Thiruvidaimaruthur Mahalinga Swamy Temple

Mahalingam, Thiruvidaimaruthur

Thiruvidaimarudur Mahalingaswamy Temple view

Varagunapandian and Brahmahathi dosha: Stahala Purana of Thiruvidaimarudur

27 Shiva Lingas for the 27 siderial constellations: Remedial measures Nakshatra Dosha

Huge Nandhi (Bull Vehicle of Lord Shiva)

Mahalingaswamy temple, Thiruvidaimarudur is one among the three important Saivite shrines in India which adopt Maruda tree (Terminalia arjuna - Myrtales - Combretaceae family - commonly known as arjuna; Marudam tree in Tamil) as their holy tree (Sthala vriksha) and hence it is also known as Idai Marudur aka Madhyaarjuna in Thiruvidaimarudur, near Kumbakonam, Thanjavur district. The other two Saivites shrines are Mallikarjuna (Thalai Marudur ) temple in Sri Sailam, Andhra Pradesh and in  Thiruppudaimarudur (Kadai Marudur aka Sputarjuna) in Ambasamudram, Thirunelvelli district. This temple is more spacious with three circumambulatory paths i.e, 1. Aswametha prakaram; 2. Kodumudi prakaram and 3. Pranava prakaram. Going around Aswametha prakaram will yield the benefit of performing aswametha yagam; going around Kodumudi prakaram is equivalent to Mount Kailash Parikrama; and circumambulation of Pranava prakaram will bring liberation soul from rebirth (moksha).

Mahalingam (huge self manifested (Swayambu) Shiva lingam) is presiding deity and the consort Brihatsundaragujambigai aka Nanmulainayaki at this ancient Saivite shrine. The Shiva linga is also considered as Jothirlinga and Sakthi shrine is also known as one of the Sakthi Bheetas. The Chakra Maha Meru is installed at this shrine. The temple with its imposing tower (gopuram) is one of the Panchakroha shrines.

The five Shivalingams: 1. Mahalingam at centre; 2. Viswanatha; 3. Rishipureeswara; 4. Athmanatha and 5. Chokkanatha at this shrine form Panchalinga khetra (Five Linga shrines). The shrine also has 27 Shiva Lingas for the 27 siderial constellations (star groups) and the devotees offer prayer pujas to the concerned Shiva Lingam as remedial measure against Nakshatra doshas. The temple is considered as holy as Varanasi or Kasi.

A group of 12 independent temples have adopted Lord Mahalingaswamy as their presiding deity and the following 12 temples form associate (parivara shrines) temples: 

1. Vinayakar, Thiruvalanchuzhi; 

2. Swaminathan, Swamimalai; 

3. Ambigai, Thirukadiyur; 

4. Dakshinamurthy, Alangudi; 

5. Navagraha shrines in Suriyanar koil; 

6. Saneeswarar, Thirunallaru; 

7. Durgai, Patteswaram; 

8. Chandikeswar, Sengalur; 

9. Bhairavar, Sirkazhi; 

10. Natarajar, Chidambaram; 

11. Soamskandar, Thiruvarur; and 

12. Nandhikeswarar, Thairuvavaduthurai. 

Priests used mud pots to fetch water from river Cauvery for ablution purposes.

In Hindu astrological traditions, Brahmahathi dosha is considered as severe curse. This kind of doshas occurs if any one kills a brahmin (Hathi- sin caused by a murder – Brahminicide). The shtala purana indicates that Varaguna Pandiya’s horse accidentally crushed a Brahmin and killed him. The sin followed wherever he went. The Brahmahathi was chasing the king. The king sought asylum to Lord Mahalingaswamy. He entered from the front entrance and offered prayers and got out from the rear entrance. The Brahmahathi is still waiting outside the entrance for the king. The king was relieved of his sin. People inflicted with mental disorders may go around the circumambulatory path and get redress.

The Lord is being worshipped here by Vedas, Airawatha (Elephant vehicle of Indra) and the seven great saints - Vashista, Agasthya, Pattinathar, Badragiriyar, Romarishi, Kapila and Markandiya rishi and the Tamil Siddhar Shivavakya. The Lord is also gracing the kings Varagunadeva, Sukeerthi, Veerasena, Chitrakeerthi, Uvanasuvan, Maandada, Vasuman and Anjatthuvasan. The Lord was also invoked by Appar and Sundarar with Thevaram hymns.

The ancient temple has 159 inscriptions. One specific inscription documents the presence of theatre (Natakasala) for enacting dramas. The theatre artists received patronage from kings and one veli  (approximately 3 acre) of cultible land was granted as gift to the artist for nurturing the art. The koothu (a form of folk drama) artists performed different styles of koothu including Arykoothu and Chakkaikoothu during festival time. The temple also served as the centre for fostering fine arts.

Arulmigu Mahalingaswamy Temple, Thiruvidaimarudur - 612 104, Thanjavur district is located 9 km north of Kumbakonam on Kumbakonam - Mayiladuthurai road. The shrine is well connected by public transport system.

Timing: 06.00 am to 12.00 pm and 04.00 pm to 09.00 pm.

Youtube

Thiruvidaimaruthur Mahalinga Swami Temple by Subashini Tremmel 

Spatikam (Quartz) Lingams in Tamil Nadu Shiva Temples

Clear Quartz Rough Crystals

Spatika (Quartz) Lingam

Sphatika-linga @ Ramanathaswamy Temple installed by Vibhishan. Abhishek & deeparadhana performed to this lingam daily at 5 am.

The word, ‘Lingam’ in Sanskrit means, ‘symbol’ or 'mark.' and  the Shiva Lingam means symbol of Lord Shiva. According to Hinduism Shiva Linga or Lingam represents the phallus, the emblem of the generative power in nature.  In some shrines the Shiva lingas are "self-manifested" (svayambu) or "that which is created by its own accord."  Most of the Shiva Lingas are usually sculpted from granite  stone. Shiva Lingas may also be made of metal, precious gems, crystal, wood, earth or transitory materials such as ice.

Spatika Lingam

Spatika linga is also considered as a symbol of Lord Siva. Spatika linga puja is performed in many Shiva temples.  Spatikam (quartz) has no colour of its own, yet it takes on the colour of the substances which come in contact with it. It represents the Nirguna Brahman or the attribute less Supreme Self or formless and attribute less Shiva.

In Hindu Shiva temples, Saiva Agamas allow to worship Lord Shiva in the form of Spatika Lingam. Spatika Lingam is representing the icon of Lord Nataraja. The Spatika Lingams are protected in the sanctum sanctorum of Lord Shiva. Hindu priests offer Milk, Water, or Vhibuti consecrations to the Spatika Lingam. They also chant Shiva Panchakshari Mantra is offered 108 times. It is believed that Spatika Lingam removes all curses and negative karma and will enhance ones confidence and power.

Spatikam (Quartz)

Spatikam (Quartz) also spelled as Spadikam is the  mineral in the Earth's continental crust, after feldspar.  Spatikam is made up of a continuous framework of SiO4 silicon–oxygen tetrahedra, with each oxygen being shared between two tetrahedra, giving an overall formula Silicon dioxide (SiO2). In short it comprise one part silicon and two parts oxygen. Quartz belongs to the trigonal crystal system. The crystal habit ideal crystal shape is a six-sided prism (geometry) prism terminating with six-sided pyramids at each end.

Spatikam is the semi-precious gemstone. There are many different varieties of spatikam. High quality quartz crystals are single-crystal silica with optical or electronic properties that make them suitable for hardstone carvings. The Hindu temples in South India use this semi-precious mineral for making Shiva Lingams. Spatikam beads are made from translucent rose quartz are cut and polished as beads. Each bead is about ten millimeters in diameter. It is good conductor of heat. Hence people wear  spatikam jewelry (mala) to keep their body cool. Some other people claim that these beads have healing properties.

Chidambaram

Thillai Natarajah Temple, Chidambaram is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in the town of Chidambaram, East-Central Tamil Nadu, South India. Chidambaram temple is considered as one of the most ancient and most celebrated of Shiva temples  in India. Saivites attach great religious as well as historic and cultural significance with this temple. In this temple Lord Shiva is an embodiment of the infinite SKY. Chidambaram temple  is associated with Lord Nataraja, or Shiva in his Ananda Tandava pose (the Cosmic Dance of bliss) in the cosmic golden hall (Ponnambalam) and the hall of consciousness (Chit Sabha).  Lord Shiva is also worshipped in this temple as "formless form" and this fact is being understood as Chidambara Rahasyam. This temple is known for its Akasa Lingam, an embodiment of Shiva as the formless Space. The word "Koyil" or temple in the Tamil Saivite tradition refers to none other than the Chidambaram Nataraja temple.

The Hindu monk Adi Sankara is said to have presented a Spatika Lingam which is still under worship in this temple.  This Spatika Lingam, instituted at Chitsabha, is being represented as Lord Chandramauleeswara (A form of Lord Shiva). Also in the Chitsabha are images of Ratnasabhapati (Nataraja of Ruby), Swarnakarshana Bhairavar, Mukhalingam etc.

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple or Meenakshi Amman Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in the south side of river Vaigai  in the temple city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to Parvati who is known as Meenakshi and her consort, Shiva named here as Sundareswarar(beautiful deity). The temple forms the heart and lifeline of the 2500 year old city of Madurai.

The centuries old Spatika Lingam held in this temple has developed cracks and hence a new six inch tall Spatika Lingam with the right specification has been brought from Himalayas.  It is learned that this Lingam is worth over Rs.7.5 lakh. The new Spatika Lingam is being the companion (Udaiyavar) to Lord Sundareswarar. The brass container used to preserve the  Lingam was replaced with golden container. The new silver consecration base (abhisheka peedam) weighing about 12 kg. was also made for the formal ‘Prathishtam. The new Spatika Lingam was first consecrated on March 16, 2012.

Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram

Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Rameswaram island in the state of Tamil Nadu, India.  The Temple is also one of the 12 Jyothirlinga temples, where Shiva is worshipped in the form of a ''Jyotirlingam'' meaning  "pillar of light". The temple is located in Rameshwaram, an island town in South India, considered a holy pilgrimage site for both Shaivites and Vaishnavites.

Ramanathaswamy temple was built during the 12th century and widely expanded during the Thanjavur Nayak kingdom period in the late 16th century.  Ramanathaswamy temple is known for its longest corridor among all Hindu temples in India.
In the first inner corridor, devotees offer worship to the venerated white Spatika Lingam.  The Sri Chakra (Sethu Peetam) and the Spatika Lingam were instituted by the Hindu monk Adi Sankara. Spatika lingam darshan is offered to the pilgrims during early morning hours i.e, morning between 5 and 6 am. It is a great experience.

Ekambaranathar Temple

Ekambaranathar Temple or Ekambareswarar Temple is a Saivite Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Kanchipuram in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Ekambaranathar Temple is the largest temple and is located in the northern part of the temple town in Kanchipuram. The temple ''gopuram'' (gateway tower) is 59m tall, which is one the tallest ''gopurams'' in India.

It is one of the five major Shiva temples or ''Pancha Bootha Sthalams'' (each representing a natural element) representing the element - '''Earth'''. The other four temples in this category are Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswara (water), Chidambaram temple (Sky), Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara (fire) and Kalahasti temple (wind).  It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, where all of the four most revered Nayanars (Saivite Saints) have sung the glories of this temple.

Swetharanyeswarar Temple, Thiruvenkadu

Swetharanyeswarar Temple is the Hindu Shiva temple located in the town of Thiruvenkadu near Sirkazhi. The prime deity is Lord Swetharanyeswarar (lord of white forest) or Lord Shiva and His consort is goddess Brahma Vidya ambal. There is a separate Sannidhi for Bhudhan (mercury (planet). The temple is quite larger premises and all four important Saivite saints have sung hymns in praise of this lord. This temple has one rare Spatika Lingam. Special worship services are offered to Natarajar and the associated Spatika Lingam, as in Chidambaram.

Sankara Narayanan temple, Sankarankovil

Sankara Narayanan temple is located in the town Sankarankovil, Tirunelveli District and 56 km away from Thirunelveli City. It was built by Ukira Pandiyan AC 900. It houses the deity by the name Sankara Narayanan, which is half - Lord Shiva and the other half - Lord Vishnu. "Adi Thabasu" is main festival at this temple. In older times, the city was called as Sankaranayinar kovil. Even now it is called as Sankaran Kovil. The deities of this temple are Sri Sankareswarar, Sri Gomathi Amman and Sri Sankara Narayanar.

Lord Shiva has agreed to perform consecration to Lord Vishnu. Therefore consecration is performed to the Sphatika Lingam present inside the sanctum sanctorum. One view is that the Sphatika Lingam was instituted by Adi Sankara and yet another view states that the Sphatika Lingam was established by Sri Narasimha Bharathi Swamy of Shringeri Mutt.

Reference

1. Concise classified dictionary of Hinduism By Kodayanallur Vanamamalai Soundara Rajan, New Delhi: Concept Publishing Company, ISBN 81-7022-857-3.p.51
2. Editors of Time Out (2010), Hinduism: A Very Short Introduction, London: Time Out Guides Ltd., ISBN 978184670164-1., p. 194
3. Knott, Kim (2000), Hinduism: A Very Short Introduction, Oxford: Oxford University Press, ISBN 0-19-285837-2 9 10 8., section 10
4. National Geographic (2008), Sacred Places of a Lifetime: 500 of the World's Most Peaceful and Powerful Destinations, United States: National Geographic Society, ISBN 978-1-4262-0336-7., p. 155
5. Rameswaram
6. Swetharanyeswarar Temple Thiruvenkadu 
7. Temple gets new ‘sphadiga lingam' 
8. The Tamils 1800 years ago, Madras and Bangalore by V., Kanakasabhai (1904): Higgingbotham & Co.p.13
9. "Thillai Nataraja Kovil". Tamilnadu.com. 11 February 2013.
10. காஞ்சிபுரம்
11. சங்கரன் கோயில், சங்கர நாராயணர் 3 
12. மதுரை மீனாட்சி அம்மனுக்கு விரைவில் தங்க தொட்டில் 

Published in Wikipedia 'Spatika Lingam' by Iramuthusamy on 16 April 2012‎  

Lord Venkateshwara : Benign Presence and Benevolent Grace

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple: Vimanam and Gopuram (Wikimedia)

Tirumala Temple as seen from Srivari Padalu on Narayanagiri hill (Wikipedia)

Malayappa swami along with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi during the annual Vasanthotsavam ceremony (Wikimedia)

Harati to Lord Venkateswara

Lord Venketeshwara is also known as the Lord of seven hills (Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrishabhadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri.)   The seven hills are believed to represent the seven hoods of Lord Adisesha. The holy abode Lord Venketeshwara is at Venkatadri or Venkatachala, the seventh peak.

No one could find an equal place like Venkatadri and no god is so benevolent and graceful than Lord Venketeshwara. Tirumala Tirupati is considered as one among the 108 Divya Desams (Praised Al wars – Vaishanava Saints). There are about 202 hymns sung by nine Alwars i.e, Perialwar (7 hymns), Andal (16 hymns), Thiruppaan Alwar  (2 hymns), Kulasekaralwar (11 hymns), Thirumazhisaialwar – (14 Hymns), Poigaialwar (10 hymns), Boothathalwar ( 9 hymns), Peialwar ( 19 hymns), Nammalwar ( 52 hymns), Thirumangaialwar 62 hymns), Grand Total 202 hymns.

1.    The Holy Hymns of Alwars, Asthta-Dasa Puranam, the Hindu epics and Shastras praise the benign presence and benevolent grace of the Lord Venketeshwara. Every Hindu considers that a pilgrimage to Tirumala and Tirupati is a unique soul-stirring experience. The importance of the pilgrimage to Tirumala and Tirupati is explained in Rig Veda and Puranas.

2.    On your way to the main temple complex (about one kilometer away), you will find the most ancient (2500 million years old) and rare  structured and decorated stones called ‘Sila Thorana’ and such kind of rare kind of stone formations will not be found anywhere in the world.  It is believed that the icon of the Lord found in the Sanctum Sanctorum also belongs to this age.

3.    Therefore on the icon of the Lord always maintains a standard temperature of around 110 degree Fahrenheit. Is it not a surprise? There is always a cold climate prevails around this 3500 feet tall hill temple. On Thursdays before the ablution or abhishekam the temple priests (while removing the robes) find that the icon exhibits warm temperature. As soon as the priests complete ablution or abhishekam (during early morning 4.30 am), the rare stone icon show water particles like human sweating. The temple priests gently wipe the water particles from the icon using a fine silk cloth.

4.    You can prostrate yourself and worship the prime deity Lord Venketeshwara, awesome eight feet tall icon, at the Sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The ‘Anandha Nilaya Diva Vimanam,’ dome like tower above the Sanctum sanctorum, is guild ed with glittering gold sheets.

5.    You can witness Namam (thick white mark worn by Vaishanavites on their forehead) on the forehead of the Lord. The temple priests used draw this thick double patched white religious mark on Lords forehead using Pachai karpooram or refined camphor. You will also find a thick red line drawn using Kasthuri.

6.    You can also see the Lord adorning golden headgear embedded with precious emerald stones. During the occasions of Brahmothsavam festival, the Lord will be adorned with the thirty crore rupees worth diamond headgear or crown.

7.    You will find two bright golden ear ornaments called ‘Makhara Kundhala.’ The right hand of the Lord bears golden Chakra (weapon) embedded with gems and left hand holds golden Sankha or Conch.

8.    His ear’s are bedecked with shinning golden. The fist of his right raised hand is implanted with a gem-set chakra and the corresponding left fist is with the Sankha.

9.    You can see the rare ‘Salagrahma’ linked with gold and appearing like a huge garland. This ornament weighs about twelve kilograms and this can be adorned to the Lord with the help of three priests. Another ornament adorned by the Lord is known as ‘Surya Kadari’ and this one weighs about five hundred kilograms. What you see covering the Lord’s feet is known as ‘Pada Kavacham’ which is weighing about three hundred and seventy five kilograms.

10.    The unique ‘blue stone’ is a very rare piece and you will not get any similar piece in any part of the world. Do you know the value of this piece alone? It is about one hundred crore rupees only. 

   
11.    The prime deity in other Vaishnavite shrines normally poses with His weapons like holy wheel (sudharshana Chakra), Conch (panchajanyam), mace (Gomodhakee – gathai), bow (Sarngam), sword (Nandhakam). However at Tirumala the Lord poses with Chakra and Sankha. The Lord is described as the Lord without weapons or Nirayudhapani.

12.    The tamarind tree is considered as the holy tree (Sthala vriksham) of this shrine.

13.    You may be surprised to note that the priests use ‘vilva’ (Aegle marmeolus) leaves are submitted to the Lord during archana on Fridays as well as during Dhanur month (December 15 – January 15).

14.    On the occasion of Mahashivratri (Great Night devoted to Lord Shiva), a kind of festival called Shetra Palika’ is celebrated at this temple.  On this auspicious day the Urchava Moorthy (idol used to take out in a palanquin for procession) is adorned with a jewel resembling like vibuthi streaks (basmam used to apply on the foreheads of Saivites).

15.    Do you know the age of the beautiful paintings as well as murals? It is about three hundred years old. The paintings/murals at the Tirupathi are over 300 years old.

Inscriptions

16.    The total stone inscriptions found inside the temple complex amounts to 1180 numbers. The inscriptions spans over a period of 1079 years (from 830 AD to 1909 AD). Most of them are in Tamil (1130 numbers) and only 50 of them are in Telugu or Kannada. They are categorized according to their periods. Some 236 numbers are related to the rulers of Pallavas, Cholas and Pandyas. Another 169 numbers are related with the Chalukya rulers. Some 229 numbers are related with the Telugu emperor Krishna Devaraya and some other inscriptions in relation with prominent rulers of Vijayanagara Kingdom include Achutha Rayar (251 numbers) and Sadasiva Rayar (147 numbers). The remaining 139 numbers belongs to the Kondai Veedu Kings.

17.    The stone inscriptions and the copper plates found in this temple reveals that early rulers of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have offered prayers to the Lord and to mention a few like rulers of Pallava Kingdom of Concheepuram during 9th Century, rulers of Chola Kingdom of Thanjavoor during 10th Century, rulers of Pandya Kingdom of Madurai of the same period and the rulers of Vijayanagar (Andhra Pradesh) during 14th – 15th Century. The precious jewels offered as endowments by these ancient rulers are still preserved in this shrine.

18.    It is estimated that the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is in possession of about 20 tones of gold and rarest diamond jewelry. Most of these precious jewelry items can be conveniently categorized as ancient and belonged to 12th century or before. Another interesting estimation is that the value of jewelry properties may be around rupees one lakh crore and the figure is almost equal to half of the budget of the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

19.    A replica of the prime deity Lord Venketeshwara in a miniature size was installed in the year 966 AD. All ablutions are performed for this icon and decorated with the jewelry. The inscriptions inform us about the offer made by the Pallava Queen Kadavan Perum Devi, the wife of the Pallava ruler Sakthi Vidangan. The offerings include jewelery and other items. Also there are inscriptions and other evidences to inform about the endowments created by the Chola emperor First Kulothungan.

20.    You can also find the idols of the great emperor Krishnadevaraya with his two wives at the main temple complex.

21.    Also there are evidences about the endowments established permanently to the Lord by the well known Raghoji Bhonsle, the Maratha General.  He has also donated precious jewels like large sized emerald stone to the Lord. Other rulers who have endowed jewels include the Mysore rulers and the rulers of gadwall.

22.    It is surprising to note that the rulers of the East India Company like Sir Thomas Monroe and Col. Geo Stratten also paid homage to the Lord. There was special offering called Monroe Thaligai
23.    In the recent past the Karnataka Tourism Minister Gali Janardhan Reddy offered the most precious ‘diamond studded crown’ to the Lord. The headgear bears diamonds worth of rupees forty two crores.

24.    You will be surprised to hear that there was huge donation made by an anonymous donor and the amount was estimated as 1100 crore rupees. The donor simply made arrangements to drop fifty gold bricks (valued about 240 million US Dollars) in the hundi.

25.    The Lord’s inner robes are prepared by the tribal community known as Chenchu. They also prepare the inner garments for the Goddess Alamelu Manga. They observe extreme devotion and keep themselves away from liquor and meat.

26.    Do you know that the outer robe (Mel Saththu Vasthiram) offered to adorn the Lord is costing Rupees Twenty Thousand only. The devotees are offering this robe to the Lord. TTD accepts only fifteen pieces every day. If you want to offer one such piece to the Lord, you have to wait for TEN years for your turn from the date of remittance of your money. The State Government of Andhra Pradesh offers two such pieces every year.

27.    The silk costume (saree like robe) has definite length and breadth and the length is about 21 arm lengths (one arm length is equal to one and half feet) or 31 ½ feet and this costume weighs about six kg. The robe will be adorned to the Lord only Fridays. Such a kind of robe cannot be manufactured or purchased in the market. If you are desirous of offering one such robe to the Lord, you have to pay rupees twelve thousand five hundred only at the TTD office and you have to keep waiting for about THREE years for you to get your turn.

28.    The Temple Priests will do ablution or abhishekam to the Lord everyday during early morning between 04.30 and 05.30 a.m. It is strongly believed that the Lord opens His THIRD eye during ablution or abhishekam. The ablution or abhishekam water is passed to the Pushkarani (Temple Tank). Hence a dip in the Pushkarani is also considered as holy.

29.    The cost of the ablution or abhishekam costs Rupees ONE LAKH only. If you want to perform ablution or abhishekam to the Lord you have wait for THREE years for your turn. TTD gets the most important items required for ablution from different countries:

a.    Saffron – Received from Spain
b.  Kasthuri (An important perfume substance with fragrance is obtained from the Musk Deer) – Received from Nepal
c.   Punugu (Another perfume substance obtained from a kind of specific cats) – Received from China.
d.   Some Other Perfumes – Received from Paris (France)

30.    The temple staff keep themselves engaged in the preparation of perfume paste for Friday Abhishekam on Thursday night. The specific place meant for this preparation is named as Parimala room.

31.    Many more perfumeries are also obtained from China and to mention a few – akil wood, Camphor (Chinese variety), clove (lavangam), niryasam, saffron, thamalam, sandal wood, thakkolam.
32.    Do you know where from the roses are imported for the Lord? Yes. The fresh and rare rose flowers are packed and airlifted from Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands. Do you know the cost of each rose flower? It is rupees eighty only.

33.    Legend says that Lord Kuberan (Lord of Wealth and North Direction) has remitted huge wealth to Lord Venketeshwara to celebrate His marriage with His consort Goddess Padmavathi (Alarmelmangai). Due to this reason devotee comes to Tirupati and donate money, jewels and other offerings. The Lord can settle Lord Kuberan’s debts using the donations offered by devotees.

34.    Sri Andal is one of the twelve Vaishanavite Saints (Alwars) and she is the only Saintess. She is also known as Kothai Nachiyar. Sri Andal belonged to the period of 8th century. She lived at Srivilliputhur, another important Diva Desam located at the South of Tamil Nadu. Andal means (Girl who ruled the Lord Vishnu). She used to offer flower garland to the Lord after wearing herself (Choodi kodutha Chudarkkodi). Even today the flower garland adorned by Sri Andal is being brought to Tirumala and adorned once again to the Lord.

35.    The madapalli (kitchen attached to the temple) is huge and equipped with gadgets to produce  ‘Neivedyam’ (offerings to God) like appam, athirasam,  badam kesari, cashew nut kesari, curd rice,  dosa, jilebi, laddu, milagu vadai, murukku, payasam, poli, rava kesari, tamarind rice, other variety rices, vadai and others in a mass scale. However the temple priests offer curd rice in a fresh mud pot or vessel as neivedyam. All other menu items prepared as offerings to the Lord will not cross the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum. If any devotee obtains either mud pot or the curd rice offered as neivedyam from the priests, he is definitely considered as the one blessed with grace of the Lord.

Reference

1.    TTD depends on donors for daily floral needs http://expressbuzz.com/topic/ttd-depends-on-donors-for-daily-floral-needs/149721.html
2.    Valuation of Tirumala jewels to be over by June http://expressbuzz.com/topic/valuation-of-tirumala-jewels-to-be-over-by-june/176438.html
3.    Tirupati’s Lord Venkateswara weighed down by crowns http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Tirupatis-Lord-Venkateswara-weighed-down-by-crowns/articleshow/4809811.cms
4.    Astonishing Wonders and Miracles of Thirupathi http://xa.yimg.com/kq/groups/14060713/959990929/name/ASTONISHING+WONDERS+OF+THIRUPATHI.txt
5.    Offerings pour in for gold plating of Tirumala temple http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/Tirupati-Balajis-jewels-to-get-52K-crore-cover/articleshow/6483019.cms

Lord Venkateshwara : Benign Presence and Benevolent Grace by Muthusamy R published in Relijournal on December 30, 2010

Youtube

Balaji Abhishekam Lord Srinivasa - Tirumala Tirupati - Venkateswara abhisheka ttd venkatesa

Tirupati Venkateswara swamy 60 years old rare video footage. Original shoot in tirumala

150 crore year history of Lord Venkateshwara - Tv9 

 

Emerald (Maragatha) Lingams and Idols in Tamil Nadu Temples

Shiva Lingam Sapta Vitanka Shrine: Source: The Hindu October 26, 2009

Emeral Natarajar, Uthirakosamangai (near Ramanathapuram) - Wikimapis

Emerald Lingam @ Siddhar Bogar Samadhi, Palani Murugan Temple (Source: Artist Shilpi.Blogspot)

Emerald Lingam @ Thiru Engoimalai Maragathachaleswarar Temple (Source: Temple Dinamalar)

Between fourth and twelfth centuries the huge temple complexes were raised by Chola, Pandiya, Pallava and Vijayanagara kings in South India. The remnants of stone architecture could be dotted all over India.  Each Hindu temple is normally dedicated to the principal deity and there will be sub-ordinate deities associated with the principal deity. The principal Hindu deities mostly represented Hindu temples include Lord Siva, Lord Vishnu, goddess Parvathi (consort of Lord Siva), Lord Vinayaka or Ganesha and Lord Subramanya. Lord Siva is usually represented as Siva Lingam. Siva Lingam is known as an icon of strength and fertility power. Another well known format of Siva is Lord Nataraja (the Lord of Dance). Lord Vishnu icons pose in three different forms – standing, sitting and lying. Most distinct form is Lord Ranganatha reclining on serpent bed. The icon serves as a tangible link between the worshiper and God. The image is often considered a manifestation of God, since God is immanent.

The Indian granite is regarded as the best variety. In exceptional occasions the South Indian sculptors chose emerald as the sculpting material.  Emerald is known as the gemstone from ancient times. The emerald stone traditionally deemed as the antidote of poison, is also associated with Garuda. Emerald is the naturally occurring mineral - silicate of beryllium and aluminum. It is obtained from as the hexagonal and pyramidal crystals. The natural and flawless emerald is regarded as the rare variety. The chromium content of the mineral beryl influences the natural color. The color and brightness determine the quality. Some varieties are in pale green in color or bluish green and some other varieties range from grass green to dark green colors.  The toughness of the stone according to Moh’s scale (hardness) is measured between 7.5 and 8.0 and since it brittle easily, extra care is required while sculpting. Of course you will also get synthetic emerald like stones.

The Religious Agamas (Saiva and Vaishnava), Shilpa Shastras and Hindu iconography speak volumes about this subject. The symbols and forms of Hindu icons show large variations from one period to the other; one region to the other and one sect of followers to the other. The Hindu iconography comprises the elements of Hindu temple architecture and ornamentation. It also provides ‘iconometric measurements’ and guidelines for sculpting the icons Hindu gods and goddesses. The well known Shilpa shastra text is called ‘Shipa Ratnakara.’

Most of the icons are seen mounted on some specific vehicles (vahanam). The hands (four or eight – some times more) bear weapons, flower, book, holy water pot, fire, snake, drum, rosary, conch, wheel etc., The Hindu iconography includes many guidelines and rules for sculpting various forms of Hindu icons.

TEMPLES WITH EMERALD ICONS

Sapta (Seven) Vitanka Sthalams

Seven Saiva temples dedicated to Lord Thiyagaraja or Somaskanda (a form of Lord Siva) are located in the vicinity of the temple town Tiruvaroor in Tamil Nadu (Ancient Chola country –Southern banks of the holy river Cauveri). The Chola emperor Musukuntha Chakravarthy said to have obtained seven icons of Lord Thiyagaraja from Lord Indira. The emperor enshrined these seven icons at these seven shrines.All these seven Saiva shrines are referred as  ‘Sapta Vitanka Sthalams (Shrines). The tern ‘vitanka’ suggests that the Maragatha (emerald) Siva Lingam icons are self formed (swayambu) and not chiseled or sculpted. The seven Lord Thiyagaraja shrines are located at:

1. Lord Thiyaraja temple, Thiruvaroor. Here Thiyagaraja (Gomethaga Lingam enshrined) is called as Veedi Vitankar. The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Ajapaa Natanam.’ 
2. Lord Dharbaranyeswarar temple – Thirunallaru, Pondichery Sate (near Nagapattinam). Here Thiyagaraja (maragatha Lingam enshrined) is called as Naga Vitankar. The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Unmatta Natanam.’ 
3. Lord Kayarohaneswarar temple – Thirunagaikaronam (Nagapattinam) temple.  Here Thiyagaraja (Maragatha Lingam) is called as Sundara Vitankar. The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Paraavaara Taranga Natanam.’ 
4. Lord Kannayira Natheswarar temple – Tirukkaaraayil, Tiruvarur district, Tamil Nadu. Here Thiyagaraja (maragatha Lingam enshrined) is called as Aadi Vitankar. The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Kukkuta Natanam.’ 
5. Lord Sundareswarar temple  - Tirukkuvalai, Thiruvaroor district, Tamil Nadu. Here Thiyagaraja (maragatha Lingam enshrined) is called as Avani Vitankar. The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Bhringa Natanam.’ 
6. Lord Vaimurnathar  temple - Tiruvaimur (near Tirunellikka) Tiruvaroor district, Tamil Nadu. Here Thiyagaraja (maragatha Lingam enshrined) is called as Neela Vitankar. The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Kamala Natanam.’ 
7. Lord Maraikkaadanaar temple, Vedaranyam, Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu. Here Thiyagaraja (maragatha Lingam enshrined) is called as Bhuvani Vitankar.  The Lord is in a dance pose called ‘Hamsapaada Natanam.’

The ‘Gomethaga Lingam’ of Lord Thiyaraja temple, Thiruvaroor and the ‘Maragatha Lingam’ of Lord Kayarohaneswarar temple – Thirunagaikaronam (Nagapattinam) temple were stolen during early 1990s. The police case regarding the theft of these two priceless Siva Lingams remains undetected.

The Tamil Nadu CID police of  Economic Offences Wing (EOW) - Idol Wing has recovered the Maragatha Lingam icon - weighing 990 grams - belonging to  Lord Maruntheeswarar temple Thiruthuraipoondi, Thiruvaroor district, Tamil Nadu from the two member gang. The idol was stolen by the team of five gang members from the temple on February 22, 2009 during night time. The police acted up on tip-off and hatched plan to catch the criminals. On October 26, 2009, Monday,  the police team encircled the gang at Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus or CMBT, Koyambedu, Chennai. The antique value of the stolen Maragatha Lingam idol is estimated about Rs. 50 crore. Few days later the stolen Maragatha Lingam was handed over to the temple authorities (HR & CE). The CID police have emphasized the need for tight security to protect the priceless maragatha lingam icons in seven Saptha Vitanka sthalams and 27 upa-vitanka sthalams in Tamil Nadu.

Uthirakosamangai
 

Lord Mangalanaathar temple at Uthirakosamangai (near Ramanathapuram) in Tamil Nadu is another ancient Saivite shrine glorified in Thiruvasagam by Saint Manickavasagar. The temple houses the most precious and rare emerald (maragatha) Natarajar icon. The six feet (1.83 meter) tall and huge sized Lord Nataraja statue has separate shrine at Lord Mangalanathar temple. Normally bronze icon of Lord Nataraja will be enshrined in Saivite temples. You can not find such a huge emerald Nataraja any where in the world. The idol will be covered in sandal paste all through the year. On the eve of Aardhra or Tiruvathirai star (Lord Siva’s birth star) the temple celebrates Arudhra darshanam festival. The sandal paste will be removed on this day. Thousands of people come here to witness the event. Thereafter the icon will be protected with sandal paste.

Tiruvidaichuram Temple
 

Lord Idaichuranathar temple, Tiruvidaichuram, Sembakkam (Vada Thiruvanaika) (Pancha pootha sthalam) is an ancient Saivite shrine located in the Chingleput, to Tirupporur bus route. The shrine represents water (one of five elements). Similarly Thiruvanaikka temple (near Tiruchirapalli) represents water element. It is one of the 32 Thevaram shrines located in Thondai Nadu region of Tamil Nadu. The self formed principal deity is the Maragatha Lingam.

Thiru-engoi-malai Temple
 

Lord Thiruvenginadhar Temple at Thiru-engoi-malai is another ancient Saivite hill-shrine located in the Tiruchirapalli – Musiri bus route. It is 40 km away from Tiruchirapalli. The self formed (Swayambu) Principal deity Lord Maragatheswarar(Malaikozhnthar) is an emerald (Maragatha) Lingam. It was reported that the Maragatha Lingam was stolen from the temple.

Panchetti (Panjetty) Temple
 

Sri Aanandavalli sametha Lord Agastheeswarar temple Panchetti (Panjetty),Chennai, Tamil Nadu is another Saivite temple located in the Chennai – Calcutta National Highways and the shrine is 30 km away from Chennai. Sri Anandhavalli, the consort of Lord Siva, has separate shine in this temple. It is a south facing shrine. The icon of this goddess is made up of emerald (maragatha) stone. 

Palani Temple (Hill Shrine)
 

Sri Dandayuthapani Swamy temple at Palani is the saivite shrine devoted to Lord Subramanya. The icon of Lord Dandayuthapani Swamy is sculpted out of the material formed after composing nine deadly poisons - Navapashanam” ( a combination of  Gauri Pasanam,  Jathilingam, Kandagam, Mridharsingh, Pooram, Rasam, Silasat, Veeram and Vellai Pasanam). The idol was conceptualized by Saint Bhogar (one of the 18 Siddhars of Tamil tradition) . You may find the shrine of Bhogar at the southern part of the Palani hill shrine. The Maragatha Lingam found at this shrine was believed to be worshiped by Saint Bhogar.

Siruvapuri or Chinnambedu Temple
 

Sri Unnamalai Amman Sametha Lord Agasteeswarar temple, Siruva puri, Chennai is Saivite shrine devoted Lord Subramanya and is located in the Chennai – Calcutta National Highways and the shrine is 37 km away from Chennai. The icon of Lord Agasteeswarar is the self formed one. The peacock (the vehicle of Lord Subramanya) is carved from emerald (maragatha) stone.

Reference

1. Arulmigu Dhandayudhapani Temple, Palani
2. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu Tourism
   Sapta Vitanka. Templenet
3. Siruvapuri Murugan Temple
4. Stolen ‘Maragathalingam’ idol recovered from gang The Hindu October 26, 2009
5. Thiru Engoimalai Maragathachaleswarar Temple
6. Tiruvidaichuram -Idaichuranathar Temple
7. Thiruvarur. WhatisIndia
8. Uthirakosamangai Sivankoil, Wikipedia

Tamil Panchangam (Almanac)

Panchangam is a Hindu calendar and astrological almanac, which presents astronomical (calculations), information that are being meticulously documented in Panchanga in tabulated form. It covers every aspect of the movement of sun, moon phases and the position of other planets, stars and also indicate auspicious times and days. 

The Tamil Panchangam or Tamil Astrological Almanac is a solar and nirayana or sidereal Hindu calendar used in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, India. It is also used by the Tamil population in Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius and Sri Lanka.  Since the Hindu sidereal or Nirayana Mesha Sankranti (Sun's transition into nirayana Aries) falls on 14 April,  the day marks the first day of the traditional Tamil Panchangam or calendar. This day and event also coincide with other traditional calendars followed in rest of the states in India i.e, Assam, Bengal, Kerala, Odisha, Manipur, Punjab  etc. The new year day is known as Bihu (Assamese); Pohela Boishakh (Bengali);  Vishu (Malayalam); Vishuva Sankranti (Oriya); Vaisakhi (Punjabi); and Puthandu (Tamil).

In olden days sages and rishis followed traditional methods to provide exact positions of stars. The oral documentation included formulas and statements in poetic formats for mnemonic understanding and to retain in memory. The algorithms on rate of movements of planets, including Rahu and Ketu followed by them was known as Surya Siddhantic system or Vakya Siddhanta. This was documented in  in our ancient treatises on astronomy / astrology and  termed as Vakya Panchangam tradition.

The observation of planets and mathematical calculation of their movements proved the Surya Siddhantic system erroneous and showed variations up to 12 hours. The lack of precision of Surya Siddhantic system is well known to the followers of Surya Siddhanta and yet they publish Vakya Panchangam every year in Tamil. This kind of Vakya Panchangam exists only in Tamil Astrology. 

Examples of Vakya Panchangam in Tamil: M.S.Pachiappa Mudaliar 28 No. Pambu Sudhha Vakya Panchangam, (Printer, Manonmani Vilas Press),  T.Vijaya raghava Iyengar 28 No. Pambu Vakhya Panchangam,  K.N.Narayanamoorthy Arcot Seetharama Iyer Panchangam, Tirunelveli vakiya tamil panchangam, Ramanathapuram vakiya tamil panchangam, 108 Archagrgal, Yazhppannam Kokkuvil,  Kutti Sastrigal Srirangam Temple Panchangam, N.R.Mahalingam Sivasakthi Panchangam, K.V. Kuppuswamy Hanuman Panchangam, M.V. Narayanan Hayagreevar Panchangam, G.S.Subramaniam Maruthukudi Panchangam, Patti Veerabhadra Dhyvagnyan Srisailam Panchangam, S.Gopalakrishnan Raghavendra Panchangam.

The other method of calculation is based on observation of planets and calculation of their movements.  Drik Ganita means according to actual observation (drishti = sight) and estimation (ganita = calculated). The Drik Ganita system use algorithms to obtain precise position of stars  and use standard ephemeris for documentation. The government of India has also supported modern ephemeris for National Panchang or Rashtriya Panchang and Positional Astronomy Centre in Calcutta publishes modern Indian Ephemeris since 1957. The Drik Ganita  system also use ephemeris to fix the longitude and latitude of a given place and the time units are translated from Nazhikai to minutes. Examples include: Anandabodhini panchangam, L.V.S.Mani Bharat Drik-Ganitha Panchangam, Vasan Panchangam

Five Basic Astronomical Elements

The Sanskrit word 'Panchangam' means (Pancha = five and Anga = limbs) five limbs or parts. The five basic astronomical elements of the day are represented in Panchangam:

1. Tithi (Lunar Day), 2. Nakshatra (The Constellation The Moon is aligned with), 3. Karana (Half-Day), 4. Yoga (A particular Angle of the Sun and Moon) and 5. Vara or Vasara (Solar Weekday).

These five basic astronomical elements are enough to accommodate all variations of planetary positions. Planetary positions will influence the physical and mental well being of all people. Panchangam forms the basic astronomical reference document to identify the rising and setting of sun, moon and other planets, the forthcoming (religious) events like lunar and solar eclipses, full moon, new moon and other tithis (lunar days). The astrologers use this document to fix auspicious time and date (Muhurt) as well as to prepare natal (birth) chart. Any venture or decisions made in an auspicious time will bring fortune and prosperity.

1). Tithi

According to Tamil calendar (as well as other Indian Hindu calendars) the lunar day (tithi) is the single lunar day. Lunar day is calculated based on the difference between the positional longitudinal angle of the sun and the moon. There are 30 lunar days or tithis. The counting of the lunar day or tithi commences from the new moon day (Amavasya). At the particular point of time the sun and the moon signs are conjunct together in their zodiac orbits. There from the moon transits across each zodiac sign and the moon's transition time (to cross each zodiac sign) ranges between 20.00 and 26.50 hours.

The lunar days occurring between the new moon and the full moon (Purnima) days are known as waxing period (Sukla Paksha) and the lunar days falling between full moon (Purnima) and the new moon days are known as waning period (Krishna Paksha). The tithi names follow the Sanskrit numeric system.

1. Pratipada (Prathama) or the Principal tithi (One),
2. Dvitiya, In Sanskrit 'Dvandham' means two
3. Tritiya, In Sanskrit 'Triyam' means three
4. Chaturthi, In Sanskrit 'Chatur' means four
5. Panchami, In Sanskrit 'Panchama' means five
6. Shasthi, In Sanskrit 'Shat' means six
7. Saptami, In Sanskrit 'Saptha' means seven
8. Ashtami, In Sanskrit 'Ashta' means eight
9. Navami, In Sanskrit 'Nava' means nine
10. Dasami, In Sanskrit 'Dasam' means ten
11. Ekadasi, In Sanskrit 'eka' means one and 'Dasam' means ten ekadasi = eleven
12. Dvadasi, In Sanskrit 'Dvandham' means one and 'Dasam' means ten Dvadasi = twelve
13. Trayodasi, In Sanskrit 'Triyam' means one and 'Dasam' means ten Trayodasi = thirteen
14. Chaturdasi, In Sanskrit 'Chatur' means one and 'Dasam' means ten Chaturdasi = fourteen

You need to count from Amavasya (new moon day) to purnima (full moon day) and include the 14 tithis for sukla paksha. Purnima to Amavasya include 14 tithis and count for Krishna Paksha. Thus there are 30 tithis i.e., new moon to purnima 15 tithis plus Pratipada to Amavasya 15 tithis.

2). Nakshatra

The second element star clusters or constellation (nakshatra) is already dealt in the previous post (Tamil Astrology).

3). Karana

The third element of the panchanga is Karana. What is Karana? A karana is simply half of your lunar day or the tithi. According to Vedic Astrology there are only eleven karanas and there are sixty Karanas occurring in a single lunar month. The eleven unique Karana names are:

1. Bava, 2. Balava, 3. Kaulava, 4. Taitila, 5. Gara, 6. Vanija, 7. Visti, 8. Sakuni, 9. Catuspada, 10. Naga and 11. Kintughna.

4). Yoga

According to Vedic Astrology the occurrence of a particular star cluster in combination with the specific day is considered either auspicious or inauspicious. There are twenty seven yogas. Certain combinations of day and star are inauspicious. Sidha yogas' and 'Amirtha yogas' are considered as auspicious.

5). Vara (vasara)

Varam is the fifth element of the panchanga. Varam is simply a solar day. It just includes your seven week days commencing from Sunday to Saturday. A solar day, measured from sunrise to sunrise. There are seven days in each phase, or week, in the Hindu system. Each solar day is said to be ruled by a planet as shown below:

1. Bhanu (or Ravi) vasara: Sunday Sun;  2. Soma vasara: Monday. "Day of the moon," also known as Indu vasara; 3. Mangala vasara: Tuesday. "Day of brightness, auspiciousness, fortune" or "day of Mars."; 4. Budha vasara: Wednesday. "Day of wisdom" or "Day of Mercury."; 5. Guru vasara: Thursday. "Day of the preceptor" or "day of Jupiter," known in Sanskrit as Brihaspati, by which this day is also known; 6. Sukra vasara: Friday. "Resplendent, clear day" or "day of Venus."; 7. Sani vasara or (Manta vasara): Saturday. "Day of Saturn." Or "Churning day"

The days - Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays are always auspicious for commencing your plans and programs. Saturdays and Tuesdays are auspicious for commencing your course of medicines or surgical treatments, etc.. Sunday is neither auspicious nor inauspicious.

Time Divisions in a Solar Day

A solar day is divided into 60 'Naligais' (24 hours or 1440 minutes). A naligai is the basic unit of time in Tamil (Vedic) Aastrology. One naligai is equal to 24 minutes. Six naligais make one 'Jamam'. A jamam is an unit of time comprising 2 hours and 24 minutes (84 minutes). Five jamams make a day and another five jamams make the night. A solar day in total comprises 10 jamams.

Month: Masam as told earlier there are two uniqe types of months-lunar months and solar months. How a lunar is computed? A lunar month is the time taken by the moon to complete one lunar orbit of the moon around the earth (commencing either from the new moon day or the full moon day). A lunar month has two pakshas: One is Sukla Paksha (Waxing moon cycle) and Krshna Paksha (waning moon cycle). A solar month is the time taken by the sun to complete one solar transition or sun's movement through one rasi (zodiac sign). The solar months are as follows:

Sanskrit month - Tamil  month - with equivalent English calendar months:

1) Mesha - Chitrai - April/May; 2) Vrishabha - Vaikasi - May/June; 3) Mithuna - Ani - June/July;   4) Kataka - Adi - July/August; 5) Simha - Avani - August/September; 6) Kanya - Puratasi - September/October; 7) Thula - Aipasi - October/November; 8) Vrischika - Kartikai - November/December; 9) Dhanus - Markali - December/January; 10) Makara - Thai - January/February; 11) Kumbha - Masi - February/March; 12) Meena - Panguni - March/April.

Year: The 60-year cycle of the Tamil calendar is common to North and South Indian traditional calendars, with the same name and sequence of years.

Other Calendar Systems used in in India:

1. Kaliyuga calendar; (3102 BCE)  Current Kaliyuga year 5116
2. Buddha Nirvana calendar; (544 BCE) current Buddha Nirvana year 2558
3. Buddhist Era (BE) of the Thai solar calendar (543 BCE) current Buddhist Era year 2557
4. Bikram Sambat (56 BCE) or Vikrama calendar: In 56 BCE, Vikrama Samvat era was founded by the emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain following his victory over the Sakas. It is being followed in Western and Northern India and Nepal. current Vikrama year 2071
5. Thiruvalluvar calendar (31 BCE) Current Thiruvalluvar 2031. Adopted as Official calendar in the Sate of Tamil Nadu India
6. Saka calendar; (78 CE): Shalivahana or Saka calendar:  Satavahana king Gautamiputra Satakarni initiated the Saka era to celebrate his victory against the Sakas in the year 78 CE. It is followed in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa. It is also the official civil calendar in use in India. Current Saka year 1936.
7. Bengali Calendar (593 CE) Current Bengali  year 1421
8. Kolla Varsham calendar or Malayalam calendar  (824 CE) is used in Kerala. Current Kolla year 1190

Reference Sources:

1.     Panchangam http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panchanga
2.     Calendar http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calendar
3.     Hindu calendar http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar

Tamil Astrology

Ecliptic Path: Source: Wikpedia (Wikimedia Commons)

Zodiac Signs Shown around the Earth and Other Planets in their Orbits

Dragon Head or Rahu and Dragon Tail or Ketu: Shadowy planets. Source: Astrology Planet Raghu - Ketu

Precession of the Equinoxes Source:
The Tropical and Sidereal Zodiaks & The Cycle of Earth's Precessional Cross

inner wheel - tropical zodiac  outer wheel - sidereal zodiac Source: You are Who You are?

Our Sages or Rishis of the Vedic period (Narada, Vasistha, Saunaka, Jaimini and others) were able to perceive the mysterious star and planetary movements along the zodiacal system through their deep meditation (thapas). They conceived the basic rules of the "nirayana" or sidereal zodiacal system (Fixed star astrology) which formed the basis for Indian Vedic Astronomy as well as Vedic Astrology. It is different from Western Tropical astrology or the Moving star system. If a birth chart cast using these tropical and sidereal system, there  will be the variation of 23 to 24 degrees. Accordingly (for example) if the Tropical system horoscope shows the sun in Aquaris, then the sidereal system will indicate the Sun in Capricorn.

Many more Indian astrological traditions shared common roots in ancient philosophies that influenced each other and Tamil astrology, a natural cosmic tradition, branched out from the Indian Vedic Astronomy.  Tamil astrology,  is estimated as one of the most ancient, accurate and consistent form of astrology from India. Its basic principles and unique methodologies are derived from the principles of Sidereal (Eastern) astrology. The sidereal system claims that the position of planets in their orbits observable and the astronomical calculations are scientific and  measurable.

The Tamil astrology study consists of 27 constellations, in 12 lunar mansions. The movements of two luminaries Sun and Moon, five major planets (Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Venus and Mercury) and the two nodal points of the Moon i.e., Rahu and Ketu are considered and their positions are marked.

Nine Planets

According to Tamil Astrology there are only nine Planets or Grahas which have innumerable influence on human life. Of the nine planets only seven planets are known heavenly bodies: Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn. The remaining two, namely Dragon Head or Rahu and Dragon Tail or Ketu, are known as shadowy planets. Why it is called as shadowy planets? The two planetary positions are calculated mathematically.

Twelve Zodiac Signs

The Tamil Astrology system also conceived the zodiacal system (Circle of animals). It is an elliptical belt along the solar path. This zodiacal belt is extended for about eight degrees on either side of this solar path. Along this zodiacal belt the sun, moon and other planetary motions takes place. Tamil Astrology divides this zodiacal belt comprising 360 degrees into 12 equal parts. Each part of 30 degrees was called as sign or Rasi. This is considered as the fundamental division of Tamil Astrology. The Western terminology of the 12 zodiac signs or rasis and their Sanskrit names are : 

1.Aries: Mesha "Ram, goat." ; 

2.Taurus: Vrishabha "Strength," or "a bull." ; 

3.Gemini: Mithuna "Twins"; 

4.Cancer: Kataka "Crab." ; 

5.Leo: Simha "Lion;" ; 

6.Virgo: Kanya "Maiden;" ; 

7.Libra: Thula "Balance"; 

8.Scorpio: Vrishchika "Scorpion." ; 

9.Sagittarius: Dhanus "Bow;" ; 

10.Capricorn: Makara "Crocodile"; 

11.Aquarius: Kumbha "Water vessel;" ; 

12.Pisces: Meena "Fish;"

27 Star-clusters or Constellations

The Tamil Astrology also set relation between 12 zodiacal signs or rasis and 27 star-clusters and constellations. These unique 27 star-clusters or constellations spread within the elliptic zodiac orbit (solar orbit). Tamil Astrology divides 27 equal divisions of the zodiac orbit (comprising 360 degrees) and each star-cluster and constellation will occupy 1/27 parts or 13 degree 20' of the zodiac orbit. As a result astrology system brings 27 star-clusters or constellations under 12 zodiac signs and unifies both the divisions together.

The twenty-seven nakshatras are: Asvin, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigasira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Aslesha, Magha, Purvaphalguni, Uttaraphalguni, Hasta, Chaitra, Svati, Visakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Purvashadha, Uttarashadha, Sravana, Dhanishtha, Satabhishaj, Purvaprostapada, Uttaraprostapada and Revati.

Planetray Transitions in Zodiac Signs / Stellar Constellations

According to Tamil Astrology the nine planets are related to the 12 zodiac signs or rasis and 27 stellar-clusters or constellations. Planetary transitions and its influence on individuals will be calculated according to the birth star (ruling constellation at the time of his birth). Each individual will be related with the respective stellar cluster and zodiac sign at the time of his / her birth. When there are planetary transitions occurring across each specific stellar constellation / zodiac sign, there will be significant influence planets on all the natives.

 Reference Sources:

1.     Sidereal astrology http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidereal_astrology
2.     Constellation http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constellation
3.     Zodiac http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zodiac
4.     Nakshatra http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nakshatra

YouTube 

Western Astrology vs Vedic Astrology (Mathematical and Scientific Explanation by KRSchannel

 

How Nadi Astrology Manuscripts can predict your Past, Present and Future by Using Your Thumb Impression?

Nadi Astrology: Scanning Palm Leaf Manuscripts and Predictions

Individual's Thumb Impression is used to match with the Palm leaf manuscript bearing your Nadi Astrological Data

Do you believe that Nadi Astrologers are able to predict your past, present and future by using your thumb impression? Yes! It is very hard to believe. There are people to believe that Nadi astrology is able to predict their past and there are few to disagree with this form of astrology.

Nadi Astrology, being claimed as an ancient form of Tamil Hindu Astrology, is able to detail the predictions foreseen by the great saints and sages of Tamil Nadu to all people. It is said that the sages were able to use their yogic spiritual power and foreseen the past, present and future of all individuals who already lived in this world or living at present or going to take birth and to live.  

History

The origin of Nadi Astrology manuscripts are claimed to be over 2000 years. It is believed that the manuscripts use Tamil Grantham letters (Vattezhuttu) to record the texts in age old poetic format. The Nadi Astrologers claim that there are about eighteen types of ancient palm leaf manuscripts written in ancient Sanskrit language and they are normally identified with the seven Sages and Saints (Siddhars) i e, Agasthya, Bohar, Brigu, Kausika, Valmiki, Vasistha, and Vyasa.

Sage Agastyar

The Nadi systems were named after the Sage or Saint i e., Agasthya Nadi, Angirasa Nadi, Atrish Nadi, Baradwaj Nadi, Bohar Nadi, Brahma Nadi, Brigu Nadi, Gautama Nadi, Jamadagni Nadi, Kagapujandar Nadi, Kausika Nadi (also known as Vishwamitra Nadi), Krauta Nadi, Pulahtiya Nadi, Shiva Nadi, Suka Nadi, Valmiki Nadi, Vashist Nadi, Vyasa Nadi etc.  Most of these Nadis are not available in full form and some part might have got destroyed or taken away by British Rulers or researchers.

Collection and Organisation

The Nadi Astrology manuscripts lie scattered across the country and a portion of the leaves are believed to have been smuggled out of India. Experts say that the manuscripts using the bold face are believed to be the older records. The results of the radio carbon dating tests carried on these manuscripts prove that they are just three hundred years old. Researchers also found some of these Nadi manuscripts are also available in few other Indian languages i e, Kannada and Telugu. The Tamil version of Nadi Astrology manuscripts might be the translated versions from the original Sanskrit scripts. The Rulers of Thanjavoor were responsible for the translated version. The Maratha ruler Serfoji (or Sarabhoji) [1777-1832] of Thanjavoor preserved the translations in his Saraswati Mahal Library.

Hereditary Occupation of Valluvar Community

The European researchers in general and the British Rulers in specific accessed the entire manuscript collections of the library and found that the literature on indigenous medicine were only useful to them. The Colonial Rulers decided to sell the manuscripts through auction and the traditional Valluvar Community astrologers of Vaitheeswaran Temple were successful in purchasing them. From then onwards Nadi Astrology was being practiced by these people and now their descendants are holding these manuscripts. Thus Nadi Astrology has become the hereditary occupation of a particular community.

How Nadi astrology is practiced?

Thumb Impression

The Nadi Astrologers will neither demand your birth details nor your horoscope. They only take your thumb impression. Why your thumb impression is required? Their claim is that the loops and whirls of your thumb impressions are unique. They could identify and fix your thumb impression as one amongst the 1008 unique thumb impression classes or categories. They also claim that the classification and indexing system followed to store the bundles of palm leaf manuscripts will help them to identify few relevant bundles. Each bundle will hold at least fifty to one hundred palm leaves.

Nadi Astrology Reader

The process of identifying and pin pointing the specific palm leaf pertaining to the individual is the most pain taking process and this may test your patience. The Nadi Astrologer will not put direct question about your birth details or your name or the names of your parents or relatives or children, your profession or income and other information. Instead he will read certain leaves and keep on putting indirect questions. Some times he may direct you to pay few more visits to verify your identity from the missing bundles.

Nadi Astrology and its Parts / Chapters (Kandams)

If they claim that the relevant index leaf bearing your data found he will read poems comprising ancient Tamil words and phrases. The astrologer will also interpret your birth details, names of parents, wife and children. He will also cast your birth chart (horoscope). According to Nadi Astrology the index leaf is called ‘General Kandam (Part or Chapter). There are twelve parts or chapters (Kandams) and if you want specific information about your family, brothers, sisters, mother, children, education, properties, diseases, debts, litigation, opponents, marriage, spouse, lifespan, longevity, wealth and comforts, career or profession, profit and loss, they will advice to refer specific part or chapter.’ You may have to make number of visits to find out the relevant leaf and get informed about the answers to your questions. Also there are parts or chapters (Kandams) for remedies (Shanti Kandam), performance jebam (Deeksha Kandam), medicine (Oushadha Kandam) and prosperity (Dasa Bhukthi Kandam). More you visit more money you have to pay.

Sins (Doshams) and Remedies (Pariharams) in Nadi Astrology

According to the Saints the individuals are suffering due to the sins they have committed during their previous births. The individual will have realization about his or her sufferings and will approach this specific Nadi system / Nadi Astrologer for remedies. If you also want to know the reason for your sufferings (‘Doshams’) i e, disease, poverty, indebtedness, lack of children, late marriage etc, they will recommend remedies (‘Shanti Pariharams’) as told in 13th or 14th part or chapter (Shanti Kandam / Deeksha Kandam). Usually the remedies will include donations to Nadi Astrologer, visiting specific temples several times and feeding the poor or disabled people or donating money or clothes. Once you complete the remedial measures, all your sins will be erased and you will enjoy the comforts of life and as a result there will be peace and prosperity will flourish in your family.

Conclusion

Those who are satisfied with the predictions in relation to their past life could not find remedy for the sufferings in spite of their remedial measures performed with full devotion. Therefore the future predictions are not true and may be the guess work of the Nadi Astrologer. While few of the customers are able to appreciate the skill of the Nadi Astrologer in grasping the relevant information relating to your past life through indirect questions, they are not prepared to trust the astrologer. No one can say that the astrologer to whom you are consulting is holding the genuine manuscript or his predictions are accurate. However the people are being ill advised to perform remedies with extensive homams, poojas, feeding the poor and donations to astrologers.

YouTube Video 

NADI (documentary) by Monika Merlin· 

My Naadi Jothida Reading by wargecko 

Naadi Astrology Vaitheeswaran Koil Nadi Jeevanaadi Jeevanadi by moorthymail3 

Nadi astrology scam-How Nadi leaves are made? Part 3 

 

Reference

1.    Nadi astrology http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nadi_astrology
2.    Did a seer from India recorded your Past, Present and Future 2000 year ago?  http://WNW.nadi-astrology.org/
3.    Nadi Astrology – a Primer  http://ejyotish.net/wordpress/?page_id=8

Published by Muthusamy R in Religion on December 15, 2010

How Nadi Astrology Manuscripts Can Predict Your Past, Present and Future by Using Your Thumb Impression? http://relijournal.com/religion/how-nadi-astrology-manuscripts-can-predict-your-past-present-and-future-by-using-your-thumb-impression/