction of clans of asuras,
Who is armed with a spear and who is ornamented,
With several ornaments made of very rare gems and gold.

Sarad amala sudhamsu bimba vakthram,
Dharani sudhaakara veedhi hothra nethram,
Sura tharu suma bhooshidhoru gathram,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 4

I always salute that God who is very great,
Whose face is similar to the face of moon of spring,
Who looks at earth with moon like eyes,
And whose limbs are decorated by divine flowers.

Vanabhuvi sanakadhi sevyamaanam,
Manujavarai ranisam prapoojyamaanam,
Jananamruthivihinathaam dhadhaanam,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 5

I always salute that God who is very great,
Who is being praised by sages like Sanaka in the forest,
Who is always worshipped by noble among humans,
And who removes the fears of birth and death.

Pranavatharu vihangamadhi devam ,
Gunamaya samsmruthikananorudhavam,
Ganapathi guha sannudha prabhavam,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 6

I always salute that God who is very great,
Who lives in the tree of Om like a bird,
Who is the fire which destroys the dark forest of birth and death,
And who is the one who is praised by Lord Ganapathi and Subramanya.

Suraparibrooda sevathangri yugmam,
Guru mahivathma drusaam vishuddha thathwam,
Giri guha rathalesu sannivishtam,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 7

I always salute that God who is very great,
Whose two feet are served by all devas including Indra,
Who is the form of purity that is the teacher of all,
And who has positioned himself in the cave in the mountain.

Ajama maranadhipam varishtam,
Gaja ripu prushtakathoru rathna peedam,
Vijitha madana sundaram garishtam,
Sathathamaham Brahadeeswaram prapadhye. 8

I always salute that God who is very great,
Who is the noble God who has won over death,
Who sits on a gem studded seat on a lion,
Who is great and wins in beauty, that God of love.

Ithinathi mathulaam Mahesa soono,
Hrudhi nitharamanu chinthayan swaroopam,
SAdhu pasu sitha sampadhaam nivasam,
Pari padathe brahadheeswara prasadaath. 9

If one reads this story of the son of shiva,
Meditating in the mind his form,
Due to blessings of the great God,
He would be blessed with wealth , sons and home.

Prayer to Lord Ayyappa with twenty stanzas.

Shivaputhram, maha thejam, shiva karya durandaram,
Shivapradham, Shivanandam, Bhoothanatham Namamyaham.
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Jagat priyam, jagat raksham, jagad Ananda dayakam,
Karunabdhim karma daksham, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Jayadhi Shakthi samsevyam, Kalyana phala dhayakam,
Kalyanam, komalangam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Jithendriyam jitha krodham jara marana nasanam,
Jaminyadhi muni dhyeyyam, Bhoothanatham namyaham.
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Ganadhyaksham Ganapathim Pankajasana poojitham,
Bhavanadhi sura sevyam, Bhoothanatham Namamyaham.
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Parvathi nandanam Bhaktha vathsalam, Viswa nayakam,
Gunadhyaksham, Guna nidhim, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Surarchitham Surer vandhyam, sarva Jnana pradhayakam,
Suradhipam, viswa nadham, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Hariharathmajam devam saraschandra nibhananam,
Sanakhadhi muner vandhyam, Bhootanatham namamyaham.
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Narayana sutham devam, gunaa guna niroopakam,
Janma heenam, jithamoham, Bhoothanatham namayaham.
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Danushbanam daradhyaksham Chinmayam, Vishnu nandanam,
Janardana sutham devam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Dharmagnam Dharma niratham Bhaktha papa vinasanam,
Yogeeswara,, Yoga nidhim, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Mahonnatham Mahakayam, dhanu Sasthra parayanam,
Mruthpoojyam Maha devam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Neelambaram neelanibham mohanam moksha dayakam,
Rathna prabham Rema Puthram, Bhoothanatham namamyaham
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Ramantham, Renuka sevyam Remaya parithoshitham,
Vanavasam, vanadhyaksham, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Bhashakam, Bhashya sasthragnam, neethi palam, niradhipam,
Marthandam, Manju kesam, Sri Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Kailasa vasa varadam, Saranagatha palakam,
Sundaram. Sumukham, vandhyam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Adhithya roopam Aaphagnam, Sathya dharma parayanam,
Devadhi devam Daivagnam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Yuvarajam Yogi varyam, Dhanavaanaam vinasanam,
Guha vasam, guruvaram, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Garudadhri vasam Gambheeram Vandaneeyam Vadhanyakam,
Bala nethra sutham devam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Ganesa poojyam bhoodesam, Lakshmi vandhyam vara priyam,
Vithesa vipinaa vasam, Bhoothanatham namamyaham.
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Lord Ayyappa is the leader of the Bhoothas of Lord Shiva and hence he is worshipped as Bhoothanatha. In this prayer, he is worshipped as the leader of Bhoothas who is with his wives, Poorna and Pushkala.
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Pandya Bhoopatheendra poorva punya mohanaa kruthe,
Panditharchithangri pundareeka paavanaa kruthe,
Poorna chandra thunda vethra danda veerya varidhe,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala,
Who is pretty result of the good things done by the great Pandya king,
Who is made holy by the constant worship of learned people,
And who is the ocean of valour emanating from he who blessed the moon who was punished.
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Aadhi shankarachyutha priyathma sambhava prabho,
Aadhi bhootha nadha sadhu bhaktha chinditha pradha,
Bhoothi bhoosha Veda gosha parithosha saswatha,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala,
Who is son of Lord Shiva who was worshipped by Adhi Shankara,
Who is the lord of all beings who is thoughtful of his poor devotees,
And who is always surrounded by the chanting of Vedas by saints anointed with ash.
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Pancha bana koti komalakruthe, krupa nidhe,
Pancha gavya payasanna panakaadhi modhaka,
Pancha bhootha sanchaya prapancha bhootha palaka,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who is the pretty lord with crores of arrows, who is the treasure of mercy,
Who likes pancha gavya, payasa, panaka and Modhaka,
And who takes care of everything in the universe made my mixture of Pancha Bhoothas.
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Chandra Surya veethi hothra nethra nethra mohana,
Sandhra Sundara smithardhra kesareendra vahana,
Indra vandhaneya pada, sadu vrunda jeevana,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who appears pretty to the Lord having Sun and moon as his eyes,
Who is extremely pretty with his smile and rides on the king of animals,
And whose feet is worshipped by Indra and is the life of crowds of saints,
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Veera bahu varnaneeya veerya sourya varidhe,
Varijasanadhi deva vandhya sunarakruthe,
Varanendra vaji simha vaha bhaktha sevadhe,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala,
Whose valour and courage is described by the great Veera Bahu,
Whose pretty form is worshipped by Lord Brahma and other Devas,
And who rides on the king of elephants and also lion and is pleased with his devotees.
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Athyudhaara bhaktha chitha ranga narthana prabho,
Nithya shuddha nirmalaadwitheeya dharma paalaka,
Sathya roopa, mukthi roopa, Sarva devathathmaka,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who is very charitable and is the lord who dances on the mind of his devotees
Who is perennially clean, second to none in cleanliness and looks after Dharma,
And who is personification of truth and salvation and is the friend of all devas.
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Samagana lola santhi sheela Dharma palaka,
Soma sundarasya sadhu poojaneeya paduka,
Sama dhana bhedha danda , sasthra neethi bhodhaka,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who likes singing of Sama Veda, who is by nature peaceful and looks after Dharma,
Whose feet is worshipped by the devotees of the pretty Shiva adorned with moon,
And who teaches the justice of using Sama, Dhana, Bedha and Danda.
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Suprasanna deva deva, sad gathi pradhayaka,
Chith prakasa, dharma pala, sarva bhootha nayaka,
Suprasidha pancha shaila sanniketha narthaka,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who is the god of gods who is cheerful , who grants salvation,
Who has divine splendour, looks after Dharma and lord of all beings,
And who dances in the temple over the famous five mountains.
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Soola chapa Bana Gadga Vajra Shakthi Shobhitha,
Bala soorya koti basuranga Bhootha sevitha,
Kala chakra sampruvarthi kalpana samanvitha,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
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Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who shines armed with spear, bow, arrows, sword and Diamond Shakthi,
Whose form is as bright as crores of rising suns and is served by Bhoothas,
And who just by his thought makes the wheels of the time roll.
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Adbuthathma bodha sath sanathanopadesaka,
Budh budho pamaprapancha vibhrama prakasaka,
Sapradha pragalbachith, prakasa divya desika,
Poorna pushkala sametha Bhootha nadha Pahi maam.
===================================================
Please save me oh Lord of all beings who is with Poorna and Pushkala
Who teaches the perennial truth of the existence of the wonderful truth of soul,
Who greatly shines divinely in the entire world from every dust and dust,
Who is the divine teacher who shows the correct way to attain salvation.
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Namaskara Slokam

· Loka Veeram Maha poojyam,
Sarava raksha karam Vibhum,
Parvathi hrudayanandam,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.,
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I salute that God Sastha,
Who is the hero of the world,
Who is greatly noble,
Who is the lord protecting everyone,
And who gives happiness to the heart of Parvathi.
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Vipra poojyam, Viswa Vandhyam,
Vishnu Shambho priyam sutham,
Kshipra prasada niratham,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.
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I salute that God Sastha,
Who is being worshipped by Brahmins,
Who is saluted by the universe,
Who is the darling son of Vishnu and Shiva,
And who is becomes pleased very quickly.
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Matha mathanga gamanam,
Karunyamrutha pooritham,
Sarva vigna haram devam,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.
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I salute that God Sastha,
Who walks like a vigorous elephant,
Who is filled with nectar of mercy,
And who is the God who removes all obstacles.
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Asmad kuleshwaram devam,
Asmad Shathru vinasanam,
Asmad ishta pradha daram,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.
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· I salute that God Sastha,
Who is the god of my family,
Who destroys my enemies,
And who fulfills all my wishes.
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Pandyesha vamsa thilakam,
Kerale Keli vigraham,
Artha thrana param devam,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.
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I salute that God Sastha,
Who is the greatest of the clan of Pandyas,
Who is the playful god of Kerala,
And who is the God who looks after the oppressed.
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Traymbaka puradheesam,
Ganadhipa Samanvitham,
Gajaroodam aham Vande,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.
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I salute that God Sastha,
Who rides on an elephant,
Who is the king of Tryambaka,
And who is near to Lord Ganesa.
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Siva veerya samud bhootham,
Sreenivasa thanudbhavam,
Siki vahanujam Vande,
Sastharam pranamamyaham.
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I salute that God Sastha,
Who is the personification of power of Shiva,
Who was born out of the body of Sreenivasa,
And who is the brother of him who rides the peacock.
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Yasya Danwantharir matha,
Pitha devo Maheswara,
Tham Sastharamaham vande,
Maha Roga nivaranam.
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I salute that Sastha,
Whose mother is Dhanwanthari,
Whose father is Lord Shiva,
And who cures all diseases.
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Bhoothanatha, sadananda,
Sarva bhootha daya para,
Raksha raksha maha baho,
Sasthre thubham namo nama.
====================================================
Salutations and salutations to that Sastha,
Who is the lord of all beings,
Who is perennially ever happy,
Who shows mercy towards all beings,
And I pray,” Protect me great hero.”
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Ashyama komala vishala thanum Vichithram,
Vasoavasana arunothphala dama hastham,
Uthunga rathna magudam, kutilagra kesam,
Sastharamishta varadam saranam prapadhye
====================================================
I seek the protection of Sastha who loves his devotees,
Who has the peculiar pretty black body colour,
Who lives till the end of the world,
Who has dawn like hands which resemble lightning
Who has tall crown made of costly gems,
And Who has curly and pretty hair.
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Ayyappan Thaalaattu

· HARIHARASANAM: AYAPPAN THAALAATTU
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Harivarasanam Viswamohanam
Haridadhiswaram Aaradhyapadhukam
Arivimardhanam Nithyanarthanam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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Repository of Hari’s boons,Enchanter of universe,
Essence of Hari’s grace,He whose holy feet is worshipped,He who kills enemies of good thought,He who daily dances the cosmic dance,
Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.My refuge is in you Ayyappa,
My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Saranakirtanam Bakhtamanasam
Bharanalolupam Narthanalasam
Arunabhasuram Bhoothanayakam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He who likes song of refuge,He who is in the mind of devotees,
He who is the great ruler,He who loves to dance,
He who shines like the rising sun,He who is king of all beings,
Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.
My refuge is in you Ayyappa,My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Pranayasathyakam Praananayakam
Pranathakalpakam Suprabhanjitham
Pranavamanidram Keerthanapriyam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He whose soul is truth,He who is the darling of all souls,
He who created universe,He who shines with a glittering Halo,
He who is the temple of “OM”,He who loves songs,
Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.
My refuge is in you Ayyappa,My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Thuragavahanam Sundarananam
Varagadhayudham Vedavavarnitham
Gurukrupakaram Keerthanapriyam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He who rides a horse,He who has a pretty face,
He who has the blessed mace as weapon,He who bestows grace like a teacher,
He who loves songs,Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.
My refuge is in you Ayyappa,My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Tribuvanarchitam Devathathmakam
Trinayanam Prabhum Divyadeshikam
Tridashapoojitham Chinthithapradam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He who is worshiped by the three worlds,He who is the soul of all gods,
He who is the lord of Shiva,He who is worshipped by devas,
He who is who is worshipped three times a day,
He whose thought is fulfilling,Son of Hari and Hara,
I take refuge in thee God.My refuge is in you Ayyappa,My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Bhavabhayapaham Bhavukavaham
Bhuvanamohanam Bhoothibhooshanam
Dhavalavahanam Divyavaranam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He who destroys fear,He who brings prosperity,He who is enchanter of universe,
He who wears holy ash as ornament,He who rides a white elephant,
Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.My refuge is in you Ayyappa,
My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Kalamrudusmitham Sundarananam
Kalabhakomalam Gathramohanam
Kalabhakesari Vajivahanam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He who blesses with enchanting smile,He who has is very pretty,
He who is adorned by sandal paste,He who has a pretty mien,
He who is a like a lion to the elephants,He who rides on a tiger,
Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.
My refuge is in you Ayyappa,My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Srithajanapriyam Chinthithapradam
Sruthivibhushanam Sadhujeevanam
Sruthimanoharam Geethalalasam
Hariharathmajam Devamashraye
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
Saranam Ayyappa Swamy Saranam Ayyappa
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He who is dear to his devotees,He who fulfills wishes,He who is praised by Vedas,
He who blesses life of ascetics,He who is the essence of Vedas,
He who enjoys divine music,Son of Hari and Hara,I take refuge in thee God.
My refuge is in you Ayyappa,My refuge is in you Ayyappa.
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Om Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa.

2012-01-23T14:09:00.000+05:30

Dharma Sastru Stotra

Guru Namaskarams.....Om Gurubyo Namaha:

Dharma Shasthru Ashraya Dasakam

Surasuradhitha Divya padukam,
Characharantha sthitha Bhoota nayakam,
Virajamana nanamadhi desikam,
Varabhayalankrutha panimasraye. 1

I seek protection with the hand that protects and blesses,
Of the God whose divine feet is worshipped by devas and asuras,
Of the leader of all beings who is in moving and non moving things,
Of the teacher who shines in his divine powers.

Varasanastham . mani kanta mujwalam,
Karambhujo patha vibhoothi bhooshanam,
Smarayuthakara mudhara vigraham,
Smarami SAstharam anadha rakshakam. 2

I meditate on Sastha who protects the orphans,
Who sits on the blessed seat , who shines with a gem on his neck,
Who shines with the sacred ash on his lotus like arms,
And who is the generous one who can arm himself just by thought.

Smaradhi Sangeetha rasanuvarthanam,
Swaraja kolahala divya keerthanm,
Dhara dharendropari nithya narthanam,
Kiratha moorthim kalaye mahaddhanam. 3

I meditate on the sweet meaning of music,
Who is the divine music singing about himself,
Who dances much above the earth,
Who is the hunter and the sweet divine treasure.

Niramayananda dhaya payonnidhim,
Parathparam pavana bhaktha sevadhim,
Radhi vichedhana vaidyuthakruthim,
Hareesa bhagyathmaja masrayamyaham. 4

I seek protection by the lucky son of Vishnu and Shiva,
Who is the spotless nectar like wealth of mercy,
Who is divine and saves his true devotees,
Who is like a streak of lightning which is pleasing.

Hareendra mathanga Thurangamasanam,
Harendra bhasmasana sankarathmakam,
Kireeta harangadha kankanojwalam,
Purathanam bhoothapathim bhajamyaham. 5

I sing about the ancient Lord of Bhoothas,
Who sits on a horse in the hill in the forest,
Who is with Vishnu , Indra and Lord Shiva,
And wears a shining crown and a necklace made of gold.

Varapradham viswa vaseekruthyakrutheem,
Sura pradhanam , SAbari gireeswaram,
Uruprabham , koti divakara prabham,
Gurum bhajeham kula daivatham Sadaa. 6

I worship my clan deity who is my teacher,
Who gives boons, who has a very attractive form,
Who is the chief of devas, Who is the lord of Sabari mountain,
Who is greatly shining , and shining like billions of suns.

AAranya sardhoola mrugadhi modhakam,
Aaranya varnam , jadaeka nayakam,
Tharunya samath nilayam sanathanam,
Karunya moorthim , kalaye divanisam. 7

I salute day and night the picture of mercy,
Who is liked by forest tigers and other animals,
Who is of the colour of forest, The only lord of the world.
Who is the seat of the wealth of youth and beginning less.

Durantha thapa thraya papa mochakam,
Nirantharananda gathi pradhayakam,
Param thapam pandyanyapala balakam,
Chiranthanam bhoothapathim thamasraye. 8

I surrender to the Lord of Bhoothas, who is above thought,
Who frees you from three types of sufferings, sin and calamities,
Who grants you the state of permanent joy,

Who is divine, who meditates and is the son of Pandya king.

Varishtameesam Sabarari gireswaro,
Varishtam ishta padam , ishta daivatham,
Arishta dush graham santhidham,
Garishta mashta pada vethram aashraye. 9

I surrender to the heavy cane bearing God,
Who is greatest and the Lord of Sabari mountain,
Who is occupies the most desired position,
Who is the most liked God , and
Calms down Asuras and effect of badly positioned bad planets.

Saroja sankhadhi gadhaa virajitham,
Karambhujaaneka maho jwalayudham,
Sirastha malyam Shikhi pincha sekharam,
Purasthitham Bhoothapathim Samasraye. 10

I surrender to him who is in a town and a lord of Bhoothas,
Who shines along with the lotus , conch and the mace,
Who has several shining weapons in his lotus like hands,
And who wears a garland and peacock feather in his head.

Fw: Pongal wishes from Ganesh.-Your BEST WISHES NOW ON our site www.nanganallurmanigandasabha.com

2012-01-16T22:48:00.000+05:30

Dear All,

My best wishes for all of U and May this Thai holy day brings lot of good opportunities,success and rejoice in Ur family.

I pray to the GOD for an enlightment in ur life. Peace and Happiness will always stay with U by God's Grace and best wishes for all my Nanganallur manikanda sabha members and namaskarams to the Lotus Feet of my Guruswamy and Ganesan swamy. Om Swamiye Sarnam Ayyappa......

With best Wishes.....

Thanks and Regards,

S.Vardhini Ganesh
+919600007646

Yatra Curcular-Jan 2012

2011-12-23T17:32:00.000+05:30

Date : 19.12.2011

SREE GURUBYO NAMAHA

SATHGURUNATHARE SARANAM AYYAPPA

SWAMIYE SARANAM AYYAPPA

IRUMUDI on 08-01-2012 at GURUVAYURAPPAN TEMPLE MANDAPAM at 06.30 A.M.

Irumudi will start at 0630 hrs and we hope to end it by 1145 hrs. Others, those who do not come on time shall have the same only at PAMBA. Irumudi bag and Muthirai bags should be brought completely washed and applied with Sandanam and kumkumam. Also ensure that threads are available in the Irumudi & Muthirai bags.

All should wear Wabar kattu on the head when having Irumudi.

What to bring? Other than your requirements please bring one measure of rice, camphor pkt, candle, and a torch with fresh cells. A mug, tumbler, and woolen wears is necessary for your use.

Kindly ensure that you are not carrying your MOBILE PHONE during Yatra.

Though efforts are made for providing reasonable accommodation, travel, and other necessities within our capacity and capability based on the availability, all should be prepared to fit within whatever is available, possible and feasible and not claim any special privileges.

Strict discipline shall be maintained and all should respect elders, ladies, and also volunteers.

Volunteers are performing selfless service for Ayyappas though they participate and take part in all financial commitments. All able bodied should be prepared to volunteer their services without being told and group formation is for co-ordination only and not meant for groupism.

Please avoid unwanted talks, gossips, politics and any controversial subject and maintain unity, co-operation and oneness. This advise is meant for fruitful, purposeful and trouble-free yatra and for a good darshan and fulfillment of our LAKSHYAM - SABARI YATRA.

All should become life members, and only members will be entertained in future.

Sd/-

Secretary

Regards

V Ganesan

9940400644

pooja on 25/12/2011

2011-12-23T16:54:00.001+05:30

Invitation from Prakash Swami for Pooja at his residence:-

Dear Ayyappa Devotees

Please attend the pooja on 25/12/2011 SUNDAY Evening 6.00 P.M at my residence in the following address

S. Prakash,
No. 19, III Main Road,
C6, Sri Sakthi Apartments,
Nanganallur,
Chennai 600 061.

Phone 044-22248816, 9382844077

Regards

S. Prakash,
P. Rohith and P. Hemant

2011-12-21T17:55:00.000+05:30

Russian Bhaktas SWAMIYE SARANAM AYYAPPA

Petukhova alias Induchoodan from St. Petersburg wants to construct a temple devoted to Lord Ayyappa on his home ground.

Petukhova, who became a Hindu and changed his name to Induchoodan (meaning Lord Siva), has been learning Hindu ideology, the Vedas, tantra vidya, kalari payattu and ayurveda for the last 20 years. He also practices ayurveda in St. Petersburg.

Climbing the holy steps for the seventh time, Induchoodan told Deccan Chronicle, “Life is transformed to another level after each climb. Here they are all are swamis, no differences in dress or mind. This has to be followed everywhere.”

“My son Eliya also accompanied me to Sabarimala this time. I took him along with me only after he attained perfection in vrutha and other ritual practices to be followed. The team tied their Irumudi in Pachalam, near Ernakulam."

"The team usually trekked via the forest route but we came through Pamba this time because we were only four of us and the forest route is filled with pilgrims,’’ Petukhova added.

Evegny alias Vivek a freelance system analyst who is a frequent visitor to the Vedic Academy at Idukki has come to have Ayyappa darshan for the second time.

“We have observed 41 days of strict vrutha. We walk barefoot wherever we go,” said Vivek.

Yanina who changed her name to Devayani, is a retired engineer from Moscow. This 70-year-old managed to climb the hill though her legs were covered with bandages. She said that the visit gave her an experience with a difference.llur Maniganda Sabha

One more interesting interpretation of "The Holy 18 steps" in Sabarimala

2011-12-20T23:56:00.001+05:30

Pathinettampadi.

Pathinettupadi (18 divine steps) to the sanctum sanctorium is divine in all aspects. The first three steps depict "Bhoomi, Agni, Vayoo & Akash", 6 to 9 steps for Karmendriya, 10 to 15 for Jhanandriya, 16th for mind 17th Intelligence and 18th Jeevathma Bhava. Those who cross all these steps are believed to achieve "Punyadarshan".

Step 1 Naga Yakshi

Nagayakshi is one of the paripara devatas of Sastha and she is stationed at many of his temples like Kulathupuzhai, Achan kovil etc Onnam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 2 Mahisha Mardhini

Mahishamardhini is Durga Swaroopini an infacther advent took place before Swami's Manikanta incarnation and she annihilated Mahisha and Manikanta destroyed his Sister Mahishi Rendam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 3 Annapoorna

Sastha is Annadhana Prabhu and is very happy in the pious deed of feeding all his devotees always. A Sastha devotee is never in want of food throughout his life time. Moonam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 4 Kaali

Kali is the Goddess of time and change representing both the creative and destructive aspects of Nature. She helps those who strive for knowledge of self. Naalam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 5 Krishna Kaali

Krishna Kali is one such deity with whom devotees have a very loving and intimate bond, in spite of her fearful appearance. She is known for destroying ignorance. Ancham Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 6 Shakti Bairavi

Shakti Bhairavi is the ugra swaroopini of Shakti and she is known more to the devotees as the famous Yakshi who is seated in the court of Lord Sastha Aaraam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 7 Kaarthaveeryarjuna

Kaartha Veeryaarjuna is an Amsha of Sudharshana Chakra. He got Satha Upasana from his Guru Datta and obtained many great powers and rose to a level of God Ezhaam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 8 Krishnaabhan

Krishnabhan is more popularly known as Karuppan. He is the cheif of all the Bhootaganas of Sastha's Bhootha sena. He is seen in almost every Sastha temple in Tamilnadu and few age old temples of Kerala. Ettam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 9 Hidimba

Hidimba is one of the chief warrior but also the preceptor born in the clan of Asuras. He is seated as the guardian deity of the ninth step. Onpadham Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 10 Vethala

Vethala is considered to be the head of Ghost and Goblins and in an amsha of Bhairava. Sastha is Bhoothanatha who controls these Ghosts and hence Vethala is one among his parivara. Pathaam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 11 Naagaraja

Nagaraja is the king of the Serpants. In general Anantha is considered to be the King of the Naga Kingdom and he is stationed at the eleventh step here to destroy the Sarpa doshas of the devotees Pathinonnam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 12 Renuka

Renuka is the Mother of Parasurama who was killed and later resurrected by Parasurama. After the death of Jamadagni, Revana Siddha gave her Sasthru Deeksha at Padavedu and she is stationed here. Pantrendam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 13 Swapna Varahi

Swapna Varahi is a form of Vartali who gets pleased with the devotees and comes and guides the devotees through dreams. Pathimoonam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 14 Pratyangira

Pratyangira is Ugra Swaroopini who is very much forceful in action and her primary duty is to protect the upasakas of Para Devata Pathinalam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 15 Bhooma Devi

Bhoomadevi is the consort of the Varaha Moorthi. She is Dharma Swaroopini and represents Kshama- forgiveness. Holding a paddy sheaf in her hand, She also indicates prosperity Pathinancham Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 16 Aghora

The following there are Astra Devatas. Ever ready for prayoga against the evil. Agora is one of the Astra of Shiva which he created to destroy the Tripurasuras. It can grants worldly good and salvation to the soul. Pathinaram Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 17 Pashupatha

Pashupata is Shiva's personal asta and a most forceful one. It can even be discharged by eyes, words or mind. Its capable of destroying anything and can even stop creation. Pathinezham Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

Step 18 Mrutyunjaya

Mrutyunjaya is yet another Astra which gives eternal state to the aspirant. This is not just to live a healthy life and get rid of ailments. This conquers mrutyu the permanent state of existence; Thats knowing the self; being self; Thats Thathwamasi. Pathinettam Thruppadiye Sharanam Ayyappa

2011-12-20T23:32:00.002+05:30

From the beginning of the Karthik month and through Mazgahi upto Makara sankrama you can hear this chant/Accosting/Greeting rending the air almost every where (Now probably all over the world).

"SWAMIYE SARANAM AYYAPPA" or just "SWAMIYE SARANAM"

THE esoteric meaning/extraction could have followed from the famous words of "Bhagwad Geetha" where Lord Krishna states-

sarva-dharman parityajya
mam ekam saranam vraja
aham tvam sarva-papebhyo
moksayisyami ma sucah

Simply to be read as one who surrenders unto me I will offer him moksha without fail"

All bhakthas who wear Mala and keep the austerities for the sabarimala Pilgrimage are but the swaroopa of Sri Ayyappan and hence every time one Ayyappan comes across another he salutes the other "Swamiye Saranam" without any ego and with sublime love of surrender to Sri Ayyappan.

Our Beloved Guruswamy has said several times that the Sabari Vratham and Yatra have brought humility to even the most gross human beings and we see many living examples in our day to day lives today.

The Automan becomes "AUTO SWAMY" the Electician from EB becomes EB SWAMY and so on and so forth. Even some one who is crass in his addressing others during normal time calls even others(who may not be an Ayyapan) as Swamy by force of habit by keeping these Austerities. "SWAMIYE SARANAM AYYAPPA has truly become the Universal chant of Brother Hood as it bring thoughts of humility and equality between all classes of people.

LET US FOREVER CHANT " SWAMIYE SARANAM AYYAPPA"

-Observations from "POOJYA GURUSWAMY's SAYINGS

2011-12-15T19:47:00.001+05:30

Natures Homage to Ayyappan in Ponnambalamedu

2011-12-12T17:29:00.000+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha

Dear Swami's

I have been able to get our domain on google apps and hence all important functionaries will have email id's
xxx@nanganallurmanigandasabha.com

I would like to know whether we should have position based email id's or name based email id's.

Please give me your suggestions. I will wait for another 2 days before enabling the same as per your suggestions.

I will also try and upload a calendar with all important events and other details.

Srikanth

2011-11-29T16:06:00.002+05:30

Posted

Kirathashtakam-Sanskrit (Click to go there directly)

in PDF form. You can also down load the same from our google sites.

This Stotra is favourite of Guruswamy and many a times he has ordained reading of the same same to ward of evil times.

2011-11-29T14:04:00.000+05:30

Some of our Guruswamy's pearls of wisdom:-
Series 1-01
The Cornerstone of Ayyappa vrutham i.e. austerities is Brahmacharya i.e. Celibacy (during the period of the vrutham). The Brahmacharya should be trifold Manasa, Vacha and karma.

2011-11-29T13:57:00.002+05:30

Swamiye Saranam,

There are still a few Pooja Slots free. Give yourself and your family a spiritual experience of a lifetime by conducting a pooja at your home. Contact Ganesan NOW.

2011-11-26T18:01:00.002+05:30

Hi Ayyappas,
We have been on twitter for some time now but no follower's however with modern technology of mobile posting etc i have now created the nms facebook account.

Please note that the facebook account is nanaganallur manigandasabha.

the twitter account is nmsrajan.

Hope you guys catch up and start posting, sharing etc.

S.Rajan

Fw: POOJA LIST - 21.11.11

2011-11-26T16:32:00.001+05:30

Sent: Wednesday, November 23, 2011 10:40 AM

Subject: Re: POOJA LIST - 21.11.11

Dear Ganeshan

Thanks for the list.

I just wanted to inform all that the pooja will take place in my new residence at Kotturpuram.

The address is Elango,No.3,Thiruvalluar Nagar 2nd street,Kottur,Chennai -600085.

The location is next to Kottur Gardens.It is next left to Durai Murugan,s house.

Any doubt please call me at 98409996990.Pooja is at 6.30 pm onwars Saturday, December 3rd.All are welcome.

Regards

Illango

On Mon, Nov 21, 2011 at 1:29 PM, ganesan venkatraman <vganesan1959@yahoo.com> wrote:

Regards

V Ganesan

9940400644

2011-11-16T15:56:00.003+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha
Book online

To begin with, devotees will have to do their online booking at the Kerala police website but as the season begins, the TDB will take charge of the e-queue system.

Thanks : Deccan Chronicle, The Hindu
http://sabarimala.keralapolice.gov.in/en/q-coupon.html

2011-03-11T15:01:00.004+05:30

Nava Chandi Homam

As Nava Chandi Homam is being organised by our Gurusamy from 4.4.11 to 12.4.11 at SRI PADAVETTAMMAN KOIL, NANGANALLUR, notice mentioning the details is posted in the side panel..

Pl get in touch with Gurusamy (22672256) / Mr L.S. Davey (9445671336) for further details.

Please convey this to our Sabha Members who is not having E.Mail ID.

For donation/contribution please contact Gurusamy/Mr L.S. Davey.

Regards

V Ganesan

9940400644

2011-03-09T15:25:00.002+05:30

Sabari Yatra May 2011

The Sabari Yatra will start from Nanganallur on May 14th 2011.

2011-01-14T20:38:00.000+05:30

Hi,

I came across this interesting website which incidentally is a music site but has some very nice Ayyappan Songs.

Please do visit the same. This website is associated with Madhu Balakrishnan the singer of "Pichai Pathiram" of Naan Kaduval.

The url: http://www.acethetik.com/

2010-12-14T16:55:00.000+05:30

Pooja List as on 14.12.2010

2010-12-07T11:55:00.000+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha Pooja List as on 07/12/2010

2010-12-07T09:58:00.002+05:30

An excellent website describing the "Peria Paathai"

Sabarimalai Peruvazhi

2010-12-03T19:01:00.001+05:30

Appreciation from a pilgrim who came to Sabarimala in our Group

Appreciation for NMS HATS OFF TO NANGANALLUR MANIKANDA SABHA

2010-12-03T13:32:00.004+05:30

AYYAPPAN SARANAM:MASCULINITY AND THE SABARIMALA PILGRIMAGE IN KERALA

Filippo Osella & Caroline Osella

University of Sussex SOAS
Click Here to read ------->Research Paper on Ayyappa Vrathum

2010-12-03T10:10:00.000+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha Pooja List 2010 as 02.12.2010

2010-11-30T17:45:00.001+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha-Pooja List as on 31.11.2010

2010-11-25T08:18:00.000+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha-Pooja List 2010-2011 updated as on 24/11/2010

2010-11-23T15:56:00.004+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha-Pooja List 2010-2011

2010-09-18T07:47:00.000+05:30

SABARI YATRA 2011

If any one desires to pay the amount the same can be deposited to my bank account also.

Name: V. GANESAN
BANK : ICICI BANK , TEYNAMPET BRANCH
SB A/C NO: 000101547143
IFSC CODE : ICIC0000001

Once you deposit the amount, pl inform me the same.

Regards
V Ganesan
Mobile: 9940400644

2010-08-07T13:24:00.002+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha

Announcement Yatra 2011

People desirous of making Sabari Yatra in Jan 2011 please pay advance of Rs 1000/- before 30.09.2010.

Contact V.Ganesan for futher details: +919940400644

2010-07-07T10:10:00.000+05:30

Rare Ayyappa Pictures-2

2010-07-07T10:06:00.001+05:30

Rare Ayyappa Pictures

2010-07-07T09:12:00.000+05:30

Virschikam-An Interesting Article On Ayyappa with rare pictures (will be posted separately)

Its that time of the year when people across all walks of life shed their differences joined by the common goal of darshanam of Swami Ayyappa at Sabarimala. Vrischika masam is here and the 41-day Mandala Puja has begun.

I have been to the place only for 5 times and every time I come back , there is a pull to go back once more. One cant seem to have enough. For me it’s the feeling that one gets when u climb the 18 holy steps that’s the most priceless moment, much more than seeing the deity or doing abhishekam. There are two places which gives that feeling for me that is…the other one is taking the dip in Ganga at Haridwar amongst the millions of devotees. For those few moments all are united by one common cause!.

All major religions have a fasting/vrutham period be it among Hindus , Christians or Muslims, and if I am not mistaken there is 41days in all of them, which goes on to show how similar we all are. Even if the actual numbers are different, the idea behind it is same- to sacrifice something that u like/love for a period, bringing amazing control & will power to the mind. I take the vrutham in whatever ways I can each year although I have not been able to visit Sabarimala every year. The body and mind feels cleansed at the end of it. There is a science in all what our religions asks us to do I guess. However science would be taken with pinch of salt, while spirituality is often taken to easily!.

TATVAMASI - I AM THAT I AM - "Saranam Ayyappa"

Lord Ayyappa(Dharmasastha), the presiding deity of Sabari Hills is worshipped by millions of devotees around the globe. A visit to Sabarimala brings to the devotees' contentment, spiritual upliftment, prosperity and fulfillment of desires and wishes. The months of Kaartika / Vrishchika, Maargazhi / Dhanu (15 Nov - 15 Jan) are most auspicious for Sabarimala pilgrimage.
Sabarimala (Mount Sabari - about 3000 feet above sea level) is the most favourite and significant temple in Kerala. Pilgrimage to this temple symbolises the journey to heaven. The spiritual journey to Sabarimala is difficult and adventurous. The pilgrims observe severe austerities, wearing rudraksha or tulsi beads strings in the neck and trek up the forest to reach the temple. The feeling of delight and spiritual elevation one gets when devotees have the view of the deity is remarkable and significant. The magnetic charm is so high, it makes any devotee, who undertakes the pilgrimage once, to revisit the shrine every year in quest of spiritual solace.

Sabarimala temple is open to all, irrespective of caste, creed, religion, social status or nationality. The pilgrims undergo 41 days of fast to cleanse the mind. He carries on his head, the holy ghee for the Lord's Abisheka filled in coconut in 'Irumudi'(two compartment cloth bag). The temple is open only to males. Females who visit the shrine should be beyond 50 years or below 10 years of age. This is because the Lord is considered as a Yogi in Sabarimala. The male pilgrims are called 'Ayyappan' and the female pilgrims are called 'Malikappuram'. The shrine is open only during specific period in a year. It is open from Mid- November to Mid-January and for first five days of every Malayalam month.
The secular aspect of the temple is best exemplified by the existence of the "Vavar Nada" in honour of a Muslim saint at the close proximity to the main temple at Sabarimala by the side of Holy 'Pathinettampadi'. The pilgrims worship in this place also. The pilgrims on their sojourn to Sabarimala worship at Erumeli Sree Dharma Sastha Temple and conduct 'Petta Thullal'. They also worship in the mosque at Erumeli as a part of their pilgrimage. Ayyappa cult gives much importance for the secularism and communal harmony and has turn out to be a model for the whole world. Another significant aspect of the pilgrimage is that all the pilgrims whether rich or poor, learned or illiterate holding position or not master or servant are all equal before Lord Ayyappa and all address each other as Ayyappa.

Sree Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala is situated within the Reserve Forest area in Perinad village at Ranni Taluk in Pathanamthitta District in Kerala. The temple is located in a valley surrounded by dense forest hills on all sides. Precisely, Sabarimala is situated in the midst of 18 hills, in a bowl of land blessed with a small rivulet named 'Urakuzhi Theertham'. The area is in the hilly regions east of Kerala bordering Tamilnadu. Elevation above mean sea level is approximately 1260 Metres/4135 Ft. Temples existed in each of the hills surrounding Sabarimala. While functional (and intact temples) exist at many places in surrounding areas like Nilackal, Kalaketi, Inchiparakotta and Karimala, remnants of old temples are visible in the remaining hills.
Lord Sastha, the son of Vishnu and Shiva aka Hariharaputra, is worshipped in a number of shrines across Kerala - at Kulathupuzha where he is worshipped as a child(Balasastha); at Aryankavu as an young man(Yuvasastha); at Achankovil in conjunction with his consorts - Pushkala and Poorna; and at Sabarimala as an ascetic, a celibate meditating in solitude for the benefit of all mankind(Dharmasastha). Ayyappa is the divine incarnation of Dharmasastha and the word Ayyappa is derived from two words - 'Ayya', which stands for Vishnu and 'Appa' for Shiva.

LEGENDS:

Story 1:

Once upon a time, the land around the foothills of Himalayas was ruled by demon kings Sthulakarnan and his brother Sumukan.

Sthulakarnan was by nature very cruel and a cannibal, who derived a lot of pleasure in eating the Brahmins and sages who lived in and around the Himalayas. Sthulakarnan had a wife, Sugandini, who was very pious and kind. She was very devoted to Lord Shiva. In due course, Sthulakarnan's wife conceived.

Once when Sthulakarnan was on a hunting expedition, he came across a group of young children who were playing in the field. Sthulakarnan could not resist the temptation of wanting to eat those children. He kidnapped one of the children who was playing and thought to himself that instead of him eating the child, if he could coerce his wife to eat this child, it would make his child in the womb stronger.

However his wife refused and to the contrary requested him to let the child free. In the meanwhile, the child's father who was a sage got to know of his son's plight through his intuition and came to the palace of King Sthulakarnan.

On reaching the palace of King Sthulakarnan, the sage requested him to let go of his child. As the king refused to let the child go, the sage, holding a handful of sacred ash, prayed to Lord Shiva to kill Sthulakarnan and set his child free. The sage then blew the sacred ash towards Sthulakarnan. The sacred ash transformed itself into an arrow and cut Sthulakarnan's head. The saint's child was released and they left to their home.

Sthulakarnan's brother, Sumukan, then took over the responsibility of ruling the kingdom. In due course, Sugandini, Sthulakarnan's wife gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. He was named Kalikeyan.

Kalikeyan grew up to be a brave lad. When he was of age to rule the kingdom, he got to know about the details of his father's death. Angered by the fact that the saint through his magic killed his father and these saints were protected by the Demi-gods, Kalikeyan vowed to strengthen himself and vanquish the saints and the demi-gods. To achieve this end, Kalikeyan went to the forest for penance.

At this time, the North western part of India was being ruled by a demon King Ugraveeryan. There was a popular temple devoted to Goddess Kali in his kingdom. Once while on a hunting expedition, Ugraveeryan came close to the temple of Goddess Kali and wished to visit the temple.

Once he reached the temple, he discovered that a Magician from south of India, through the use of magic, was trying to forcefully take the Goddess to his place, much against her wish. Ugraveeryan got extremely angry and fought with the magician and won over him. According to the advice of Goddess Kali, Ugraveeryan spared the life of the magician, but broke his teeth so that he would never be able to chant the mantras properly and cut his arms to avoid him from being able to do any pooja.

Pleased with the valour of the King, Goddess Kali blessed the king with such valour and success that no other king in heaven or earth will be able to win over him and only a son born to Lord Shiva will be able to vanquish him.

The central part of India was ruled by the King Vijayakesari, who during his hunting expedition used to come towards Kalikeyan's land and apart from killing the animals used to kill the demons who lived in the forests. Annoyed by being picked everytime by King Vijayakesari, the demons of Kalikeyan's country approached King Ugraveeryan and sought his help to fight Vijayakesari. King Ugraveeryan fought with King Vijayakesari, killed him and won the battle.

In the meanwhile the demon king Kalikeyan was very firm in his penance and the creator Lord Brahma appeared before Kalikeyan and granted him a boon. Kalikeyan asked for success over all the worlds and death only by a son born to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Brahma granted his wish. Kalikeyan returned to his kingdom.

Once Kalikeyan returned, he heard about all the help extended to his people by King Ugraveeryan and they became friends. King Kalikeyan appointed King Ugraveeryan as the Commander to his army to fight the Devas.

Bouyed by the boon granted by Lord Brahma, King Kalikeyan fought a battle with the Devas and won over the Devas. Then, King Kalikeyan came to the abode of Lord Brahma and sought his blessings. Then he went to Vaikuntam, the abode of Lord Vishnu. Kalikeyan fought with Lord Vishnu. However, as Kalikeyan had a boon, he won over Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu, then gave him a lot of wealth and sent Kalikeyan. Kalikeyan then came to Mount Kailas the abode of Lord Shiva and sought his blessings, after which he returned to his country.

Once back to his country, Kalikeyan started to torture the sages and their guardians in heaven the Devas. Some of the sages who escaped the clutches of King Kalikeyan, came to a place called Tharukavanam, where many other sages were living. These sages discovered that the sages living in Tharukavanam, had come to the conclusion that pain and pleasure are the direct results of one's own action in this as well as previous lives and the Gods cannot do anything about it and hence all prayers were futile. Their philosophy of life spread throughout the world. Because of this mistaken notion, the world reeled under a lot of misery. Saddened by the developments, the sages who came to Tharukavanam, approached Lord Vishnu and prayed that he personally get involved and set things right. Lord Vishnu suggested that all of them approach Lord Shiva to find a solution.

At the same time, all the devas, unable to bear the torture of King Kalikeyan, under the leadership of Lord Indira approached Lord Brahma and sought a solution to their problems. Lord Brahma suggested that all of them approach Lord Shiva to find an end to King Kalikeyan's rule.

The sages with Lord Vishnu and the devas with Lord Brahma approached Lord Shiva with their problems and sought the intervention of Lord Shiva to set things right. Lord Shiva told Lord Vishnu to take the form of Mohini and go to the sages residing in Tharukavanam, while he will go as a Bhikshadana (a nude beggar).

As per directions of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu went to Tharukavanam in the form of Mohini, the divine enchantress. The sages in Thirukavanam, were so enamoured by Mohini that they started to follow her.

Lord Shiva in the form of a Bhikshadana approached the wives of these sages who were arrogant in the thought that there were no other women on earth who were as devoted to their husbands as them. However, the moment they saw Lord Shiva in his nude form, they were so lustful that they started to follow him without even noticing that the dress they were wearing had slipped and fallen to the ground.

Lord Shiva slowly made his way to where Lord Vishnu was in the form of Mohini. When Lord Shiva reached the place where the sages were, the sages realized that their wives were enamoured by a Bhikshu. In anger all of them teamed up together and performed a black magic ritual from which came a Tiger, an Axe, a Deer, a snake, the deity of death and disease(apasmara moorthy). The sages commanded each of these to attack Lord Shiva in the form of Bhikshadana. Lord Shiva killed the tiger, skinned it and wore the skin around his hips like a skirt. He held the axe and the deer in his hand, wore the snake as his necklace and pushed the deity of death and disease at his feet and danced over her. The sages finally called upon Lord Agni the deity of fire and got a drum from him which they commanded to attack Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva took the drum in his hands. Having been unsuccessful in all their attempts, the sages were confused. Lord Shiva then took his original form and told the sages that he played this whole drama to make them realize their mistake and that he was not angry with them.

Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini wanted to see Lord Shiva in the form of Bhikshadana Shiva once again and fell in love with Lord Shiva. Out of their union was born a child Sri Hariharaputra aka Sastha.

Story 2:

The Devas incurred the wrath of sage Durvasavu who cursed them that Devas will also get aged. On the advice of Lord Mahavishnu that this curse could be removed only by administering Amrutha(the divine nectar) taken from Palazhi, the devas took it from the Palazhi, but the Asuras snatched the pot from them. Lord Mahavishnu in the guise of Mohini, went to the Asuras and got back the pot and restored it to the Devas. Later, Lord Shiva went to Vaikunta and approached Lord Mahavishnu with a request that he should see Mohini, the divine seductress, personally. Lord Vishnu decided to fulfill the desire of Lord Shiva. Shiva, on seeing the feminine manifestation of Lord Vishnu, succumbed to her beauty and out of their union, was born a child, who was named Sastha or Hariharaputra who grew at Kailasa along with brothers Ganapathy, Subrahmanya and sister Bhadrakali.

Story 3:

The Rakshasa King Dhanu had two children Ramban and Karamban. According to the advice of their Guru Sukracharya, Ramban and Karamban did penance to beget a male child. Ramban did penance standing in the middle of fire, while Karamban did penance standing in water.

Concerned where his position as the Lord of all Devas will be threatened due to the penance of the brothers, Lord Indira took the form of a crocodile and killed Karamban. On hearing the news of his brother's untimely death, Ramban was dejected and jumped into a lighted pyre. Lord Agni (the fire god) took pity on Ramban and appeared before Ramban and expressed his desire to grant a boon. Ramban asked that he be granted a son, who will be the ruler of the three worlds - the heaven, earth and hell. Lord Agni granted his wish saying that the first lady that Ramban has a physical relationship with will beget him that son.

On the way from the forest to his palace, Ramban saw a she buffalo and had a physical relationship with the she-buffalo. The she-buffalo got pregnant. Once, a he-buffalo saw the she-buffalo and started chasing it. Seeing this Ramban, tried to stop the he-buffalo, but in the bargain got killed. The she-buffalo sought the protection of the Yakshas, who drove the he-buffalo away. On seeing her husband dead, the she-buffalo jumped into the burning pyre of her husband Ramban. Out of the burning pyre came a male child with a buffalo face and was called Mahishasura(Mahisham means buffalo)

Mahishasura captured and ruled the three worlds and tortured the Devas. Unable to bear the torture, the Devas prayed to Parvati (consort of Lord Shiva). Parvati took the form of Durga aka 'Mahishasuramarddini' and killed Mahishasura in a battle. Mahishasura's father Ramban was born as Raktabeeja in his next birth and was killed by Goddess Bhadrakali.

Karamban's daughter Karambika, on hearing the news of her brother Mahishasura's demise sought the advice of her Guru Shukracharya. According to his advice, Karambika went to the forests in the Vindhya hill ranges and did penance to please Lord Brahma. Being pleased with Karambika's devotion, Lord Brahma blessed Karambika with a boon. Karambika asked for the boon of Immortality, which was denied by Lord Brahma saying that every creature that is born must die someday. To this Karambika, sought the boon of being killed only by a son born to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and that at will buffalos should emerge from every hair of her body. Lord Brahma granted Karambika's wish. Karambika was then called Mahishi (she-buffalo). Karambika captured and ruled the three worlds and tortured the Devas.

The descendants of Pandya dynasty discarded by Thirumala Naicker, Diwan of Raja Vijayanagar, who was then ruling the Pandya Kingdom, comprising of Madurai,Tirunelveli, Ramananthapuram, were living scattered in places like Valliyur, Tenkasi, Shengottah, Achankovil and Sivagiri. At that time, Pandyas were ruling in many parts of Travancore. The descendants of Pandya dynasty belonging to Chempazhanattu Kovil, living in Sivagiri were given the right to rule the country of Pandalam, by the King of Travancore eight hundreds years ago. King Rajasekara was the direct descendant of this dynasty. King Rajashekara Pandian was an ardent devotee of Shiva and had no children.

Unable to bear the torture of Karambika (Mahishi), the Devas sought refuge in Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva manifested himself as a sage and Hariharaputra as a child and reached the banks of River Pampa.
While Rajashekara Pandian was on a hunting expedition, he came near the banks of River Pampa. He heard the wail of a small child and reached the banks of Pampa. He saw a sage standing beside a child on the banks of the river. The sage instructed the king to take the child and bring him up as his own son. Since, the child had golden chain with a bell, the child was named Manikantan(one who wears bell around his neck).

Rajashekara Pandian was overjoyed and brought the child to his palace.

Manikantan was learning everything from the Raja Guru of Pandalam. The Raja Guru of Pandalam had a male child who was dumb. Manikantan gave speech to the Guru's child in the form of an offering to the Guru (Guru Dakshina). Manikantan was given proper education and training and he grew into a boy well versed in academic lore and martial arts of the time. The Cheerappanchira kalari at Muhamma, in Alappuzha District was responsible for his training in the martial arts. Meanwhile the Queen gave birth to a son named Rajaraja, however the King regarded Manikantan as his elder son and decided to crown him as the heir to the throne.

A man by the name Udayanan, was a constant threat to the Kingdom of Pandalam. Manikandan led the Pandalam army along with Periserry Pillai as the commander and defeated Udayanan.

An arab named Vavar was living in the forests adjoining the kingdom of Pandalam as a Dacoit. Unable to bear the trouble posed by the dacoit, the citizens of the kingdom approached the King of Pandalam to seek help. Manikandan went to the forest and defeated Vavar. Vavar sought forgiveness and refuge. Manikandan forgave Vavar and both of them became good friends.

Apprehensive that the Kingdom will be handed over to the eldest male child (Manikandan), the queen tried many ways to get Manikandan killed. After all her attempts went futile, on the advice of the prime minister, the Queen acted as if she had an incurable headache. The Royal Doctor (Vaidya) was called upon. The Doctor according to the wishes of the queen said that he needs the milk of a tigress to cure this illness. Manikanta promised to get the milk and went into the forest.

However, on his way Manikanda, came to know the atrocities of Mahishi in the Devaloka, he went there and fought a battle with Mahishi. During the conflict, Manikanda threw Mahishi down to earth from devaloka and she fell on the banks of Azhutha River. Manikandan clashed with her near Azhutha river again.

At the end, of the battle between Mahishi and Manikandan at Azhutha River banks, Manikandan climbed up on her chest and danced violently. The impact of his dance was felt on the Earth and Devloka and the Devas were afraid. Mahishi knowing that the divine power dancing on her body was none other than the son of Hari and Haran, prostrated before Manikandan and died. This dance was witnessed by Lord Shiva and Mahavishnu from a place called Kalakatti. (It is said that Leela, daughter of Kavalan, a Maharishi, due to her husband's curse, was born as daughter of Karamban, with the face of a Mahishi and freed herself from the curse and obtained salvation by the grace of Hariharaputra. She is personified in Sabarimala Temple as 'Malikapurathamma' aka Manjambika). The place where Mahishi got her salvation from the curse is today a pond called Bhasmakulam (the pond of ashes) behind the Sabari Malai temple.

Lord Indira took the form of a tiger and the other Devas became tigers and tigeresses and Manikanta started his journey back to the Kingdom of Pandalam. Enroute on a hill a lady named Sabari was doing penance to alleviate her curse of being an old lady. Sabari met Manikanta and offered fruits and woshipped Manikanta on the tiger by cicumambulating him 18 times. Manikanta granted enlightenment to Sabari and said that he will come back to this hill for penance and will have a temple with eighteen steps built for him and hence forth this hill will be called as Sabari Malai (the hill of Sabari, otherwise called the Neeli Malai) in recognition of the penance done by this lady. On reaching the Kingdom of Pandalam, the King, the Queen, the minister and the doctor realised who Manikantan was and sought his forgiveness.

Now Manikanta told the King that the purpose of his incarnation is fulfilled and the King should construct a Dharmasastha temple atop Neelimala with eighteen steps. As per Saint Agasthya's advise, with the help of Viswakarma, King Rajasekara built a shrine on the top of Sabarimala. Manikanta, had made it clear that he would grace only those devotees who offer visit after performing penance for fortyone days keeping themselves isolated from family desires and tastes, leading Brahmacharya and they shall carry the holy irumudi on their heads, after taking a dip in River Pampa, raising slogans and climb the eighteen stairs.

Lord Dharmasastha sent Parasurama to Sabarimala who carved the figure of Lord Dharmasastha and installed it on the day of 'Makarasankranthi', the day on which the Makara Jyothi appears. It is believed that Manikanta is doing penance in Sabarimalai after merging himself into the idol of Dharmasastha and is came to be called as Swami Ayyappa(the one who establishes Dharma - the path of righteousness in the Kaliyuga).

Makara Vilakku is the major event during the season of Sabarimala pilgrimage. The Jewel Casket is carried on head from the ancestral residence of the royal family of Pandalam to the Sannidhanam on a specific day. The person who carries the box dances in a trance that can be believed only by who witnesses it. Thiruvabaranam travels through Valiakoikkal Sastha temple at Pandalam, Ayiroor Puthia Kavu Temple, Perunattil temple, Vlakkai, Nilaikkal Siva temple, Vellachimala, Pamba and Sabari Peedam before reaching at the Sannidhanam around 6 PM on the Makara Jyothi day. Every year a Garuda hovers and flies above the Thiruvabharanam
procession and is quite mystical. On reaching at the Sannidhanam the Melshanthi and Tantri receive the sacred box amidst of deafening slogans. The Thiruvabaranam casket contains a diamond crown, golden bracelets, necklaces and a sword. The priests adorn the Lord with these and perform aarathi. After these ornaments are worn on the Lord the bird circles the temple in the sky three times and disappears. A Star never seen before in the sky appears on the day of 'Makara Jyothi' before the sighting of the Jyoti.

A Jyoti is seen for a little time on the hilltop showing the presence of Lord Ayyappa gracing his devotees.

After the jyothi, in the night Malikappurathuamma, mounted on an elephant comes in a procession to the 'Pathinettampadi' (18 steps ) and returns back to her abode.

Onam, Mandalapooja (Mandalavilakku), Painkuni Uthram (Lord's Birthday) and Vishu are the other festivals celebrated in Sabarimala with pomp and glory.

The important places the pilgrims crosses between Erumeli and Sannidhanam are:

Erumeli :

It is about 65 km from Kottayam. There are shrines for Lord Dharmasastha and Varar Swamy (the Muslim lieutenant of Lord Ayyappa).The first timers to Sabarimala, called Kanniswamy, perform pettatullal. Pettatullal is painting the face with colours and dancing with wooden weapons to make one look odd. The essence of this practice is to give up ones ego and surrender to Lord Ayyappa. They go round the Ayyappan Temple and Varar Shrine and later bathe in the river. Then the temple is visited again to seek authorization from Lord Ayyappa to tread the sacred hill Sabari. Later the pilgrims leave Erumeli under the guidance of their Guru for Sannidhanam.

Perur Thodu :

It is a river about 4 km from Erumeli. Lord Ayyappa rested here during his expedition. It is from here the rise begins. Giving alms here is important. The forest beyond Perur Thodu is Poongavanam (Ayyappa's garden).

Kalaketti :

About 10 km from Perur Thodu is Kalaketti. The legend says that Lord Shiva, Ayyappa's father, came on his ox and tied it here and witnessed Lord Ayyappa killing Mahishi. There is a shrine where the pilgrims light camphor and break coconuts.

Azhutha :

Azhutha river, a tributary of Pampa, is about 2 km from Kalaketti. On the far side of the river is the steep Azhutha hill, famous for its arduous track. In the ascent of 2 km of steep climb there is hardly anyone who does not shed tears. At the summit of Azhutha is Kallidumkunnu. The pilgrims drop the pebble taken by them from Azhutha river here. This is done as the mortal remains of Mahishi was cast off here and filled with stones.

Inchipparakota:

The next important place is the Inchipparakota where there is Kotayil Sastha shrine. Pilgrims offer prayers here and break coconuts. From here the pilgrims descent the slippery path carefully. The descent ends at Karimala thodu (canal) with Azhutha hill on one side and Karimala hill on the other. Pilgrims rest here for a while.

Karimala :

Karimala is the abode of elephants which visits the Karimala canal to drink water. Pilgrims light the aazhi (campfire) to protect themselves from wild animals and cold weather. Karimala hill consists of seven levels and is climbed in stages. As the ascent of 5 km is difficult the pilgrims continuously chant saranams. On top of Karimala the terrain is flat suitable for the pilgrims to rest. It is interesting to see the Nazhikkinar - a well within a well with fresh spring like water. There deities of Karimalanthan, Kochukaduthaswami and Karimala Bhagawathi. From here after the exhausting descent, Pampa river is about 5 kms.

Pampa :

Pampa is the most important and holy spot on the way to Sannidhanam. It is here Lord Ayyappa was found by King Rajasekara. Before climbing the Neelimala, devotees pray at the Pamba Ganapathy Temple as well as at the shrines of Sri Rama and Hanuman. The Pampa river is as holy as the Ganges. The Pampa water purifies one from curse and evil.

Pampa Feast :

Pampa Annadhanam (feast) and Pampa Vilakku are important rituals followed at the Pampa bank. Pilgrim groups prepare feast with the provisions taken from the Irumudi of the pilgrims. Thousands of pilgrims are fed at Pampa. When a group of pilgrims are ready to fed the fellow pilgrims they display a large papad outside their cottage. It is usually the Kanniswamy who are fed first, as they are considered to be Lord Ayyappan himself.

Pampa Vilakku :

On sunset pilgrim believe that Lord Ayyappan will be present at the banks of Pampa and the cottages are decorated with lights and candles. Small floats are decorated with lights called Pampa Vilakku are let in the Pampa river.

The next morning after a dip in the cold Pampa river and performing pitrutarpanam (offering to ones departed soul) the pilgrims start their ascent towards the hill Neelimala after worshipping at the temple of Lord Ganapathi, Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman. On the foot of the Neeli hill is the representative of the King of Pandalam. The pilgrims offer their respects to the representative. After seeking the permission of the representative to visit the shrine of Lord Ayyappa they proceed with their journey. From here the Sannidhanam is about 6 km. The neeli hill is as difficult as the Azhutha and Karimala. The top of Neeli hill is called Appachi medu. Here there are two abysses - Appachi kuzhi and Ippachi kuzhi. Kanniswamy throw rice balls here to calm down the evil spirits present around the place. From this point the ground is almost even. Some distance from here is the Sabari peetam.

Sabari Peetam :

This was the Kota where Shri Sabari, in Sri Rama's era, performed Tapas. Pilgrims worship here breaking coconuts, firing crackers and lighting camphor.

Saramkuthi :

Half way between Sabari Peetam and Sannidhanam is Saramkuthi. Kanniswamy leave the wooden arrow they picked from Erumeli here. The holy Patinettampadi (18 steps) is 15 minute walk from Saramkuthi. The Golden steps is such a magnificent sight. Pilgrims chant saranams loudly. After breaking the coconut they climb the 18 steps to have the view of Lord Ayyappa.

Built on a plateau about 40 feet high, the Ayyappa's temple commands a lofty view of the mountains and valleys all around. The ancient temple has been rebuilt after a fire in 1950, consisting of a sanctum sanctorum with a copper-plated roof and four golden finials at the top, two mandapams, the belikalpura which houses the altar, and the flag-staff. Replacing the earlier stone image of the deity is a beautiful idol of Ayyappa in panchaloha, an alloy of five metals, about one and a half feet tall.

There are several explanations regarding the significance of the Patinettampadi, but in all of them, the emphasis is on the number 18. One popular belief is that the first 5 steps signify the five indriyas or senses, the next 8 the ragas, the next 3 the gunas, followed by vidya and avidya. Crossing these would take the devotee closer to self-realisation.

Finally, at the eighteenth step, the devotee is at last face to face with the image of the Lord Ayyappa, or Dharma Sasta. A circumambulation brings him right in front of the sanctum sanctorum, and the pilgrim is filled with a sense of accomplishment and utter peace. But there is one more thing to be done - the ghee abhisheka, or bathing of the idol in ghee. The ghee-filled coconut which the pilgrim has carried in the front section of his irumudi is broken, and the ghee is offered to the deity. Another important abhisheka is of vibhuti, which is also brought by the devotee in his irumudi.

To the south-west of the main temple is the shrine of Lord Ganapati, known as Kannimoola Ganapati. The special offering to this deity is Ganapati homan and there used to be a large 'homakunda' in front of the shrine, which burned constantly, fed by the coconut shells thrown by the devotees, after offering the ghee. As the coconut shells are consumed by the fire, the sins of the devotees are believed to be cleansed. Due to the growing crowds in the temple, the homakunda has now been shifted to a location below the temple.

About a 100 metres away is the shrine of Malikappurathamma. En route to the shrine is the temple tank, Bhasma Kulam, in which hundreds of devotees take a holy bath in memory of the tapaswini Sabari who entered fire to end her mortal life.

Situated on a small hillock, the Malikapurathamma temple houses the shrines of the Devi and Kaduthaswamy. Devotees also worship a trident and lamp here, and offer coconuts. The coconuts are not broken, however, but are just rolled on the ground around the temple.

To the left of this temple are the shrines of the snake god and goddess, Nagaraja and Nagayakshi. Here, tribals beat on drums, play stringed instruments and sing sarppa pattu to protect devotees and their progeny from the harmful effects of snake-bites.

At the foot of the Patinettampadi are the two shrines of Kaduthaswamy and Karuppaswamy, who stand like dwarapalakas or guardians of the holy steps, to ensure that they are not polluted by those who tread on them without fulfilling the rigid austerities required of them. They are also believed to protect the devotees from the evil spirits of the forests. According to legend, Kadutha was a great warrior who helped the Pandalam king defeat the armies of Udayanan and other enemies. When the king came to Sabarimalai to reconstruct the temple, Kadutha came with him to protect him. Ultimately, he became so attached to Ayyappa that he decided to spend the rest of his days with his Lord.

Also near the Patinettampadi is the shrine of the Muslim Vavarswami. The Vavar deity is believed to be as old as the original deity of Ayyappa himself, and records show that the shrine was renovated sometime in 1905. Here, the poojas are conducted by a Muslim priest. There is no distinguishable idol, but a carved stone slab that represents the deity. A green silken cloth is hung across one wall, and there is also an old sword. The special offering here is green pepper. Many devotees also bring a goat to offer to Vavurswami, mainly in the belief that pilgrims accompanied by a goat will reach the temple safely. These goats are later auctioned by the temple authorities.

The layout of the Ayyappa temple is believed to have originated from the specific instructions of the Lord himself, who wanted Malikappurathamma, on his left a few yards from Sannidhanam, and his trusted lieutenants Vavar and Kadutha to be positioned as his guards at the foot of the holy 18 steps.

Role of Guruswamy:- The role of the Guru is significant in the Ayyappa cult. The Guruswamy is usually an elderly person who has undertaken pilgrimage to Sabarimala not less than seven consecutive years in the traditional long route and had view of Makara Jyothi. The devotees treat the Guruswamy as Ayyappan himself. It is important that pilgrims gain knowledge from the Guru on all the aspect of the pilgrimage. One should serve the Guru physically, mentally and verbally.

The pilgrims should give the due respect and reverence the Guru deserves. All instructions of the Guru should be carried out without fail. The Guru will enlighten the Sishyas of the austerities to be followed. He will teach them the slokas and way to perform poojas and bhajans. He shall prepare them for the pilgrimage mentally and physically. He will lead the pilgrims safely and comfortably to Sabarimala.

Role of Irumudi:- lrumudi is the only travelling kit which a pilgrim carries on his head during the pilgrimage. Only those who observe fasting for 41 days are allowed to carry it. Without the Irumudi one is not allowed to step onto the holy 18 steps at the Sannidhanam.

This bag is in two compartments - the Munmudi (the front part) and the Pinmudi (the back part) & the opening at centre. The front portion is reserved for keeping all the puja articles and offerings to the deity while the rear part is meant to hold the pilgrims personal requirements for the journey.

Front portion contains Mudra bags, consisting of 2 - 3 in numbers - one for the GheeCoconut and the other two for the remaining offerings. Items for Vazhipadu (offering) at the Sannidhanam that is kept in the front compartment of the Irumudi are as under:

1. Coconut filled with ghee for Abhishekam (bathing the idol of the Lord)
2. Coconut 2 to 4 nos.
3. Beetel leaves, Beetel Nut, coins for offering
4. Jaggery (achuvellam), Cashew, Raisins, Dry ginger, Poha (thin & thick variety)
5. Cardamoms, Dates, Honey, Avil ( beaten rice)
6. Dried turmeric tubers, Turmeric powder, Blouse piece, Kumkum, Vibhooti, Sandal paste, Camphor, Agarbathi (Incense stick), Rosewater, Lemon, Rice for offering.

1. Coconut for ghee Abhishekam : Well before the Kettunira time, select a medium size coconut. Clean and polish the outer shell using a polishing paper. With a pointed instrument, open one eye of the coconut and empty the coconut water. Close it with a cork of correct size. The coconut is now in readiness for the Kettunira.

2. Coconuts - one each to be broken at Erumeli, Sharam Kutti and two for Padinettampadi (the sacred 18 steps - once while climbing up for Shasta Darshan with the Irumudi and 2nd while returning after the worship

3. Part of the jaggery, cashew, raisin, cardamom, honey and dates can be used to make Panchamrutam for the Nivedya; part of the jaggery, dry ginger and cardamom can be used for preparing 'Panagam' as Nivedya.

After filling the holy coconut with ghee and packing the essentials for offering Lord Ayyappa in the Irumudi (called ketunira), the Guru places the sacred Irumudi on head of the pilgrims chanting Saranam. The pilgrims leave the place without looking at anyone and bidding goodbye to family or friends. Walking barefoot the pilgrims proceed to realise the Self and attain Lord Ayyappa.

vatars

Sri Mahasaasta took birth in the form of a human being on this earth from time to time to establish peace and righteousness. They are:

Sri Nithya Kalyana Sundara Mahasaasta

Sri Lakshmi Saasta

Sri Vishwa Saasta

Sri Vidya Saasta

Sri Sammohana Saasta

Sri Mantra Saasta

Sri Kaala Saasta

Sri Prabhavathi, Satyaka Sametha Sri Mahasaasta and

Sri Dharmasaasta or Sri Ayyappan

2010-06-21T17:54:00.000+05:30

Sri Hariharaputhra Puja Kalpa-A Rare Document

hariharaputrapuujaakalpah

2010-06-21T17:23:00.001+05:30

Ayyappa-Ayyanar, Historical Folk ancedotes

Importance of Ayyappa Cult

The history and evolution of Ayyappa Cult will reveal that it is the most simplified and elegant form made practical and acceptable to one and all.

Ayyappa, the deity of the Dravidians

There is no mention of the name of Lord Ayyappa in any of the recognised Puranas. There is no walk of life among the villagers, which do not require the blessings of Ayyanar. Lord Siva is supposed to be a Dravidian deity. A hunter, Kirata, the worship of hunter god is still continued in south

India

, especially in Kerala, where he is rightly named as Vettekkaran, literally the hunter God. Vettakkorumakan, the son of hunter god, is but a different concept of the same deity. In many Ayyappa temples, this form of the deity is worshipped. The deity is bestowed with a bow and arrow,and he is seated either on horse back or an elephant. Thus the vehicle (Vahana) of the deity is found changed from horse to elephant, both being symbols of hunting. Lord Siva retained his position as father and Ayyanar or Ayyan as son. Father and son in Christian Trinity are same; and in this context it is no wonder that Kirata Murti or Hunter God is sometimes identified with Siva and at other times as Ayyanar, the son of Siva.

Sasta Worship

It is again interesting and revealing a fact to know that the Tamil Brahmins settled in Kerala have Sasta as their village deity. In congregation the Tamil Brahmins settled in Kerala have their residence (or Matan as they call it) in `cluster' as against the Kerala style of compound houses. These Brahminical residences are called `Samuham Mathams'. literally `the collective houses', which system they have imported from Tamilnad where they live in adjacent street houses forming themselves into a separate group in a village.

Ayyappan of the Ayyappan folk songs

The most authentic version of the story of Ayyappa in its variant forms is to based on the materials available from a collection of innumerable folk-songs called Ayyappan Pattu. The authorship of these songs is rather unknown. They are written by village poets in different periods, drawing inspiration from puranic, legendary and historic episodes prevalent in the country, All songs are in Malayalam, a few of which have the tint of Tamil-Malayalam. They are even today sung with the accompaniments of a tiny percussion instrument called `utukku'. a miniature "dhakka" on the occasion of a ritualistic ceremony known as Ayyappan Vilakku, usually conducted during the Mandalam period (from the 1st of the Malayalam month Vrischikam to continue for forty one days). It is during this period that thousands of pilgrims wear the "mudra" or "symbol" of Ayyappa in the form of a bead necklace and take a vow of severe ascetic life for the whole period of forty one days. Each pilgrim, if he is a "maiden or virgin devotee" as is styled to mean that he or she is undertaking the pilgrimage for the first time, has to conduct this ritualistic ceremony viz "Ayyappa Vilakku".

Numerous Episodes on Ayyappa's Stewardship:

The main trend of the story of Ayyappa as gleaned from the folk songs is as shown above. These songs afforded us a good variety of interesting anecdotes of Ayyappan. In fact all these songs put together form themselves as "Ayyappa Purana" if it can be called so. The writer has collected almost all such songs, and at least hundreds of anecdotes worthy of studying and scrutinising for a comprehensive knowledge of Ayyappa saga in Kerala. Just an outline of a few such anecdotes are given here for the readers to grasp an idea of their nature.

Vavar Episode

Ayyappan, during his stewardship under the king of Pandalam befriended a Muslim hero Vavar by name who was later deified and given a worthy place in front of the Sabarimala shrine. Vavar's story has its own charm and significance. Of all the anecdotes this occupies an important place.

Vavar was born in Takrittan Tottam, perhaps Turkistan as it stands to our ears. His father was one Alikkutty who married Pattumma(Fatima), the daughter Seydale and Biyattu. When Vavar was born there was a terrible famine in his country. Paddy fields failed their crops. Millet and wheat were available in abundance. Vavar had to be fed with wheat and millet only. He had his education both in Holy Quran and in the three `Rs'. As an intelligent boy, he became an authority in all branches of studies including the art of archery, fencing and even ship-building. He received lessons in black magic too, which helped him very much in his later life which was full of adventures.

He was known as Vavar, the lame-footed, as his legs were slightly bent even at the time of his birth. When he grew up he expressed his desire to go abroad a ship which he managed to build himself, and the parents, though reluctant gave him their permission.

Vavar's adventurous career commences with his voyage in the Arabian sea. Gathering a few faithful friends who were equally well versed in the art of fencing and archery, he manned his boat towards the land of pepper and other precious condiments. It is said that he landed first at Kayamkulam, a coastal country in Kerala, then an independent principality ruled by a petty king. Vavar and his men, when they landed at Kayamkulam, were looked upon by the natives as sea pirates, and they got scared. In fact, Vavar's intention was only to make some adventurous expeditions, exploring new countries, exploiting the rich to help the poor and the the needy. The king of Kayamkulam sought the help of the King of Pandalam who deputed the prince Manikantan to face the sea pirate. An encounter took place between Vavar and the prince. They fought for three days continuously. None won. None was defeated. Mutually realising the greatness of each other, the two opponents stopped their fight and were united in a friendly embrace. Thenceforth both Ayyappan and Vavar behaved like brothers sharing amongst themselves the offerings made to them by their devotees. Even today the pilgrims to Sabarimala shrine make their offerings first to Vavar, the Muslim saint and then to Ayyappa.

Udayana Episode

Udayana is a tribal chief who had a fort at Karimalai near Sabariamalai. The relics of the fort are still there. His aim was to destroy the Sabarimalai shrine and bring down the powers of the royal family of Pandalam, which was invincible as long as Sabarimalai shrine remained untampered and the idol in the Sanctum Sactorum is kept in all its sanctity.

Ayyappan or Sastha, the presiding deity of the Sabarimalai shrine , felt that the king of Pandalam should be made to conduct the annual Makara Sankramam festival in all its glory, which act alone could attract more devotees to the sacred mount. People in those days were rather reluctant to go to Sabarimalai for fear of the guerrila warfare being waged by the gang lord Udayana (the tribal chief).

Now Ayyappan decided to crush the power of Udayanan and make the people of Pandalam realise the importance of Makara Sankramam. It was at this juncture that Udayanan led an army against Pandalam king who could not face the enemy with his men. Ayyappan appeared before the king as a youth, ready to fight with Udayanan and defeat him on the condition that the king in return should see that the Makara Sankrama festival is conducted every year properly. The King joyfully and gratefully accepted the offer. All alone Ayyappan faced Udayanan and his army and brought doom to both. Thenceforth the King of Pandalam made it a sacred duty of his to visit Sabarimala every year on the day of Makara Sankramam together with his people.

The Historical Version

The most notable historical version on Ayyappa is one in which he is viewed as an historical person. This concept of Ayyappan has its own implication and importance, the same being the most rational and trustworthy.

Both in puranic and legendary versions of the story of Ayyappan the king of Pandalam plays an important role. The history of the royal family of Pandalam clearly reveals the fact that the Ayyappa episode connected with the families cannot be placed before the 12th Century A.D. The principality of Pandalam came to existence only in the 12th century. It happened definitely during or after the hundred years war waged between Cholas and Pandyas. It is recorded in the family history of Pandalam that it is an off-shoot of Pandyan royal family, settled in the forest area of the Western Ghats, that later founded a Pandalam.

The Sasta shrine at Sabarimala had been there from time immemorial as the guardian deity of the people and rulers in and around forest area. When Pandalam dynasty was established the then king accepted the Sasta at Sabarimala as his family deity and ruled the newly formed principality as a devotee of Sasta.

It was at this time that a tribal chief Udayanan, whose fort was at Karimalai Mount near Sabarimala destroyed the shrine of Sasta to bring down the might of the king of Pandalam, for it was believed that the king of Pandalam would be invincible as long as Sabarimala shrine remained in all its sanctity and prosperity. His next intention was to attack the land of Pandalam, which was cleverly and successfully battled by the timely interference of a Namputiri youth, son of the chief priest of Sabarimalai shrine. Somehow Udayanan escaped with the sister of the king of Pandalam, who was later on saved from the villain by the very same Namputiri youth.

The story thereafter, is really interesting and to some extent mysterious too. It is said that the Namputiri youth married the princess of Pantalam by Gandharva system and a son born to them was named after the deity of Sabarimalai. He was known as Ayyappan Manikantan, and was brought up by the parents living incognito in a cave at Ponnampala Mount, very close to Sabarimala.

Ayyappan was given adequate training both in scriptures and warfare by his able father, the Namputiri. It was the intention of the father to bring him up in perfect military discipline with sufficient background in spiritual matters.

When Ayyappan finished his spiritual and physical education his father thought that it was the ripe time for him to be sent to his own palace. All details about his birth and bringing up were written in a letter addressed to the king of Pandalam. He sent Prince Ayyappan to his uncle's palace. Of course the king felt over joyous when he came to know about his sister, believed to be lost for ever. At the same time he could not recognize openly the prince Ayyappa as his own nephew for fear of social ostracism. The king was thus forced to keep to himself the identity of his own nephew.

Ayyappan, the young prince was a pet to one and all except to the minister and a few of his confederates. The minister had his own reason to grow jealous of the prince. Really he wanted to usurp the land of Pandalam as the king had no legal heir-apparent by the disappearance of the queen, the only sister of the ruler. When Ayyappan was declared as the 'Prince of Wales' by the king, the minister received a shock, and thenceforth he began spreading scandals about the prince.

It was at this time that Ayyappan had an encounter with the Muslim hero Vavar, who became his best friend. He co-operated with the prince to do away with the undesirable elements in the country. Once the minister was actually caught red handed by the twin brothers, Ayyappan and Vavar, when he tried to establish alliance with Udayanan, the villain of the story. Of course the minister was pardoned although he was then marked as a fifth columnist by Ayyappan.

The minister wasted no time to work out his plans to oust the prince out of the country. He slowly approached the consort of the king and poisoned her mind against Ayyappan. The mother queen who had no child had loved Ayyappan so much that none could move her against the pet of the king. Knowing her mentality thoroughly well, the clever and scheming minister conspired to her an ugly news that this youth, now being made the next heir apparent to the throne, was an illegitimate son of the king from a low caste Marava woman. This was beyond the endurance of the queen. At the instance of the minister she agreed to be seriously ill with acute stomach ache. The wicked minister, by the time, managed to influence an equally wicked physician who prescribed a curious remedy, a cup of fresh milk of leopard. Every one was startled at this, and the prince knowing the situation thoroughly volunteered to bring any number of milch leopards.

Prince Ayyappan could easily bring a few milch leopard to the palace. Being born and brought up in the wilderness, no wild beast was a terror to him and he knew how to tame them, control them, and thus by his physical and spiritual powers he convinced all present there, that there is nothing which man could not achieve. Every one was so much surprised and terrified that all of them in one voice cried out "Saranam Ayyappa' to mean `refuge at the feet of Lord Ayyappa'. Prince Ayyappa, then advised the king to install the idol de-consecrated by Udayanan. On the first day of the month of Makaram when the sun moved from the zodiac of Dhanus to that of Makaram, the re-installation of the idol was ceremoniously conducted. Soon after the ceremony was over, it is said, the prince Ayyappa disappeared and is still believed by the devotees that he has become one with the Lord of Sabarimala. Thenceforth on this particular auspicious day the devotees led by the king of Pandalam made it a regular routine to visit Sabarimalai and make offerings to the Lord.

The Implications and Importance of Ayyappa Cult

Literary works including those connected with folklore are to be interpreted in their own true perspective..

One striking feature about Ayyappan is that he seems to be a deity for all times, for all people and all faiths. Evolving the deity for the ancient concept of Ayyappan as the guardian of villages, he has passed through many stages of development in concordance with the evolutionary history of the south Indian religious movements from time immemorial. A deity imbibing in himself both the protective and destructive aspects of the universe, to effect a balancing of the two opposite forces. The very nature of the universe is its power of keeping both these forces in their proper balancing. Lord Ayyappa, as conceived thus, is only the symbol and the only symbol of the true nature of the Universe. And hence he is both the God-Universe and Universal God.

2010-05-30T15:30:00.003+05:30

Sahasra Chandiggnya Homam in association with Padavettamman Temple

2009-12-21T10:57:00.000+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha

2009-12-07T10:32:00.006+05:30

Some Photos of Guruswamys Sthabishegam

2009-11-25T16:28:00.005+05:30

Pooja List 2009-2010

2009-09-17T08:15:00.002+05:30

AYYAPPAN SYMBOLISM

Symbolism Behind the Puranic Story of Hariharaputra
The episode of Ayyappa is described in "Brahmananda Purana," and also in "Skandapurana." The focus is on the symbolism of Lord Ayyappa and a summary of the story is presented. Ayyappa or Hari-haraPutra is the divine avatar as a consequence of the union of Lord Mahavishnu's Mohini avatar and Lord Siva. This avatar of Hariharaputra was necessary to destroy the evil demon Mahishi. Where and when this story took place is anybody's guess.

Story of Ayyappa

Baby Ayyappa was found on the shores of the holy Pamba river by the heirless king of Pandhalam, Rajasekara, when he was out on a hunting trip. As the divine child was wearing a golden bell around his neck, the king named him Manikanta, and adopted him as his son. Soon the queen had her own child. As the children grew up, young Manikanta was loved and admired by all, and the queen started feeling jealous and wanted her own child to ascend to the throne. The queen feigned a strange ailment which required tiger's milk, and Manikanta took up the task of getting it for his mother. He ventured boldly into the forests, caught up with Mahishi and fulfilled the purpose of the avatar by killing the demon. The divine child returned home triumphantly riding a tigress and the queen realized the Divine nature of her foster son. Prince Manikanta explained his divine mission to his foster parents and helped them to install his younger brother on the throne and went to the crest of Sabari Hills to be there eternally as the Meditating Divine Yogi. It is not important whether the story is true or false. The ideals reflected in the heroic and unselfish actions (bringing tiger-milk and killing the demon) are more significant.

Great number of temples in south India were built during the thousand years between 600 and 1600 A.D. Lord Buddha had great influence in the down south, especially part of the present Tamil Nad and Kerala. At the same time, both Siva worship (Shiva Siddhanta) and Vishnu worship (Vaishnavam) was also popular. There is historical evidence for intense rivalry between the Siva and Vishnu worshipers and also between Siva and Jain worshipers. The dramatization of Ayyappa is a typical Puranic story. However, the associated rituals reflect the strong influence of the traditions from Shivam, Vaishnavam, Buddhism and Jainism. The name, Dharma Shastha and the prayer song "Swamiye Saranam" strongly indicate the influence of Buddhism in Ayyappa worship. The Vrath and strict code of conduct including the dietary restrictions (Vegetarian) can possibly due to the influence of Jainism in the deep south.

Sabari Mala Pilgrimage

The seeker undertakes the pilgrimage to liberate the human soul from the worldly possessions with great determination, devotion and dedication. During the journey to Sabari Hills the devotees recite "Swamye Saranam; Ayyappa Saranam" (Thou protect me and I surrender). The minds of the devotees are filled with the thought of Ayyappa and devotees call and recognize each other by the name of Ayyappa! Everyone seems to dress alike, look alike, talk alike and think alike! Every devotee becomes a Karma Yogi, Jnana Yogi and also a Bhakti Yogi! The only Karma (action) left for the Devotee is to reach the Sanctum Sanctorum of the Sabari Hill Ayyappa. The Devotee has the wisdom to dissolve the identity of Jeeva (Ego) by filling up the mind with the name and form of Ayyappa. The Devotee purifies the mind through total dedication and surrender to Swami Ayyappa. The perfect culmination of Karma, Jnana and Bhakti Yogas is visible and the devotees don't care which of the three is dominant over the other two. Their level of experience has already gone beyond intellectual perception and limitation. Suddenly all plurality starts dissolve and the ego starts melt like the butter on the frying pan. Devotees experience the taste of Bliss and all of them merge to become ONE. What they see, hear, touch, smell and taste is Ayyappa and only Ayyappa.

All their desires totally merged into only one desire to reach and surrender to Ayyappa. The sound of "Swamiye Saranam! Ayyappa Saranam!" fills the air giving the feeling their journey is eternal and they have the great determination to find and merge with the Truth. When the human perception reaches the higher levels beyond the physical limitation, inner peace emerges with the protection by the recitation sound of Ayyappa. The devotees of the land of Sri. Sankara are able to realize perfect harmony between the Karma (body), Jnana (mind) and Bhakti (spirit). The Sabari Hills becomes a Concert Hall filled with the musical haromony of Karma, Jnana and Bhakti. The performers, the performance, and listeners become unified and experience the taste of Bliss. During this eternal journey, on the night before the Makara Sankranthi day (Middle of Januray - Full Moon Day) hundreds of thousands of those pilgrims go to foot of the Sabari Hills to get a glimpse of the Divine Jyothi, a brilliant light that raises over the Kantha hill (adjacent to the Sabari Hill). Devotees consider this Jyothi to be a symbol of eternal Brahman in the form of Lord Ayyappa, the highest spiritual consciousness. Nobody can either confirm or deny that this is true and such Divine incidents are unexplainable and are beyond human perception! The Makarasankaranthi is an auspicious day correspond to the time period when sun passes the winter solstice (one of the two points on the ecliptic at which its distance from the celestial equator is greatest and which is reached by the sun each year). The pilgrims visiting on this occasion undertake strict and rigorous preparations. They start with a 'Vrath' (pledge for religious observance) lasting for forty-one days, starting from the middle of November. All wear black or saffron clothes and thulasi beads, and strictly observe their daily rituals. The devotees observe austerities and self-control on those days. They eat pious vegetarian food, drink non-alcoholic beverages, and pray Swamiye Saranam. Before starting the pilgrimage to Sabari Hills, each devotee prepares an Irumudi (A bag with two separate compartments, and with two knots) for the long and strenuous journey through jungles. The front compartment contains the ghee-filled coconut and the other one includes food and personal belongings. The devotee walks by foot all the eight miles from the shore of the Pampa river to Swami Sannidhanam (the open hall in front of the Sanctum Sanctorum), crosses the eighteen steps and pours the ghee over the idol of the Lord. The Eighteen Steps to the Path of Liberation:
The eighteen steps of the temple Sanctorum represent the necessary Spiritual Sadhana to go Beyond human perception. In an earlier posting to answer a question from Sri. Greg Goode, Sri. Sadananda gave an interesting interpretation to the significance of "Eighteen." This is the symbolic path of the Realization of Truth and potentially, there are infinite explanations. The eighteen chapters of Gita appear to be the most pertinent explanation of the eighteen steps of Sabari Hill Temple. While crossing each of the eighteen steps to the Ayyappa Swami Sannidhanam, the Seeker expresses great determination to relinquish the sensual perceptions one by one. The necessary Sadhana to prepare the mind, body and intellect to remove the sensory perceptions are beautifully described in the eighteen chapters of Bhagavad Gita. The crossing of the eighteen steps symbolic completion of Sadhanas stated in the eighteen chapters of Gita.
Chapter 1 : The Seeker's status of mind - Confusion, Fear and Misery - Seeks help from Guru.
(Arjun is the seeker and Lord Krishna is the Guru to get him out of the misery)
Chapter 2: Seeker asks the Guru to explain the Truth of Human Life
(sThitaPrajnA Yagna - Conversation between Arjun and Sri. Krishna)
Chapter 3: Guru explains the path of Karma Yoga.
Chapter 4: Seeker learns the principles behind the Sanyasa Yoga.
Chapter 5: Seeker understands the importance of renunciation of selfish desires.
Chapter 6: Seeker learns the Sadhana of Meditation to control the mind.
Chapter 7: Guru teaches the Seeker the ways and means of living without desires.
Chapter 8: Guru illustrates the importance of restraining the nine-gated city of human body.
Chapter 9: Seeker learns to diverts the attention away from the ego-centered consciousness
to the Divine Plane. (Yoga Sadhana of Sovereign Mystery or Devotion).
Chapter 10: Guru teaches the Buddhi Yoga Sadhana to control the Mind and the senses.
Chapter 11: Seeker understands the essence of Bhakti Yoga Sadhana and direct complete
attention to God while carrying out the duties.
Chapter 12: Seeker learns to Devote and Contemplate and gets the qualities of a True Devotee.
Chapter 13: Guru describes the qualities of a True Jnanai with Total Wisdom.
Chapter 14: Seeker learns the Sadhana of Perfection and the qualities of a Perfect Yogi.
Chapter 15: Guru teaches the Yoga of Supreme Person to the Seeker.
Chapter 16: Seeker learns to acquire the True Human Nature with the presence of Divinity.
Chapter 17: Guru teaches the fundamentals of the Yoga of the Threefold Division of Faith.
Chapter 18: Seeker regains the memory and renounces the egocentric desires.
It is possible to explain the connection between the eighteen chapters of Gita and the eighteen steps of the Ayyappa temple. The devotees of Sri Ayyappa believe that the Gita verse 66 in Chapter 18 is a direct reference to Dharma Shasta. Dharma Shasta establishes the Dharma and the entire Gita describes the importance of human Dharma and the only way to abaondon the Dharma is surrendering to the Lord.
Sarvadharman Parityajya Mamekam Saranam Vraja; Aham Twaam Sarve Papebhyo Mokshayishayami Ma Sucha (Abandon Worldly Dharmas and Surrender to Me; I Shall Rescue You From Sins and Sorrows).
This verse is commonly present in all Ayyappa temples and the devotees treat this verse as a direct commandment from Dharma Shasta. First line of the verse asks the devotee to abandon worldly Dharmas. Dharmas refer to rules, standards and laws imposed by society to guide material life. The root cause of material life is desires. Sorrows, Sins and Attachments are illusions of lower ignorant consciousness of mind. Dharmas in essence are the barriers of our liberation from Sorrows and Sins. In the second line, the Lord orders the devotee: "Surrender unto Me, I Will Rescue You From Sins and Sorrows and Help you to reach the Highest Spiritual Consciousness. Divine life is Real, Eternal and free from illusions of Sins and Sorrows! Liberation is impossible without Total Surrender to His feet. He only can release us from the worldly ties. The Lord promises to shower His Grace to liberate and ultimately to realize Brahman. Dharma Shastha has established this Eternal Dharma of realizing the Highest Spiritual Consciousness.

Symbolic Unification of Atman and Brahman

The devotee is reminded eighteen times that worldly possessions hinder the progress of liberation and finally reaches the sanctum Sanctorum of Ayyappa Swami. The forty-one days of Vrath is to force the mind to withdraw from attachments to worldly possessions and to direct it toward the Absolute Truth. The walk by foot through the jungle symbolizes that the path to spirituality requires greater efforts. The coconut represents the human body, the outer shell of the coconut symbolizes ego, and the ghee is the Atman (human soul). Coconuts have three eyes: two eyes represent the intellect and the third eye is the spiritual eye. The Meditating Yogic posture of Sri Ayyappa represents the Brahman. The rear compartment of the Irumudi symbolizes 'Praarabdha Karma' (accumulated worldly possessions). The devotee exhausts all the worldly possessions during the journey. The devotee opens the spiritual eye of the coconut, breaks the coconut and pours the ghee (Atman) onto the idol (Brahman). At this time, the devotee has detached the ego and worldly possessions. He or she has developed an attitude of total surrender to the Lord (infinite love for the Lord). The devotee begs Him to grant the total Unity with the Lord. This liberation of Atman from Ego and Wordily Possessions is the Message of Vedanta in Symbolic Language. This Symbolism is flawless and complete. What a beautiful demonstration of the Artistic Perfection of Symbolism in the great land of Sankara!

Conclusion
One of the main objectives of this article is to illustrate the hidden treasures underneath the Hindu rituals, customs and traditions. If we take time and efforts to understand the spirit behind those beliefs and traditions it is possible to appreciate and understand the philosophical significance. The devotees with great faith have neither questions nor they seek explanations. Those who question the customs, beliefs and traditions have the responsibility to take time to look and contemplate for the answers. When a westerner wants to know the connection between the scriptures, philosophies, customs, beliefs and traditions, we should also take time to explain to clear their doubts. Such explanations with contemplation can clear our doubts and doubts of our energetic and enthusiastic children who were born and live outside India. This moral responsibility was visualized by the sages and Seers of the Upanishads and they have provided the answers to almost all questions related to human life. The land of Sankara practices mystic festivals, pilgrimages and rituals to explain the Vedantic Philosophy of Human Life to the common folks of rural India. Sankara understood the unity from such diversities and Sankara's Advaita represents this total integration of thoughts, beliefs, customs and traditions. This integration is the purest form of human experience and it can neither be explained nor could be understood!

REFERENCES

1. "Essentials of Hinduism", by V. Krishnamurthy, Narosa publishing House, New Delhi, 1989.

2. "The Gazetteer of India, Volume 1: Country and people." CHAPTER Vlll: Religion by Dr. C.P.Ramaswami Aiyar, Dr.Nalinaksha Dutt, Prof. A.R.Wadia, Prof.M.Mujeeb, Dr.Dharm Pal and Fr. Jerome D'Souza. Delhi, Publications Division, Government of India, 1965.

3. Swami Harshananda "All About Hindu Temples." Book, Sri.RamakrishnaMath, Mylapore, Madras, 1991.

4. A Parthasarathy, "The Symbolism of Hindu Gods and Rituals." Book, Shailesh Printers, Bombay, 1983.

5. Pampa Sangamam 90, "Ayyappa darshanam - A Souvenir"Travancore Devaswom Board, Trivandrum, Kerala, 1991.

6. Vaidyanathan, K. R. "Pilgrimage to Sabari." Book, 1st ed. Bombay: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 1978.

7. "Lord Ayyappan; the Dharma Shasta." Book, 2d ed. Bombay, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 1966.

2009-09-16T17:11:00.001+05:30

07-08 Pampa-Pathanamthitta-Ernakulam

2009-09-16T17:02:00.001+05:30

New 07-08 Selected Photos Musical Progs and Homam.html

2009-09-16T16:51:00.000+05:30

Some Photos of old Poojas and Procession

2009-09-16T16:45:00.000+05:30

Laksharchanai 08

2009-09-16T16:22:00.001+05:30

Tribute To Boeing Swamy

2009-09-15T07:01:00.001+05:30

Purascharana Homam

2009-09-15T06:54:00.002+05:30

Gurupooja

2009-09-13T09:34:00.017+05:30

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha-Contact Details

Sabha Office

4/2, 7^thStreet,

Nanganallur,

Chennai 600061,

Telephone Numbers
Shri Venkatraman (Poojya Guruswami & President)	91-44-22672256
Mr.S.L.Davey (Vice-President)	+919444149354
Mr.Thamaraiselvan (Secretary)	+919941019551
Mr.V.Ganesan (Asst Secretary)	+919940400644
Mr.Paramesh (Treasurer)	91-44-22242235
Mr.S.Rajan (Web Master)	91-44-22248122
Email Id’s
Mr.Thamaraiselvan (Secretary)	thamaraibama@yahoo.com
Mr.V.Ganesan (Asst Secretary)	vganesan1959@yahoo.com
Mr.S.Rajan (Web Master)	srajan@sify.com

2008-09-17T07:56:00.000+05:30

About Us

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha

Our Sabha came into existence as a registered body in the year 1992, though we have been in existence for many years now. We have been functioning with only one aim, principle with continued level of enthusiasm and involvement over the years.

The Sabha’s main aim is to follow and spread the cult of Ayyappa in the correct way and to propagate his eternal message of “Equality in all aspects”. In this process we help the poor and needy to reach this goal with minimum expenses while providing the basic comforts. We also try to help in our own way to follow and preach Bhakthi” with sincerity, which is to lead our life, the way our ancient religion (that can be called the way of life) taught.

We have in the past performed several homa’s some of which are described in detail in this document.

“Sri Narayaneeya Homam” the chanting of all the 1008 Nama’s of Vishnu with the offering of flowers, Ghee, Sweet Pongal and Samith. This was accomplished along side the chanting of the Vishnu Sahasranama Soththra for about 121 times.

We have performed the “Sri Maha Sudarashana Raksha Homam” and “Sri Maha Dhanvanthri Homam” in the pravachana mandapam of Sri Uthira Guruvayoor Appan Temple in Nanganallur.

This Homa was performed in the prescribed procedure for a week with the help of many revered Vedic Pundits and Scholars.

In the year 2002 the Sabha decided to perform the “Sri Maha Sastha Purscharana” in a grand scale with the last leg of the homam culminating in Sabarimala.

This purascharana involves the following: -

Japa (Chanting) of the Sri Maha Sastha Moola Manthra for 11 Lakh Times.

Homa performed with the chanting of Sri Maha Sastha Moola Manthra for 1 lakh 10 thousand Times.

Argyam performed with the chanting of Sri Maha Sastha Moola Manthra for 11 thousand times.

This Purascharana also includes performing Annadanam which was performed on the day which we performed the irumudi for the Sabari Yatra 2003.

All these activities have been possible only with the active participation of our members and the continued support of our patrons and Well-wishers.

On this momentous occasion we remembered the able Guidance, Leadership and participation of one of the Founders of the Sabha namely Shri T.S.Somaskandan Swami whose absence was felt by one and all.

We released a Souvenir containing Slokas, Bhajans and some useful information about Sabarimala and the Ayyappa cult.

The Sabha Prays for your continued well being.

Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha

Guru Namaskarams.....Om Gurubyo Namaha:

Fw: Pongal wishes from Ganesh.-Your BEST WISHES NOW ON our site www.nanganallurmanigandasabha.com

Yatra Curcular-Jan 2012

pooja on 25/12/2011

One more interesting interpretation of "The Holy 18 steps" in Sabarimala

Fw: POOJA LIST - 21.11.11

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Nanganallur Maniganda Sabha