Thiruthani Murugan Temple, also known as Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is located in the town of Thiruthani in the Tiruvallur district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
The temple is situated on a hill called Thiruthani, which is part of the Eastern Ghats mountain range.
It is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan known as “Arupadaiveedu” and is considered a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Murugan.
The main deity of the Thiruthani Murugan Temple is Lord Murugan, also known as Subramanya or Karthikeya.
The presiding deity is depicted with six faces and twelve hands, holding various weapons and symbols.
The temple is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, especially during the Tamil month of Thai (January-February) when the Thaipusam festival is celebrated with great fervor.
Thiruthani Murugan Temple stands as a symbol of religious and cultural heritage, attracting both religious pilgrims and tourists who are interested in exploring the rich history and architecture of Tamil Nadu.
On this day, numerous bhajana parties gather and ascend the hill, singing the melodious Tiruppugazh songs and burning camphor on each of the hill’s 365 steps, one for each day of the New Year.
The entire atmosphere is filled with the music of these devotional songs, which is a feast to the eyes and ears.
The sight of the Vel Kavadi taken to the shrine by some devotees on this day with the thin, sharp ends pricked and pierced all over the body above the hip (in spite of which they carry it with ease and grace) inspires and elevates our thoughts to adore our Lord for His mighty, marvellous and miraculous powers.
Dress Code: Normal Pant and Shirt is allowed. Any decent outfit is considered. Not to wear Western outfit – Short skirts, Night pants, shorts etc.
History of Thiruthani Murugan Temple
he primary legend associated with Thiruthani Murugan Temple revolves around the defeat of the demon Surapadman by Lord Murugan.
It is believed that Surapadman, along with his brothers, terrorized both gods and humans. In response, Lord Indra, the king of gods, sought the help of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who gave birth to Lord Murugan.
Lord Murugan, with his divine powers and the Vel (sacred spear) given by Goddess Parvati, vanquished Surapadman on the hill of Thiruthani.
The temple stands as a testament to this victory.
Another important legend associated with the temple is the marriage of Lord Murugan to Valli, a celestial maiden.
It is believed that Valli was a tribal girl who fell in love with Lord Murugan. In order to marry her, Lord Murugan disguised himself as a tribal hunter and impressed Valli with his skills.
The divine marriage took place at Thiruthani, and Valli is also worshipped in the temple.
Thiruthani Murugan Temple has a historical significance as well. The temple’s architecture reflects the influence of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled over the region during the 16th century.
The temple underwent significant renovations and expansions during this period, adding to its grandeur.
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Quick Facts
- Address: Thiruthani Hill, Thiruttani, Tamil Nadu 631209
- District: Tiruvallur
- Affiliation: Hinduism
- Deity: Murugan
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM.
- Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress Code: decent outfit recommended
- Festivals: Aadi Krittikai, December 31st Step Festival
- Architecture: Dravidian architecture
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Pooja Timings of Thiruthani Murugan Temple
| Pooja | Time |
|---|---|
| Vishvaruba Dharsanam | 06.00 am |
| Kala Sandhi Pooja | 08.00 am |
| Uchala kala Pooja | 12.00 pm |
| Sayaratchai Pooja | 5.00 pm |
| Ardhajama Pooja | 8:00 pm |
| Palliarai Pooja | 8:45 pm |
Architecture of the Thiruthani Murugan Temple
The architectural elements of the Thiruthani Murugan Temple showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans of the bygone era.
The intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and vibrant colors create a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting environment for devotees.
The temple’s architecture reflects the devotion and artistic prowess of the builders and stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
- Gopurams (Tower Gateways): The temple complex is adorned with multiple gopurams, which are towering gateways that serve as the main entrances to the temple. These gopurams are intricately carved with sculptures of gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and mythological figures. The gopurams are adorned with vibrant colors and ornate decorations, making them visually striking.
- Mandapams (Halls): The temple complex features various mandapams, which are pillared halls used for rituals, prayers, and congregational gatherings. These mandapams are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting mythological scenes and stories. The halls are spacious and provide devotees with ample space for religious activities.
- Sanctum Sanctorum: The central sanctum sanctorum houses the main deity, Lord Murugan. The sanctum is accessed through a series of corridors and smaller shrines dedicated to other deities. The presiding deity, Lord Murugan, is usually depicted with six faces and twelve hands, holding various weapons and symbols associated with his divine attributes.
- Prakarams (Enclosures): The temple complex consists of multiple prakarams, which are concentric enclosures surrounding the central shrine. These prakarams provide space for devotees to circumambulate around the main deity during worship. Each prakaram is adorned with sculptures, carvings, and smaller shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses.
- Temple Tank: Thiruthani Murugan Temple has a temple tank, also known as a pushkarini or sacred pond, located within its premises. The tank serves as a place for devotees to take a ritual bath before entering the temple. The tank adds to the serene ambiance of the temple and is considered auspicious.
Festivals Celebrated
Besides the monthly Krittikais which attract a large number of devotees to this shrine, the two outstanding annual festivals are the Aadi Krittikai and the 31st of December New Year Step Festival.
Aadi Krittikai
Aadi Krittikai festival (in July-August) lasts for three days with Float Festival when lakhs and lakhs of devotees come to this holy place from far and near. The streets are thronged to the full.
About one lakh and fifty thousand flower kavadis (which increase with each year) are offered to the deity.
The sight of the devotees who carry them, uttering the sacred and inspiring “Haro Hara!” (Hallelujah) as they march and dance in long rows touches the very core of our hearts and makes us spellbound. One should see it to believe it.
December 31st Step Festival
When the old (Gregorian) year is rung out and the New Year sets in (ie at the stroke of midnight on December 31st each year), lakhs of devotees are present on the sacred Tanikai hill to have the darshan of their Lord.
They come to Tiruttani to offer their heart-felt prayers to our Lord on that day and night to be blessed with peace and plenty during the New Year.
This festival came into vogue during the British Raj when the famous Vallimalai Swamigal persuaded his followers to offer their homage first to Lord Tanigesan, the giver of all good, and only then to their official bosses.
How to reach Thiruthani Murugan Temple ?
By Air
The nearest airport to Thiruthani is the Chennai International Airport, located approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thiruthani.
By Train
Thiruthani has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu. Regular train services are available from Chennai, Tirupati, and other nearby cities.
From the Thiruthani railway station, the temple is just a short distance away, and you can take a local auto-rickshaw or walk to reach the temple.
By Road
Thiruthani is well-connected by roadways, and you can reach the temple by bus or private vehicle.
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