Arunachaleswarar Temple

Why in News?

Encroachments around Arunachaleswarar Temple demolished for Karthigai Deepam.

• Location - Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
• Deity - Lord Shiva (as Arunachaleswarar / Annamalaiyar), Goddess Unnamalai Amman.
• Form of Shiva - Agni Lingam (Fire)
• Associated Hill - Arunachala Hill.
• Temple type - Dravidian-style Hindu temple.
• Religious Significance - One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams represents the Fire (Agni) elements (Others represent Earth, Water, Air, and Space)
• Connected with the legend of Shiva as an endless pillar of fire
• Considered one of the holiest Shiva temples in South India.
• Architecture - Famous for its massive gopurams (temple towers).
• Eastern Rajagopuram is about 66 metres tall (one of India’s tallest)
• Sprawling temple complex with:
  • Large mandapams (halls)
  • Sacred tanks
  • Intricate sculptures
• Built and expanded mainly by the Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara dynasties
• Festivals - Karthigai Deepam – the most famous festival
• A huge sacred flame is lit on Arunachala Hill
• Symbolizes divine light removing ignorance
• Girivalam / Giri Pradakshina - Devotees walk around the Arunachala Hill (about 14 km) barefoot, especially on full moon nights.
• Cultural Importance - Centre for Shaivism and spiritual learning
• Associated with Saint Ramana Maharshi.

Reference

The HIndu | Arunachaleswarar Temple