(Temple Worship)Aalayam or Kovil is the place where God is graciously present. In the word Aalayam, “Aa” stands for Atma (soul) and 1ayam” stands for the place of linkage. In the word `Kovil', “Ko”denotes God and “il” denotes Residence. Thus the place where the soul attains the lotus feet of the Lord is the temple.In the word Aalayam, “Aa”also refers to thc fctter Aanavaand “layam” stands for subsicling. Hence, it can be understoodthat “Aalayam” is the place where the Aanavamalam subsides.Love and knowledge are essential aspects of life. Life isincomplete wi thout these characteristics that originate from withinGod.The Rajagopuram, the entrance of the temple, is foundat great heights and is known as the “Thulalingam”. It acts as ztreminder of God to the people at distant places, and sins of theulnflu tradition:

people worshipping this would diminish. The Siva Ganas (Sivaforces) surround us the moment we enter through the gopuram,and hence we have to follow certain “Niyamas` (rules andregulations) while worshipping in a temple. Lord Siva can growangry very quickly as well be pleased easily. Hence we shouldnot involve ourselves in any prohibited activities, but Worshipwith purity in body and mind.As per the Agarnas, the Dvajalingam / Kodimaram (flagpole) is the second amongst the Panchalingams. The Balipeedamand Nandhi are sanctifíed next to it. Balipeedam is the placewhere pooj as are done for the Parivara Devas (retinue of theSupreme God).We should not prostrate at any other places except beforethe Kodimaram. Here we prostrate to sacrifice our fetters andthen meditate on the Lord. Men perform the “AshtangaNamaskaram°, whereas women perform the “PanchangaNam askaram°.People going to the temple for Worship should take acoconut, fruits, betel leavcs and areca nuts. The act of breakinga coconut into two halves in the Sannidhi symbolizes the actionof getting rid of Maya. and being cnlightened by the Supreme.The fruits denote our prayers, while the betcl leaves denotc thegrace of Goddess Lakshrni.When we touch the Aarathi with both our hands and thenplace them on our eyes, we think of God. receive His darshan,attain the feeling of having worshipped him, and thus become

devoted towards him.2 Nlmlu rranmonsAalaya VazhipaduQuestions and Answers* Whether the Almighty can be worshipped only by going to the temple?The milk in the cow is present throughout its body, butonly the udder provides the milk. The water is available beneaththe ground, but to receive it we have to dig Wells. The heat of theSun will not burn a cloth unless the rays are passed through aprism.~Why? This is because the prism converges the rays to afocal point. Hence, worshipping at other places is like a dhotiplaced in sunlight, whereas temple Worship is like a dhoti placedin sunlight under a prismc Like-wise, the Saints such as Nalvar,Alwar, Arunagirinaathar, Srimath Pamban Swamigal and otherVedic scholars attract the grace of God through Mantras andYantras. Therefore worshipping in temples will burn our sins, andthus prevent rebirths. Hence, going to the temple is mandatory notonly for the ordinary men, but also for saints too.* How to enter the temple?Aalayam is the place whcre the soul attains the lotus feetof the Lord. Besides, “Aa” denotes the Aanavamalam and “layam”refers to subsiding. Hence, Aalayam is the place where theAanavamalam subsides. There are certain regulations forworshipping in a temple. It insists on purity of the mind and thebody. Cleanliness of the body is attaincd through water, whilcpurity of the mind is attained through rightcous conduct.'TheManam (mind), Vaakku (speech) and Kayam (body) have to beNlnfltl Tridlllfins

4pure while going to the temple. Hence, worshipping at the templewithout cleanliness and righteousness is like consuming medicinewithout observing diet restrictions.We have to either chant “Siva Siva' or recite the Thevaramsand Thiruvasakams to attain purity of the mind. While going tothe temple and returning, we should meditate on the Lord andshould not utter any unwanted words.* Why there is an Adhikara Nandhi in the temple?Though we wish to open ajewel box, it cannot be opened without the key. Like-wise, whenworship the Adhikara Nandhi, as he going to the temple, it is necessary to

is the key to Lord siva. The Adhikafa Nandhi is the first Guru of our Hindu religion. The wordNandhi means ^happiness”, and it is a symbol of Dharma(righteousness).* What is the Philosophy of theKodimaram (Flag pole) situated nearthe Nandhi?The Kodimaram is just like the spinalcord. There are 31 segments in our spinalcord, like-wise there are 31 scgments in akodimaram. The priest hoists the white cloth on the kodimarani with the rope cntwined with dharpai, and while doing this he recitcs the ,tlVedhic rnantras. The kodimaram is a symbol of Lord Siva, the rope is Hisgrace, the cloth is our soul, and the dharpai denotes our fetters(Aanava, Kanma and Maya). Hence, hoisting the cloth anddharpai on the kodimaram symbolises the upliftment of our soul.* Explain the significance of the Balipeedam?The Balipeedam is also known as Badralingam. Next tothis lies the mount of the main deity of the temple (ie. Nandhi inSiva temples). The mount represents the soul. The fetters foundin the soul recedes behind the balipeedam. Hence, we have tosacrifice our Aanava, Kanma and Maya at the balipeedam, andthen Worship the deities.* How to worship near the Kodimaram?The women worship by performing the “PanchangaN amaskaram” , and the men worship by performing the “AshtangaNamaskaram'. We have to face either east or north whileprostrating.lf the Sanctum Sanctorum is faeing north or west, weprostrate on the left sideof the kodimaram, and if it is facing southor east we prostrate on the right side. We can prostrate 3, 5, 7, 9,or l2 times except during the time of Abishekams and N aivedhyams(offering food). We should not prostrate once or twice.* Give details of the Namaskarams?The Ashtanga Namaskaram is the Way of prostration inwhich theforehead, ears (2), chest, hands (2) and legs (2) touchthe floor.Nlnuu Yraumans

The Panchanga Namaskaram is the way of prostration inwhich the forehead, hands (2) and knees (2) touch the floor.

Sashtanga Namaskaram means prostrating with the wholebody touching the floor.* ln temples why is primary importance given toGanapathy Worship?Omkaram is the source of everything. The worldoriginates from and ends in Omkaram. Ganapathy is the formof Omkaram.Hence, it is customary to Worship the PranavakaraGan ap athy first, when you enter the temple.* What is the philosophy behind offering the coconut?The offering of coconut is to get rid of the three Malas(fetters). The husk of the coconut symbolizes Maya, the fibre wepeel refers to Kanma, and the shell denotes Aanava. The whitekernel inside reveals the divinity. Thus the philosophy of offeringcoconut is to get rid of the three Malas and attain Mukthi(Liberation).* Why we have to sing the Pancha Puranam?There are ll mantras in Saivism namely; Easanam,Thatpuradam, Agoram, Vamadevam, Szithyajotham, lrudhyam,Sirasu, Sikai, Kavasam, Nettiram and Astiram. NambiandarNambi compiled ll Thirumurais for those 11 mantras. A centuryafter he passed away. Saint Sekhizhar composed the PeriyaPurunam (Si va Mantra and Punchatchara Muntra), which laterbec time the 12"' Thirumurai.6 rnuau musiciansAs we cannot recite everything at once, our ancestorscompiled the Paneha Puranam. The Pancha Puranam consists ofThevaram, Thiruvasakam, Thiruvisaippa, Thirupallandu and PeriyaPuranam. Reciting the Pancha Puranam is equivalent to recitingall the twelve Thirumurais.* What are the benefits of worshipping the Navagrahas?The benefits of worshipping the Navagrahas (9 planets) areas follows:Sun - Health,knowledge, strengtheningof soulMoon _- Fame, willpowerMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnRaghuKethuWealth, improves blood circulation, victoryEducation, knowledgeRespect, Wealth

Beauty, joy, eloquenceHappiness, aetivenessFree from the fear of enemies, successWisdom, blessed with children, paves Way toliberation* What is the purpose of celebrating festivals?The five functions of the Lord, ie. Creation, Protection,Destruction, Conceulment, amd Conferment of grace, are allimpliecl through festivals. There are several vahanas (animallbird/tree mounts) for the gods. During Temple festivals, theUtsava Vigrahas (deities) are carried on their mounts in aprocession by the devotees. The God matures the Anna duringthese processions.Hlnuu Yradltlons

Explain the philosophy of Mount Karpaga Virutcham?The Lord is graciously present beneath the MountKarpaga Virutcham (Tree). Like the root is the base of thetree, Lord Parameswara is the base of Creation. Thebranches and leaves of the tree signify innumerous living creatures.The seeds of the fruit denote the presence of the Lord in our souls_* Explain the philosophy of Mount Boodha?Boodha Vahanam is the symbol of “Viruthi Krema SankaraKolarn°(destruction form). It reveals that the Almighty controls thebody made up of Panchabooclhas (earth, water, fire, space, air).* What is revealed by Mount Kailasa?Lord Siva is graciously present at Mount Kailasa, whichreveals to us that he is beyond Manam, Vaakku and Kayam.Once when Ravana, a symbol of Aanav am, tried to lift thismountain, Lord Siva pressed it gently With his feet. Ravzmagot caught beneath the mountain. Then he sang the Samagana,which pleased Lord Siva, and thus Ravana received a swordand a boon, This shows the graeefulness of God. It alsoemphasizes the fact that however crucl a person may be, onrealization of his offences, the Almighty will forgive him andbless him,* Explain the philosophy of Mount Rishaba?During the Pralaya, the world was destroyed. The DharmaDevatha wanting to be immortal took the form of the Rishaba/Nandhi (Bull). The Nandhi is the mount ofLord Si va and Parvathí.A symbol of strength, the four legs of the Nandhi represent8 iunuu rraumøm

Sathyam, Dharmam, Shanthi and Premam. The N andhi is whitein colour symbolising purity. Like-wise, if the soul is purified, theAlmighty will shower His grace upon us. ›* What is revealed through Mount Naga?The Naga (Cobra) conceals poison, gem and its hood, andexposes them whenever necessary, thus symbolising the function ofConcealment.* What is the purpose of the Chariot festival?The Chariot festival indicates the destruction of Thiripuram,which implies getting rid of the three Malas.* Explain the philosophy of the Floating festival?The Lord saving the people from rebirths is denotedthrough the Floating festival.* Why only men opt for the life of Sanyasamlrenunciationl? 'Sanyasam is giving up everything and moving towards theAlmighty. When men renounce everything and move towardsGod, they become sanyasis. As women worship their husbandsas God, they already practice a life of renunciation, and therefore,they do not need sanyasam.* Explain the significance of Vibhuthi (Sacred ashl? Howis it worn?As the cow dung purifies din, the sacred ash purifies theimpurities in our body. The sacred ash also reveals to us thateverybody will be in the fonn of ashes one day.ulnau-rr=u|:|=m mm _ M-

The sacred ash is worn on 16 places by those who tookDheekshai These are on the head, forehead, neck, chest, back,forearms (2) elbows (2) wrists (2), ribs (2), navel and knees (2).lt can also be Wom on 12 places excluding the forearms and wrists.* Why we wear the Uruthiratcham (Rudrakshabeadsl?There is a myth that the tears of Lord Siva turned into theUruthiratcham. It is said that one who wears the Uruthiratchamwill not suffer from any miseiies. Also, recovery is faster when asmall quantity of Uruthiratcham is taken along with medicine.* Why we wear Chanthanam and Kumkum?The Chanthanam reduces the body heat and refreshes us.Many nerves Converge inbetween the eyebrows, and hence toavoid the generation of heat we wear Kumkum. It also symbolizesthe third eye of Lord Siva.

* Why Vaishnavas wear Naamam?Gopi Chanthanam (a type of sand) is used for ^Naamam`.Wearing the Naamam implies that ultimately all things tum intosand. Besides, Vaishnavites wear this as a syrnbol of LordVishnu`s feet, to indieate that the human bcings have no otherdestination other than the lotus feet of Lord Vishnu.10 umau nauitmnsThe Fanaous SaiviteTemples in Sri LankaThiruketheeswaram(Mannar)Thirukctheeswaram temple in Mannar district is a veryancient temple. The origin of the temple is beyond the scope ofHistory and Archaeology. However, Epics and Puranas showsome light into the period. In one of the Yugas, three pieces ofMerumalai were thrown into the Southern Sea, one of whichbecame Thiruketheeswaram. Mahaduvatta, the eldest son ofViswakarma, created a city here called Mahaduvattapuram,which later became known as Maathottam. At the centre of thistown he huilt a Si va temple. Saint Thirunavukarasar uttered thename of this holy place as “Thiruketheeswaram'. The songs ofThirugnanasambandar and Sundara Mooithy Nayanar sanctifiedthis temple. Hence this sacred place is in itselfa holy place.Thirukoneswan-am( TrincomaleelThirukoneswaram is situated on a hill in the Northernseashore of Sri Lanka. This hill is otherwise known asSwamimalai. Dakshina Kailayam, Thirikoodam, ThenkailaKaikesi are other names of this temple. The presiding deity atthis temple is Koneswarar, and His consort is Maadhumai. ThePunniya Theertham (temple tank) is known as Paavanaasam. TheSt_hala Virutcha (temple tree) is known as Kall Aal. The annualnlmu rraalmns 11

festival of the temple commences with hoisting of the flag on Fullmoon day associated with the star Uthiram, and ends withTheertham on Thiruthiyai Thithi associated with the starBharani.The songs of Thirugnanasambandar have sanctified theThirukoneswaram Temple.Muneeswaram( C hilla w)Silabam Muneeswaram is one amongst the Saivite temples

in Sri Lanka. The presiding deity is Munnainaadhar, and Hiseonso1tisVadivaambikai. The punniya theertham is Mayavanaaru.This holy place is referred to as “Alageswaraml in the“Sanakumara Samhitha` of Sri Sivapuraanam.This is also one amongst the 64 Sridevipeedas. DakshinaKailasa Mahatmiyam relates this place to Ramayana andMahabharatha. When Rama came to Sri Lanka and destroyedRavana, he was possessed by the Brahmahathi Dhosha (an evilinfluence). While returning to Ayodhya in a Vimana, and whenpassing this place, he was relieved from the Brahmahathi Dhosha.Hence, he got down and took a sacred bath in the temple tank.and then worshipped Munnainadhar and Vadivaamblkai.Nakuleswaram(K eerimalaí)In ancient times this holy place was known asThiruthambaleswaram, but after Saint Nakula was blessed, itbecame known as Nakuleswaram. This Keerimalai Siva templeis situated on the banks of Sahara, the sacred river at the North1 2 nlnuu Trafllclnnsof Yazhpaanam (J af f na). Moorthy, Punniya Theertham and Thalamsanctify this temple. At this place diseases are cured, wishes arefulfilled and we attain a peace of mind. The punniya thecrtham isknown as Gangasamudra Sangamam or Kandaki Theertham. Itis stated that Musukunda Chakravarthy, Sri Rama, and Arjunahave all taken sacred baths in this Theertham and worshippedGoddess Nakulambikai and Lord Nakuleswara to fulfill theirwishes.Maadhakal Mayilvakana Pulavar in his book “YazhpanaVaibhavamalai” stated that: “Once in Kriddha Yuga, Parameswaraand Parvathi were graciously present at this hill. During this time,Lord Parameswara made the “Kandaki Theertham` for GoddessParvathi to take a sacred bath. Later, the celesti al beings bathedthere and became sacred. Hence this place is known asPunniyapuram. Once when both Musukunda Chakravarth y andSaint Nakula bathed in the Kandaki Theertham and worshippedLord Siva, the mongoose face of Saint Nakula transformed backto his original face. From then onwards this place was calledNakulamalai. The Lord here is Naguleswaran and His consort isNakulambikai. From this story, it is undeistood that the KeerimalaiSiva temple is very ancient and sacred because the Theerthamwas brought to Earth by Lord Siva during the first Yuga.”However, the Vakulagm Puranam states a modified version. Hereit says that a hunter, whom due to the curse of Rishi Sudhama,acquired the face of a mongoose. He took a sacred bath in this

Theertham and got rid of the curse. The hunter is none other thanSaint Nakula and since then this place is known as Nakulapurarn.mnuu vrauieiøns 13

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' 2nmuu vnnøtttmu |q|„p„ ta,-||m,„,Thiruketheeswaram /.-w fm an2Thaanthonri Eeswarar - KokkaticholailßatticaloalA Saint from lndia. on u pilgrimttge to Kutltirgainatn, satunder a Kokatti tree und reached Sumadhi. A Sivalingamappeared nn its own at this place. This is the story hclieved bythe people ut' this area. lnscriptions say that King Kulakottandid service to this temple and renovatetl il. The dcity in thistemple is called Kokattieholai 'l`haantlmnreeswztrar and theGoddess is Parvatlti. The sacred tree related to this temple isthe Kokatti tree. As the temple was eonstructed on the samespot from which the Sivalingam appeared. it was not very visibleto the Llevutees. llence an Uma Maheswarat' statue wasinstalled at this place for Worship. Usually. temples areconstrueted in places selected by men. hut this temple has theprivilege of being eho.~;en by (jnd Himself. and thus has u special

glory. The Thaanthnnri Temple can never he shifted to anotherlocation.4*>å-~7-" I.Liti _"_-L=›u|\'f/.'.ml_ ___" ...'..u/A - ,§'\" _ ts;É--_.;'f-'"'_ rt HG] :í_ -ttl -Jill - äl ~' 2:: _”Ltl` 4_ i._ „__

L on ulee)Thirukoneswaram (T1_=-1-I: « *--ff .,__ ..,+ f, ; -___Muneeswaram rc /„I„„ JNaguleswaram (h vw "nu/uunvmu vnumøm "

-L~.»._._ _Thanthonreeswaram fßauifulwTI-IE IDOLS OF THE LORDSThere is zt misconccptiun \hut only llincluism has idolWorship and supcrstitions. In Hinduism. the idols arc notcnnsidcrc(l us Gods. hut :ts philosuphicul symhols of the Lord.Wc hring up the iinages of those idols in nur minds duringn1cdit:1lion.atnd \vorship the Lord tu get llis hlcssings. Whileworslmipping it is necessary to know the signiliczmcc und glnryul'lh<›sc idols.VinayakarIn llintluism. prim:u'_v in1pt›rt-uncc is _given to Lord \f'i|utyuku. The incnrnution of V _Lord Vimtyuku ism remove dilïicultieszmd '._T nlasluclcs. Ilcncc. Ile is wurshippcd :tt the

start of :my ritu;t|s.e\~'cnt.< t›r_iou|^ncys. Wu ""` 'ççgi. ~ .4_«\-4 i ` `'_ Kw `-4\= ;1ppl\- the suinc principlt: even in writing hy ›, (A \,\\ v4 Ipulting the 'PtllztiyurSuL|\i`(;|tisp|ciuus matrk)_ ii ßThu clephunt l'ucc of Lord \fimtyuktt `› f›syt11holi^/.cs Ontkurztm. Hcisthc l`m'|x1ofG|1:|n:t. am. is mount isthe mouse. which is clcver und livcly.His big cars and helly rcveul his omniprcscncc. The bellyimplics that hc controls the entire universe. `l`hc ears likewinnowing pan have Kundzilums. which mcztns that hc listcns tothe gricvzmces of his dcvotccs :md rcsolvcs them. Lord Vinuyakaholds u Patsum. Anguszun, u hrnkcn tusk :md modhukums in His fourhands, und cuifics zi waterput with llis trunk. They symbolizc theliivc Satkthis (Pura. Adhi. lchchat, (inunu und Kiriyat). The trunkof Lord \/imtyuku is the symhol t›|`grncc. which lifts I lis tlcvmc.-esfmm druwning in the cycle of rchirlhs.utmau nantnøm l'J

Sivalingam .The Sivalingam is the symbol of SivaWorship. It is an illustration that has nobeginning, no end, and no limit. It is Égenerally mounted on a eircular orquadrangular receptacle called theAvudaiyar (the symbol of Sakthi). Thispedestal is designed with a Komuhai (on the left side to theLingam) to drain off the water poured during abishekams. Thesquare base of the pedestal represents “Brahma”, the octagonalshape in the middle denotes “Vishnu`, and the upper oval shapesymbolizes “Siva'. ilàliThe Avudaiyar and the Lin gam embedded in it imply thatthe world originated due to the fusion of Siva and Sakthi.The Sivalingam also symbolizes that which is invisible yetomnipresent. This indicates that even the formless is eligible totake a form. The philosophy of the Sivalingam is that Lord Sivaconfers grace on the soul in the forms of both `Aruvarn'

(formless) and “Uruvam' (form).Nataraiar0 ,"'wf~'>5šf~-'l._'* v~The dancing image of the Supreme on,Being, Natarajar, gives us bliss at si ght. The , idol of Natarajarnot only possesses artistic \` features, but its uniqueness lies in the ç~._ religious philosophies found in it. The 1Natarajar form symbolizes the five functions Q of Lord Siva. *Mug-M20 _. Hlljdu Trfiqlflflfls„„f,7.'?”` \aalThe radiant, calm and divine beauty ernbodied in the sacredface of Lord Natarajar reveals his love and grace towards thesoul. The dancing ldol of Lord Shiva with `Viriththa Senchadai'(reddish hair swaying freely in the air) gives us divine bliss.The crescent Moon found on His head indicates Histendemess towards His devotees. The body of Nataraj ar is coralred colour. This coral red colour signifies fire, and also indicatesthat God purifies the true devotees surrendering unto Him to mergewith Him.The upper tight hand holds the Damaru (Drum), the sound(N adham) fiom which the Universe evolved, thus symbolizin g C realion.The fire held in the upper left hand symbolises Destruction.The other right hand holding the Abhaya mudra denotes thatin his presence there is no need to fear, and that His grace isalways there.His raised left foot symbolizin g Protecrion is the one he usesto bless the souls. This foot belongs to Sakthi, His consort.The right foot is pressed gently against the demon Muyalagan(who has an ignorant and forgetful nature). It is important to note,that He presscs his foot very gently so that the demon is notdestroyed but controlled, thus indicating Cancealment. The demonis the symbol of the soul's fetters Aanava, Kanma and Maya.The lower left hand, depicting the trunk of an elephant,symbolizes the removal of obstacles, and hence implies that LordGanesha is omnipresent.The image/idol of Lord Natarajar should face south in allplaces. lt is said that the Lord facing south ensurcs that Yamadoes not destroy the Atma withoutjustice.ninnu rrauinuns 21

Brahma is the god of Creation. It is l said that He was bom out of the navel of Lord Vishnu. His consort is Goddess Saraswathi »:ff,(goddess of Education), He is a four-faced God seated on a lotus. He carries a Kamandalam (water pot), Vedhas (Hindu 35';Manuscript), Suruvam (a sacrificialímplement) and an Uruthiratchamala in his four hands. The lotusin which he sits denotes the truthful nature. The four handsrepresent the inbuilt qualities of mankind namely Manam (mind),Chiddham (consciousness), Buddhi (íntellect) and Ahankaram(ego). The four faces represent the four Vedhas. He wears thehide of a deer and His mount is the Hamsa (swan).The idol ofBrahma is rarely found in the temples of our country.VishnuLord Vishnu is the god of › ,'3`@ë'>g-Q4 _ _Protection. He rests in “Yogic sleep" on a great serpent bed, protected by its hood in Vaikuntham.His consortGoddess ,P/'QLakshmi (goddess of Wealth) ._resides at His feet serving him. He H- Irepresents the power of -^"`JSustcnance, He is blue in colour:md dressed in yellow. He has four hands in which he carries aSangu (conch), a Chakra (discus), a Gadai (mace) and a Lotus.

äguwArçè.22 ulnuu rraumonsLord Vishnu is the one who manifests himself as Lord Narayanain the world, among mankind, to rid life of its e\n`l tendencies.Aadhiparasakthifiífl|llf{Â".\"~*\The source and sustenancc of all _` „creation is Sakthi (energy). In Hindu , literature, the energy is always portrayed as a female deity. Each member of the Y” f_\ Trinity has a Sakthi as His consort. (Parvathi for Siva, Lakshmi for Vishnu, /í I É, \ - “\§(~=~` T' 'Fand Saraswathiforßrahma). :(5

. ššf *“- Durga confers on us the physical, E 5 ,_\\ '=mental and spiritual powers. Lakshmi endows us with all kinds of Wealth. Saraswathi gives us the powerof knowledge. All three Divinities come and merge into ourMother “Sarva Sakthi Swarupini”, whom we callAadhiparasakthi.Durga_.~›±e-.^ Durga is the goddess of courage, 6 strength and power. Shc is the consort of Lord Siva, and her mount is the lion. In '*= hef hands she hoids the sooiam (meent), Kadgam (sword). Sarngam (bow) and l Ambu (arrow), chakmm (discus),Gaaal (mace), Vcl (spear), Pasam (cord), and ._ _Sangu (conch). She slayed the buffalodemon Mahishasuran on the ninth day of battle, which isQ l, `„

celebrated as N avarathri.Nlúflu TIHURIOHS _ 2

Lakshmiftïáfl ,V ,g„=_:»;, Lakshmi is the goddess of Wealth, fortune and beauty. She is the eonsort of LordVishnu, and her mount is the garuda (hawk).She sits on a pink lotus carrying two lotuses,a pot of gold and holds an Abhaya mudra.Her four hands si gnif y the four aims of life,, , _W l' iv" ~*':~> 4' ~W ll Dharma, Wealth, Pleasure and Liberation.\P1 '," ff'»«\%-_ *l ~ä?„gê, ,SaraswathiSaraswathi is the goddess ofknowledge, wisdom and purity. She isthe consort of Lord Brahma, and her

mount is the swan. She sits on a whitelotus Carrying the veena, a sacredseripture, and a rosary. Her four handsHanumanHanuman is the monkey god ofCourage and strength, and is endowed withimmense powers. He is the son of Vayu(god of Wind) and Anjana. He is a popularcharacter in the Ram-ayana, known for hisloyalty and selíless service. He is the mostfaithful devotee of Lord Rama. He is amaster of Vedhas and a great scholar, andremained a celibate throughout his life.24,›, .iv /›„ ,f:J.` _„ea/ eat i t _ \~›-tm vsignify the four qualities of mankind, M É Lmind, intellect, conscíousness and ego. ' W \1"f,/_ ;1\, '~al 'j§`„:~“j, ,tieA 'ø\š.lr .-_., _ _; , . ;.__,-._ J '^'_„,' ,.'.-if.' 1"-4. fm.4.' '^<- -'ftHindu rraumønsThirumurugan f \ÖÖJ- -(\\`-`“ JïflLord Muruga is considered to be the ènatural God of Tamils. The eighteen eyes on his six faces refer to the eighteen eonsonants

of theTamil alphabet. The six faces symbolize mü. WM 'V `Vallínam (6 hard eonsonants), Mellinam(6 soft consonants) and Edaiyinam(6medial consonants). The twelve shoulders denote the 12 vowels,and the spear (Vel) in his hand is the symbol of “AyudhaEzhuthu` (-›°„ - the guttural letter). Gnanam (Wisdom),Ishwaryam (Wealth), Azhaghu (Beauty), Veeram (Bravery),Vairakkiyam (Perseverance) and Pughazh (Fame) are alsosymbolised by his six faces facing six directions.The “Namasivaya” together with the “Omkaram” are alsosymbolized through His six faces.He holds the holy “Vel” of Gnanasakthi, Which is hispower to vanquish darkness.His mount is the peacock. The peacoek, in the form of“Pranavam`, is able to control powerful snakes. The cock onthe flag is the symbol of victory. The beautiful Lord Murugareflects youthfulness, swectness, knowledge and beauty. Histwo con sorts are Valli (lchcha Sakthi) and Deyvanai (KiriyaSakthi). Our aneestors constructed the Murugan temples onhills, and henee he is worsliipped as “Kundru thorum Murugan”.AfthaflafeeswafafArthan areeswarar is one of the “Maheswara Mooithams' ofLord Siva. In the word Anhanareeswarar, “Aitha' means `the Half ' ,“Nari` means “women°, and “Eswar` refers to the “Lord`. ln theltHinflu friditions25

Arthanareeswarar form, Lord Siva occupies  _ one haifwmie sakthi occupiesthe omefhaif. 1 v _ 'The fusion of Siva and Sakthi is reflected in  „, gš'this form. The Arthanareeswarar form in _ É -_ V Saivism reflects the uniting of both men and . ›women. l* 'f,›.~"ta '31«-.\'š*.<=.` Qå,`an§ (fly . Je* v_? 5 ,_«f É,There is a story about this form:

“Once when Lord Siva and GoddessSakthi were graciously present inKailasam, they were worshipped byAttadhikbalars, saints and celestíal beings.„<There was one sage “B1-inki', who worshipped Lord Sivaas the ultimate Supreme Power. He worshipped Lord Siva aloneby going around him and not Sakthi. Thus, Sakthi grew angryand cursed the sage to become a skeleton, and that he be drainedof all his energy. ,Lord Siva pitied the sage and blessed him with another legto withstand his skeletal form. The sage`sjoy knew no bounds,while it made the goddess furious. Hence, she reached the ashramof Sage Gautama on Earth and sat under a Bael tree, Sheexplained her anger to Gautama and asked him for a suggestionto ensure the worship of Lord Siva with Sakthi.Sage Gautama told Goddess Sakthi “Oh `Mother! Theobservanee of the austerity Kedhara Gowri will fulfill your wish".Goddess Sakthi observed the Kethara Gowri austerity andacquired a boon from Lord Siva. and so she merged with Himand thus together they became Arthanareeswarar.”ln the Arthanareeswarar Moorthy, the right side has thecharacteristics of Lord Siva, while the left side has thecharacteristics of Goddess Sakthi.26 uinau mumonsFASTING“Fasting (Viratham) is the way of worshipping God withtrue devotion through our Manam (mind), Vaakku (speech)and Kayam (body)” said N avalar Peruman. Fasting is observedto medítate on the Lord, and to also control our minds byrestraining our senses. Controlling the food is a way ofcontrolling the mind, and hence people fast.Fasting is generally observed according to Thithis (Lunardays) and Stars _ These are generally observed for Ganesha,S1va,Sakthi, Vishnu, Murugan and Soorya (Sun).Viratha Niyamas (0bserving fasts)It is a must to get up early, take a bath, wear cleanclothes, and perform daily rituals like the Sandhya Vandhanam(pg.54). The significant features of these fasts are going to thetemple, wearing the Uruthíratchamala, lighting the lamp in thepooja room, performing pooja with flowers and reciting theThirumurais.Generally, while observing fasts, people fast in themorning, eat in the afternoon and then have a cup of milk or a

fruit at night. rVegetables such as onion, garlie, drumstick and bottle-gourdshould be avoided as they stimulate the character of Thamas.While observing fasts, it is necessary to do charity, givefood to devotees, speak loving words and be affectionate towardseverybody.nlnuu rrzulcmns 27

FASTS and FESTIVALSIlinduism and human life are both closely related to eachother. The festival serves as an opportunity to eultivate devotion.During festivals people come together for celebrations, and thusunity is developed. During preparations everyone adjusts with,respect and motivate each other. Moreover festivals refresh,exhilarate and bloom us. ›The Month Of Thai (Mid-January to Mid-February)Thai Pongal (Seasankfírsz harvest)Thai Pon gal is celebrated on the lst of the Thai month. Onthis day, the Sun God is honoured as the “Giver of all goodfortunes”. The pongal (sweet rice) is offered to the Sun at thetime of sunrise. Thai Pongal is also celebrated as the festival ofFarmers.People get up early in the moming. take a bath, draw kolams,keep a niraikudam, betel leaves and areca nuts, fruits, coconuts,flowers and a Vinayakar model (made out of turmeric) at theentrance. The chakkarai pongal is then cooked in a pot at theentrance and offered to the Sun, and then Thevarams are rccited.If cooking at the entrance is not possible, then it can be cookedin the kitchen and offered to the Sun.The pot is decorated by tying ginger and turmeric plantsaround it. The pongal pot is filled with milk and water and placedover the fire by the oldest family member.The overflow of the bolling milk is considered auspiciousfor the coming year, especially if it spills on the east side first.28 mnuu -naummuThe newly harvested rice and moong dhal mixture are takenby both hands and rotated over the pot three times, and thendropped into the pot. This process is repeated three times.Afterwards the remaining mixture is added. When the pongal iscooked it is served on three Thalaivazhai ilaigal (banana leaves).Then a banana is peeled and placed over each pongal with alittle ghee, curd and honey. Finally the Sun God is worshipped

with dhoopa dheepa pooj a.One should have a head bath to rid themselves of miseríeson the day of Pongal. Oil baths should not be taken on the dayof Thai Pongal. People working in our houses should be giftedwith new clothes.Chakkarai Pongal (sweet rice)Raw red rice 500gRoasted split moong dhal l00gMilk 1/2 litre Chakkarai 400g \ \ f gp!Cardamom powder ltsp \ Axl „ _*.\ ii*Coconut milk (extracted from 1 coconut) fif Ghee l00g ` -›^›, __- "Cashewnutsandraisins , -9.. * ' ^ ff 1"'. -1Boil milk and water in a pot. Y :_'When it is boiling, add the mixture ofrice and moong dhal into it. When it is almost cooked, add Coconutmilk, chakkarai, cardamom powder, cashew nuts and raisins(roasted in ghee) and stir frequcntly until done.ffMlridu Traflltlons 29

Maattu PougalPeople show their gratitude towards the cattle, especiallythe cow, by celebrating “Maattu Pongal'. Though the Agamasdo not state any message about this Pongal, it is observed inpractice. Cows are bathed, their homs are sharpened and painted,and they are decorated with turmen`c, kumkum, chanthanam andgarlands. The pongal is cooked in the cowshed and then offeredto the cows.TlnaipoosamThis festival falls on the star Poosarn aflerPongal, andis celebratedfor both Lord Siva and Lord Murugan. As this is an auspicious day,people perfonn the ear - piercing cenemony and Anna prasanarn (feedin gthe baby cooked rice for the first time). It is very important to go to thetemple and pray to the Lord on this day. Kavadïs am carried around inMurugan temples on this day.Thai AmavaasaiThis is the New moon day on which Goddess Abhiramiblessed Abhiramipattar by showing a Full moon. It is a good day

to observe this fast for our ancestors.The Month of Maasi (Mid-February to Mid-March)Maasi MagamWhen the Chandran (Moon) enters the Simma Rasi(Zodiac Leo) with the star Magam in the month of Maasi, thefestival of “Maasi Magam' is celebrated. When the Jupiteralso enters the Simma Rasi, it becomes “Maga Magam`, which3 0 uinu naun-Inuis more auspicious. The `Maga Magam' is eelebrated once intwelve years at the Kumbakonam Mamangheswarar temple inTamil N adu.This fast is very auspicious to Sakthi, and when people observethis they will be free of rcbirths. When women observe this and doAnnadhaanam, they will be blessed with a son. This is also the day onwhich Sakthi incamated as the daughter of Takkan.SivarathriThe Sivarathri fast is compulsorily observed by Saivites,the devotees of Lord Siva. This fastis observed on “Theipirai ,i chamufdhasi' (me day before the i I <3New moon) in the Maasi month. -95'*Fasting is a must on this day, and if 23 people Worship the Lord throughout 'É-ikthe night without sleeping. The f ii* ~ Supreme Being without Adhi (beginning) and Antha (end) isrevealed through Sivarathri. The devotees who Worship withtrue devotion will receive the grace of the Lord on this day. Thenight is spent by going to the temple, worshipping Lord Siva,chanting the Panchatcharam, and reciting the Thirumurais. Thosewho cannot fast can drink milk or water. The people fastinghave to perfonn their morning rites and do paaranam along witha Siva devotee. After paaranam one should not sleep duringthe day.Paaranam - Eating before 8.30am the day afterfasíing.uimw muicløm 31

The Month of Panguni (Mid-March ta Mid-April)Panguni UthiramThis festival is celebrated on the Full moon day associatedwith the star Uthiram. This festival is auspicious for both Lord

Muruga and Lord Siva. The Mother of the Universe,Aadhiparasakthi had incarnated as the daughter of Malaiarasanand married Lord Siva on this day. Hence, it is called “KalyanaSundara Virathamf On this day “Seetha Kalyanam” also took place.Panguni ThingalThis fast is observed in the month of Panguni on Mondays.This is auspicious to SakthiThe Month of Chithirai (Mid-April to Mid-May)Chithirai's New Year dayThis is the periodwhen the Sun enters theMesha Rasi (Zodiac Aries).This is the first month for theTamil people. Puranas statethat “Brahma startedcreation on this day, andhence we celebrate this dayas New Year day. `te/FP1:š«a`°\\To get rid of sins, people take a head bath with a littleMaruthuneer (water mixed with herbs, flowers etc.) brought fromthe temple. On this day people wear new clothes, perform pooja,and offer pongal to the Sun God who confers grace on the world.32 mmv rrzuieumThey go to the temple and get blessings from the priest and elders.It is a customary to take pachadi (sambal made from flower ofNeem and sugar) with our food.Chithira PournamiThis is the Full moon day on which those who have lost theirmothers observe fasting, so that her soul lies in peace.The Month of Vaikasi (Mid-May to Mid-June)Vaikasi VisakamThis is the day of incamation of Lord Muruga in SaravanaPoigai. Lord Muruga protected Dharma for the welfare of thewhole world by destroying the Asuras and protecting the Devas.The Vaikasi Visakam falls on a Full moon day.Vasanthotsavam and Brahmotsavam are celebrated in temples.Namalvar was born on this day. Buddha was born, got wisdomand attained Mukthi on this day, and hence Vcsak iscelebrated. The Puranas reveal that when Vaikasi Visakamassociated with Chathurdhasi falls on a Tuesday, it is auspiciousto Yamadharmaraja.The Month of Aani (Mid-June to Mid-July)

Aani Uthiram' Abishekam for Lord Nataraja is performed on AaniUthiram. The abishekams take place on six different days everyyear. These days are: Chithirai Thiruvonam, Aavani ValarpiraiChathurdhasi (waxing moon), Purattasi Valaipirai Chathurdhasi,Masi Valarpirai Chathurdhasi, Aani Uthiram and Marghazhimmv munten 33

Thiruvadhirai. The abishekams for Aani Uthiram and MarghazhiThiruvadhirai are performed early morning with darshan. On theother four days the abishekams are perforrned in the afternoonwith darshans in the evening.The Month of Aadi (Mid-July to Mid-August)Aadi PirappuThe essential grains are sown in the month of Aadi, whileauspicious events are not celebrated during this month. There isa saying that “Oru Aadi Kalanginaal, Ezhu Aadi Kalanga Vendum”,which means that “If we suffer for one Aadi, we will have tosuffer for seven Aadis”. Aadi Kool and kozhukattai are consumedon this day.Aadi Kool (Porridge)Roasted split moon g dahl 1/4 cupRoasted rice flour 1/2 cupCoconut milk 3 cupsCoconut piecesIaggery 3/4 cupSalt .Boil the moong dahl and strain it. Mix the rice flour withcoconut milk, and then add the moong dahl and cook. When it iscooked, add jaggery, coconut pieces and a pinch of salt and stir.Serve hot.Aadi ChevaaiUnmarried girls observe fasting on the Tuesdays of the Aadimonth, and then go to the temple for Amman Darshan to be blesscd3 4 mnuu vt-:nieren:with an early man-lage. There is a saying that “Aadi Chevaai ThediPidithaal, Naadiya Kanavan Veedu Varuvan”, which means that“If you fast on Aadi Chevaai, your ideal husband will come to yourdoorstep.”Those who have Chevaai dhoshams should observe fasting onthis day commencing from the first Tuesday of the month of Aadi.Aadi Amavaasai

This New moon day is auspicious for performing“Pidhirkadan'. Those who have lost their fathers, fast on this dayand de charity. According to the Agamas, those without fathersshould perform these rites by the seashore with a priest. Here theyhave to offer sesame seeds, water and dharpai. This is done to ourforefathers for their souls to rest in peace. It is a must for them toobserve fasting on every Amavaasai (New moon day).Aadi Pooram `There is a myth that the Mother of the Universe, GoddessUma, attained puberty on this day. Hence, it is auspicious toobserve this fast and get Ambaal darshan. Eight kinds of Siddhiscan be attained by worshipping on this day. It is more auspiciouswhen Aadi Pooram falls on a Friday.Siddhis - spiritualpowersfor the control ofselfi others andthe forces of nature.The Month of Aavani (Mid-August to Mid-September)Aavani GnaayiruAstrology regards Aavani as “Simrna Maadham'. The Sunenters the Simrna Rasi during this month, thus Sundays becomemeu mmmm i 35

auspicimis, H is hclicvcd ihm uur wishcs are I`uH`i||cdw|1cn wefusl and \v01'Sl1i|1||1c Sun God nn Suiidziys.Aav:1niChatl1urll1i1 \ . Ilhisisihc l`uul'll\«.|uyul'lci' (. " _ _ _.f\111u\':1:|s:1i in \hc munlh ol' 5 1V ..›\:1\-'-.1n|. Lord \-"ir1ziyalkzi ! ` -. . . 1 ~. - ›„1nc:ir|1alvi1ull 1|11sduy,\Vcl;1s1 1',',' | „,~ , _,_in lhc morning amd go in ihc 1 ~ , 11cn1plc in lhi: cvcning. Lurd › ' Vimiyukai is w:›i'.s'I1ippcd by ~\`ul`[`cring ul'i1g;1n1pul, modliukmn _ __ m1d|›m1gul. ~ - 4; *É L; F ff,'|`lu: story of \hu Nzizmkamii Pínii011 Lhc Chuthunlii d;iy(t`i1Ln^I|1 dan)-':1l`1c|'1\:1\f:|ni Amzivuusaii ).(`l1:1|1dm|1 (Mnun) \vus ;m1uscd mid luughcd in lhc sighl of

Vi1iaynk;|`s big hclly. the lmlus in his lru|1l\. und his liand czirrymg|11:›d|1:ik:i|11s. Lord Vimiyuku grcw angry :md curscd lhc 1\'hmnLhul Lhusc who sec him nn \his day \\-'mild fucc lriails undlril1ul:1liuns_ Hci1cc.i1isiiotgonalioscclhc Miami un lhc !'<›iu'lhday uhcr A|11u\~':u|s:|i in :hc111i›n\l1ul'/\avuni.Aavauii MnnluinSui1du|'csw;n'ur(l.ur<lSiv;1);1i-rivcil in MmJul'uim1 lhischiy lu bless Sziinl M;1|1ickzi\f;i›;ugai1'. Once, hing Paimliyuimpi'i.~.'u|\cii M:illick;|\-'usaigail' l_(1|^s|1cildi|\g ull ll11*|1mI1c_\=i›i1 :iSiv;1lc|11p|c ir1siu:i<l11l` buyingLhchursc:<l1uwus|1›|di1›. llcncu.Lurd Sim 131111: :ind sin-'cd him hy l|':illSl`nr|11illg :ill \hc lnxcs.V1 uliwu ruainmni|1lul1n|'scs. l`hi.\^ day was on the star Moolum in (hc month ofAuvaini. 1lc|1cc,lI1is day is cclclvrzilcd as u festival.The Month øf Pllrattasi (Mid-Septcniber to Mid-Oclober)Pursallasi SamiThis dziy is very :i\|spifiou.\' to l.m'r.l Szmccswuru. Themisiurilics ohscrvcd fm' l.m1l Smiceswxirn on Pumllusi Saturdaysufo nwrc huncficiail than any ul|1crS:1li1rxl:1ys. For lhc suul lo bcriil ulïsins amd mlain lihci':1li«›i1. scsziinc seeds urc licd in zi blackululh, dippcdi|1gi|1gc|lyo|l,:1nd1hc11hurnlinaclziy pot at lhclcmplu. O|`l'cring fond in c|'i›\\~:~; is 11 inusl, liecuusc il is His mount.'lhking li›zms;1|'c|11›| :illnwcd on lhis. day, :ind mic should notwcul' lurn vlnilics.|\1l1mlu_\~al11/MaluilayaimlVl;1kulalyu P:ilcl1:ull is Ihr wnning pcriud oflhc moon (ic.period l'm111 Full 111111111 lo New niuun day) in \hc month of Purallasi`l`l1usc wlio cunnnl pcrl`nr111nlus.ioi|1cirl'm'cl`ulhcrs cvcry monthshould pcrl`:›rm uhm-ilies during this month :is zin allcrnalivc. Thereis :1 mylh lluil during \hc milieu: K;1nni_ our forcfullicrs come tolj;ul|11o visii lhcir|un1ilics,'l`his visil is known als Mz1ka|ayam_MaasiyaiilThe rilcs |1cr|`umled 10:1 dcud |›crsm| cvcry month duringlhc li rsi year is knuwn as M:iusiy;1|11.'l`l1c ccrcmm1ics :irc performcdun \hu sumc'l`l1ilhi nn \v|1iul1 ||1cpidl1i1^pz1sscd away.mmv 1r.mhon| 37

Navilríllllfi (Nine Itiglttx)The period of nine days and nights when Sakthi loughl and slaycd the dcmnn Mahishasuran 4 _'

| | ' V' Iis celcbrated as "- _Ni.v„f„itii1.Tmsfcfiiivii1 is lfifggwflx- Qcclchrzitedinthcmnnthnf -sn- i.›i@i-;,;ti,- Je '_ ii_ _ - . aa. «--= 2") 3 „ ál-íurïtasltl,eornqiïiiïinålon t 1,'.';': .I 1.' il I imtie mt amai ntu ay ; ' §±- `;f - T,-` " ._' -,_afterl\lcw munn) until the F fx ` iNavami 'Fhithi (ninth dayufwaxing moon period). Dcvi is the prcsiding dcity for this festival,and she is worshippcd in the form nfa kumham.This festival is celuhratcd for nine days by worshipping, theDcvis. The prcsiding deity during the l`irst three days is Durgu(Guddess ofcourage), followed hy Mahiiltikshmi (Gnddcss ofwealth) |`or the next three days, and then finally Saraswathi(Gnddess ot` knowledge) during the last three days.Idols o|` l lindu gods, goddesses, mythological characters,animals etc. are displayed on zt row of steps, and is called `GoluPzidigal`. The numher ul steps, (in which the dolls :tre arranged,are usually in Odd numbers. The Golu is arranged on Amavaasai(New moon day), and it lasts for lt) days until the Vijayadhasamiday. On the ninth (lay, Saraswathi pooja is celebrtttcd. On thisday, hunks and mu.sic_al instruments are kept in the shrtnc roomand pnojas are performcd.JK nlouu Iuniuuu'lhe lenth day is \f1_jatyur.|]\zts".ulli.and it is considered zi day ofvictoiy:Ls it is the day on which Snkthi slztysthe (lemon. Vijayudliasami is unituspicious day to begin new vcntuius(ic. business, education etc.) hccuuscit ;Lssui'e.s<›net›lsuL~c±:~;s. I ßtimingthc:tft ef music and dancing arecommenced on this day. :uid childrenitnsalsotaught their filst ztlphuhct.nlnni rvuamun: ,f'f_-'-«hi' ,.fff1›f yši ofl ' ›1<. ` Q Ã/I' "§'"'i› _å!s'~<u:

1?

Kctharat Gowri ViratltamThis fast is obscrved for 21 days from _Purnttttsi Valarpirai Nztvttmi to Aipasi r__ , v .T _ 9..Thcipirtti Chutlturdhasi. Goddcss Uma l _ohserved this fast to morge with Lord Sivu 'A ia _' 2into the Arthanumcswttrarform. Hcnce.itis . - -` Il .~. `tl _' _tcrmcd the Kcthartt Gowri Viratham. Both 'Dhecnants are placed in a row during this festival. andcrackcrs are lightcd. People wear new clothes and worship theAlntighty. Dhcepavali always falls on the day prcceeding the Newmoon day in the month of Aipasi.Kanda SushtiKanda Sashti starts on the cltty after New moon day in themonth of Aipasi. Kanda Sttshti iscclchrated forsix days.This ismttmed and unmawied women obscrvc this.Mtuticd women observe it forthc well-beingof their hushztnds, whereas ummtrricd1--f/ ';, « _ <*bft _ 5 . 1._ _ Ithe lime during whichLord Mttruga lought ~_'/.›.~,women observc it to be blesscd with a good httsbztnd. 1-Lvcn menohservc this fast to lead a prospcrotts life.A yttfn with ZI plics is taken, :md we tie tt knot cverydayfor ZI days. On the final day. the pricst in the temple ties thisknottcd kaappu on the right hand for men und the left hand forwomen. During this lust, food is consumed only in the evcnings(alter sunset) for the first twcnty days. and then on the 2 P' daycomplete fttsting is ohserved. Paarztnztni is donc the followingmorning (before 8.3Oam). /\ny one of the items; ttdltirastim.cllttrundtti, betcl leaves and ureca nuts. bummas or eoconuts isoffered cttch day as `\'aivethy:tm' during the 2! days.The Month of Aipasi (Mid-October to Mid-November)Dheepavali (Dheepam - ali)Dhccpztvali is celebrated as the festival of lights. This wasthe (lay on which Lord Krishna destroycd the :lemonNat'al1ttstt|'an

with the help of Sttthyahama. This implics that the Lord tlcstroyctlAdharmtt with l)ltarmtt.-HI ntnuu lramtømand slaycd the demon Q'-^§*.l'?l?Sttrupzttlman.done the followinflmorning. 'l`he SushtiVirttdham has to hc<f/fl',~ ›»' 2 V

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|t :_:5'tu...«.»_f.ø,f ›,«.~~.~„~.-,„__›4» --'š-,'. ';;_:í'. Ii~„.||›|f .Dcvotecs of Lord 5/1/ I °°".-_š_Âi?_,7„§,"'~.4`i:Ãj'„_Murttgafatstonztllsix A; _ _ -is; ;~›;'_› tt- f.clttys. amd drink only „ , y-_-4. 2, ` ; _,_,f,§___{.wtttetï They tukc food F “if-,"\ï” É' .«. _ t 1 '_§\.only on the sevcnth ” Jday. with zt Suivist. \„?_V._-_;-L - L :___š,m'l`ho.~'c who cannot l"`"`°á. :`=.'›$l'_ _ e„~ -- 4.last lor all stx days. :«›«_~,._ -have one meal a day ' 7 „during the ltrst ltvc Qi _ ttztys attttl then fast -f t. _~ t-t-t ~ t .ff Ipomp L L y un th-L - 'gwn F! 'I'. __;sixthdtty.Pttar:tnamis _. _à .ohscrvcd continttously for l2 yrs.Pttrantts state that this was also the day on wltich l.otdSit-'zt mttde both Brahma and Vishnu rcali'/.c l-Its Suprcntacv duringtheir disptttc over their own Sttpretttacy.atm. mutußm 4|

Aipasi VelliFm' days of the month Aipasi are considered more auspiciousthan any other Fndays.The Møuth of Karthigai (Mid-November to Mid-December)Karthigai ThingalMonday is the day of the Moon and is termed Somavaram.Somavara Viradham is the most auspicious of all the Siva Viradhams.On Somavara day, the Chandran got the blessing of being wom onLord Siva's head. This fast is observed on Mondays by fastingthroughout the day. At sunset they offer pongal (made out of raw

rice) and fruits to Lord Siva and then consume it as prasadham.Karthigaí Dheepam VThis is celebrated on the Full moon day associated withthe star Kaflhigai. Once, the Devas, blessed by Lord Siva. became.arrogant and haughty. Therefore, Lord Siva appeared before themas an old man, planted a Thumbai plant, and then asked them touproot it. All the Devas failed the task and soon realized theirmi stake. Hence, Lord Siva blessed them all in the form of light.Vinayaka Sashti VirathamThis is observed for 21 days, commencin g from Krishna PatchaPrathamai (the day after Full moon) of the Karthigai month, to SuklaPatcha Sashti (sixth day after New moon). The kaappu (band comprisingof 21 plies) is tied by a piiest on the right hand for men and left hand forwomen. This 'austerity is observed by having one meal a day dtuin g thefust 20 days, and then fastin g completely on the 215* day. Paaranam isdone the following morning.4 2 umuu muiumuThe Month of Margazhi (Mid - December to Mid -January)ThiruvampavaiwaThis is considered'early morning' for the„ sl.:*. 'L1'Devars (celestial beings), ,and hence it is more Asignificant to recite the T?/i*"WF >.>››a\Thirupalli Ezhuchi andThiruvampavai (morning ' prayers) during this month. 5This festival is auspicious for `Lord smtanditsymboiizes __o_\_f _ _ ~ ii'VHis five functions.The Thiruvampavaifestival is celebrated for nine days. The tenth day is Thiruvadhirai.ThiruvadhiraiThis is also a significant day for Lord Siva. This auspieiousViradham is observed in Marghazhi on the star Thirvadhirai, and LordSiva is known as Adhiraiyan. People observe fasting and go to thetemple for Arudhara darshan on this day. This festival is famous in

Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu (India).Vaikunda EkadhasiVaikunda Ekadhasi falls on the eleventh day after Newmoon day in the month of Margazhi. This is significant to LordVishnu. Devotees observe fast and worship Vishnu throughoutthe ni ght. In Vishnu temples, the main entrance gate is opened onthis day, and aspirants enter the temple. This symbolizes theentrance into Vaikuntha (Heaven).mun" maan: 43

Sukkiravara VirathamThis is observed on Fridays throughout the Year. Though theprcsiding deity is Lord Muruga, Sakthi and Ganapathy are alsoworshipped.Prathosa ViradhamThis Viradharn is observed on Thirayothasi Thithi, the thirteenthday of both the waxing moon and waning moon, seeking Siva”s grace.The Puranas narrate the following story of a Siva's miracle:“During the Kunno Avatar, both the Devas and Asuras usedthe mountain Meru as a maththu, and the snake Vasuki as a rope, tochum the Thiruparkadal (milky ocean). Their intention was to drinkthe Amirtham (nectar) produced and become immortal. Whilechurning, the Vasuki spurted poison into the sea. Seeing this, the Devasand Asuras seeked Lord Siva at Mount Kailas and surrendered toHim. Hence, in order to save them, Lord Siva consumed the poisonand told them to continue chuming the rnilky ocean. On the dawn ofThuvadhasi day (twelfth day), Amittham appeared, and all rejoiced.The following day, Thirayodhasi day (thirteenth day), they went toLord Siva and asked for forgi veness. Lord Siva pardoned them withHis grace. In the evening, Lord Siva danced in between the homs ofthe ldabam (Nandhi). The Devas were fonunate to get a glimpse ofthis, and hence Were blessed. The Puranas state that the time of thisdance perfonnance was during the Prathosa kalam (between 4.30pmand 6 pm). `Special pooj as are conducted during this ti mc in Siva temples.Lamps with ghee are lit before the Nandhi and Lord Siva. Red rice,and a garl and made from amgampul are offered to the Nandhi.44 mmm 1r=ui:|ømAfter the pooj as, the idol of Lord Siva is carried around theinner premises of the temple three times in a procession led by theMusicians. In the first round the Nadhaswaram is played, in the secondround the Vedha Parayanam is recited, and in the third round the

Pannim Thirumurais are recited.There is a special routine by which Lord Siva should beworshipped during the Prathosa kalarn (ie. without crossing theKomuhai). It is customary to Worship Him in this way at the Sivatemple. Food is consumed only in the evening after the pooja. Thosewho worship Lord Siva on this day are excused for not worshippinghim on other days.The method of worshipping Siva during the Prathosa kalamPray to Nandhi first, then 3 4mm nght(al~.fic10ckwise direction) t Nand go to the Sandeswarar and /V _ Kpray. Retum the same way and 4 V \E674:' N X M4 A `pray to the Nandhi. Then tum left(cloekwise direction) and go up tothe Komuhai. Retum the same wayand pray to the Nandhi. Tum rightagain and go to the Sandeswararand pray. Retum the same way, butwithout stoppin g at the N andhi,carry on up to the Komuhai. Thentum around and go all the wayback to the Sandeswarar and pray.Finally, retum the same way to theNandhi and get a glimpse of LordSiva inbetween the homs of the Nandhi. 1;,_/1t ë\,›«›\›- Nandhi- SandeswararK - KomuhaiNlnuu Tnultlnns 45

5:: VT TW* ÃÉL' 5'Ceremonies(Birth to Death)Childhoød

31" day of birthThe ñrst ceremony of the baby is conducted on the 31 st dayof birth. The first 31 daysare considered asdefilement (Thudakku),hence the baby should notbe taken out until the 3 1 stday. This is the day toremove the defilcmcnt ofHindu vraulfiomie '^,å/442-3nw erthe baby. On this day, the øf \ÉVÂ Q flw”house is washed and 1 \té Â ~`fÉ`~_ \äeveryone takes a head _, ›bath. A Niraikudam is . ›_ 3</placed at the entrance (see 'fka fie: šå:<0 `

pg. 155), and the priest is invited home to perform the pooj a. He willface the east, and the following things should be placed before him:A planfain leaf, a large salver, paddy or raw rice,coconuts, manga leaves, arugampul, a lamp, oil, wick,garlands, flowers, sacred ash, chanthanam, turmeric,kumkum, rose water; image of Vinayaka, betel leaves andareca nuts, lime, fruits, sugar candy (katkandu), a bunch ofbananas, camphor and camplwr plate, incense sticks,gumbenzoin. 'First, the priest performs Punniyavasanam and sprinklesthe pooja water all over the house., thus symbolizing the removalof the defilement. It is also customary to name the child on thisday, after the defilement is removed._ . ø ,-Nama Karanam (Naming _ _ the baby)Nama Karanamisthe first _ _ccremony conducted for a Qlglßi'-_newborn baby. The baby”s head 1 ]is shaved, and then the priest 1 JT II

perfonrts pooja stating the hinhstar of the baby. The baby isthen placed on the lap of thematemal uncle (or eldest familymember), and the name is uttered three times into the baby's ears.The baby is fed sugar candy water to be blessed with a sweet lifeby the grace of God. Then the parents and relatives utter the nameinto' the baby”s ears and bless the baby.Éi is 8'.-a,.°-\;~`_ \X „ff/"Q4 V4 8 nmau 'rraulctovuDhrishti pottu (Black bindhi)l00g Sago is roasted in a pan until it turns black. Then it isboiled in water with flowers (ie. jasmine) for fragrance. This isthen filtered through a thin cloth into a coconut shell (or a bowl)and left to dry. The black residue is later made into a paste bymixing with a little water. This black paste is worn as a bindhi onthe baby. Hindus believe that this black bindhi wards off the evileyes cast on the baby.41st day oi birthOn the 415' day, the mother takes the baby to the temple.The following archanaí (pooja) products should be taken: betelleaves and areca nuts, fruits, coconut, flowers, and incense sticks.The baby is placed before the Sanctum Sanctorum, and an archanaiis done on the name and birth star of the baby.Karna Vedhanam (Ear - piercing ceremony)The ear-picrein g Ceremonyis donc for the removal of “ArittaDhosham` (evil influence), and Éalso for beautification. This is „ t T 1conducted on the 6, 7, 8 or 10'” t &`month of thcchild. ' § äi ,\ K1 IAn moi Ofvinayaka, and a H La I .: „niraikudam are placed near the i L' l Q?/\è„ .child. The goldsmith is invited home / ` i __to pierce the child`s ears, and then ` T: *_earrings are wom. Poojas/Kiriyas , .\\ /"›$*=:'4-'efzeare not necessary for this _ ~

ceremony. lt is auspicious toconduct this ccremony on Thai Poosam day.ntnau mutrtum 49

Chorootal (lfeeding cooked rice for the first time)Rice is fi:dl`urLl\c l"|rsl1imc un :in uuspicious dziy.!~`o1'bnysiiis donc on lhc 6. 8, 10 or 12"' monih (cvcn-numhcrcd nmnlli).whc1\:us|`orgii'lsms donc on the 5. 7, 9 or 1 1"* month (udd-numheredmmilh).A lamp is lil, l.m'd\/inaiyuku is worsl1ippcd_und clizikkui-ui pungiil(swcui rice) is nficrcd iolhc Lord. Then the fulhcrfccds \hc porigzil lo the childlhrcc times. Thun :ill \hcrclamvcs feed ihc child :mdbless him/her for u long :indhculihy liic. Since il is \hufirsl mcul forthc child, ihcJunflail is (ed usinß ai gold i-in«_›/s ›oon.C' _ h `Teething1:13'

:ï h _`~«,. _'§_f_f" -"

.É f'- Le:L .Il is necessary in prcpzirc 'Pullu k02l1iik;|ll:ii` (ai swccl)when Lhc l`i rsi molh '.ippc;|r.\' for Lhc child. Thu child is placed unal \\-'hilc clolh. und;li1i›ll1ci'\\-'liilc clnth is pui over hislhcr hcaid(sec picture). A Vimiyi1kai'i(l(›l mudc out <›fium1cric. und zi lighicdlzimp urc pluccd l›ci1›|'c lhc child. Eill1ci'i1incoi'clcvcn knzhuliuliziiäiirc kcpl nn ihc chilcl`s head hy the niziicmul unclc und mini. Theylhcn feed ii lu ihc child. This ccrcnwny is pc|'t`o|'illr.-d io gci theblcssings ulihc 1,0111.snmnuu Inultiom

mmm Ifaflinflna

KozhukattaiRice flour l cupSteamed wheat flour 3 tbspRoasted green grams l00gCardamom powder 1/4 tspChakkarai l00gGrated coconut 1/2 cupPieces of coconutSalt. The roasted green gram is boiled and then strained. Whenit is dry, chakkaraí, grated coconut, and cardamom powder areadded and mixed well. Then the rice flour, wheat flour anda pinchof salt are mixed together and kneaded well by adding hot water,This dough is made into small cup shapes and filled with the greengram mixture. They are then folded and the edges are pressed,like patties. The edges are decorated with the pieces of coconut(symbolizing the tooth) and then steamed (see picture).Ehdu Thodakkuthal(Education)sas › 1 'This is usually done at K; ,' i//H' í ø al§>~ if L “the age of three. It is pp _ , " gp"customary to start education . , “ f /'7 i 5? . ›' /1on an auspicious day duiin g an auspicious time. This can 'T be on Vijayadhasami day < :-ï_}* in V(Na\fai'athri), Thaipoosam LIday, or an auspicious day between the months of Thai and Aaniaccording to the star of the child.5 2uiuuu rrauieimuThe “Ehdu Thodakkuthal` is usually performed at thetemple. The archanai products; betel leaves and areca nuts, fruits,coconut, camphor, incense sticks, flowers, and dhakshanai(money) should be taken to the temple. Those who cannot go tothetemple can perform it at home in front of a Lord Vinayakapicture. Here a lighted lamp, a niraikudam, and rice spread on aplate are placed near the child.

Education is first taught by the father, the Guru (teacher)or the priest. It is started with the Worship ofLord Vinayaka.The father holds the child”s finger and writes the first letter of theTamil alphabet Q4” on the rice. (The Tamil symbol “gym” canalso be written).Learning Music and ArtsIt is remarkable to learn ,it under a qualified Guru. When ~„ \`§)<1meeting the Guru for the first fotime, the following things should Ã ë ›;`be offered as ~Guru Dhakshanai”: Betel leaves and . . A k/'areca nuts, fruits, sugar candy, kumkum, a coconut smeared with turmeric, money and vastram (saree/ dhoti). After giving th'e ' \&wdhakshanai, we should \\/--1! ~y`,_\š;.prostrate bef orc the Guru, and __then start to learn. The Fine <Arts are mostly commenced onVijayadasami day or other auspicious days.,Qn/-lt//te/43.;Y?\\:.\\\mnøu rraamøns 53

Sandhya VandhanamSandhya Vandhanam is the worship done at the junctureof either evening and night, or night and morning. This is theworship of the Sun. The Sandhya Vandhanam is performed toforgive our sins comitted during the day, knowingly orunknowingly, and to bless us for a better life.

Method of performingl. Asamanam - Drink a small quantity of water from your palmafter meditating on the Almighty.2. Maarjanam - Sprinkle some water on yom body to purífy yourmind a.nd body.3. Agamarsanam - Worship for forgiveness of the sins committed inthe previous births.4. Surya Arkiyam - Sprinkle water after worshipping the Sun God.5. Pranayamam - To control our wavering mind, breathing exerciseis done and Gayathri mantra is chanted.6. Upasnanam - Worshipping the Sun God for His blessings.DheekshaiDheekshai is the blessing of a Guru in order to lead aSaivite life. It means blessing the student with Gnana (knowledge)and removing worldly desires.During dheekshai, when the Guru looks at the student,the Aanava (anogance) is said to be removed. When the Gurugives sacred ash, the bad thoughts are removed. When the Gurutouches the student with the dharpai (a sacrificial grass), hc/she5 4 mnuu n-:amen:is blessed with good thoughts. Then the Guru preaches thedheekshai mantras to his student. t1) Samaya Dheekshai2) Visesha Dheekshai3) Nirvana Dheekshai4) Sparisa Dheekshai5) Nayana Dheekshai6) Manasa Dheekshai7) Vasaga Dheekshai8) Mantra Dheekshai9) Yoga Dheekshai10) Authri DheekshaiThe first, basic dheekshai.Belongs to Kiriya Margha.Belongs to Yoga Margha and GnanaMargha.The Guru touching the disciple with hishands.The Guru looking at the disciple withgrace.The Gum capitivating the mind of thedisciple with his mind.The Guru preaching good principles.The Guru preaching mantras.

The Guru teaching yogas to merge withthe Lord.The Guru purifying the disciple throughAgni kiriyai.-:1š!ø`sš_=.- J.-A.

4 ,4 ~_ ,H ||`Nllflfl TIIGCIOIB55

Pubex-ty Ceremony(Srmiarlhíyu Smlnng n )When the girl attttins Hpuherty, she is said to han-'e rcatclicd womatnltood. The Family tnemhcrs '_.;,"**\httvc Thudukku(dcl'ilemct1t)l`or H'thrcc days. und hence they shouldnot go to the temple. l)uring š ` ._cztrlier dztys. the girl who ttttuins _?-, zpubcrty is mudetu sitoncllylcm-'cs _ ,_› ' :md given tt btttlt :tt the lvtiekymd nem' the wel l. Today she is hathedin the btttltroom. ller fucc is thencovered with u white cloth :ind taken to hcr room. The cloth isrcnmvcd in front ol' at lighted lamp. und she .statys in the room tmtilthe 'l`hu(1ukktt is rcinovcd. 'lb remove tl1c`I`|1|.td;tkkt|, the priestperlorms Punniyztvusunttm eithcron the fifth or sc\-'cnth day. lnvillttgcs. the dcl`ilcment is removed on the l'out'th day hy taking tthuth with zt little milk ttpplicd on the hcttd.

The dietDuring lhi.\' lime'. r›u.\'i1_\' ø1i„t;v.\'IuI1lt* _/è›mI.\' .vltuultl Ine1-uu.~'mn<'r/_ 'I'Izu div! int-Imlrfx.' uxhullmn kuli, 1-rmkml run' rm'{[un:/t<'lluí rlrixi), brinju! (c_1.g_f.: plm11/uiihwgínv) milk <'urr_\=. :'_t,'g_/i'ic:lin _L;in„1;('/I_\' uil, .\'!rt`1t_1„f /m/2pt'r.\' vl: *_In I/tt* nlnn|ing_\<_ _? lu/›lU.\'puun.\' 1)/`4t;ín_t,'L*II)= uil í.\' _i;m›1I InIukc. A puxlt' nmrlrj/iv›1n:mw: lcfriwci' ( l()), /:luck ;u›p[›t'r 13). ,qt'ti_t;w:tlpincll(4/`('uuu'H.\'<'r'(1.v, _t;ur[it~ (2 1'/u\'«'.\“), um! 11 /Jimi* ig/'mr1m'ri1,',ix also git-'vu tu I/tr' girl In .\'n'u[Imi' in llu' umrm'n_t;.\'_/2›r I/I/'P1' (Iu_\-'.\'.S6 ntnuu mnmemSaularthiya Sadangll (The Ceremony)

This ccrcmony is pcrformed on un uuspiciousday. which fail ls on the 5th. 7th.9th. l lth or lišth dtty from theday of ututining pubcrty. Themzttcrnail uncle and aunt atrcgiven priority during thisccrcmony.A kolztm (rangoli) isdrttwn, and zt niruikudztm isplaced att the cmrzttice. Thegirl`s fttce is covered with ztwhite clolh (lo avoid seeinginziuspieious things). und ismade to curry tt bctcl lcufwitlicoins. Shc is made to sit on tt matt (or u plank) covered with itwhite <:loth,l`t1cing either cast or north. The lbllowing things :treplaced heforc her: A niruílcmlum, u cup ufmilk, urugnmpul.frui!.\', lwlcl k'ul':›.\' nm! fmwu mtls, cornnln'. u vu.\'.\'e!_fr1rt'nIlm:!in_t; cocunuf \1'ul1›r. lamp um! iriccrixe sri<.'k.\'.The white cloth is removed hy wiutcssingu lightcd lump.Thc mutemul unclc puts `ptt:tl ztrugu` (ztrugampul, milk and coins)on the girl`s head und blcsscs het: During this time, cttmphorttztrattlti is perl`oi1ncd to Lord V inayitkzt to remove an y ohstaclcs.The euconut is broken into two httlvcs by zt relative. Then 'paalatrttgtt' is kept on the gii^l`sltcttLll1_v either 5 or 7 relutives/friends.She is then taken to the hulliing place, und the unelc pours wateron hcr head, followed hy otliercldcrs. The girl is smeured withnmuu vmulalum S7

turmeric, and then brought back by/eoverin g the face with a whitecloth. The cloth is removed with the girl facing a lighted lamp.The girl is dressed like a bride in a new saree, and is givena kumbam (a pot filled with water, adomed with a coconut, neemand mango leaves) by her maternal uncle. The girl”s face iscovered with a veil and escorted to the hall by young girls carryinglamps and Sumangalis carrying the aarathi trays (see pg 60).The girl stands facing either east or north, and the veil isremoved. Each aarathi is perfonned on the girl by two Sumangalis.Aarathis are performed to remove the effects of evil eyes. Themother should not perform the aarathi during this ceremony. Thefirst aarathi should always be that of the “Nirainazhi', and the last

two should be that of the 'paalroti and neem leaves' and the“three lit slices of banana' respectively. The aarathi of the othertrays can be performed in any order. The matemal uncle receivesthe kumbam from the girl and keeps it in the pooja room. Theparents put an Andaal garland on her (see picture), as she isconsidered to be a paavai (damsel). She then prostrates beforeher parents, uncle and aunt. Then the guests bless the girl and giveher gifts. VSumangali - Symbolisesi a happily married woman whoadorns flowers and kumkum.Performing the Aarathi at a puberty ceremonyThe aarathi is always rotated three times in a clockwisedirection. The aarathi of the 'Nirainazhi ' and 'Panneer set'are performed infront ofthe girl and then placed before heron thefloor. The aarathi ofthe 'flowers' are performed andthen the flowers are showered on her After performing theaarathi of the“paalroti and neem leaves', the paalroti is58 umuu 1-nuictunsbroken and then thrown in allfour directions to chase awaythe evil spirits. Then her whole body is stroked with the neemleaves, and afew leaves are given to her to bite and spit.All the other aarathis, Carrying food items, areperformed twice. First infront ofthe girl, and secondly aboveher head and then passed over her head to someone standingbehind het: These food products are then given either to thedhobi (washer man) or released into the sea/river.RecipesMilk Rice (Paal pongal)Raw rice is cooked with coconut milk and a pinch of salt.PittuThe roasted mixtutie of urid dhal flour, rice flour and a pinch ofsalt are kneaded with water and then pounded into small balls andsteamed.KaliRoasted rice flour - 1 cupRoasted urid dhal flour - 1/2 cupCoconut milk - 3 cupsJ aggery pieces - 3/4 cupPinch of saltThe urid dhal flour, rice flour, jaggery pieces, and salt areadded into the boilin g coconut milk and cooked slowly, stirringcontínuously till it thickens. 'Paalroti / Velroti1 cup of raw rice is washed, soaked and powdered

(a quarter of it only partly powdered). This is kneaded into doughwith eoconut milk and_l/4 tsp of salt; and then left for half an hour.Later they are rolled flat and deep-fried like pooris.nmou matteus 59

Aarathi materialsN1rmnzf/.hi- The nuzhi (hmss cup) is fillecl with paddy. and u lhin imnmd/needlc picming u bclcl lcaf is inscncd inlo it.PilluKaliMilk RiceRice und vegetable currics3 coconuls smcarcd wi\h turmcn'c wutcrPulakurums (swccls)Pzmneer SctBela] lcuvcs, m'ccunul.~:, lime. and al bunch of hzmanasFlowclsPaulroliand|leen1leuvcs3-lil slices ofhananz|(1m<litim1ul uaralhi)-4- \"-.\f-`\ ~_ .“"-`;M _ L n. -:Ati __`«~\:"._-_:›'._:_`É\_ „ _ ',._._ , v "~`. ~ -;;_" ' ~ -:..› _/ fl" . - gp, - V- ,- `__A ”`.:f_ï 65; ;___,;. _ „-v~.„_-5,.› .„__ ' ,. .--_ f - . v.'f" : ."' \ 1.__ ' := ! S11 `' ^- Éí ' .-4, J' 7 `^ 'fig :'“i- .J --.giifmmlu IraultlonsfillKu\›a ,W M - :_„I ~'-ff_ „_ '

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Marriage Rituals(Thirumanam)In the word Thirurnanam, 'Thiru” means divine and“Manam` means uniting, hence it implies “Theiveega Sangamam'(uniting of the two hearts).Besides religious and customary ceremonies, themarriages of Tamil Hindus have other special features too. Theseceremonies are conducted by highly experienced priests, as perreligious customs, through Agni (fire) and blessings of theAlmighty. The most important feature of the marriage is the“Mangalya Thaaranam' (Tying the Thirumangalyam around thebride”s neck), and this is done during an auspicious time. Onwearing the Thirumangalyam, the bride attains the state of amarried woman (Sumangali).First, the bride and the groom`s families compare thehoroscopes with an astrologer. Like the custom of seeing thebride at her home in Tamil Nadu (India), the bride is seen at apublic place (ie.temple) in Sri Lanka. To confirm the proposedalliance, the bride“s family and relatives (except the bride) visitthe bridegroom's home on an auspicious day with sweets andfruits. Then both families consult the astrologer for auspieiousdays for the Ponnurukkal, and for the marri age.Ponnurllkkal (Melting the gold for the Thirumangalyam)This is performed on an auspieious day before themarriage, at either the groom`s house or ajeweller”s. The bridc”sfamily and relatives/friends (except her) participate in thisfunction.62 uinuu vraulciomA kolam is drawn, a niraikudam, kuththu vilakkus, panneer set,chanthanam, kumkum and vibhuthi are all kept at the entrance of thebridegroom's house. In the place ofmelting the gold, anotherniraikudam and kuthlhu vilakku are kept along with coconuts,

mango leaves, betel leaves and areca nuts, bananas, turmeric,arugampul, flowers, lime, and a Vinayakar idol (made ofturmeríc). -A pooja is done earlier at the temple for the gold coin(to make the Thirumangalyam) and kept in the shrine room. On thePonnurukkal day, the groom`s parents give the coin to the groom togive it to the goldsmith. The goldsmith will then do the dhoopadheepa aradhanai and melts the coin. The melted gold is kept ona betel leaf and placed on a tray, along with turmeric, coconut,lime, flowers and fruits, and is handed over to the bridegroom.The groom shows it to everyone assembled there, and then givesit back to the goldsmith to make the Thirumangalyam (Thali).The goldsmith is gifted with rice, Vegetables and dakshanai (money).From this day onwards, both families start making the palakarams(sweets). It is a customary for the bride and bridegroom not tosee each other until the wedding day.Thirumangalyam (Thali)The image of Lord Vinayakar, Lord Siva or GoddessLakshmi can he impressezl on the Thriumangalyam. TheThirumangalyam, Kodi (gold chain) and two souvereigns, shouldweigh a total resulting in an Odd number (ie. 9, 11 etc. ).Kannikaaloom-al /Muhurthakaal(Planting the post for the pandhal)On the same day as the Ponnurukkal, the Muhurthakaalis planted in a northcast direction at both the bride andiurmu muienms 63

l›ridcgroom`s homcsv The Muhurthakaul is tt branch ul'Mulmurungui tree. ticzl with mango leaves ut the top. und a whitecloth (currying zt supper coin) dipped in turmcric wutct' liedaround the middle. Tltc l›t'ideg|'00|n plttnts it while threesttmzmgalis pour ttztvttthtmy:tn1_ water und milk. They then applysttcred ttsh. chatntltttnzint. turniet-ic pustc und ltumkum on theMuhurthakaul. A coconut is then broken and the tlhoopat dltcepuurudhanui is donc. Then the workets will st:t|1 building the pundhul(shed), The tthovc process is repeztted :tt the l1i'ide`sl1uusc. /\ftcrphtnting the Mt|ltttttl1ttk:ttil,tlle memhcrs o|`h<›tl1 llunilics shouldnot ttttcncl :my lnauspicious l`unctit'›ns.Mu/mtuwt_1.,ft1i - In:/lult currll tim'.tVamI/umyum - pm/1/_tt tiflwul. _qn~.'<'tt gram, Mn('cltm' (/irlzl /›r1m.\~),.\'<'.\'c1f›w .\'<'z'(l.v, K 0111: ( ltr›r.\'v gram). tmkl 1/hul. mun//tul, l3cIt,f.{1IlgI'uitt.Mulai Paaligai (Germinatíng seeds in eurtlien puts)

Fill 3 ot' S pztztligztis (euflhen puts) with damp soil. 3 or 5sumzmgulis sczttlet' soukcd navutlianyum seeds into the pot undthen sprinkle water und milk three times over it, This is kept inthe pooju room, und then taken to the tmirriztgc hall on the duyol' murrittge. This ccrcmuny can be done on the Pu|11tot't|l\'luilday or :tt least three days before the tnurriuge. so thut thenu\futhuny:.tn1 seeds would have gertnintttctl on the \vctlding dtty.'l`hc signifieunce ol this eeremony is for the couple und theirfumilies to prospetzjttst like the growing nuvathunyttin. After themttrriuge. the mulzti pttttligati is released into the river.The Pandhal (shad)Those days the wedding ccremonics were pcrl`m^metl inpundhuls ut the bt'idc`sl1ousu. Pundhuls were huilt to ticcommo(|tttc|›4 ntnuu Irsøiunm“l(,4,/W __ _ _ the guests.Thcyam: decoratedt 1ltllt't..l;›-›_---:-:±"`l.Q t,V 1tl= with festoons nl' flowers undt ribbons. amd white sheets areticd under the rootto prevent:my dust or insccts fi-nm fallinglll.DecorationsThe mttrriatge can bcpcrlormcd either ut the l›ridc`shouse, the temple, nr uinandupam (hall). Theentrances nl' the couplc`shomes are decorated withf estoons ol mango leaves andcoconut palm leaves (see|›ictut'c), and also zt plantztin

trcc. lneztring l`lo\\-eis :ind tt huneh ul l›ununus. is tied on either sideol`lhe gate. A kolzim is drziwn. :ind u niratikudum set is also kept, 5o

(ft15: |:' :~'-› |“|`;\lana\arai7 í`› l'_`, ;_.\-„ i t ,1L f J"›NLt

thcrc. These decortttions :tre alsodonc ut the wedding venue (ic.mttndttpztm/tcmple).Th<:sigttilicunce of kccpi ng tl1c planluintrees, urc for the families ol thecouple to prusper like themultiplicalion ol`the plztnutin trees.ln the hall, the Mztnztvztrui (thecouplc`s throne over which tttitaijestictilly decorated ttreh stands) should litce east. and thelblluwittg things ure kept helen: it us shown in the diztgrztm:Nlnuu tvautuniu65

l. Vi miyaluil'2. Humai kundum3. /\rasauii4.10 7. A kumbum und u kulhlhu vilzikku czxch8. Clumdrzx kumbaimU. AmmiIO. Si\-'al amd P:\|'\';1ll1i kumhzimsll. .\zi»';1gr'al1ukumhumsl2. Turmcric wuicr pol-ío1^llicri|ig.(The Mului puuligzii pols am: kcplbcl'o|'ctl1C Cliiuidru kumhum)Mapillai Azhaíppu (liwiling theBridegrooln )The mupillzii lhozh:|n( bri:lc`s hrollicr)

:ind rclzilives urrivc ul \hc hi'idcgi':Jm11`srcsiduncc wilh hamimls. p:|lzik;|r:in1s (sw<:c1.~'.)und cuconuls, each un ai <lil`|'crcnL traycovered with zi clolh_ 'lhc hridcgroom holdshcicl leaves :ind coins in such liund und silsnn ii wouden plank fucing czisi. I lis lu.-ad iscm-'ci-cd wiih ai while lowcl/c|ot|1. Thrcc url`ivc couplcs pui “paul 1irugu` (milk.nru_~_±aimpul amd coins) three iimcs on hishead. 'l`hc rnulcmul unclc hrcziks :u;oc<›nuilïicing lhc north. Thun the hridcgromn ink-us;1h:|lh_ wcurs \hc l1'uLlilio|1:|l nuilii, \vm-.~:liip.~<in lhc puoju room :xml proslralcs hclkzrc hispurtnls.1\'lhuluipu;|khui (|u|h;u\)_'.ul Lliluiitcyamilsliuwl). und al gurlzmd urc udorncd on \hchridcg,mum by cldcrs. (Thu Lliliurccyzim isnúplaced ovcrlhc left sl1oulclc1'zm<l lied near the light hip. scc picture).Similm'ly,1l1c 'l`hu|uip:iukhzii :md Ulharccyam urc udornccl nn ihclliuzliun. :md hc siumls lo the lcfi of lhc brinlcgruom.Escorting the BridegroomBefore leuvinu \hc house. twosumamgalis pcrlmm z1a|'z1ll1i.`l`|1<: lhuzhiicauiying lhc Kuorni tray) :md thelh<w.luul a\cco|11pm1y lhc bridcgroom_„» und his purcnls. They lruvcl to the hall,.1'. „ in 11 (lccnrulcd vehicle. 'l`hc olhcrff _\ rclauivcs follow wilh lruys ol`c0c(›m|ls. pzilukurunis. flowers undfruils. (Thc total number uflruys laken to the wedding, includinglhc Koomi u-ay. should be in ndd numhcrs).-rv-~\.fflëš_l_ _ Ilm:l›í - murriml .w`.\'Im'/frnrrllø' nrlallrv nfllw I›riL!1'_1„=mun1.Ihu:lIun - zunuurriml l›rr›I/mr/mlllr* n'IuIi\'e ufl/le l›ri1!1f.v- ",~ \H' ffAs *'ah f'/'„ ÉÉ'“'““-' "““"°'“ uimm n.›n1|bm\s (,7

Knorai Tray - Pmlzly ur ruw riu' .vprwul mz u !ru_\1 wílh I/1:'following Ilmigx plu<^z'<I uvcril: I\'nr›rní xrirw; l›h›u.\'<'; /›c1u! I<*u\'<*.\'um/ urøfm nuhg Ku.mm` !iu'nIu|'i`<'.' kmnklun; Iimw: i'«›<wii4I.' zihmicli rif Iuuiu›m.\'; _flni\w'.\-,- .ump: m›nih.^ mirr1›r; fmivclz'/'.'pwj/ium~.' Iln- 7`/iírunmn„uuI_\=uni wil/i 1/iv kwli (_i,›n1øk'/zui.'i_): mu/ ri 1,1ifpair ri/`i1/lvllix (mc ring,v).The Bride(If I/It' }J1t11crl_\' 1'crmnmi_\- Im.\' lm! IIUUH [›i'rjIin'ni1'rI. Ilmu il .vlmulil/›z' rlrnw Ihr 1[u_\' Iwjifn' I/ia' \i'v<l:/ill_s„'.JSimilurly :il ihc bridc`s housc.cI<|cis kccp 'punl ui-ugu` unhci'|le;id,:md\hcnsl1cL:|kcsall:›u||1_Shc i.~;ihc|id|"csscLlu›'uhi-idc und hei' fucc is covered with ai vuil. Aumllii is |1ci't`<›i'i1icil.:md \hurcziílci-\lie h|'idciscscn|'Icd1n the imir|^i;i;_~c hull hy hei'family in 1: Llccorulcd vchiclc. 'l`hu hi-idc slinuld hc :ii lhc hzillhcforc lhc hi-idcgmoni :ii'i'ivcs. Hcrc. she will sl;i_\«' in ai muin.(,3 ›unuu vnumumArriva! of the Bridegroom011 zirriving in lhc mzirringc hull. the hi-idegrm›m isruccivcd hy \hu hridc's family.'l`hcm:1pil|;ii lhozhzm wi ll wash thegromifs fcci wiih wulcr. ln rclurn, the bridcgroom presents zigold ring ln \he ihoxhun. Thc hridc`s fal11c|'gul'lmids \hc grooin.:md lhcn lwu suniuiigalis pc1'l`0i'n1 ll1cauu'ut|\i. The nizipillai llinxliunwill lhcn cscurl \hc bridcgruon1 lo lhc Munavurai.The Wedding Ceremony/\i the Mzinzivzirui, il is a cusmni to spread paiddy on \hcc<›uplc`>^ scan mid cover with ai Kuinhalzim (zi small carpet). Thchri(lcgi'ooill sils on \his_ The mupillui lhuzun siis on his lcfl sidcuniil \hc hridc urrivcs. ll is \hc pricsl who is in charge of theU0l'c|m›|\y und lhc pooju lhings required. Thc pricsl first pc1'fe›|'n1su pnuju to Lord \~^'i|1;|y:ik:i lu shower I lis blcssings und rcmovc:my ohsmclcs during lhc cci'c|11i›|\_v. The pricsl then gives szicrediish :ind zi pzivilliirzim (ring maidc fmni dh:irpui)k1l|le hi'idegr:›<›m.T110 g|'00|11w'cz||'sl|ic pz|vill1|':||1i on his righl hand ring fingßr. Thisis lu prevent amy fuulls during :hc riluuls. `l'hc pricsl pcrfnrmsSunkulpuin (ai wlcmii vuw) und Punniyuvusunaiin (puril`ying lhchndy und plucc) pimjns hy chamling ill;1|1lrz1s_z||1<l lhcn givesP:inchukz|vy:m1 lo drink.Angurarpanam (Seed .mwing Ceremony)l\flcr \hc C`hund|'u kumbum punju, 3 nr J smnzingulis fromholh lvalmilics smv lhc Navulllunyuni seeds in u pualigui pol amdsprinklc wziici' \hrcc !in1cs. (lflhc Mulaii pzuiligaii has hccn donc

curlicr und hruuglil la the hall. \hcn lhcy willjusl sprinklc wulcr.)'I hcsc \vnmcii will cuch hc ulTc|'cd l'|nwcrs und ai bununzl on alhclcl li-ul'. Thc signilicuncc uflhis ccrcmony is for (hc cuup|c`s lifelu I |<1\||'|.\'h_ji|sl likc lhc Naivulliainyuin giïiwing into grccn plz|nls_inmiu xunimm IH)

Kaappu kattuthal / Rakshabhandanam('l}'íng llu' xurrcfl thread)Tupei'|`nrn1 this, r;i\\-' rice is .fipreud on u lruy. :ind lhe kamppulsalcred llircald). al eneunul. hele! leaves zuid arceu nuls zure placedl,›vc|"il.1\p<›n_iui:< donc :ind \hc priesl lies lhe k1mppl|nn||1crigl1l\\'i^i.~;l uflhc b1'idcgi'u:›in. An unelc ollhc hrillegiuhm hrcuks ueucunul. lhe kzlzlppu is lied lo proleel from :my ol1sl|'l|clioiis.s<›i'i'o\\-'s mid dcfilcmcnls during lhe cercnimiy. in order for il lomn smoullily.Escorting the bride to the ManavaraiThe bridc (face covered wilh al veil) is led ln theM:m:|\-':l|':li hybridcsiimids.lhelhozhi.llel^|>al|'el1lsa|1drelalivcs.She will .sil un lhe right side uflhe hridcgroom. All lhe |›oujuscunducled ln lhe hridegroom. will be repeuled lo lhe briclc.'lhe hridc \\-'ears \hc |'›;i\-'ilhrum on her lefl hand ring fingei'. :mdlhe kuuppll on her lel`l wrisl_ This lime :ln unclc o|`lhe bride willhrclik lhe coconul.'lhe hilde mld gi-uuin now symholiïe lhe Divine couple, Sivu:md Pun';ll hi.Pooias for the kumbanns/\l`le|'wui'ds. lhe piiesl will perlnrni pnojzl chanling inzmlruslui' lhe Si\-'u Purvulhi kllmliums. The priesl lllen slurls lhe 1-lnmzlm(s;icre<l fire) in\-'uking Lord Agni (god of Fire) in il lo heurwilnesalulhemm1'i;lgcic.`Agi1| S:llchi`.`lha\'crlllle Mugurlhullhi›sl1;lm(c\-'il inlluences during mzirriuge ri|u:l|s)an1nl lhe Lukhnudlioslmm (bad zmlialeall inlluences). puujus for lhc Nzl\'ugrul1ukllllllimns un: pc1'l`l›|'med. Finally. al poojzl is done l`l›r lhe Arllszlnili-ee und lhe four klimhzuiis urouiid il.7!! alma" n-mimm;Both families offerNandhidhaanan1s(churily)lo removeany dhoshams (evil intluenccs) on lheir anceslors. and to geltheir hlessings.Kannikathanaln (Giving the brideiv hand in marríage)The parents nl lhe couple ' `l -'|›. _do Sankulpum. and lhen offer ' „ \V

chunlhanam, kumkum amd sprinkle ~rose wziler on ezlc h other. An arecu 'AA-›'ß ,qnul, banana, lime :ind u gold coin V-V.p__4.4' _(or any olher coin) are placed on al belel leal'. :md is held by lhe blide wilh heriighl hand. Her Father lhenholds lhis hand \vilh bolh his |mnds.Tl1cpricsl pronounces lhenames of lhe c0uple`s grczil-g,randl`ulllers, grandfzllhers. and_ lzllhcrs respeclively. lhl'CC _ V f_«= limes. 'l`he hride`sl`:1therlhen -Li ^,._-›;« f~` pruys fur lhe prosperily ol' f bolh families :md lu also Qbtuin Dhafnul. We-.lllh, Pleasure ana Mumm. wim me, 'L'-ff" consent ofthe bridegroonmhc. ê§mkfzš'.-1-3-=ff^ '- i „; ff bn`de`s mother pnurs water on.E .,7 _ R fik,-Li., the lllmds ol her husbzlnd und„ ` “ duughler. The bi-ide`s llllher lhen _. „ 4 gives his duugl1ler`s hand infi', .l- -_

-lil.V _: fi "S _ ,=- inarriuge lolhe hiidcgroumie. Kannikzllhununl. Al lhis lime lhel\`alll1uswum|n und Thuvil areplayed loudly. und -.ln uneie of lhe hridcgroom breaks lhe cocunul.'l`|ie Kuorui lruy brouglil hy lhe h|'idegroum will be subjeeledmmm naamonl7l

to pooja and purificd with Agni. lt is then taken around by acouple to bc blessed hy elders. Thereafter, the bridcgroompresents the Koorai tray to the bride. The bride then goes toher room with the thozhi to change. In the meantime, the priestwill do Sambadha Homam for the Thali.Sambhada Homam - pouring ghee into the Homam and also a

little on the Thali. -Tying the Thirumangalyam / Thali (Nuptial knøt)After changing into the Koorai saree, the bride ariivesand sits on the right side ofthe bridegroom. At the auspiciousmoment of tying the “Thali ”, the bridegroom will go to the rightside of the bride. He meditates on the Lord and then ties theThali around the bride”s neck. When tying the Thali, thebridegrooin should face west. During this time, mantras arechanted, Nadhaswaram and Thavil are played loudly, thecoconut is broken into two by a bridegroom”s relative, andelders bless by sprinkling Akshadai.T hirumangalya Mantra.'“Mangalyam Thandunanena Mama Jeevana Hedhuna,Kandu Batami Subake Sanjeeva Saradrlha Sadam”which means:“Oh Bhagyavathy! I tie this Thirumangalyam around yourneck, which is the symbol of my immortality.”By meditating on the mantra chanted by the priest, thegroom applies vibhuthi and kumkum on the Thirumangalyam, andthus blesses her with long life. He also applies kumkum on thecentre of the bride`s hairline, a symbol of marriage.72 ulnuu rraumnmMaalai Maatrudhal (Exchange ofgarlands) ›The bride will get up facing the north, and mcditating onthe Lord, she garlands the bridegroom. He in tum garlands her.This is repeated three times. The exchange of garlands denotesthe commencement of a family life in which the two hearts areunited. Then the bridegroom presents the auspicious productssuch as turmeric, kumkum, flowers, perfume, comb and a mirrorto the bride. Both will look at their faces in the mirror.Giving fruit and milkThe bride feeds the bridegroom bananas and milk threetimes. The bridegroom then feeds the bride three times. A curtainwill be held in front during this time. The philosophy behind thisis that their life together should be as sweet as the fruit and milk.KodharisanaulA cow is made to face east, and the couple adorn it withchanthanam, kumkum and flowers, and then perform the dhoopadhecpa pooja. The couple worship the cow as GoddessMahalakshmi for the “Ashta Iswaryam' (eight types of wealth)essential for leading a life.The Gods, Celestial beings and Rishis present in the cowbless the couple. Rice, Vegetables and dhakshanai are then offeredas Dhaanam.

Nlndu rraultluus73

Paanigralwnam (Holding hands)The murr age is donc fm'performing cl .trities :md tor thegrowth of the family. Paztntgrahunantmeans taking the bridc`s hand hy thebridegroom. While holding her righthand with his right hand. he promiscsher that hc will never leave het-evenin old eige.Ezhu Adi Nadathal ( The first seven steps)Starting with seven steps, they go ttround the hotmtmttceompztnied hy the thozhi und thozhun. 'l'he right hand of the brideshould he held by the right hzmd ofthe bridegroutn while walkingthe seven steps, For eueh step tt mantra is ehantcd:1. Let the Lord follow __-- _you to lead tt lite without Ihunger.2. Let the Lord followt ___ ,„ ...ø < *_ Fyou for strength. "à y _l~„-ik ' 3. Let the Lord follow filfi you when ohscrving V \ vtasts.4. Let the Lord follow' (_ _ _ J ~ you fora healthy and l S peacefttl life. wi ' lll ll _ Let the Lord follow $_f_-_«-;§_Û/' d _„ _;, . _ __ ;"`_`\-11„ ,_you for the +~---L;›-._§_;“.) Q; T;-“L › -prop:tgationo|`ettttles. Ô :Mr-ï - _ \ie l _ ícágljllflll*fitr

7'| ntnau naumut-is(›. Let the Lord follow you l`oratprospc1'0t1s life.7. Let the Lord t`olh›\\= _\;-mt su that ;tus|›ieiotts cercmonies undllomtims :tre perl`ot'tm:d sttccesslltlly throttghnul your life.This eeremony implic.~; the ntessugc “As we wztlk tlte seven.steps together. \ve heeome ltictttls/patttttcts. Let us earn the seven|\intl.\ o|` weatlth in |it`eumlslt;t1'e ourjoys :ind misct'ies`. I heseven steps :tre :ilso tcrmetl `Satpt|1:tp:tdhi`.Ammi Midhitha! (S1cppin;,' nu the grimlíng stone)Alter the seven steps. the btitlegrooni places the right foototthe lwrideon the g_-rinding stone (i.e the eighth step). Then thegroont puts :i .\«'letti tu silver loc ring) on her second toe. Thiseeretnoity itnplics that the hritlc should witltstatttd enemies like thestone. lt zt|sore\'e:t|›; tlutt linppitie.<s:tt1tl miseries should be fztcedin ai prtncipled lite like the stone thut \vithstatnds everything. Thet-ouple then contittttc airound the lflumztm. :md fucing eztst theyofferNelpori (|1tt|`|'ed t'icC)tolhe |`t|'e. ln the second round the Mctti iS\tom on the scL'ontJtocol`tlle left font. The Mctti is also Lt symholol' iituitiuge.Kanaiyaazhi Eduthal (7hking lin' ring)ln the thtrtl round. the couple httve tu try :md tatke the ringltoiit ai pot o|` turnterie water kept on the right side. They do it threetintes gi\ ing itt to each other. This is to itnply that even in lite theysltnuld give in to etteh other.nition rr.mit-ant 74

Afllndhathi Paarthal (Seeing the star Arundhathi)During the thirdround,'ArundhathiX i paarthal` ceremony will L ia take place. The couple are` led by the priest to the north.af t/ y " entrance of the mandapam'. to perform pooja for theQ ' stars in the sky, and then the_ ` if \ Arundhathiis shown.' V Arundhathi, wife ofVasishtar, is known for herchastity. The Purana states that Arundhathi and Vasishtar arefound between the seven stars near the Thuruva mandalam.TheThuruva star is also shown along with Arundhathi. This star

has a pennanent place in the sky and is the reason for the presence ofother stars. Hence„ it is worshipped to protect us from enemies.Pøri lduthal (Offering puffed rice)` At the end of each round the couple face east, and thethozhan receives the Nelpori (puffed rice) from the priest andgives it to the bridegroom. The groom along with the bride offersit to the fire, and then Worship the fire as Lord Agni to blessthem with Wealth. After the third round, the priest gives theHomam products to the couple to offer it to the fire.The Vedhas state that Lord Agni entrusts the productsoffered to the fire to the particular Gods. The Dheepa pooja isdone and the priest blesses them with vibhuthi, chanthanam andRakshai (a black bindhi made from the residue of Homam).76 ninuu vnuiuuuV1;\Aasirvadham (Blessings)\\\\eThe couple face east and the priest blesses them by „I„chanting mantras and sptinkling akshadai on their heads. Then 1 "-.,______ J .the parents of the couple, and 5 other elders bless them with b akshadai. `\The mixture of raw rice (unbroken), arugampul and turmericpowder is known as “Arugarisi”. The elders bless the bride andbn' degroom individually by sprinkling akshadai on their heads threetimes and reciting:Akshadai (Arugarisi)“Aal Pol Thazhaittu, Arugu Pol Verrodi, Moongil PolSuttrram Muzhumayaai Suzha, Pathinaarum Pettru Peru VazhvuVazha Vendum.”“Flourish like the Banyan tree, enroot likc the Arugampul, besuirounded by relativcs like the Bamboo tree, and live with the 16acquisitions".NiraivuThe kaappus and pavitharams worn by the couple areuntied along with the pavithrams of the parcnts. Thc priest isgiven dhakshanai placed on a betel leaf. Rice and vegetables areulso given to him. Tnlnuu rrauieism T- 77

AarathiAzlrmhi is pcrforrncd hy \wo sumzmgulis In prolccl lhccouple from the cI`fc<:ts olcvil eyes. 'l`he cnuplc lhcn gn In \hctcmplc wilh lhc zlrclmmni products (bclcl leaves. urcca nuts.cnconul. fruits, inccnse sticks. caunphur und l`|u\vcrs) lo duunA1'c|1u|mi.Then they go to the l›ridc`s home \\~'l1c1'ca|urzu|1i is mkcn althe cnlrz1ncc.und Lhcy enter whh the right Ibm firsl.Thulaipuagllai (Turhun) - This is worn hy men who perform lhcfollowing:I, Breaking the cucornnl,2. Carrying lhe Koorui tray urmlnd for blcssings.3. Kunnikmhamxm.Boodhakalamrfhe fcusl for \hc couple is sc|'\-'cd on ons hanunu leuf. amd thecouple feed cuch other. Thc bridcgroun1 lhcn tukcs the hridc In hishome where /\urulhi is mkcn al \hc cmmncc. und they cmcr wilh lhc1'igl1lf<›ol filsl._ . \§.ma l

TN mnuu vnuluum

_,„q,_ _ cRecipes of PalakaaramsSiltrnmliFillingTwo cups of muung dhul is muslcd und |›o\\-'dcrcd. l/2 lbnfsuganr und l/4 lsp curdurnmn pnwdcr un: uddcd lo il und mixedlogcllwr.Mx'l/Hul 1 _. _ .- ~ ›. `-f°-Wii. 12-5-Twu cup› of roualcd ucc Hour |› É *ll Lå'mixed wilh cn›cullulmilk(cxu'uc1cdl`rom onc cu<;onul)u|1d kncudcd well hy adding à sul1.Thc duugh is mudc imo small cup `*\§' slmpcs und l`|l|cd wilh :hc muung dhul mix.They are folded :md lhc cdgcs are prcsscd (like pullics).zmd1l1cnfricd.Mmlhakam

The rccipr: is lhc smnc :ls \hal n|` ku7.l1ukalu|i (pg.5 l ), hul inlhc slmpcul` al bull. als shown in 1l1<_-picture.Acclm Palukuruml cup rnuslcdricc Huur, l/2 cup maslcd uricl dhal |`lc›ur, 1/4\sp sul! :md llsp scsunu: seeds ure n1i›;cdlngc1l1cr. 3/4 cup lmilcdcucunul milk is uddcd ln this :md maulc imo d<1ugh.'l"l1c dough islhcn .<<|uec7,f:dl|1|'n\1§_›l1 lhc lvlurukku.^\ccl1u(ul\i\chcn gadget] :md|`ricLl in ml ln mukc Munlkku.mmm vmamuru 79

|/4 lb of sugar and a cup of water are boiled to make sugarsyrup.'[hel`i'iedn1urukku is then dipped in the sugar syrup. (Pepperand cumin seeds can bc used in the dough for spicy murukku.)Parruthitlmraivadai1/2 cup urid dhal (soakcd for 4-6 hours). l/2 tsp fennelseeds. ltsp partly powdcred chilli, ctirry leaves. lštsp choppudonions. 3/4 cup steamed wheat flour, and apinch ofsalt are kncadcdinlo a thick dough using warm water. Thisis then rollcd. cut imoround shapes amd fried.S eem' Ariyadlmraml/2 cup raw rice flour is mixed with a pinch ol' sali. andsugarsy1'up(n1adc from l/2 cup sugar). lt is allowed to stand fortwo hours. Then it is made imo small balls :md pressed flat on abanana lcafcoatccl with oil. and then fried.Pnyulrum Urunlllli2 cups roasted green gram l`lour ( moon g dhal flour) with l/--ltsp cardamom powder is kncadcd hy adding sugar syrup (madefrom l cup sugar). Gratcd coconut can also hc added. Then it ismade into small balls, dippcd in hattcr and fricd.Bauer- l cup rict: flour and cocouut milk mixed with a pinch ofsalt."/`wt_-3*' `°»\ua , .yinal/ RJš.t'l0' _NU uinuu nauttimn1-louse - warmingAuspicious landl\ question would arisc about thc auspiciousncss oftheland. Our ariccstors have pavcd a way for this. Thcrc arc things

to bc considered when buying ai land. lt should not bc a soggy/damp land; Red soil would hc preferable; If a mango, nccm, orjackfruit trcc is pi'cscn1,il is considered favourablc; Thc pipaland hanyan trccs arc considered unfavourahle; The land shouldnot be opposite a tcmplc.How lo commcncc conslructing a house?First an astrologcr is consultcd before constructing a housc.The barc land may have faulls and curscs. Even big houses areruincd because of this. l›lcncc. to rcmovc the defccts of the land.`Vairavar shanthi` pooja is pcrfonncd bcforc laying the foundation.Laying the foundation for the houseTbc foundation is laid on an auspicious day. such as the“Ezhunthirupu Naal" (the day the Vaasthu Purusha ariscs). 'l`hcfollowing products are essential when laying the foundation.Soil from crab burrowElephant tusk soilBull horn soilRiver soilAnthill soilNavarathnam (9 kinds ofgcms)'I`hc Vaasthu Chakra worshippcd l`or45 daysninnu muiunm 8!

A11 thcac ttrc kcpt in tt wuudcit hux. Bcl1›|'c ltt_\'i|t§_' tht:lltttndtttiun. thu pricst |1c|^1'ut'ttt.s thc \-'igttus\\'tii'zt|›ui1i;t.'l`l1ct| thcinztautt (httildct l is ;_'i\'cit \~'ustt'ttttt lclt›thc.~') und tlltztltslmnui ltttuttuyl.'|`hcp1t ||t\\-httltthc lbtttttlitlitvtt t.<li›l\t~ luitlnliutiltlht:t'|c;tm'd.A ct›u›tttit is hrt›ltt'n. t';tmph<n' is liglitvil ztntl ;t|lt-r ia-t›t:\t11|1|›||tgl,«,›t'tl \"i|\:t_\';tl\;t. the \\'tn›tlct1 hm is pluctrtl in thv pit. :mil the ntu›t›ntltcitcltistwtliu pit \\'it|1t'umut1t.\'?Iu.\>f/tu /”rtrn.\lm /'11-\ítlín_t,~ 1/vilt' U/in /mn.\w.l"i.\tingll1cr|«›nrl'r:m1cflfuThc tluot' is \hc citttttticc t|1rntt;_=lt \\-|1it'h \\ ntcrthcl1t›tt<t“with ourt'i_2ht tuut tirst. l lcttw. it i› ;t must tm1›|isttlt lht- ;t.\tt-t›|<›gL~|^lol' am zttlspiciuufl tlny to fix tl. lhcn nn thut pzirticiihir tl;ty_ the tluurfrttmc is t`i\<ctl\\'ithtl1c \\'m'sl1ipt›l` |.i›rtl \«"in;ty;t|t;i.Constrticling the roof and pillnrsln thv c;ti'l_\' tl;|_\'.\' mulittg was tluntr ming palm) nth \until:md lctttfcs, httt tuthty tilcs uit ttsctl. The mol' 1:. llic must tn||u›|'tttttlpart ul' the ltotiw :ind it i.~ .\t||›put^tutJ hy pilhtizx. llcntt' \thctt

t_“(mslt'ttctt|tg_ tltu.\'c_ l.<›t'd \ïittatyttl-\tt is \\'\›t'.\l1tp|›ctl hy i›l`lL'|'i|1gCuuuttttt :ttttlpct'li›tt1ti|1gthu dltuttpu dltucptt |1ut›jzt.How tu pt-rl`<›rm house- \\-'ar||tii|;_1'.'Thu u›t|'<\lt\gt:t' i.\'ct›tt>ttltct| l`t›t';tn ;tt|>|1tciutt.\" t|;:_\';ii|L|ti|t1t'tt) pct'l'u|'tti the Iinttsc-\'.itrming. ;|t^t^ut'tlittg In llti: |\|t|t \tut Ul) thx*l1i_'ttt.lul thul';ttt1tl_\'. lhu Shttnthi punitt is pu|^|`t›t'›|tCtl tHl'c|t1m'cl|1(*c\'ilc_\'c›tttttllurtltupt-<›>pci-ityut`tl\c1tc\\'|y huilt l|«›t|›v. .›\ utnv t›ulm ttutl :il the utttt';t|tci:_81 . ._ _ m.tt|„ iuutnonrOn tht: day of lintiscwuftniitg. the pricst perl`orm.\' the LordVimtyztktt ztntl Nztvaxgmltat llomzi|ns.'l`|ic|1 poojats for Lnrd Sivuand Sakthi. and gonkless Mahailaltshmi are donc. Al`tt:1' the |›oujzts.the kttmhn water is p«›ut1:dt›t1 the faunily n1cmhcr.~:.'|`hc1t they cltungcinto ncw cluthcsamdwoi's|\i|1l|\c Almighty.The pictures of gods. tt mirn›r_ lamp. hctcl lcztvcs. arcca nuts.turmcric. still. llotxfcrs. l`t'uils. money hux [cumuining puddy :md ztgold coin). at whole cocnmtt (fnr plzmtingl. tlhnti :md sm-cc kept inthe temple t`u|'pnn_i:tt|1c prc\›'it›tts day, urc lwouglil limite on thisclzty. lšcforc cntcrmg tllel1mt.<|:, cvcryonc must tttltc ztglimpsc ulthe cow.The poojzt room is cr›nsidcr<:cl in hc the must sztcred room inatltousc. In thepot›jzt|'m›n1t|\cl`0llo\vingthirtgsztri: kcpt: walcr inat brass pot; lamp, niraikudum; fruits, au-cctt nuts and hctcl lcavcs.Thu milk is huilcd l`or the lirsl time amd :tlsn kept lhcrc. The hushzind:ind wife pcrl`ot'm pooju with dl1ui›p:tn1 amd dliccpzmi. The lmusukcy is kcpl in the pt›u_i;t rmmi :ind hm1dcd:›w:rmtl1chcttd oftltcfamily by the pricst. Hc in tunt gives it tu his wifc. who hits to closetl1cpoo_1:ti'oo1n :ind then open it during un ziuspiciotis lime. Thuwhulc cuconut is thcn plztntcd in the garden.The months during which the ^ Vaasthu Purusha' arísesTamil Month 'l`a|miI Date Time(.`hithi|'t|iVatikusiAudiAvuniAipztsiK;t|'tl1igaiThailV|z1>iMlnøu nanmunslll2!ll(1

ll8l2227.004). l26.482.240.48|U_( Xlq | '1«›Â.š8.3l);i|1\lll.-'llumS.1Szt|t\3.5-lpmS.lSa|11l |.?›('l;t|||Hl.~l'2:unlll.-llam

'l`hings required for llouse -Warming arounnl the house und mu smrccl. Thon holv \\ .nu is \pi mklcdo\~'c|' il. .f\|`\c|' \his \":ms|hu Shamli. the pcrfmmcl \ulsi1C\h||mc||›~| |urmcr1c_ n|r;||~ nua\zhi.kul|ilhu vilukku. niruikudum. sull.mirrm', ~_g:\|'l;n1ds. rice.l`x'L|il.s'. coruiilils(including ons \vilhhu.<k).l'|nwcrs. ;|1'ugum|›ul. milk.ingrcdicnls fm'c|1:|kk:u';|| pnngul.sugar candy. lwamuia 'Ka.4 ±. ° z;f›.- ral _ 1Icuf, nmngu li:;|\'c,<.clizuiliiunzlni. kumkum.›;'.u.'rcd zixh. muncy ` I _hux, 3 ni' 5 S\\~';|mi . ` Ppictures (\"in:i_v;\km'. , A ` , . ,

Lukshml. vifn.Vanl\L:|cl1ulu]›ulhy_ ISi\=:i~Pur\'ulh)-' l`umil_\'..\-1Ln'ugun wilh Vulli amd Dcyvuzmui. Su|';is\\':\lhi).Vaasthu Shanthi (I'ro/›í!iumr_v r'<>rwm›n_\')Thisis.oi1cni`ll1c Sh;m1hi ponjus pcrl`:›|'mcd during lminscv\vul'ming. Thc |›rocc.<snt` puril'ying thv: land \\-'ilh Agni is luimviius `\/;1u.~;ll1u Sh;||11i`. During this Shzmlhi. \«'ig|les\\-'urn ponjzi :mdPunniy:\\-'us:\|\um are d:›nc.1hc \-"uuslhu Puru›;|ia||iumi«›l|1c|'Dc\f;xsurc wursliippcd. und Agni Humum is pu|'f<›rn1cL|_r 1zi mun is mudc \\'il|1s1m\\- :md dlialrpzxi. und is hurnl \\ ilh 1'iruz|l`\cr\\'m'sl1ippi|1g1l1c \*`:u|slhu Puru.\hun. The l›urnin5_~ c|`i`i;_'_v i.\ Ll|'a|;_'gL-LIH-X muuu n-.wninovwI hc while pumpkin is used us u .~uc1'ii`icc. A sm;-|| mndcl ul'und cm1li|\u<:›; lhc ldriyus.'!'l1c llomam prndm'!s required jor /Jouw warmingR icc fluurTurmcric puwdcrScsumc sccdsNuvulllzmyaimPu ffcd pmldyHomum productsl^`i|'|;:woml (snmilhu)Clmclnccnsc slicks. cunipliui'. gumbcnzuinf\l|1lhur(Rnsc uil)Riu:CucunulMango lcuvus und hununu leavesArugzmipul|,.x_›lusc.~;. gzirlzuidslšclcl lcuvcs :md urccu nulsFruilsLimeWhilc pumpkinBu|1Lllcnl`slruwsSilk Clnlh lbr kumhummmm nanuunsv§«*›z-âåàrs

Sngmïicant AgesSashtiaptha Poorthi / Maui Vizha ((›0"' year)Sashtiaptha pooithi denotes the completion of sixty years,and hence is very significant in a man's life. In the Hindu calendar,sixty years is a cycle, and each year has a different name. At thecompletion of sixty years, this cycle starts all over again. Hence,the 60* year of a man is celebrated as Mani Vizha.The first 30 years of a man's life is spent on education,name and fame. The next 30 years is spent in bringing up children.From the 60"* year onwards, one should spend his days for theupliftment of his Atma.It is significant to celebrate the Mani Vizha at the Thirukadavurtemple in Tamil Nadu. This is where “Kala Samkara Murthi` (LordSiva) rescued Markandan from Yama and blessed him to be lóyrsof age forever. This is also the temple where Goddess Abhiramisaved Abhiranii Pattar by showing a Full moon on Thai Amavasai(New moon day). The Miruthyunja Homam is pcrfomed here, andthe kumba water is poured onto the couple celebratin g Mani Vizha.Pavala Vizha 75"' year / Muthu Vizha 80"' yearJust like the Mani Vizha, the Pavala Vizha is celebrated atthe completion of 75 years. This function is eelebrated with pooj as,abishekams and aradhanais to their family deities.Those who celebrate Muthu Vizha (Sadhabishekam), i.e80 years of age, would have seen a 1000 moon creseents duringtheir lifetime.S6 mnuu n-zamen:Funeral Rltes(Saiva Aparakiriyai)“Aparam' means “later” , and hence the kiriyai (ritual)peifonned after the death of a person is known as “AparakiriyaifiThis consists of several kmyais from Uthkirandhi Kiriyai to VarudaSirartham. These kiriyas are perfonned for those who obtained`Samaya Dheekshai'(pg.54). For others it is done withoutmantras, but by chanting the Thiruniurais. Hence, it is good toobtain the Samaya Deekshai.Uthkirandhi KiriyaiOn one”s deathbed„ one should be rid of worldly desires.One should wear the sacred ash, meditate on Lord Siva, andlisten to Thcvarams and Thiruvasakams. Performing ”kodhaanam”(giving a cow as eharity) is significant.After death, the son/relative who obtained Samayadheekshai should perform the following procedures. He should

apply sacred ash and soil (taken from beneath the vilvam tree)on the body of the deceased, and then pours the Ganga theerthaminto the mouth. The head is then placed on the lap, and the sonehants the Sri Panehatehara into the ear and then covers the ear.After this, the body is bathed, dressed, and then placed with thehead towards the south. The thumbs are tied together with whitecloth as well the two big toes. The body should be covered with awhite cloth, and a water vessel shouldbe placed beneath the body.A lighted lamp (kuththu vilakku) is also kept near the head. Thewife, children and relatives should reeite Thevarams andThiruvasakams with devotion.umuu rrauluons 8/

The stars Avittam, Sadhayam, Poorataadhi, Utharataadhiand Rey-atlii are known as Thanishta Panchami (pg_93). Whenone dies on one of these Panchamis, charity should be performedto overcome the dhosham.Soornotsavam (Kiriyas performed in the house)A temporary pandhal (shed) should be constructed at thecourtyard of the deceased. A white sheet is tied undcr the roofofthe pandhal. The pandhal should be, made flat› roof with greencoconut leaves and adorned with mango leaves and festoons ofcoconut palms. Two mondhans (a type of plantain tree) with bunchof green plantains should be tied on either side ofthe entrance.The floor should be smeared with cow dung, and the mandapamshould be divided into three using makolam (rice flour kolam).At the west corner of the mandapam, the Snabhana kumbams(Siva kumbam surrounded by eight kumbams) are placed. Theeight kumbas represent the following Gods: Kuberan, Easanan,Indran, Agni, Yaman, Nirudhi, Varunan and Vaztyu. A homakundam (fire pit) should be made at the centre, and a large pestleand mortar is placed on the east side. The “perris' (a kind ofdrum) used for perithaadanam is kept to the east of the pestleand mortar. (Nowadays, they use a bell instead of perris).The pestle and mortar should be decorated with mangoleaves, koorcham, kodivastram and garlands. The mortar is filledwith arugampul and turmerie powder. Gin gelly oil, arappu, lime,abisheka products, and a white cloth for the deceased shouldbe ticd around the pestle and mortar. The Karana Agama statesthat a kumbam should be placed near the mortar and thePasupadha Astradevar should bc invoked in it. The Rudrakulnbam(earthen pot) to be taken to the crematorium should be

kept to the north of the Homa kundam. The punniyavasanakumbam and panchakavyam should be placed to the south ofthe snabhana kunibams.88 ›<|nuu rrautziømThe eldest son performs the rites for the father, and theyoungest son for the mother. If there are no sons, then the wife/husband, daughter, brother, nephew, father, mother, niece, sister,disciple, Guru or a friend can perform the rites respectively. Whenthe performer is anyone but the son, wife or daughter, then theymust have performed these rites before to either their father ormother. _The performer has to shave his head, moustache andbeard, take a bath, wear kodivastrams (ie. dhoti and shawl)and then perform the Sativa Anuttanams. The priest gives theperformer saered ash, pavithram (to wear on the right hand ringfinger) and upaveedham (iepoonool, to wear over the rightShoulder), and then sankalpam is done. The Vinayaka poojaand punniyavasanam are performed and the panchakavyam issprinkled to purify the place, and then puffed grains are seattered.The performer should not drink the panchakavyam during thistime. The Thirumurais are sung during the kiriyas. The priestcompletes the kiriyas with Anganiyasam, KaraniyasamandSivayogam, Snabhana kumba pooja and offering the PoornaAguthi. The performer scatters puffed grains over the dead bodyand pcrforms the dhecpa pooja. The defiled people will facewest and place gingelly oil and arappu on the head, and thcnthe body is bathed. Abishekam is donc with rice flour, turmericpowder, milk, curd, ten der coconut water, panchakavyam, andkumha water. The sacred ash is then smeared on the body,rose water is sprinklcd, and mantras are chantcd. The garlandis adorned on the body, and kumkum and chanthanam are puton the forehead.After performing the perithaadanam, 81 padamantras arechanted. Then the Thiiupotchunnam stanzas from the Thiruvasakamis recited while pounding the arugampul and turmeric powderHlndu Yrfldltiolls 89

using the pestle and mortar. During this time, the grandchildrensurround the body holding a li ghtcd bandham (torch) each. Finally,the Paneha Puranam is recited. The chunnam (the poundedarugampul and turmeric) is made to a paste on a betel leaf byadding a little water from the Pasupadha Astradevar kumbam. This

paste is put on the forehead of the deceased as a bindhi, andthen smeared over both eyes and sprinkled all over the body.The priest is given dhakshanai. and then yaathrai dhaanam isperformed for the upliftment of the soul.The wife, daughters and female relatives go around the bodyin an anticlockwise direction and offer vaikarisi (mixture of riceand grated coconut). The wife and children will Worship byshowering flowers on the feet. The body is then covered with acloth, and the bier/coffin is carried feet side in front.(If the husband dies first, the wife has to remove herThirumangalyam and place it on the chest of her husband"s body.If the wife dies first, the daughter or a female relative touches thebody with a Nirainazhi (vessel with paddy and dheepam) andthen keeps it in the room. A coconut, betel leaf, areca nut and abanana are tied on her saree pallu.)Outside the house, the women go around the bier/coffinthree times in an anticloekwise direction. The performer carriesthe Rudra kumbam and leads the way with his head held low. Arelative carries a pot of buming embeis, the Sangu (conch) is blown,and the others follow reciting the Thirumurais and throwing puffedgrains.After the body has left the house, the whole house is cleanedand mopped.90 ninau 1-raeicionsAt the crematorium when placin g the body down, the headshould be on the south side. The male relatives and friends thenoffer vaikarisi.(If the wife is dead, her husband unties the pallu andremoves the coconut, betel leaf, areca nut and banana. He thenbreaks the cocon ut and then removes her Thirumangalyam.)The performer earries the Rudra kumbam on his left shoulderand goes round the body three times in an anticlockwise direction.He then places the kumbam near the head of the body and breaksthe neck of the kumbam. He offers vaikarisi ( wet with the kumbawater) with a coin by chanting the Thatpurusha mantra. Thebier/eoffin is placed over the pyre. The performer then goes roundthe body three times, in an anticlockwise direction, carrying thekumbam on the left shoulder and a fire torch in his right hand.The man blowing the Sangu follows him and makes a hole on thepot at the end ofeach round, and then sprinkles the water flowingout over the pyre. Finally, the performer stands on the south side(ie. the head side) facing south, and without looking at the body,he places the fire torch (ie. Kolli) on the pyre and drops thekumbam over his left shoulder. lie then walks over to the other

side (near the feet), removes the pavithram and upaveedham andthrows them into the fire, does al\lalnaskaram by bowing hishead, and then walks off. (If the sea or a river is nearby, theperformer bathes there and then performs NivapanehaliDharpanam.)The performer goes home Carrying a knife (made of iron)to prevent the evil spirits from following him. At the entrance ofhis house, he bites neem leaves and spits them, steps on a stonecrosses over a pestle (ulakkai), washes his hands and feet, andthen goes in and takes a bath.mnuu rramnuru 91

picture of the deceased is placed on a small table, andthefra lighted lamp, a cup of water, and also tender eoconutwater are placed before it. A relative brings the meal served on aplate and places it before the picture. The Thirumurais are recited,and then everyone have the meals. The people except those whodo not have defilement (thudakku) should not eat. If they do,then they have to observe the defilement (ie. they cannot go tothe temple) for 31 days. During the 31 days, a lamp is lightedand a pot of water is kept before the picture, and the Thirumaraisare recited. _Asthi Saniayanam (kaadaathu- collecting the ashes)On the day of cremation, or on the third, fifth, seventh orninth day, the ashes of the deceased should be collected. Whencollecting the ashes, if the fire has faded out, it is ignited again,and the Prayachitha homam and Thathuva homam are performed.Then water is poured to put out the fire. Abishekam is performedwith abisheka materials from the feet side to the head side. Thenthe mantras from Sathyosaadam to Panjabrahmam are recited,during which time vibhuthi, ehanthanam, kumkum and flowersare put at the following places over the ashes: knee„ naval, chest,forehead, and head. The dhoopa dheepa poojas are thenperformed. The ashes are collected from these five places andput into a pot filled with milk. The mouth of the pot is then coveredwith a new white cloth and tied.The remaining ashes are collected separately. The place isthen cleared and sprinkled with navathanyam, water and milk.N ai vethyam such as betel leaves, areca nuts, fruits. puffed grains,rotis, and vadais are placed here to passify the evil spirits92 mnuu n-:mien:(boodhas, prethas etc.). The Thirumurais are recited and then

the ashes are all released into the river/sea.Materials to be taken far Asthi Sanjayanam:7 rulis (madufrom riceflour), milk, curd, buckel, knife,plantain leafi incense sticks, ten/Ier coconut, betel leaves andareca nuts, coconut, flowers, earthen pot, navarhunyam,vadais (made from black urid dhal), fruits, puffed grains,and camphor.Thanishta Panchami ShanthiIf one dies in the star of Avittam, Sadhayam, Poorataadhi,Utharataadhi or Revathi, “Shanthi” should be performed toovercome the dhosham.The Panehami Shtmthi is performed during an auspiciousday and star, or on the night of the Andhiyeshti. During this time,a Poorna kumbam, a pot of water. and a lighted dheepam shouldbe kept in the house for l, 2 or 3 days. A eow is also tied outside.A pumpkin is hung outside the house, and everyone in the housetie a mantra thread on their wrists.Ettu ChelavuNeither the Paththathi nor the Agamas state anything aboutthis. lt is a kiriya performed by custom. It is done on the Sm or7"* day of death. All the favourite foods of the deceased arecooked and offered as “padayal” in front of the picture. TheThirumurais are recited and the dheepa pooja is done. A smallquantity of each food is packed and then taken and placed at astreetjunction. Then meals are served to the close relatives afterserving to the poor.-›- ' f ~-wmf-..< 9*

Andhiyeshti (31 S' day)Andhiyeshti is the final homam. It is done to remove anyfaults during the performance of religious Asaram (rites) andAnuttanam (rituals). It is performed as Samaya Andhíyeshti,Vishedha Andhiyeshti or Nirvana Andhiyeshti, depending onthe nature ofthe dheekshai obtained by the deceased.The Andhiyeshti is performed at the crematorium on theday of cremation, to those who obtained Vishedha dheekshai,Nirvana dheekshai, and the vegetarians who obtained Samayadheekshai. For all the others, including the non-vegetarianswho obtained Samaya dheekshai, it is performed on the 30'"day at either the seashore, riverbank, or near the well.The defilement is observed for 30 days. If they are vegetarians,then they can observe the defilement for 16 days.

On the 30'" day, after the performer leaves the house, the houseshould be eleaned and mopped, and everyone takes a bath.The priest then perforrns punniyavasanam to remove thedefileinent. At the riverbank/seashore, the pcrformer perforrnsthc following ceremonies.NagnadhaanamNagnadhaanam is performed to remove the hun ger, thirst,and cold ofthc dcceased. Rice and vastrams (dhoti and shawl)are offered to the priest. If the deceased had obtained a higherdheekshai, this should be done on the day of cremation aftercremating the body.94 uinau mumonsPashana ThaabanamThe method of worshipping the Anma (soul) of the deceased ina Pashanam (stone) is known as Pashzma thaabanam. The kiriyasdone for the stone denotes the removal of hun ger, thirst, and also theform of the dead body.The Rudrabali is perfonned for Lord Siva. Naivedhyam (food)and pindam (a ball made from rice flour, urid dhal flour, sesame seeds,milk, curd, ghee, honey and banana) are then offered to the Pashanam.The dhoopa dheepa pooja is done, and the relatives recite the Thirumuraisand Worship it by offering flowers.The performer then steps into the ri ver/sea and stands withthe water level up to his chest, The musical instruments are played,while his relatives hand over the pindam, kumbarn, and pashanamto him to be released into the river/sea in that order. He thentakes a bath and returns home.At the entrance of the house, he bites a few neem leavesand spits them. He then touches white sesame seeds, Water,dhoopam, cow dung, and soil. After this, he steps on a stone andcrosses over a pestle, washes his hands and feet, two womenperform aarathi, and then he entcrs the house.Nava SirarthamA noble priest is invited and offered dhaanam for the upliftmentof the soul of the deceased. Holy wateris obtained from the priestand sprinkled over the Pashanam, in order for the deceased to berelieved from the form of the dead body and attain Liberation.ulnau rranieiøns _ 95

Sangitha SirarthamThis is performed to remove any faults during the performanceof religious Asaram (rites) and Anuttanam (iituals) by those who.

obtained dheekshai. VDurmaranam prayachithamDurmaranam is death due to unnatural causes (ie. accídent etc.).In the case of suicide, the Andhiyeshti is performed at the end ofeither the 3” or 6* month. In the case of other unnatural deaths, it ispeiformed on the 30°" day.Veetukiriyai (Ceremonies performed at home)The veetukiriyas are perfonned the day after Andhiyeshti, ie. onthe the 3l“ day. The hall is cleaned and mopped. Festoons of plamleaves and mango leaves are tied at the entrance. A níraikudam is placedat the entrance. An odd number of priests are invited home to performthe ccrcmonies. The main priest sits facing north, and the Pooma kumbam,lighted lamp, and an idol of Vinayakar (made of turmeiic) is also placedthere. The priest fust peiforms sankalpam, followed by Vinayakar Pooja„dhoopa dheepa pooja, panchakavya pooja and Vai-una kumba pooja.Then the performer is given the panchakavyam to drink. After this, thefollowing ceremonies are performed.AnunjaiA plantain leaf, on which 3 dharpais, apavithram, sesame seeds,thamboolam (betel leaves and areca nuts), upaveedham (poonool)and coins, is placed on the pcrformer`s head. Then the performerworships the pn`est to allow him to perform the Sirarthams to thedeceased. He then turns round three times in an anticloekwisc direction.96 ulmau 'rraaicionsAfter this, the priest gives him a dharpai to tuck it in his waist. Then hewears the pavithram on his right ring fingcr, and the upaveedham overhis right shoulder. _Poojafor the SunThe performer goes outside and looks at the Sun, he sprinkleswater, showers flowers, and then tums round three times in a clockwisediiection.Edaba Dhaanam (Charity of a bull)Edaba (bull) is the form of Dharma. The Edaba is offeredto Lord Siva symbolising the suirendering of the benefits of charityobtained by the deaceased. When it is not possible to performthe charity of a bull, then an image of a bull is drawn on a tray ofrice, and a coeonut is placed over it. The performer pulls the trayin all four directions by chanting the appropriate mantras, andthen offers it to the priest with dhakshanai. ,EkhothittamThis is the charity given to a priest, consiclcring him as thesoul of the deceased. A priest sits faeing the west, and he isgiven these products: gingelly oil, arappu, lime, dhoti, shawl,chanthanam, flowers, rice and Vegetables. A plantain leaf is placed

before him. A dharpai is placed on the leaf with its tip facingsouth. The pcrformer faces south and keeping his left palm andleft knee on the floor, takes the pindam with his right hand, andpassing under the left hand places it on the dharpai. Then he getsup and puts ehanthanam, kumkum and lloweis on the pindain. Betelleaves, areca nuts, fruits and a tender coeonut are placed nearby.llllldll lfêldltißni ff

The performer then performs dhoopa dheepa pooja anddharpanam. The pindam is then put into the dharpanam vesseland later offered to a cow, or released into the river/sea.Pindam - a ball made of rice floun urid dhalflour, sesameseeds, milk, card, ghee, honey and banana.Dharpanam - A dharpai and sesame seeds are placed overthe palms ofthe performer, then the wife/relative slowly pourswater over this and collects them in a vessel.Then the priest is offered the following things along withdhakshanai and sent off.Pavithram, poonool, kamandalam (water pot),uruthiratcham (rudraksha), paadhukai (sandals), dhandam(walking stick), Kowbeenam (loín cloth), Vibhuthi pai (asachet of sacred ash), Yogapattam (a kind of cloth), Kudai(umbrella), Kulla (hat), melvastram (shawl), vastram (dhoti),gold, ring, Rathinam (gems), ghee, bulten cattle, a piece ofland, foodproducts, grains, beauty products.After he leaves, the place is purified by sprinkling turmericwater. The performer then washes his hands and feet (or takes abath) and continues with the rest of the kiriyas.MaasiyamMaasiyams are the rites performed during the first ycar ofdeath. It is performed monthly on the same Thithi (lunar day) asthat on which the death occurred. Howevcr, you have to perform15 Maasiyams within that year. Ekhothittum (one of the98 Hmnu mmiciomMaasiyams) is performed on the 313* day, and four otherMaasiyarns are peformed as follows: -Oona Maasiyam - between the 27'” and 30* dayfrom death.Oonathirpatcha Maasiyam- between the 40* and 45* dayfrom death.Oonasaan Maasiyam - between the 170* and 180* dayfrom death.

Oonaapthika Maasiyam - between 350* and 35 5'“ dayfrom death.The other 10 Maasiyams are each performed on the specificThithis throughout the year. If this is not possible, then all the 15Maasiyams can be performed together on the 315* day.S odha kumba SirarthamTo quench the thirst of the deceased, a vessel filled with wateris given as charity to the priest.SabindikaranamGathering the pindams together is known asSabindikaranam. The Sabindikaranam is classified into two,namely the “Parvana vidhaanam' und the “Ekhothitta vidhaanam°.The Parvana vidhaanam is pcrformed for the father, mother,fathcr`s brother and his wife, grandfather and grandmother. TheEkhodhitta vidhaanam is pcrformed for the husband/wife, brother,son, daughter, uncle and aunt. If the grandparents are alive whenperforming the Sabindikaranam for thc father or mother, then the“Ekhodhitta vidhaanarn' is done. `..›„q„ v -..1.g,... 99

Ekhothitta vidhaanam is pcrformed with 1 pindam for thedeceased (Nimi tha pindam). Pan/ana vidhaanam is pcrformed with 4pindams (the Nimitha pindam and 3 pidhirvarkam pindams). If thedeceased is a male, then the 3 pidhirvarkam pindams are for his father,grandfathcr and great-grandfather. If the deceased is a female, thenthey are for her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.8 priests are invited home. 2 of them are denoted asViswadevars (sit facing east), 1 as Adhidhi and another asAppiyakadhar (both also face east), 3 as Pidhirdevars (face North),and 1 as Nimithar (faces west). Vessels are placed before each ofthem. The perfonner wears a poonool over his left shoulder, fills thevessels before the Viswadevars with paddy, and then worships them.Next, he wears the poonool over his right shoulder, fills the vesselsplaced before the Pidhirdevars with sesame seeds, and then worshipsthem. After this, poojas are done for the N imithars and the AdhidhiAppiyakadhars, and then they are offered vastrams (dhoti and shawl),rice, vegetables, and dhakshanai.Vzswadevars ~ Nandhidevar and Mahakaalar (devotees ofLord Siva).Pidhirdevars - Kandhar (fatlier), Sandar (grandfizther) andi Ganatheesar (great - grandfazher).Adhidhi - An unknown person.

Appiyakadhar - A known person.Nimilhar - The deceased.A plantain leafis placed in front of them with its tip facingsouth. On this, the performer places 2 dhaipais side by side withits' tips pointing south, and then scatters sesame seeds. He thenfaces the south and places his left palm and left knce on the floor.With his right hand he takes each of the 3 pidhirvarkam pindams,and passing under the left hand he places them on the right dharpai100 - umuu munten;in a north to south direction. The Nimitha pindam should be slightlybigger than the pidhirvarkam pindams, and this should be placedthe same way onto the left dharpai. Then he gets up and putschanthanam, kumkum and flowers on thepindams. If the dcccasedis a male, then the pindams are surrounded by a dhoti, if thedeceased is a female, then by a saree. The products such ascooked rice and cunrics, curd, payasam, milk, tender coconutwater, chakkarai pongal (sweet rice), palakarams (sweets), fruits,betel leaves and areca nuts are placed nearby. The dhoopadheepa pooja is done, and then the relatives put flowers andsprinkle water on the pindams. The Saramakavi (kalvettu) andThirumurais are recited, and the performer performs dharpanam.The flower on the Nimitha pindam is taken and placed on thepidhirvarkam pindams, which means that the deceased had joinedhis/her ancestors. Then all the 4 pindams are gathered togetherand placed in the dharpanam vessel. The pindams are then offeredto a cow, or released into the river/sea.Finally, dhakshanai is offered to the priest, and the priestblesses the peiformer with thc chanthanam bindhi and sprinklingakshadai. Then food is consumed with relatives and friends.Aôpthikalll / Afllâi Thivasâlll (First year rites)As this is performed at the end of the first year, ie. on the lastThithi of the year, it is known as Aatai Thivasam. The Aparakiriyasperformed to the dead are completed with the Aatai Thivasam.Varlldâl sirälrthillil (Ceremony performed every year)Sirartham means the ceremonies perfonned with sirathai (care).The Sirartham is pcrformed every year on the same Thithi as that, onwhich the death occurred. While performing Sirartham for the father,four pindams arc offcicd ic. to the father. grandfather, great grandfathermmm nflitism 101

and :meesters respcctively. While performing Sirurtham for themother. three pindnms tirc oltered ie. to the mother. patcrnul

grandnmther. puternttl grcztt-grandmnther und unccstorsrcspcclivcly.On the day ot' Sirarthum. it is significant to pcrfm-n1ahishekunt. arcltunzti und lighling tt lamp in a lcmplc. untl alsolceding zi auw. During the Sirurthmtt, the Tl1irumuruis;n'e recitedlo please the atnccstors. Chuming milk. pounding rice, buying nrgiving, oil und pttddy should be awoidcd on this day.The flnwers and leaves used for SirarthamsVilvum, Tltul.s'i. Arugn, .S'lt<'n/›u_t{um, T/mnuu'uí {InI|l.\'),Pmmuí, Mu!1m`_ Nmwl/ti_\=u\'url/tam. Murílcu:/tttmlhn, Vclliwflç I-.`rlí.The products uscdfor SirartlmmRice, wlzmt, pnzlrly. umong rllml. uriøl ølhul, .vm-anw.\'e'1›c1.v. s11g(1w:_;`:tgg<'I'_›=. /|um^_\=. „z,'1`n„t,f<'II_t= uil. ø'm\".\' milk. rlml'.g/mc. aruppu. humum, peppw: cnmin .\'r›r-(h, 1nrm1›riv. mtmlurz/.s'4'('r1.\'. .\'u[!, Iumariml, plunmin k'(t_/Ã the II'uItl( 11/.I/Ic' plmtmilttrw, nmngø, jrlr.-Itfruit. c'm'rmm, Icmlzfr cucmml, l›i!t1'r-_|„›:›unl.I'<l(/ish. k<*kuI'í. cu<'1unl›cr. grønxzf/›w'1_1=, /ifm-_ gíngm; 1lr_\' ,1.fi:|_tgt›l:,vpiullt/1. field l›t'un.\'. xrtukt'-Atgutcnl. rmili kizlmngu, .\'irrukí:Imn„t,fu. .vzfppøtrrg kizlmngu, .wppung llmmln. pirunrluí.nmllui Ie'aw.\', nmxulluí /uit-'t*.\'. /\'11/'/'ui I<*ut'z'.\'. curry Ivm-i'.s'.beta! lcuvex, mfrz-un111.v, t.-zu'r1urm›n1, <'h›w›.\', mr!/nae um/ rtnmf.MaalayamMuu|:1y:|n1, :tlso known :ts Muhatlztyaun. mcztns the kiriyuspcrlbrrncd for pidhimThose who (lo not know the Thithi, ur forgot. or wen- unable tnperforni the Vurutlu Si|';||'tl1unts. can perl`t›i'm it either un the New|l|2 ulnuu nanmmnmmm day or dunng the Maaluya Putcham. Mauluya Panchum is thewuning period ofthe moon trum Pmthumai (day uftcr Full moon day)to Atnavaztsui (New moon day) in the month of Purattlztsi. lt is donc inorder to sutisf y the anccstors and for the uplit`tmen1oi'their souls._.. ff/`lll* „...,._...

. .H.: ytghy A U ._Adhithi (guests) and pidhir (ancestors) pooiasThis is explained in the Vcdhus_ Hindus give muchimporlztnce tu the lmspilalily t›l`gttcsts,hut nuwuduys this is nutpossible. Hence, our unccsturs huve :nude un alternative. which

is to offer food tu the cmws. This is known as adhithi und piclhirpoojus, People olïcr food to crows during 'l`hivztsatms (deathamntvcrsztncs), und on Saturdays (ns crnw is the mount of Saturn ).lfthis is l`ulIowe<ldz1ily. then they gel the benefits olpcrftirmingndhithi und pidhtrpoojt1s.amtl ztlsn the hlcssings of Saturn.nmau mwlttøm 1"

Answers by Sri Jayenclra Swamigal* Food is offered to crows after poojas, and also on auspiciousdays, ie. Amavaasai etc. What is the philosophy behind this?lt is a customary and an auspicious act to offer food to the crows.The other birds and animals do not share food, Whereas the crowscall the other crows to share its food. The Puraanas state the benefitsof offering food to crows.* Why perform Pidhirkadan (rites for ancestors), if there arerebirths?Even though there are rebirths, we have to perfomi pidhirkadan,as they gave birth to us and brought us up as a human being. Thepidhirkadan is also performed for their happiness in their next births.* What happens after death?After death, he/she isjudged on the good and bad deeds performedduring his/her life, and thus experiences the results in the next birth.* What is the alternative for performing Thivasam?Feeding the cows. '* Can we hang the pictures of the dead along with the Godspictures?It should not be han ged :tlon g, but in a row below the Gods pictures,or in a separate place.04 ulnuu 'rraumuns 'mššïlš <1-7š”A„/.rw .sr fr ligOm“Om” is the most sacred .symbol in Hinduism, and is also knownas the Pranava mantra. lt is the basic,initial sound trom which the wholeUniverse evolvcd. Om symbolises theBrahman (the Absolute) by both soundand form. The Omkaram embodies init, all the words symbolising the Godinall languages at all times.* The Omkaram is comprised of the three

letters “Aa', “U”, and “ Ma', which whencombined becomes Aum or Om. Aum is thecsscnce of theVedhas and its theme. It is theú'I 0 basis of all mantras, and is always uttered first__. íwå., É before chanting any Vedhic mantras.Nlndu rraditions 105

The letters “A', “U” and “M” come from Rig, Yajur andSama Vedhas respectively. The “A” signifies the Almighty, “U”denotes the soul, and “M” implies that the soul should alwaysserve the Lord. It is also said that “A” symbolises Creation, “U”denotes Protection, and “M” signifies Destruction. Thus, itrepresents the Thrimurthis Brahma, Vishnu and Siva respectively.Pillaiyar suzhi (a)The Pillaiyar suzhi is marked by combining a circle (o)and a line (-) symbolising the sound form and written formrespectively. The sound form is known as “Nadham° (primordialsound), and the written form is known as “Vindhu” (unified formof the soul, mind, and lust). The Pillaiyar suzhi symbolises allthe languages. which are made up of círcles and lines. ThePillaiyar suzhi is marked on top of the page, before starting towrite, as a symbol of Lord Vinayakar to remove' any obstacles.Swastika iThe Swastika is an auspicioussymbol. It signifies 'Nannimitham'(good omen), and is a symbol of bothVishnu and Surya. 0 UThe Swastika denotes theChakra world rotating around the 0 0Lord. It is marked outside homes andbuildings to protect from any dangerscaused by nature. It also protects fromevil eyes.1 06 mnau namclnnsSri Chakra / YantraThe Sri Chakra is one of themost complex symbols, and it trepresents all the Divinities. _Worshipping the Sri Chakra V bestows success, wealt ,Z14 " ,_prosperity, and protects frorn evil ~" wßinfluences. It is usually engraved on -'1.~__\,_'3

copper sheets. The Sri Chakra is 41 ati;Fcomprísed of the intersection of 9 ^traingles, where 4 triangles faceupwards and 5 triangles facedownwards, si gnifying Siva and Sakthi respectively. The centrepoint of the Sri Chakra denotes goddess Adhiparasakthi.Salagramam, Salagramam (a rare stone)symbolises Lord Vishnu. It is found on _ -1„the banks of river Kandaki, in Nepal. _:›_~f" ~It is a unique stone mainly black in - _4:«,'f7i i- `- t `-'iigcolour. It is found in different shapes ' A' and structures, and has a hole. The :_-L". 1"markings seen through the hole are a . < .replica of Lord Vishnu's chakram. It › .i ,is a very powerful stone and bestowshappiness and benefits when worshipped in homes.ššëmnau n-aa|:|om 107

MantrasVinayakaShuklam Bharatharam Vishnum Sasi Varnam SathurpujamPrasanna Vathanam Thyaye Sarva Vignoba Shanthaye.Vakratunda Mahakaya Surya Kotí SamaprabhaNirvighnam Gurume Deva Sarvakaaryeshu Sarvada.Mooshika Vaahana Modhaka HastaSamara Kama Vilampítha SutraVamana Roopa Maheshwara PuthraVigna Vinayaka Patha Namasthe.Vinayaka GayathriOm Tatpurushaaya VidmaheVakratundaaya DheemahiTannoh Thanthi Prachodayaath.SivaGurave SarvalogaanaamPi shaj ay PavaroginaamNithaye Sarva VidhyanaarnSri Dhakshinamoorthaye Nama.' Murugan

Om Shadananam Kumkuma RakthavamamMahamathim Divya Myuravah anamRudhrasya Sunum Suranasanya NathamKugam Sathaham Saranam Prapathye.08 Mlnau rraumonsNlnuu rraurtlønsMurugan GayathriOm Tatpurushaaya VidmaheMahasenaya DheemahiTannoh Shanmuga Prachodayaath.AmbikaiSarva Mangala Mangalye SiveSarvaartha SathakeSaranye Thiryambake GowríN arayani N amostuthey.Ambikai GayathriOm Kaathyayanaaya VidhmaheKanyakumari DheemaheTannoh Durge Prachodayaath.VishnuShantakaram bhujuka sayanamPadmanaabham sureshamVi shwadhaaram gaganasadrush amMehavamam suban ghumLakshmikantham kamalanayanamYoghirdhyaana kamyamVande Vishnum bhava bhaya haramSarvalokaika naatham.Vishnu GayathriOm N arayanaya VidhmaheVasudevaya DheemahiTannoh Vïshnu Prachodayaath.

GuruDhyaana moolam Gurur MoorthimPooja Moolam GururpathamManthramoolam Gurur VaakyamMokshamoolam Gumrkripa.Gurur Brahma Gurur VishnuGurur Devo MaheshvarahaGurur Sakshat Para BrahmaTasmai Sree Gurave Namaha.

Brahma GayathriOm Vothmagaaya VidhmaheHíranya Garbhaya DheemahiTannoh Brahma Prachodayaath.Aiyappan Gayathri få21195 ›~„.I r aruflårUF(@°Om Bhootha naathaya VidhmaheBhava nanthanaaya DheemahiTannoh Saastha prachodayaath.Dhakshinamoorthy GayathriAanianeyaRama Rama NamosthutheJeya Rama Pathra NamosthutheRama Rama NamosthutheJeya Veera Rama N amoshthutheAan j aneya N amosthutheVainatheya N amosthuthe.L ,.„` V _* ,:'\.__›-/Aanianeya GayathriOm Aanjaneya VidhmaheVayuputhraaya DheemahiTannoh Hanumanth Prachodayaath.Shantlú SlokamAsato maa SadgamayaTamaso maa JyotirgamayaMntyor maa AmirïhamgamayaOm Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi.Tvameva maathacha pitha TvamevaTvameva banduscha saka TvamevaTvameva vidhyu dravinam TvamevaOm Dhakshinamoonhayesa Vidhmahe Tvameva Safva mama deva deva-Dhyanasthaya DhecmahiTannoh Dheesa Prach odayaath.Nlmlu tradition: "IM" Vfflfliflflfli

Gayathri Manta-am

Qr ig fi, . U til f \ Om Bhur Bhuvah SvahaThat Savithur VarenyamBhargo Dhevasya DheemahiDheeyø Yonah Prachodayaath“Oh mother! Who subsists in all the three Kaalas (past,present and future), the three Lokas (heaven, earth and netherregion), and the three Gunas (sathva, rajas and thamas), I prayto Thee, to íllumine my intellect and dispel my ignorance just asthe sunlight dispels all darkness. lpray to Thee to make my in-tellect serene, bright and enlightened”.The Gayathri mantra is the expansion of the pranava soundOm. It has all the divine powers and serves as a spiritual protectionfor us at all times. It is a universal prayer and should be recitedwith utmost devotion and correct pronounciation. Eveiybody andanybody can chant it.The power of the Gayathfl mantra, of which the presiding deityis Lord Surya, is boundless. The three names of Vedamatha Gayathriare Gayathri, Savithri, and Saraswathi. These three lie within us andsyinbolise the Thirikarna Suddhi (word, thought and action).112Hindu rraultlnmThe meditation on Gayathri mantra is considered to be thecommencement of the spiritual life. Gayathri mantra helps attainmental powers and sharpen our knowledge. lt cures our physicaland mental stress. Chanting it during miscries always generatesgood results. lt can be chanted anywhere at zmytime. If it isfollowed by chanting “shanthi” three times, a peace of mind andgood health can be acquired.ruthunpya Maha MantramM .-i ' _ei' m=. Oil!

Thriyam Bagam Yaja MaheSuganthím Phushlim VardhanamUruvaruka Miva BandhanathMrithyo Mushíya MamrudhalOm Hreem Namashivaya.Lord Siva, the three-eyed and fragrant God, the one who

protects the devotees with His grace, let us Worship Him. Hisgrace would protect us from death, like the riped cucumber thatseveres itself from its stalk. Let us not deviate from the Lord.\iaètêulnau muieiwis 113

Pancha PuranamThiruchittambalamIt is a custom to intiate and end Thirumurais bysaying“Thiruchittambalam`_ This is because Chidambaram is theholy place in which the “Saiva Thirumurais” were revered andprotected. Chidambaram is also the birthplace of music.ThirumuraisSaint Nambiyandar Nambi compiled the holy book“Thirumurais”. This is a collection of 12 anthologies, comprisedof pure devotional hymns by South Indian Saivite saints.Saint Thimgnanasambanthar composed the first three Thirumurais.Saint Thirunavukarasar composed the next three Thirumurais.Saint Sundaramoorthynayanar composed the seventh Thirumurai.These seven Thirumurais are termed “Thevarams”.Saint Manickavasagar composed the eighth Thirumurai, termedThiruvasagam and Thirukovaiyar'.Nine mystics composed the ninth Thirumurai, termed 'Thirvi saippaand Thirupallandu'.Saint Thirumoolar composed the tcnth Thirumurai, termedThinlmanthiram'.Ten niystics coinposcd the eleventh Thirumurai, and saintSekhizhar composed the twelfth Thirumurai called PeriyaPuraanam.114 Nlfldu TradltlumThe rich and diverse spiritual experiences of the saints areportrayed in these Thirumurais.ThevaramThe word Thevaram has two meanings. “The-aram` meansthe garland adorned on the Lord, and “The-varam` means thesong sung with devotion to the Lord. Out of the four saints ofSaivism, Thirugnanasambandhar, Thirunavukarasar andSundaramoorthy nayanar sang the Thevarams. They sang to LordSiva with pure love and devotion. VThiruvasakamThere is a saying “Thiruvasakathirku urugarthor, oru

vasakathirkum uruhar” (those who are not moved by theThiruvasakam, cannot be moved by anything). SaintManickavasagar, one among the four saints of Saivite religion,sang the Thiruvasakam. The Thiruvasakam, which touches ourhearts, has the significant feature of being written by Lord Siva.The word Thiruvasakam means `Thirumayamana vasakam`. Here,“Thiru` refers to the grace of Lord, and `vz1sakam” is the form of`Aru\ nadham” (gracious sound). This is the eighth Thirumurai.Lord Siva was enthralled to hear the Thiruvasakam andThirukovai, and thus lent his hand in writing them. TheThiruvasakam comprises of 51 chapters and 656 songs, whilstthe Thirukovai compri ses of 400 songs.ThiruvisaippaThiruvisaippa is the song praising the Lord, in conjuctionwith the divine nature of music. It was sung by nine poets withnmau 'rrauinmts 11%

total commitment and pure devotion. It has the capacity to meltone`s heait to find the divinity of the Lord. This has 303 songs,including 13 songs from the `Thirupallandu` by Senthanar.ThiruppallanduThirupallandu expresses the gracious acts of the Lord andblesses Him with longevity. Even the celestial beings greet theLord by saying “pallandu` to lead a prosperous life for themselves.As human beings we pray to the Lord in order to avoid rebirthsand attain SalvationThirupuranamThe Periya Puranam, the 12th Thimmurai, is otherwise knownas the Thirupuranam. Sekkizhar Swamigal sang this. This includes 2kandams (divisions), 13 subdivisions and 4253 songs. PeriyaPuranam also includes the life history of 63 Saivaite saints. 15* is

i I Kf; A5/\(<116 nlnau rvamclnnsSymbols of Lord SivaSacred AshThe Saivities took the sacred ash (that cannot bedestroyed) as a symbol, in order to acknowledge immoitality.As it gives wealth - it is called Boodhi

As it burns sins - it is called Pasmam` As it helps in the upliftment of soul - it is called PasidhamAs it protects us from dangers - it is called RakshaiThe benefits of wearing the sacred ash are as follows:* A wealthy life* Purification of the soul* Purging our sins* Destruction of miseries* A pleasant and prosperous life* Protects us from the influences of Boodham/Pisasu (evilspirits) and Rakshasa kanas (demons), and gives moksha(Liberation). ` 'The sacred ash should be wom by either facing the northor east. It should be worn on the forehead by tilting one's headbackwards facing the sky. This is called “Utthoolzmam`, whichmeans wearing the dry sacred ash on the forehead.“Thiripundaram” (3 horizontal lines) is the way of applying thesacred ash mixed with water, using the index. middle and ringfingers. lt is significant for those who have obtained dheekshai towear the sacred ash as Thiripundaram. The rest are expected towear it as Utthoolanam.uimu n-aaimns 117

The saered ash should not be spilt on the ground. Oneshould always receive the sacred ash with the right hand, whilekeeping the left hand beneath the right hand.When everything is burnt in the fire of Gnana,that whichremains would be the pristine purity of the philosophy of Siva.The saered ash eniphasizes the fact that everyone will one dayend up as a handful of ashes after death. Hence, the sacred ashacknowledges that we should live without pride and Aanava, butWith modesty and integrity.Uruthiratcham / RudrakshamThe Uruthiratcham is the second symbol of Lord Siva.Myth has it that the Rudraksha beads/seeds were created fromthe tears of Lord Siva. “Rudra” denotes the fierce form of Siva,and “Aksham” symbolises his eyes.The eelestial beings, who underwent miseries by the demonsof Thíripuram, meditated and observed fasts towards Lord Siva.Lord Siva, pleased by their devotion, looked intently at thedernons eontinuously for a thousand years. As he kecnly watchedthem, without even batting an eyelid, his eyes shed tears. 12 tear

drops shed from the right eye, 14 from the left eye, and 10 fromHis third eye. These 36 teardrops transformed into 36 trees. Thefruits of these trees are known as Rudraksham.The beads are found in various colours. The white and goldbelong to the class ofBrahmins, the red to the class of Kshatriyas,the combination of white and red to the Vaisya class, and theblack coloured beads to the Sutra class. The number of faces onthe Rudraksham beads can vary from one to fourteen.118 mnnu rraamunsOne face _Two faces -Three faces -Four faces -Five faces -Six faces -Seven faces -Eight faces -Nine faces -Ten faces -Hindu rraumunsSiva form. On wearing this the sin of killing aBrahmin will be removed.Siva-Sakthi form. Removes the sin of killinga eow.Agni form. Removes the sin of killing awoman.Brahma form. Removes the sin of killing ahuman.Kaala Rudra form. Removes the blemishes ofan improper marriage, having relationshipswith immoral women, and telling lies.Muruga form. Removes the sin of killing thehusband.Adhisesha form. Removes the sin of killing acow, killing in the war, and a woman abortingher embryo.Vinayaka form. Removes the sin of consumingthe food of others, a miserable mind, and theftof charity.Vairava form. Removes the sin of killing asnake.Thirumaal form. The fear of Stars, Planets,Boodham, Devils and Brahma Rakshadhamwould vanish.

119

Eleven faces - Ekadasa Rudra form. The benefits of 1000Aswamedha yagas and also that of the charityof a 100,000 cows are acquired.Twelve faces - Duvadasa Aditha form. The benefits ofAswamedha yagam, Komedha yagam, and thecharity of gold are attained in immeasuraßleamounts,Thirteen faces ~ Manmatha form. Wishes would be fulfilled,Victory in Rasavadham. The sin committedagainst the father, mother or brother isremoved.Fourteen faces - SivaS akthi form. This is extremely rare, andwhen worn, destroys all evil and elevates youto reach Moksha. Thus it is revered by theDevas and Sages.The number of Rudraksha beads worn:upper arm -16; wrist - 12; crown -1;ear - 6; head- 40; neck- 32 or 108.The benefits of wearing the Rudraksha beadsThe Rudraksha seeds have a unique, natural opening that is notfound in any other seeds. While bathing with the Rudraksha chain, aíhnentssuch as cold, coughing, sneezing, and asthma can be cured. Peoplesuffering fmm high blood pressure have Lo bathe in cold water by keepingthe Rudraksha beads on their head in order to bling down the pressure.Chest pains (ie. heart problems) can be cured by applying the paste ofthe Rudraksha beads (mbbcd with water on a stone). By daily dri nkingthe water in which the Rudraksha beads are soaked, the heat of thebody is reduecd.120 umnu rrauielansMethod ofperforming Jebams (Prayers)Chanting a mantra using a Rudrakshabead is equivalent to chanting 10,000,000mantras. The Rudraksha beads are strung in “such a way, that the upper part of one bead .' _touches the upper part of the other, and thelower part with the lower. The Jeba malai mayhave either 108, 54 or 27 beads. The . _ 1Merumani (first bead) should always be strung -_ ~uC n.

1from the top. While performing Iebams, the ,Qascetics have to roll the beads upwards.The performance of Jebams in a house, cowshed, garden,temple, forest, hill, or in the sannidhi of Lord Siva, gives thebenefits of chanting one, two, ten, hundred, thousand, hundredthousand, or a million mantras respectively.The performance of Jebams facing the East, West, andNorth results in the ful filment of wishes, success in the desiredUISK, and the curing and healing of illnesses respectively.Performing facing the South, results in Abisara Balidham (blackmagic causing evil).Courtesy - Hindu Kalai KalanchiyamPanchatcharam“Om Nama Sivaya ”The Panchatcharam (Om Nama Sivaya) is the third symbol ofLord Siva. This is known as “ Thim Aindhu Ezhuthu` (5 letters). Thisshould be expressed in our hearts at all times, and should bc lcamtHlrlåtl fràllltiøns

from qualified Gurus. The benefits of this mantra are the removal ofkarma. maya, and the fusion of the soul with the Lord. ln Saivism ,people who received dheekshais are qualified to chant this mantra.There is also a saying that :“Sivaayanama Endru Sindhithiruporkku Abaayam Oru NallumIllai.”“Those who meditate on “Sivaayanama” (name of Lord Siva)will not face any harm."Sthula Panchatcharam - Nama SivayaSukshma Panchatcharam - Sivaya NamaKarana Panehatcharam - Sivaya SivaMaha Panchatcharam ~ SivaMaha Manu Panchatcharam - SiTen ways to lead a principled lifeLIlJ>l.›«)l\)›-_ Worship the Lord when waking up in the moming._ Behave in a goed and pleasing manner. __ Do not think harm to others.. Help the hungry._ Before eonsuming food, give some.food to others/ birds/animals.Goto bed chanting God°s name.

Do not see, hear, speak or think evil things.Give respect to elders and listen to their advice.Love all. .10. Before sleeping, think of the good and bad deedsperformed en that day, and try to correct yourself andbecome a better person.§°9°.\l9*122 - mnuu mumeiuThe Signmcance of Coconut offeringThe coconut water represents the vaasanas (inner tendencies).and the white kemel represents the mind. Thus we surrender our mindto the Lord by offering eoconut. The coconut (ie.mind) purifiedby the Lord is then eaten as prasadham.Each and every part of the coconut tree has a use. Thus offeringthe eoconut also signifies our selfless service to the Lord.When offering coconut, it is significant to break it into two halves,either with a knife or on a stone. These two halves should beplaced facing the Lord.Each part of the coconut symbolizes the following:Green/orange husk - MayaFibre - KanmaShell- AanavaWhite kernel - LordCoconut water - Grace of LordThe White kernel is found only after the removal of thethree outer layers. Henee, the coconut is broken in order toremove these three malas, and to bc blessed with Gnana(knowledge).The Samithus (iirewood) used in 1-lomanlsYerruku (Maëar plant), Muruku (Palas), Karungali (Ebony).N ayuruvi (plant). Arasu (Pipal), Atti (Fi g), Vanni (Indian Mulberrytree), /\rugu (Cynodon dactylon), Dharpai Calotropis).nlnau irauieions 123

Homam products and their beneïits `Arasu, sesame seeds. atti, white mustard. Ichchi (Strychnine),payasam, ajyam (ghee). Performin g homam using these productsremoves any ill effects from evil spirits, trials and tribulations,and any harm caused by bhoodams and demons. By performinghomam with milk, ghee and honey, a wealthier life is attamed.By performing homam with sesame seeds, diseases are curedand siddhis are attained. .

Diraviyams used in l-lomamsPalasu (Jack tree) -Increase in populationSesame seeds - Mukthi (Salvation)Karungali (Ebony) - VictoryArasu (Pipal) - WealthAtti (Fig) - PleasureSandalwood - PeaceVanni (a kind of Indian tree) - CharmNayuruvi (a kind of plant) - CourageDharpai - LiberationUrid (Black gram dhal) - Propagation of cattlePuffed rice - ProsperityGreen gram - Long lifePaddy - Subjugative powersCoconut - Success in everythingGhee - Cures diseasesYerrukku (Madar plant) - ProsperityArugampul - CourageMuruku (Palas tree) - Grace of LordVilvam (Bael tree) - Good health1 24 Hllldu ïfiditlolllThe important I-lomams and their benefits1. Sri Vanja Kalpa Ganapathy Homam - Wishes are fulfilled.2. Sri Sudha Homam - Wealth.3. Sri Chandika Homam - To get justice and victory ingoverment affairs.4. Ainruthamrithyunchiya Homam - Long life. ~5. Sudharsana Homam - To get rid off the fear of enemies andthe removal of evil.6. Sri Adharvana Badhrakali Homam - To get rid of the evilspirits.7. Varuna Homam - For rain.8. Sir Vidhya Homam - For the prosperity and peace of thecountry.9. Navagraha Homam - To get rid off any bad influencescaused by Grahas (planets).10. Aava Handhi Homam - To get rid off poverty.The benefits of Homam:The human mind attains peace by hearing the Homamsounds. The environment is purífied and the invisible deadlygerms are killed. The smoke from homam purifies our blood.The smoke also purifies the plants and gives good yields. Thehearing of mantras chanted enhances our mental ability. Thepure and fragranced air prevents ni ghtmarcs. The Divine energy

removes the fear of evil spirits and enhances memory,knowledge and intelligence.nmau muielom 125

The benefits of chafity Saturn - Sesarne seed riceRaghu - Urid dhal riceCharity of Clothes - Long life Kethu ` variety of riceCharity of Land - Brahma`s world is attained _ _ _ _Charity ef Honey _ Blessed with emidfen The ham thmšs ““l““°°' f°f P001”Charity of Gooseberries - KnowledgeCharity of Lamps - Higher postings are achieved 1' Flowers _ _ 2' Betel leavesi areca nutsCharity of Seeds - Long life, growth of Lhe lineage 3' Gumbenzom (saampmm) 4' KmnkumCharity of rice _ Removes Sms 5. Sandalwood paste 6. Incense sticksCharity of fruits - Liberation . 7' Turmeric powder 8' GarlandChaiity of blankets - Cures gastric problems 9' Gingeny Ol] 10' Camphor _ ^Charity of feed _ Wiehee are fuifnted 11- Akßhadal 12- Chflkkafal13. Bananas 14. RiceAlternative pooja products 15~ C°°°nut 16- Milk17. Curd 18. HoneyThe Agamas state that the following products can be used 19' WiCk› matchbox V 20' Mango leaves'as alternatives if the pooja products are not available:The vessels used for poojas. Chakkarai for honey. _Curd / milk for ghee. l. Pancha Paathiram (holy water cup) 2. Uttarini (spoon). Milk for eurd. 3. Brass tray 4. Dheepa kaal (lamp)Gingelly oil for ghee used in Homams. 5. Camphor plate 6. BellAkshadai for clothes,jcwclleries, satram (umbrella), and 7. Dhoopa kaal (for Saamprani) 8. Wooden planksaamaram (fur of deer). _ 9. Kuththu vilakku (standing lamp)S-^:'>°'-^“!°*'^Naivethyams for Navagrahas The pooja leavesSun - Chakkarai pongal Lord Siva - Vilvam (Bael)Moon - Milk payagam GOÖLICSS Sakthi - Nccm (Mat'g0Sa)Mars - Pongal Lord Vishnu - Thulasi (Sweet Basil)Mercury _ Tamafjnd rice Lord Ganapapthy - Arugampul (Cynodon grass)Jupiter - Curd rice LOFÖ Bfflhmä ~ Aïíi (Hg)Venus _ Ghee rice For all deities - Betel leaf1 2 6 ntnnu vraumønsulnuu naumnns 127

Abishekam

Abishekam is the holy bathin g of idols in the temple. Thethings created by the Lord are retumed to Him with devotion byperforming Abishekams, The Abishekam is one amongst theAradhanas performed at temples.Lord Siva, in the form of fire, is pleased by Abishekarns.The Vedha states that abishekam should be performed to cooldown Lord Siva, in order to remove our miseries. Siddhantamstates that abishekam cools His temper and brings about worldpeace. The Upanishad states that the soul should merge withLord Siva, like the rivers merging with the sea. These philosophiesare revealed through Abishekams.The benefits of the products used in AbishekamsOil (Gingelly oil) - Prosperous lifeTaila abishekam (Sandalwood oil) - Gives happinessMapodi (raw rice flour) › Removes debtsNelli mulli podi (Dried gooseberry powder) - Cures diseasesTurmeric powder - Charming power, good fortuneJ ala Thiraviyam - Good health and prosperityPanchakavyam - Purifies us, removes sinsGhee - Victory and happinessMilk - Gi ves liberation, peace and long lifeCurd - Children, good healthHoney - Good health, sweet voice, grace of goddess SaraswathiSugar-canejuice - Cures diseases, healthy lifeChakkarai - Destroys enemiesBanana - Yields more grainsMango - ChildrenPomegranate - Removes an ger128 ulnuu 'rraaicloiuNarathai (type of orange) - Righteous conductPanchamirtham - Long lifeLime - Removes the fear of YamaAnnam (cooked rice) - AffluenceTender coconut water - Prosperity and good childrenChanthanam - Grace of goddess MahalakshmiThe water of vilvam (soaked bael leaves water) - Removes fearRose water - FameKalasam water - Grace of AshtalakshmiSacred ash - Knowledge 'J ackfruit - Captivating the world (Ulagha vasiyam)Water - Peace(The benefits are same to whichever deity the Abishekam isperformed to)The Beneñts of Poojas

Abishekam - Removes sinsChanthana kaappu (applying chanthanarn on idols) - Bestows all pleasuiesFlowers - ComfortDhoopam - Sins are removedDheeparn - Good healthNaivethyam (food) - Great pleasuresThamboolam (betel leaf and areca nut) - Grace of goddess Mahal akshmiJebains - Ashta Iswaryams (8 types of Wealth) are obtainedHomam - LibrationAnna Dhaanam (Food charity) - Satisfies all celestial beingsNamaskaram (Prostration) - Gives Aram (Righteous conduct), Porul(Wealth), Inbam (Pleasure) and Veedu (Salvation)mmlu vrzømnm 129

The Structure of a TempleThe structure of the temple resembles the human body. This isto remind us that our body is the temple of God. Imagine the body ofa man lying on his back, with his head on the west side, and his feettowards the east. The body parts symbolise the following structuresof the temple:Feet - Main GopuramKnees - Asthaana Mandapam (entrance hall)Thigh - Nirudha]Sabha Mandapam (music/dance performance hall)Navel - B alipeedamChest- Maha Mandapam (Nataraj ar)Neck - Artha Mandapam (N andhi)Head - Sanctum SanctorumRight ear - Dhakshinamoorthy (Guru/Jupiter)Left ear - SandeswararMouth - The entrance of Sthabana MandapamNose - Sthabana MandapamCentre of the Forehead - Si valingamWhat is Punniyagavasanam?This is one of the mas performed for Diraviya suddhi(puiifying pooja vessels) and Thula suddhi (purifying the body).A kumbam is kept and Varunan (god of elouds and rain) isinvoked in it. Fruits and thamboolam are offered, and a poojais done. The camphor is lit and waved, and Varunan is biddedfarewell. The water from the kumbam is then sprinkled all overthe place where the ceremony took place.130 nmuu n-:einemThe Philosophy of Lighting the Camphor

The camphor leaves no residues after burning. Thecamphor represents the ego in oneself. Thus the burningcamphor symbolizes the burning of the ego, by the “AtmaJyothi'(flame of the soul). Once the ego is completely burnt, the Atmajyothi merges with the Brahma jyothi (Divine flame). Thecamphor also has a fragrance, which symbolizes the grace of theLord.Why Camphor Aarathi is performed?The camphor aarathi is performed atthe end of every pooja, to symbolise thesurrendering of oneself to the Lord, in Örealizing that everything belongs to Him. Itis always rotated three times in a clockwisedirection, or in the form of the Tamil symbol .4 _,Qggm.In all other forms of poojas, there is always somethingleft behind as prasadham, but the camphor aarathi is anexeeption to this leaving no residues. Thus it is a symbol ofcomplete surrender and of utmost sacrifice.The camphor dheepam is in the form of Agni (fire). Whenwe touch it with both our hands and then touch our eyes, itimplies that the light of knowledge passes through our eyesand illuminates our vision.Why we offer money on the Camphor plate?After touching the camphorjyothi and placing it on oureyes, our ignorance is removed and we become generous, hencewe offer money.ama" mumons 131

The philosophy of Dhoopa AradhanaiThe dhoopa gives “paramaanandam”(greatjoy) by removing evil influences. The dhoopa is used to symbolise the Kiriya Sakthi, which removes the fetter 'Aanava”. It is a ^ must to show dhoopa after the eompletion of poojas. The fragrant smoke of the dhoopa issaid to capitivate even the celestial beings. Itdrives away the evil spirits, removes yantras. and also kills gemis./The dhoopa products are incense sticks, gumbezoín(saamprani), Akhil (a fragrance tree), Kungiliyam (a type of resin).

When the camphor, gumbezoin and incense sticks are lit, theygive a fragrance by sacrificing themselves. Like-wise, we alsohave to sacrifice ourselves for the Well-being of others.Dheepa worshipThe word “jyothi' (flame) refers to everything thatilluminates. The dheepam in the form ofjyothi gives light andheat. The light removes darkness, and the heat burns ignorance.Thus, the dheepa worship is performed to remove the fetters ofthe soul and gain Gnana.ln Hinduism, Gods are worshipped by lighting a lamp inthe morning and evening. ln temples and homes, zt poojacommences only after lighting the lamp. The Almighty isomnipresent in different forms, and lies in our hearts in the formofjyothi. Hence, dheepa worship is done in order to remove theworries and miseries in our hearts.132 mnuu nat-:mansIn the pooja room, the lamps should be placed over a copper/brass plate, and the number of lamps should be in odd numbers ie.l,3,5. Thejyothi of the lamp should face east. lt should not beallowed to burn out by itself or by blowing. At the end of thepooja wait for ll minutes and then put it out using a flower.Dheepa worship symbolises the Brahma Gnanam, the light,lit in the lamp of mind, using the ghee as knowledge, the wick assoul, and the air as prana, that removes the darkness of ignorance.The philosophy of Dheepa Aradhanai-- Dheepa aradhanais are performed to remove egotism andignorance, and thus sparkle like the “Gnana oli` (light ofknowledge). In temples, they are performed with different typesof dheepams. During dheepa aradhanais the different dimensionsof the Lord in the Sanctum Sanctorum can be witnessed in thelight of the different dheepas.There is a reason behind each type of dheepa aradhanai.They reveal the birth of all bein gs due to the grace of God. Thoughthere are many dheepas, they denote the oneness of the Lord.The Poorna Kumba dheepam symbolises the entirety(poomathuvam), where the kuinbam represents the universe, andthe dheepam in it represents the Sakthi who makes the universefunction. The five dheepa plates shown along with the Kumbadheepam, symbolise the 5 faces of Siva (Esanam, Thatpurusham,Agoram, Vamadevam and Sathyosadham). Thus, the dheepamsin different forms carry different powers. Camplior, wick, cloth,cotton. or thread can be used for dheepautnuu n-:amen: 133

The different types of Aradhanais performed in Temples. Dhoopam - Gives Gnana, removes sins_ Five-pile Alankara Dheepam - Denotes the Paneha Boodhams_ Three-pile Dheepam - Removes the three MalasNaga (snake) Dheepam - Blessed with children. Vrishaba/Idaba (bull) Dheepam - Propagation of cattles. Purusha Dheepam - Gives power. Natchathira (star) Dheepam - Cures diseases and gives goodhealth8. Yaanai (elephant) Dheepam - Gives wealth i9. Aamaí (tortoise) Dheepam - Removes the fear of water10. Anna (swan) Dheepam11. Kudhírai (horse) Dheepam12. Mayil (peacock) Dheepam - Blessed with children13 .The Poorna Kumbam Dheepam with five dheepa plates -Removes the Malas14. Kozhi (hen) Dheepam15. Singham (lion) Dheepam - Long life16. Karpoora (camphor) Dheepam17. Mem (mountain) Dheepam - Liberation18. 7 branches of the camphor Aarathi - Denotes the Saptamathas19. Kudai (umbrella) - Denotcs the Moon20. Kodi (flag) - Denotes Brahma21. Visiri (fan) - Denotes Vaayu (God of Wind)22. Kannaadi (mirror) - Denotes the Sun23. Alavatmm (circular shapcd cloth/palm leaves) - Dcnotes Indiran24. Saamaram (fur of deer) - Denotes Mahalakshmi1 3 4 nmuu naaiuons. ._ ,3 . . .É~›zi;'›'ex, (<02 › fm <2-f_.f`-_~v:,_I: =:mm ä Dhuopa Five - pile Alankara \ Vgí 'WPi.ZNaga Dheepa

_ .åd ` Dheepaf. nc“` 2.fF1 .-r~§';:_.~l„.›'.Ã íHindu Yudltlonl'aV' 'h b Dhms âa eepq Purusha Dheepa„ /1 /V1 1(1,/,_ 4*,4 ,if-al :IL” "i 4.)

`,š§,.«Natchathira_ Dheepat-,Aamai 1~ Dn _ =>§st~.›'s.,„'Yaanai Dheepa “pa U i.N1.fo -I~“-_. ff-.:„Karpaora Dheepa= šš tyM~»§„>«fš_. Seven -BranchedCamphoí' plate135

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W iPoorna K umbam„»«~ ›- _/í§_"~ & 5 Dheepaszê u EF1.„

\.,. -É Dheepal 2 1'SmghamDheepa . -.;-=;._v,_._ .,\'~ .| ,:_ _ |1* '<„ fl f.. *lI' * l Q`- \\~o"~å..>~ïaamaram \`.„,__.\1;-.='~§ï`iš- MeruIo \. à 1;IS6Alavaltam

Kadi - 5.? W l ":.__ Kudai7-frS'v:"., ei`|\. \lb'.\.,grc\'Jvn'.ff - '°§71\~.“É `*?à;;'..`\§"~.9„ .L -' É “á .-_:_„___I-._e---- Ff."-,',“' " ` " 1; Wsin'Kannaadi "^~ mum IncluonsMaavilakku Pooia\Nomen pcrl`orm thispooju for \hc prospcrily of lhcirfamilies. Raw rice (powdered).lcndcr coconul walcr, sugar,curdamom powder und drygingcr powder arc mixedlogclher.`l`hisis1l1cnsl1npcd like(hc Kumakshi vilakku. und lhcnlil using, u \vick und ghcc.Il is a practice, cvcn loclz1y.to lighlthc Mam-'ilzikku whcnwishcs urc lulliillcd. 1\l`lcrll1cp<n›_juis complete. il is distributedas praszndham to cvcryonc.`_S4 f.""2The Kuththu Vilakku ' ï+I›..çf\ 1'.--_ ,QWhen the kulhlhu \-'i lzlkku h lil. wc experienceihu divinily. which briglilcns uur pnnju room. Thckuthlhu vilukku has al unique slruclum.'l`hc Base As this pan is bmad und splicficul shupcd. rcscmhling the Lotus,il dcnoics Brzlhmzldcvi on lhc Lotus.

'l`he StemThis is lczm und \all likcu pillzu'.und|1ui1cc dcnulcs Muhu\fishnu_who mcusurcd the cunh amd sky with his lccl in \fiununzi .f\valur.mmiu vrauluom _H7

The A gulThe upper part ol`1he stem is like un Agu! (cup). :md is filledwith ghee/oil. denoung Urudhr.m who udoms the |'ivc|'(j;mgcs on hishead.The Eyes of the LampThe five eyes on which the wieks hum dcnoic the Panchzlniugami (5 faces) of lvlul\es\\-'mun (ic. lisununi, V:1mz|de\f:m1.Suil1yo.»;udh;1n1. Thulpuru.~:l1un1. Agoium). They also symbolisc the liveclizuucleiisiies essential l`o|^u woman ic. love. moderuiion_ l:|ell`ulness_delerminalion :md lolerunee.The Upper stemAs this resemhles the kumhu kalasu|1\.i\de|1olcs Su(llulsi\fu|11.()il - The ghec found in Agu! rcl`c1s1ollle N:1dh:|(sound)_ whichis formless und lills up space.Wick - 'lhisie|m:senlsllle Vinlhuin lhelliudu philosophy orwhilcligdfil.Flame - 'l`his isconsidcrcd us the form of Mahalaksluui.Light - As it is bfiglu. it symholisesjhe Gnunu formol`Suruswull1i.lleal - Asilhuslhcpowerlohum,ildcnoleslhe de.\'lruclin§_›l`oreeol`Rudhmni.11:; mmm vnunumuThe urlislic features ol' the lamp refer to Cianapalliy. Mumgun.Rumu and Krishnu.'lhc lump cam bc decorated wilh lurmerie.el1:1nlh:1nun1. kumkum:md flowcm.The flumc should not hc put offquiekl y aller the poojai. ll shouldbe put out using zi flower. or the buming wick should hc sluwly dippcdin the oil. The llumc should nol bc hlown oux.'l`he oils used in Dheepams and their benefitsCoeonut oil - Auspjeious l`orG:|n:|p:1ll1y. Aequiies suenglh of mind.Gíngelly oil - /\uspieiuus for Muhuvishnu. Prospeuous life, removesmisciics and had Gruhn influcnces.Ghee - /\uspieious for Miilinlzikslimi. Receives HerGr-uee,ucquires weullh und good hcullh, :ind remuves bald(iruhai inlluences.Casloroil - Rceeives the Grace of lhe family dcily. fame.

prospcrous life. und good relulives_Neem oil - Reeeivcs the hlessiugs of Rudru l)ev-us.Mahuu oil - Reeeives lhe hlessings ol'/\mmuii und Kulidevi.(šroundnuluil - Should nol he used.When the lump is lil by mixing ghee. Muliuu oil und neem oil, ilheslows zi weullhy life,mmm mmmum Lu,

The blessings of Devi and mantra powers zu°e aequiiecl hy lighti ng thelamp with the mixture otghee. cnstor oil. neem oil (nr gingelly oil).Mithuzt oil und eoeonut oil.l,orclSttnnceswt1m is plcusctl when an iron lamp is lil with gingelly oilon Sztturtluys.'I he wieks used in Dheepzims and their benefitsThe wiek made out of Cotton - Healthy life.The wick made out ol tt Lotus stem - Wettlth, ri:1nt›ve.\ the sitts olprevious binhs.The wiek made out ola Plitntztin stem - Blessed with ehildten, ientovesevil spirits.The \vlek made out otzt White eluth - Good ellects, weztlth.The wiek milde out ol`ii Yellow eluth - Gmee ul'/\mbil\fzii. pmspemus li le.The wiek made out of at Red eloth - Removes ubstueles in muri'i:tge_.hlessed with children.II i.\'~.\'íg1t1f/iculil In n.\'c 11 ii›^ít'k will: 7. I4. 16 ur 2/ .«'lrunfl.\'. Wlirnlig/tlin,4,' Iltc lamp ul lmnte, il i.\' .\'íg:ttfii.-(uil Io im- u 1.-ullnn witrk.'l`he cl irectíon for lighting the Dheepum and its lienefitsEast - Miseries :incl bzttlGr:tl1u inlluenees :tre removed.West - Dehls. enemies, butlCirul1u :md Sami inlluenees iire reinuved.North - A prosperous lil"e„ ohstueles in murriuge :tre remuvctl,knowledge is gztined :md :tuspicious events will take pltiee.Smith - `l`he lamp should not he lit in this dineetioir|.i|| "tune mannen:Lighting the eyes ofthe Dheepams and their bcnclitsLightingonc eye ~ Average benefitsl.ighting two eyes - Family remains unitedLighting, three eyes - Givcs healthy childienLighting loureyes ~ Blessed witheuttle :ind landl.ig|1ting live eyes - Prosperous |il`c'l`he LampsThe lamps made out olsoil, bronze, silver, or hrztss :tre u.<e(l. ltis not fiignilicimt to use stainless steel lamps. When plaeing the latmpsun the lloor,tlleysht›ultlbc kept un tt pltttcurzt plzuttuin leut.

CA5/ILighting u Bronze liimp - :tre iemoved.Lighting un Iron lump - Gives goed friends.Why we hoisl the flag on the koditnaram?The llztg is hoistetl in zt temple on the lust day olthe festival.The picture on the ting would be thzit of the mount t›l'the main deity_lloisting the flag symholixes the upliltment olthe soul hy the Almighty.lt ztlso implies the fact thut the /\lmighty is the l leziil of the Universe.Ther 'l`hiruvizh:1 ( Chariot fe.\'liw1l)The ehztriot |›roeessi<›ns tiike place :tt the entl ol the festivzil.'l'he structure ot' the ehitriot symholises the body. ll reveals thut theLord is gruciously present in the eliuriot us well :is our hody.'l`he philosophy of the Prakurani (Courtyard)The number ol`pi~.tkurain1s in it temple muy vatty. The devoteesfiist go zirouncl the outer prukziruni, then the inner pt':tkzt1';t|n, mid thenthe innennost p|'ztku|'uill, and linztlly neiieli the Sunetum Sztnctontm.This signilics the iemovztl olworldly desines und neutingthe Almigltt_v.ninuu munten; HI

'l`hc Vimana (central tower of the temple)The Vimttnu is hut lt uhovc the stmctum szmcturunt to protectthe main clcity from ruin und heat. lt ulsn symholises the Grace ol'God.l)harpai (Rum grass)The tllutrpzti is used in till the ritttztl ecteinunies t›l`l lmtltusm. lt isnot ttllectcd hy wet or dry cnntlitions. 'l`hc soul Lines nut :mss om ul' atseed. like-wi.~;e the dhztrpzti :tlsu gruxtfs without zt seed. lflunu-_ tlltzttpztisymhulises the soul.'l`he Philosophy of the sucred yellow thread (Munjal kniru)The Thttli cttn he tied with tt sztcrctl yellow thread. This thrczulenmpriscs o|`9 strunds that dennte the following:l. 'lb tmtlet'st:tnd lite ats it is 2. Exeellence3. l'0\\-'cr 4. Purity5. Divincthtnking 6. Goud cltutïtctct'7. Wisdum 8. Scl|`e<›nt1'<›l9. Servicelilessings with A kshudui (Arugarisi)/\ksltttdtti is the mixture of raw rice (tmhrt›ken)_ ttt|'|ttet“iepowder :md atrtlgttmpul. lt is used l`url1les›;ings hy elders. l)uringweddings,when hlessing the mztnied couple. Akttsltutli sliuuld he taken

with both hztntls :md sprinkled un their heads first, then sl1mtltlet's.knees :mtl leet |'es|›ectively_ urjttst un their heads. 'l`h|>' t|iil|t~:tte.< thehlessings nl` the l)e\-'us lrom the sky.(During Apztru kíriyzti (l`Ltnei'ult1`tes)umJ Pidltirkutltttt t:mce.<tr:t|mus) it ts tlone in tevctse. ie, littm the feet tu the head. which s_\-'iitlmlizesthut the xoul ztttztins Mukthi tt›wtn'd.~; the sky.)H2 mnau vuutmmThirumunn (Naamam)›w[he Thirumzmn is worn on thelbreltcttd by Vaišltttttvitcs in the shupc of ltthe lotus feet t›l`l.ord Vishnu. lt is made olGopi chanthunum (a type of sand). TheThirumunn rcveuls that the lotus leet ol' t ^'“ li \_]"\..`/YPamntlattmun (Lord Vishnu) is the onlydestination Ihr the soul. The Chendurum \JK(red mark) in the centre dcnolcs iiMzthulztksltmi.Th ulasi (Sweet Basil)fhc word "I`httlusi'means `pecrless'. lt is _ _l .]' . , h. . ~ - ( É. \ „)e tucdt .1ll,otd Vtsltttu wtll "_- 9.,„ . . *fc " ,. .. .he present wherex-'er there if. ` , 'Thulztsi (form of gotldesx _ ;. AMatltztlztkshmi). Tltulttsi hals thewunntlt lhut cam cure tliseusesamd remove sins.'l`l1c'|'ltu|1tst theertltttnt ttsqttivulent to Ganges\\~'zttc|^) is distributed :ts prttsztdltztm in Vtshnu temples._, ` _ _,1. ,\QVilvum (lšuel) treevwIhe Vilvztm leaves urc u|`uvt›urite of Lord Siv;t`s. Thexhttpe ol' the Vilvztm lt.-ul'symbultscs the Thrisoolnm heldhy Lord Sivtt und ttlso his tltreeeyes. Pel'l`<1|'mi|tg ptmjzt to Lnrd

Sivu wtth the \filvatm removes sins t ,Zzttttl g|\'u.< liherzttion.Ntnøu nmmum I 4 |

A rugampul ((-',V"0d0" 11'!!-W)The urugttmpul iß at _-_' ,ff ,. - ,t QQ V , f , /t':tvt›urite nt'LordCittitttlluthyvsá 4 ~ É 4 '_ . - A V ` ~ 'fx'I he ztrttgttmpttl euntinucs tu `\ ~ ~„L I'* xš ›.sproute\-'cn after being cut in I _~ 3 W ,ithe middle. lt is used to euri: \_ 'many diseuses. lhe ±›oul docs /', - ., ' « - - - like-nut urist nut ul .t seed. _ _' th truu't|Tt]'›ul 'tlšn vi't›ws^ withmtt tt seed. Even il the body\tt-'tree C: _. « ~ o * _„ __ _ ._ _ _ _ |. _ _ _ . w f||t;ç1ctl. Hcnce, uttcrtngaiitgtiinpttis destinyed.\l1L -S0111 L* UWclcnntes the t›t`l`ci'mg ut' uur soul to the Lortl.Thirttneettupulflhfii (30-V7)Tl1i~;isttscdtb|' pmiats like the 'l`hulttsi. lt is also used in P“".l*'5fur Lord Sivzt,Neem / Vcpam (MHfK0~\^") "ec~ ^ - ` less„ ,. .. ~ iuvuttrite ul gvül ~-The heem le.|\'t.› mt. .t_ ._ _ - ›,mJL~,-mtiest1't›y germs..\f1:tut'tyttt11ttt;tt1 s.. lt gum .tuitaliitg eflect . ... „--“-~ft^›"tlhe Neem ta l\n0\\n „t› S.tt\ mè- QNivtirttni` (|>=\flflCCiU~› , _ . - ` , 'A- -U \Vhgn ii pcrßon is sut lering lrom .t disett d_ _ _ _ _ 1 . -,1 C(ie. chicken pm), the neem le ww ML 1-tt the home entrance. This is tt› let nlhefäknowthztttt\le|'st›nul`tl1ttt l11l111|)'\-°'l'"LlTh'í_ \.\neem paste 15 then .~.me.tied en the 10 Y *_

\hc giek person. A girl :tttuining puberty tbïjvgiy neem pttsle to cttnsumü.7 mnuu InuttlomI-H'l`hala Virutcham ('l`cm|§le tree)There is ai paiticulttr tree lbrcach temple. ln ancient times, thetcmplcs wen: built in places where:1. Miracles took place.2. (iotl ttppearetl.3. Saints and Rishis meditnted.The ttees under which the Rishis mcditutcd und ttttztined Mttkthihcciune the Thttlu Vinttchams. These tiecs :ut: wurshipped.LotusThe Lotus is considered ats the V . 0 ° vttivine flower. Mulittlztkslimi. emisurt ut' Mzthztvishnu, nppeatrctl from the lutus *(putllimzun). itntl heiiee she is called V Pztdhmttvttthy. The lotus is found in thetht'ee enlottrs real. white :md hlucsymholising the 'I'hrimttrthi.\'. 'fhough the erccper of the lotus ismie. il httsthrec kii1dst›l`l`|:›wei-s. l.ike-wise_t|1uugh the /\Imightyis one, He rcsides in three plttcest pcrl't›rmit1g three diflerentl`unctit›ns under three (li l`l`erent names.While Lotus - lšrttltmu u|1tlS:||^;1swt|tlti (ffrczttittn)Red Lotus - Multuvishnu ttntl Mtthatlttkfihmt (Protection)Blue Lotus - Sivtt und Pztrvutlii {|)c.~:trt|etit›n)( lrzihas Mounß 'lštstes GrainsSun Peucuck l Int Wheutlv^kx›n Pe;u'l Vtmttnttm Sweet Ptttltlyl\fl:t|'s Swan. (fuck /\stii ngcnt 'I 'uur dhullvle|'v:|t|'_\' I lnixc. I-'ux Salty Meting dhatlnnmu vumiam |.|5

Jupiter Elcphtuit Sweet Bengul gmtnVenus H uwk.l lorse,Cow Sweet Field beansSutum Crow, ßulïulo Bitter Sesumc seedsRatghu Sheep Sour Und dhttlKethu Lien Sour Horse-grztmSome pltilosophies Aftertytng the'l'hirumz|ngztlyum, the hridcgrtmm applieskumkum un the centre ul the britle`sl1ui1'li|1c. us this is theplace where goddcss Muhulukshini xesidef.. This is to neveul

thut the hritle belongs to him.i** 'lhc musical instn.|ments (ketti mclum) me played during theThitumun ›'„tlvu'l`hu'.tmt1ttmleuven the eeu le fmm hctuingE . P _amything, inattspieiuus.*" When tying the 'l`hiru|nangulyum with the stxered yellowthread. the three knuts tietl tlcnete the following:First knot - She is devoted to her husbuntl_Sccund knot - She is clevuted to her in-laws.Thirtl knul - She is God-leuring.* While lying thelhiruinangulyum. akshudzti is sprinkletl onthe head of the couple to bless them with u prt›sperous lil`eund to protect them from evil spirits. A lady hultls tt lumphehind the enuple tu prevent bad omens. :md she also servesus tt witness to the murriatge.Hlu ntnuu nanluunsWhy the hride wears a veil during the ntarriage?ln earlier days. the bride docs not see the hridegronm untilthe 'l`l1i1'ttmangttly:tn1 is tied. Therefnre, she is brought to themunztvztrzti wearing at veil. ltist1lsndt›itetott\=t›id evil eyes underities. After the grt›mn ties the 'l'hiruinztngztlyatm. she removesthe veil ztntl reveals her face to the guests with the reeugnitiunthttt she is at married womun.Why we rolale the l)hcep:| thriee?The Agztnms state that the tlheepzt is rottttcd three timestor the welfare ul the universe. the \fillztge und the suulsrcspectivcly.'l`he Prasatlhams (xltcrerl usb. rlumllmuum. kumkum)When rcccivin 1.- p1'tts:ttl|\1t|ns;tt the temple. first we have tosmcttr the Sacred ush tm our l`t›rel\e:td hy ehtmttng, “SivuSi\›'tt`. Thenthe chanthtmztm is put un the eentre <›l` the len.-lietttl. und then thekumkum is kept over this. lt is u sin to spill these on the ground.llnw to wear the tlthureeyutn?Nlcn slmttld weztr the utltureeyztni (long piece t›lelf›th) twertheir left sht›ulderund tie il netu' the right hip. The .\':1:tlwtti(sh:twl)shuultl also he wom over the le|`t shnulder. This is hecuuse in theArtl11tnureeswtu"t|r lnmfi, gntltless Umu is un the lel`t side of l .uni Sivtt.und hcnce it is ct›ve|'ed in order to pruteet her.During rilunls on which hand is the kanppu/puvithrum worn?i\/len should wear the katupptt un their n'g_'l1t wrist. und thepuvilliruin on their right hunt] ring lingen'. Women shnuld wettt' thekuzt › ›u un their left wñst. untl the uatvithrztnt un their left hatntl tinel l l ._

mmm Iuuiumß H7

finger. This is because, as per the form of Aithanareeswarar, the godis on the right side, and the goddess is on the left side. Hence, womenshould wear the saree pallu, nose stud, and thread on the left side.Plantain TreeTwo plantain trees are tied at theentrances of temples and houses during festiveseasons. During auspicious events, two plantaintrees bearing flowers and a bunch of bananasare tied. During inauspicious events, the two Imondhans (a type of plantain tree) with a bunch W Xof raw bananas are tied at the entrance to indicate mouming. fi “"er 3?_,.š`\imm.%f”š„„„-2' "*-;f.§'«É§%The philosophy of tying the plantain treeis for our lineage to prosper like the plantain - trees.iWhen offering bananas to the Almighty, the tips should be cut off. When placing a =`L___""`kumbam over a plantain leaf, the tip of the leaf should face eithernonh or east. When eating, the tip of the plantain leaf (Thalai vazhaiilai) should be on your left side. During Apara kiriyas, the tip ofthe plantain leaf should face south.Mango leavesThe mango leaves play a significant role during auspiciousevents in temples and houses. During Kumbabishekams, house-warmings, and other rituals, the purified water in the kumbamsare sprinkled on the people and throughout the house using mangoleaves. While performing homams, the mango leaves are used topour ghee into the fire.1 4 8 numu rrauimms« ` ' d at- ' ' festoon of mango leaves is tieDuring auspicious events, ath entrance During festivals when the Place is Crowded” the mangoe . . ,_ › , ` the air. Theleaves help punfy the air, and also destroys the gfiI`H1S Inleaves also have some medicinal use. The wood of mangomango

trees are used in homams. il l F0, auspicious events, the "' ~;›:„ at _ mango leaves should be folded .f ï 1 forwards, symbolising the,; ~ L bowiflg of Wome" as a sig" Off l , ` welcome. pw!-›=..' F-4~,W For inauspicious events, lheleaves should be fülded .. 7' backwards. WCocount palm leaves_ _,§*\Festoons and fl21gS S)/mbollse the V ' *celestial beingS. T116 Way 1n_ Wlfmh thefestoons are tied in the streets mdicate thenature of the funCfi0fl-F„r auspicious events, the leavesare folded downwards, -Yy"'b0l'-“'13the celestial beings eommfq downfrom the sky to partzctpate tn them.Nlrlflu Tridlllulß1-19

atieFor inauspicious events, theleaves are folded upwards, symbolising the celeszialF. heíngs guídíng the souls1 upwards to attain Mokshu..„-1 3' -?É "Je te '_'KumkumThe kumkum is a symbol of the Hindu culture. It is veryauspicious and possesses mantra powers. Applying kumkum onthe forehead inbetween the eyebrows, protects us from the effectsof evil eyes and hypnotism. Married women apply the kumkum atthe centre of their hairline, as Goddess Mahalakshmi resides there.The kumkum is auspicious to Goddess Sakthi, and hence we

perform kumkum pooja. The kumkum is applied with either the righthand ring finger, or with both the thumb and index finger of the righthai1d. The ring finger (Surya finger) has an attractive power, andthus touchin g the forehead with th at fin ger reduces heat.Chanthanam (Sandalwood paste)The chanthanam is also an auspicious product. It gives acooling effect and has a fragrance. Applying chanthanam reducesthe body heat and refrcshes us. In temples, Chanthana Kavasamsand Abishekams are done to the deities. This enhances the powerof the idols and also confers the grace of goddess Lakshmi. Thechanthanam has a significant place in all the events, such as inwelcoming guests.15 0 mmm ri-:mmm:'lhrmeric (Manjal)The turmeric is very auspicious and is used in many ways._ -^ .t -' 'asiciousA piece of tunneric is used as Thali in mamagfis- Dllnngdu P ut- cocon sevents, Vinayakar models are made out of turmenc, an Iare smeared with turmeric. Turmeric water and slaked lime(chunnambu) are used in Aarathis to Ward off evil eyes.The turmeric acts as a germicide. _W0fllen aPPlY tufmerlceveryday while bathing. Turmeric water is sprinkled to punfy thehouse In ancient times, turmeric was smeared on all four cornersof marriage invitations to prevent the spreading of contagiousdiseases, such as cholera, ínbetween villages.LimeLime is significant for divine Worship. The taste Of Ihffi limeis always sour whether it is raw or ripe. Like-wise, one has tomaintain a stable mentulily in b0ïhl0)' and mísery- This philosophyis revealed through lime.A garland of limcs is adomedon Sakthi to be blcssed with maniage 'andchjldren_ The juiceextractedfmm .these limes can beconsumed. Lime M ` Vb, ir is also used to remove the effects of ff « ,3evil eyes or when beginning a new ;task. During the Dufga Pßflifls °" T Tuesdays at Raghukfllfl (3Pm ' l'4,30pm), the lamp made from the I Th is apeal of lime is lighted using wick and ghefi (See P1CïUfe)- erebelief that this would bring an early marriage. V„«,-fi,_ulnflu rrzflitions

151

Panneer (Rose water) llPanneer is made frompanneer flowers. It is used inabhishekams, and also used as ía fragrance. The panneer set ~(panneer,vibhuthi, chanthanam ' ff' ~&`“%« am -and kumkum), see picture, is « 5 h H- i~„ .placed at entrances during auspicious functions. Here, the .~ ' ï *lpanneeris sprinkled on guests _. - 1,4., _ ` t «~. ar' f _ » „H -__`9when weleomingthem. It gives a a cooling effect like the ' ' ,«chanthanam. The philosophy ofthe Panneer is that, one should lead a life in which one is appreciatedas a person of noble character, like the fragrant Panneer that is lovedby everyone..fy-L:sw„';É ll Betel leaf and Areca nut The betel leaf and areca nu are a so very « .›f 1 V;_ significant. As goddess “K4 Lakshmircsidcsinthc betel _`*L”§f leaves, it is used for all ' _) auspicious events.Theyare ' *“›= 'offered to the Lord to N } pf0tect us from evil sinfluences.Dun`ng betnothals, ".e"" ` ' *Wit is a custom to exchange WNitchayathamboolam (betel leaves, areca nuts and chunnambu). Thewhole areea nuts should be used, otherwise the parings of it can beused. A garland of betel leaves is offered to Lord Hanuman toachieve success.1 52 amuu rraflmønsPoox-na Kumbam

The Vedha states that the world, thebeings, and the souls, all originate from water ^during Creation and subside in water during Pralaya (end of cosmos). This is signified by the z.;,_.}-„WPooma kumbam. 1IlI\\\'åš'/AVNA'/tš7A\`The human body is symbolised by the Pooma kumbam as follows: \_\L'!L/Kumbam (pot) - flesh; water - blood; navaratnam - bones; thethread Woven around the pot - nerves; vastram (cloth) tied aroundthe pot - skin; 5 mango leaves - 5 senses; coconut - head; koorcham- hair; plantain leaf and paddy (on which kumbam is placed) -aasanam (seat).During rituals, the appropriate Gods are invoked in thepoorna kumbams and then poojas are performed. The poornakumbam, filled with water, should be placed over paddy/raw ricespread on a plantain leaf(Thalaivaazhai ilai). The tip of theplaintain leaf should face either north or east. Nutmeg, cloves,saffron, and medicated eamphor are added to the kumba waterto keep it clean. The kumbam is adorned with mango leaves (forthe grace of Ashtalakshmi), a eoconut, turmerie, kumkum,flowers, koorcham (a bunch of dharpai tied at one end), swamam(a piece of gold put into kumba water) and akshadhai. The Poornakumba water is purified through mantras consisting of powerfulSrijaaksharangal, and the Lord is in voked in it. Then homamsare performed, and the Lord is worshipped through meditation,jebams, and chanting mantras. No rituals are performed withouta poorna kumbam.-um mnmøm f 153

Placing the NimiktidaniThe Nirttikudtim is ii p<itii'ii:i kumhitm thzit is plticcd ut theentrance during eeremtinies. its ii sign ul' weletime, A pluntaiinleut' is placed. :ind paiddy er mw riee is spread <i\-'er it. ^l`hcmiïiiktidzmi (lilled \\-'itli water) is tiduriied with mzmgti leaves zmdii etiezmttl. :ind then placed tin this. An itliilt›l`l.0i'<|Vi|1:iy:i|<;i(made rit' turmerie) is placed hel`0re the kumhtim towards the|el't. When fiieing the kiimh:im (rom the front. the tipnftlie plnntziinleiil should he uit the left side. A liglited lzimp (kutlithu viliikku) isplaced un either side. A bunch t›l`h:tminiis_ helel leaves, zireeziiiuts, uiid ti lmie pliieed uit ti trziy me kept uit eiie side. The pmmeerset (ehtinthztnum, kumktim. pxinncer :md satcred zish) is kept tm

the other side (see piettircl. The mrtiiltudtmi und the ltimps eainhe deetiriited with garlzinds iind flowers.IF-1 _ mnuu miuieimuWorship efthe Panehti BoodhasEach nlthc Piinehu Boudliais :tre w0i'sliippcd by perfomiingthe following to the deities in templeszApplying Cliatiitlizimiin - EarthDhcepzt /\rzitllizinm - FireDlinopzi f\|'zidl1:in:1i - AirOffering Naiivedhyami - Water(,)t`l`ei1i1g Flowers - SpaceThe pltilosnpliy of the lrumudiI)evutces_ who gti uit ti pil gti nmge tnS:ih;iri miilzii (ur Aiyuppiidhzirshiin, curry zm litmitidi (zi ling with two sepzirute etmipimmeiits.lied with two kiiots) en tlleirhe:ids.`l`he front cmiipm1meiit eoiitmnsAhishekii products amd ii eocuniit filled with ghee. whilst the reareumpziitmeiit cuiitttins l'i›«›tl :ind pei~.<<iiuil heluiigings (woi'ldl_v dcsiies).By the time they reaieh the .\`;ih:ii-imiilm Smmicllizmiizmi. the eo|itei1tsel`the retireompzmmciit woiiltl he exlmusted. Then they climh the 18steps (path to ||her;itii›n) :ind lireatk the eneontll (ego) :ind pour theghee (soiil)nnt<› the idul ul' Lurd /\i_v;ipp:i. 'l`hcn they leave after thettbisliekzim with pnisudlizmis. The |›liilt›st›pl1y hchind this is thzit, ats wetipprnzich (ind, uur \vurldly desires would disztppeurtind egos will beshzitlered, und iil`tei'dlmislmii uur siilc pnssessmn would lie His gmee.'I`he l)wuru Balakars (gate keepers)The two l)war.i Bailakztis iue ltiund on cithcr side oflhe SunetumSzineinium in temples. One 0l`tl1cl)w:ii:i ßiilzikziis holds ai niiscd indexFinger, ieveiilmg the oiiciiess t›l`(i<id. 'l`lie titlieruiie holds un open handwith his fmgeis spieiid uut. reveuling ihiit the Luid is une :ind nothingmute. The \fedlizi also suites thzit “lïlmm lšhvii .-'\tli\i'i(l|icek:im lšnihniu",wliieli meains thztt the l ,nrd is only ene.Ninuii vmaimn; 155

Sivaroopam -' 1 liLMI./,/„V4, lštläë 7' 4,6.: ~\ J*The Sivaroopam reveals how to lead alife. The erescent moon on Lord Siva`s head _reveals that happiness and miseries occur ` Lalternatively in our lives like the waxing and

waning of the moon. g~~' *ëëåà-. FåU5tThe river Ganges flowing out of His headdenotes that our mind should be as pure as the river Ganges. Theriver Ganges is not ruined by impurities, like-wise our mind shouldalso not be ruined by worldly desires.We all have animal instinets within ourselves. We have topurge these instinets to attain a higher level of mankind. This issymbolised by the tiger hide wom by Lord Siva.DhakshinamoorthyDhakshinamoorthy is theuniversal Guru (teacher). Hesymbolises the peaceful nature of LordSiva. He sits faeing south under thebanyan tree with one leg folded and theother resting on Muyalagan (demon).He sits on a tiger hide holding theChinmudra (bestowing knowledge)and Abaya mudra (assurance) in boththe front hands. ln the other two handshe earries a Rudrakshamala and asnake/fire.' r_\. ,-,:› 'at-~.= :gsm , ~<.›~›« a%JIj*"\*“ï"''N„- '(\\\~

« r @.llllt§,1l;t 1 ,tar"-`;f.~&'f›.:\~«=«e-?«›'›,«›.- ,_ góag ty*-j ››^ul›Lf'e'›'ïf`:'1'~'1ê~-§.§a<Ö=/w.f2«~_ui nlmlu ïrzdltlonl156The Chinmudhra of DhakshinamoorthyThe chinmudhra of Lord Dhaknshinamoorthysymbolises Gnana. Here, the thumb and index fin ger

are joined together, th us separating themselves fromthe other three fingers. Â _/1. Thumb - God 2. Index finger - Soul3. Middle finger - Aanava 4. Ring finger - KanmaS. Little finger - MayaThe philosophy of this mudhra is that the soul has to be ridoff the three fetters to merge with the Lord.The Worship of SandeswararSandeswarar is found in all Siva temples near the komuhaiof the Sanetum Sanctorum. He is worshipped before leaving theSiva temple. We should never go completely around theSandeswarar Sannidhi, and we also should not offer anything,such as a thread. This is because He only accepts that, which hasalready been offered to Lord Siva.Why we clap our hands at the Sandeswarar Sanuidhi?Sandeswarar is constantly meditatin g on Lord Si va.Hence, we should lightly clap our hands thricetogetl-lis atlenlion,and then pray to Him for the grace of Lord Siva.nlnmrfluuuu , 157

oo\ia\ul,|>t››5\›-9.1011.12131415161718192021222324.25.26.27.28.29.

30.31.32.158Aksh ara IlakanamLikidhamKanidhamVedhamPuraanamViyakaranamSodhida SastramDharma SastramNeedhí SastramYoga SastramMantra S astramSaguna SastramSirpa Sastram AVuidh ya SastramUruva SastramIdhikasamSapta Brah mamKaviyßmAlan karamMadh ura Pash anamNadakamNimthamVeenaiVenuMiridhangamThaalamAstra Pari tchaiKanaga ParitchaiRadha Pari tch aiKaj a Pari tchaiAswa ParitchaiRatn a Pari Lchai64 ArtsAlphabetsKnowledge of writingMathematicsAncient Hindu scripturesHindu LegendsGrammarAstronomy

Book of EthicsBook of JusticeBook of YogaBook of MantrasBook of Omens lBook of SculpturesBook of MedicineBook of AppearancesEpicBook of SoundEpic poemArt of make-upSpeechDramaDanceVeenaFluteMiridhangam (a kind of drum)RhythmBow and arrowKnowledge of goldRiding chanotsKnowledge of eleph amsKnowledge of horsesKnowlege ofgemsntnau rrauitlons33.34.35.36.37.38.39.40.41.42.43.44.45.46.47.48.49.50.

51.52.53.54.55.56.57.58.59.60.61.62.63.64.Hindu vrBhoomi Paritchai -Sangiramallakanam -Malyudham -AkarshanamUchadzinamVithveshanamMadhana Sastram -MohanamVasikaranamRasa VadhamKandharva Vedham -B aipeela VadhamKavuthu VadhamThathu VadhamKamdamN ashta Prachan am -MutliAhaya pravesamAhaya GamanamParakaya Pravesam -AdhirusiyamLndhra J alamMahendra J alamAgni SthambamJ al a SthambamVayu SthambamDhrishti Sthambam -Vaaku SthambamS ukila Sthambam

Kanna Sth ambamKatka SthambamAvasthaiP1'ayogam -auiciønsKnowledge of soilLeading the armyWrestlingGlamourInsti gatin g evil spiritsShockArt of loveHypnotismArt of charmin gAttof making goldfmmlow qualitymetalsThe secrets of kandhawasCommunicating with animalsTransforming miseries into happinessKnowledge of pulseRemoving poison through mantrasKnowledge of preventing lossesPalmisttyDisappearing in the skyRoaming invisibly in the skyTransfeiring soul into another bodyBecoming inviibleMagicPerformin g WondersWalking on fireWalking on waterWalking on airControlling the eyesControlling the speechControl ling the scnsc organsFinding lost thingsAttractin g war WeaponsControl ling the Atma (soul)159

Six types of religious worshipsGanapathyam - Worship of GanapathyKoumaram - Worship of MuruganSouram - Worship of Sun

Saktharn - Worship of SakthiSaivam - Worship of SivaVaishnavam - Worship of VishnuAshta IswaryamsKingdom, Relatives, Children, Paddy, Gold, Stones (Ratnas),Vehicles, Slaves.The six faces of Lord Murugaç:«u\-|>o›m›-. llluminating the world. Protecting Homams_ Blessing the devotees by removing miseries. Explaining the Vedhas and Agamas. Destroying evil and enemies, and confeiring goodPleasing Valli, his consort.What is the philosophy of carrying the Kavadi?ldumban, disciple of Saint Agasthyar, cairied two hillocks,Sivamalai and Sakthimalai, over his shoulders on ajoumey to theSouth of India. On his way, he stopped over at Pulani to rest, andplaced the hillocks down. Later, hc found it impossible to lift them upagain. This became one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, andIdumban was blessed. The philosophy of this is that. those who carrythe kavadi (symbolising the 2 hillocks) over their shouldcrs and walkup to the temple, shall have their vows fulfilled. The Kavadi is carriedin Munigan templcs during festivals.160 mnuu nanmnnsWhy we shave our heads in temples like Thirupathi andKathirgamam?The head is shavcd symbolising the removal of our ego,arrogance and pride before the Lord. As there will bc a changein our appearance, it is believed that there will be a change in ourcharacter for the better.Porthengai AclithalIt is a custom to break a coconut before commencing anyevent. During New Year in the early days, Lord Vinayaka wasworshipped by breaking a Porthengai (a smaller variety ofcoconut) with another. This was practiced during ancient timesin temples, but is vanishing now-a-days.Why are Theechattis carried in temples?The Theechchatti (fire pot) is carried by women duringfestivals in Sakthi templcs. It was performed in ancient times tosignify that fire will not burn the women with chastity. This practicecontinues even today.Sirukku and SiruvamSirukku and Siruvam are ë

_-_.„a.=-, lil ' I šååüifi-ya", *fe-implements used to pour ghee __ sg Winto the homam. The Sirukku “P7 f Al"and Siruvam are considered as Sakthi and Siva respectively.Sivasakthi pooja is done for these before pouiing the ghee.Hindu rrauitinns 161

Poorna AguthiPooma Aguthi is the process of pouring a large quantity ofghee into the homa kundam using the Sirukku and Siruvam. This isperformed standing, and with a flower placed on the Siruvam.Yaga RatchaiDharpai is bumt in the Homa Agni, and then the bumt dharpaiis mixed with ghee. This is known as Yaga Ratchai, which is worn asa bindhi on the forehead.The significanee of the “Varagu'The significant feature of the varagu (a kind of millet) is that itdoes not wither. It also has the strength to withstand thunder. Hence,the Cvopurakalasams (pot- like structures on top of the gopuram) intemples are tilled with varagu.Sprinkling SaanamSaanam (mixture of cow dung and water) acts as a gennicide.Hence, it is sprinkled in houses.Why we offer food to crows?0n the day of fasting, we offer food to crows first and thenonly eat. This is because of the belief that our ancestors visit in theform of crows.1 62 nmøu rraalflønsThe Weapons of the LordsThrisoolam ( Trident) -Vel (Spear) -Pasam (Cord) -Angusam (Goud) -Vaal (Sword) -Hlllflll frlflllfifliThe Weapon of Lord Siva. The threeprongs denote the thm malas Aanava,Kanma and Maya. Hence, it symbolisesthe destruction of the three malas andupliftment of the soul.

The Weapon of Lord Muruga. It is thesymbol of Gnana Sakthi denoting thedestruction of ignorance and beingblessed with Gnana.Destroys evil 16% l}FI 1,Guides the devotees in the right path.Destroys ego and punishes the bad.ß@@@161

Chakram (Discus) - Destroys evil and protects the devotees....~'_ .4'.'ffi~ 'ef fïššä ï*§> "äiivaaf |_!\«"WfinGadai (Mace) - Destroys evil, controls haughtiness,and blesses dcvotees. _uit/í-5' ^š"f'5'l\llnu-››r,'à/TPanchayudham (Five Weapons)This is a pendant wom on the child to protect from evil eyes,evil influences, fear and diseases. The five Weapons of Lord Vishnu,Sangu (coneh), Chakram (discus), Gadai (mace), Vil (how) and Vaal(sword), are impressed on it.Panchalogam (Five Metals)Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron and Lead.The consorts of the Saptarishis (seven rishis) pKachiyappar - AdithiAthri - AnusyaBaradwajar - SusilaViswamitrar - KumuthavathiGouthamar - AhalyaJ - RenukaVasishtar › Arundhathi16 I ulnuu n-aumonsWhat is the philosophy of the Namaskaram?God is present within everyone. By realizing this, the

N amaskaram is performed as a fonn of respect to others.\Nhen performing Namaskaram, our enmity, pride, selfi shness, 4and jealousiness will all vanish. There won't be any feelin gs ofindifference between people on realization that everybody is equal inGods creation.The types of NamaskaramsEhanga Namaskaram : Perfomiing Namaskararn and bowing thehead. VThriyanga Namaskaram : Performin g Namaskaram by raisin g bothhands above the head.Panchanga Namaskaram :Prostrating with the forehead, hands, f - F and knees touching the floor. _ (Performedby only women). lv; _: I ,I/ Ii; ' ..,ad, ears, chest,. ~f.-àäAshtanga N amaskaram : Prostratin g with the forehehands and legs touchin g the floor. (Performed by only men).Hindu Traumans165

MantrasSaints composed mantras with shoiter phrases to make it easierfor us to memorise them. The mantras are very powerful. They areclassified as Mantram, Maha mantram and Peeja mantram. Mantramdenotes the tree, where the Pecja mantras are the seeds, and theMaha mantras are the fruits and flowers that give us benefits.Vinayaka WorshipLord Vinayaka is usually worshipped by tapping both templesof the forehead three times with the fists. This is followed by theThopukaranam. 'ThopukaranamThopukaranarn is the way of worshipping Lord Vinayaka. Theword Thopukaranam ori ginated from the word Thoipikaranam, where“Thorpi ` denotes “with hands” and “karnam' means “ears” _ This isperformed by moving right down (bending the knees completely) andgetting up quickly three times, whilc pulling the right ear with the lefthand and the left ear with the right hand. Women do not performThopukaranams.The ñve functions of Lord Vinayaka:S":'*E"!°P

Holds a Pasam (cord) denotin g Creation.Holds a broken tusk dcnotin g Protection.Holds an An gusam (goud) denoting Destruction.Trunk denotes Conccalment.Carries rnodhakams denotin g Conferment of grace.lfió nmnu n-aamunsLord Vinayakar is worshipped in many different fonns :Bala Ganapathy - Fonn of a childTharuna Ganapathy - Youth formPmgaia Ganapamy - Form with 6 handsBuvanesa Ganapathy - FOITD With 3 handsMaha Ganapathy - Form with 10 handsVeera Vigneswara - Form with 16 hands _Sakthi Ganapathy - Form embracing Devi with one handNirutha Ganapathy - Dancing formHerarnba Ganapathy - Form with five heads and seated ona lionVigrahasVigrahas are the idols of gods found in temples. These idolsare sculptured on stones or metals, and then mantras are chanted toinvoke the panicular deities.What is Thirumanchanam?The first abishekam perforrned at the temple is tennedThiiumanchanam'.What is Suprabatham?Suprabatham is the song sun g early in the moming to awakenthe Lord. In Tamil it is known as “Thirupalli Ezhuchi'.Paratha PoojasParatha pooj as are performed in temples for the welfareof the wholc nation.Hl|\d\| Trädliløni 167

Atmartha PoojasThose who obtained dheekshais perform the Atmartha poojasat home.The place of prostration in a templeIn temples, we have to prostrate only before the kodimaram(flag pole) and not in any other places such as the Sannidhis of thetemple. If the Sanctum Sanctorum is facing east or west, then we mustprostrate before the kodimaram facing north. If it is facing north orsouth, then we prostrate facing east.VW1y we prostrate only before the kodimaram?

. Wlule prostrating, our feet should not face any Sarmjdhis. Thisis only possible near the kodimaram. Hence we only prostrate beforeüle kodimaram.What is prasadham?Evefylhiflg Offelfid IO the Almighty becomes prasadham. Theseare Naivedhyams, all the things used in poojas ie. sacred ash,chanthanam, kumkum, flowers, Thulasi, fruits, and theertham.Why prasadham is distributed in temples?All the things we take to the temple for an archanai becomesprasadham after offering to the Lord. Whatever products offered toHim With devotion becomes a sacred prasadham. Li ke-wise, whateverrnentality one mayhave, when one offers himself to God, he will receivethe (iod s grace as prasadham. When we consume prasadham, weacquire peace and joy, and become pure.1 68 Illnflu ïradiflullsWhy Theertham is distributed in temples?Theertham (holy Water) is distributed in temples to si gnifiy thegrace of the Lord. The Theenham is very sacred as it is the product ofAbishekam. Hence, the Theertham should be received with the righthand placed over the left hand and constuned, afterwich we touch ourhead so that we do not spill even a drop.Why we offer salt and pepper at Sakthi temples?Salt and pepper are offered near the kodimaram or balipeedamat Sakthi temples, such as Mariamman temple. The salt symbolisesthe body and the pepper symbolises the Aanava. The philosophy ofoffering salt and pepper thus denotes purifying ourselves. We alsooffer salt into the Punniya Theerthams (Temple tanks) so that our sinswill be dissolved like the salt.Why is the bell rung during poojas?The sound of the bell is the sound of Omkaram, hence the bellis rung to attract the Lord and to ward off evil spirits. It is also rung todissipate other sounds that distract us from meditatjn g on the Almightyduring poojas. Hence, it is rung till the end of the poojas. Some peoplestrike the bell before enterin g the temple. This is to reveal that Worshipof the Omkararn is the way to merge with the Lord.Why we dash coconuts on the ground in temples?The removal of Aanava is not easy, it is as strong as the shell ofthe coconut. But once broken, our Gnana becomes as sweet as thewhite kemel and the coconut water. Hence, coconuts are dashed intemples syrnbolising the shattering of the ego. Only men dash the cooonut.llllldu fliflltlnlß169

Why a curtain is used during poojas in temples?A curtain is used to cover the Lord during poojas. This is tosi gnify that ignorance conceals Gnana, and Maya conceals the Godpresent within us. Only when the cuitain is removed we see the Lord.Hence, we have to remove our fetters in order to see God.The Ragas of devotional songs sung in Temples'l11irupalliEzhuchi - BhoopalamKaalai Vazhipadu - MalayamamdhamUICl"li Kflfllfllïl - MadlqjyalnavaflqyMaalai Neram - Poori KalyaniPalliarai - NeelambariWhy women wear Metti (toe ring)?Metús are wom to signify that the woman is manied. The mettiis wom on the second toe of bom feet. In those days iron mettis wereworn, but today silver mettis are wom. These metals are said to protectfrom evil effects. (In earlier days the mettis were wom by men).KolamsKolams are intricate pattems found in temples, the entrancesof homes, and in pooja rooms during auspicious festi vals and occasions.The kolam not only serves as a purpose of decoration and protection,but also as an exercise for the women and iefreshes them in the morning.na

.S4 V\„.,',Z,.oo o o o°ov «›°o°o%%woooo pp, oooor0,0 ø o , ~. o o o o6 0 90,0, Qoooooo Oo°o°o°.› w. .› ›.°,°.°., -4.°<% 0009 <.%°„3<§°2°Â`°3« ''°o°o°o°§01 70 llllldu YriflltifllläTurmeric water or cowdun g mixed with water is sprinkled atthe entrance to purify the place before drawing the kolam. The kolampowder is made from raw rice flour with or without adding turrnericpowder. This is to provide food for the ants and birds. Turmeric isadded in order to protect from infectious germs. It is also believedthat the smell of turmeric prevents poisonous creatures, such as snakes

and scorpions, from entering the homes. There is also abelief in villagesthat the kolam protects from evil spirits.There are many types of kolams ie. rangoli (coloured kolams),kolam with flowers etc.During auspicious occasions, kolams are drawn with an evennumber of lines, whereas for ordinary events they are drawn with anodd number of lines. As there were no calendars in those days, theweekdays were identified by the kolams. As the shadow of the Sunindicates the time, the pattem of the kolam indicates the day of theweek.The philosophy of the KolamKolams can be drawn only by bending the body. This impliesthat only by removing our Aanava and bowing down, we can mergewith the God. The kolam is drawn as a pattem of continuous lineswith no breaks. The significance of this is that there are no gaps forany evil spirits to enter. ' tThe central point of the kolam symbolises Lord Siva and thelines surrounding it symbolises Sakthi. The kolam is drawn with riceflour and kavi (brick red soil) symbolising the welcoming of GoddessLakshmi and Lord Vishnu respectively.ulnnu rmfitions 171

'l`lte Musical instruments played in temples and their henefits :Musical instruments me played in temples during poojus. fcstivuls :mdspecial ltinctions.Tltatltt Ostti - Rel ieves wonicsK:\fitT|1uultt|n - No teur .~_.\~tSttllam(cymhzils) - Wisliestullilled _ ` ~Muttatlatm - Contlun WV« :foPeri kzti Adithatl - Healthy lil`e _ vVocnu/ Vtoli n - Great laenelits Szingu (coneh) - Destroys enemiesNzidliztswttnuii / Flute - Develops knowledgeMridltungaun / Mehtm - Victory`\ Â.AamthiAuntthis urc pcrl`m^me(| to remove evil eyes. The busie uurzttltiis where tt peeled hununu is eut into three und placed on u truy. Awiek (or tt intitehstiek \vrupped with eotton wool ) dippctl in ghce is

inscftcd through the eentie ofeueh lizimmu picec und then lit. 'l`urmcrieund chttnntmihu (sltiked lime) or sodium hietirhonatc :ne mixed withwtttcron the side o|`the ti'u_v.Thisillixture will \um ied in colour. Whenperforming utirutlii. the person should he mtidc to l`:|ec non h or czist.'l`|telt1tt'a[lti Should be rottiled three times in ti eltickwise tlireelton hyIWO Sumattgttlis. Finttlly. they put out the light :md :tpply the rctl pnslcOn the forehettdultlie person.Dispelling the effects of lšril eyes3 dry chillies. '/2 tsp niusturd seeds, suit, u little sund l`rom thecntrztnec. :ind either tt few neem leaves or l/2 tsp pepper.At duslt, alter worsliipping God und applying suered ush. thepcrl`ormer tztkcs the :tbove ingrcdicnts und holds them in her fighthand. The person who needs the iemedy stands l›el`t›re the perl`t›rmer.l72 Ninuu IrauntunsThe 1›erl`oi-mer then rotutes her right hand three times in a elockwisedirection, and then strokes the whole body ofthe person with thathand. Alter this the person spits three times into the ingiedients. andthen the pert`ormer tlirows them into the lire.The phiIosnph_v of the Surlari (erown)The Thutivudi is |.ord Vtshnu s lcel.ttnd __ ,_is found on top of the Suclari. When the temple - _ › _ _ ':_'v . 'prtesrplueesllleS:idur| on0tu'lle:tds.itdenotes ^ ! fthm wc snrrcnderottrsclvesut the lotus feet of b//ffillfl , _ . . e V, im Lord Vishnu, and hence :ill our sms will vamsh. 'K f ` 'ft r -''f 1 ; Why we hurn sesame seeds tictl in tt blackcloth for Lord Saiteeswairat?Scsatme seeds ure lied in at hluek elotht dippcd in gingclly oil.pluced in zi eluy pot und hurnt helore the Lord Sxmeesmirzt Sztnnidhiin the temple. I lere. the hlurk eloth denotes our sins, :ind gingclly oildenotes the Lord`s grace. l lenee_ it is perlornted to signil`_v the humiiofoursins hy the nngcr llume of Lord Sztiteestxftiiu_i'JSWhy we make Vinayukur idols l`rt›m turnierie powder?Turnicric is u very uuspieious product. l-lenee. the tttrmericpowder is mixed with ai little water :ind mude into zt round shapesymholt'/.ing Lord Vitiuyztkm'. A few urugunipul :ne insettcd throughthe top. The round sh-.tpe denotes the ^Pi llatiyui' Su/.hi`, the |`orm ofsound. :ind the atrugtunpul denutes the seriptures. 'lhc idols etui alsohe milde |`rt›m eow dung. cltauitluuiutii und soil.ulnnu mmiiom l'.'_t

The 16 Acquisitions_\ooo\1o\<.n4>o›g\››-10111213141516FameEducationPowerSuccessGood childrenGoldAbundance of graínsFavourable destínyPleasureWisdomBeautyMagnanimityYouthfulnessCourageGood healthLongevityëReligious HymnsThevaaramThodudaya seviyan vidai yeyrior thooven mathi soodiKaadudaya sudalai podi poosiyen ullang kavar kal vanEdhudaya malararßnai nadpaninth thettha arul seithaPeedudaya peramaapura meviya pemaan névan andray- ThirugmmasambantharKuniththa pumvamum kovuícchevaayit kumin chirippumPanithatha sadaiyum pavalampohl mheniyum paal venneerumIniththamudaiya eduththa potpaathamum kaanna petra]Maniththa piravíyum vhenduvuthae intha rnanilathay- ThirunanaavukkarasarSotmnaj vhethiyan sothi vaanavanPotrunai thirunthadi porunthak kaitholakKatmnaj pootiyohr kadalil paaichinum

N atrunaí yaavathu namachivaayavay- Thirunanaavukkarasarulnnu vraalelon Hmm "wma" 175

Kootraayinavaaru vilakkahaleerKodumaipala seithana naan arriyaenEhtraai adikae iravum pahalumPiriyaadhu vananguvan eppozhuthumThoatrraa thenvayitrrin agh am padiyaeKudaroddu thudakki mudakkiyidaAaatraen adiyaen adhighaik kedila' Veerattaanath thurai ammaanae- ThirunaavukkarasarManthira Maavathu Neeru Vaanavar Mhelathu NeeruSunthara Maavathu Neeru Thuthikkap Paduvathu NeeruThanthira Maavathu Neeru Samayathil Ullathu NeemSenthuvar Vaayumai Pan gan Thiru Vaalavaayaan Thiruneereh- ThirugnanasambantharPonnar Mhenianeh Pulitholai Ara-ikisaithuMinnar Sensadaj Male milir konrai aninthavanehManneh mamaniyeh mala padiyul manickamehAnneh unnai yallalini yarai ninaikeneh- S unthurarPiththa Piraí Soodi Perumaneh Arul alaEththaa Maravaathe Nínaikinren ManathunnaiVaithai Pennai Thcnpal Vennai Nallur ArutlhuriulAthavunak KalaayiniAllene Enalameh- Suntharar7 6 meu malclmu „|„,„ -„„,|,|„„,Thin-upugazhEhrumayil ehri vi lui yaadu rnugam ondmyEesarudan gnana mozhi pesumugam ondrayKhoorum adiyaargal vinai theerkkum mugam ondrayKundru - ruva velvaangi nindra mugam ondrayMaaru padu soorarai vathaitha mugam ondrayVailliyai manam punara vantha rnugam ondrayAarumuga mana porul nee arulal vheindumAathi yarunaasalam amamtha perumaalay- ArunakirinatharThiru AngamalaiThalaíye nee vannangaay - ThalaiMaalai thaluikku annindhu

Thalaiyaale bali thcrum thalaivanaithThalaiye nee vananguuy.ThirupuraanamVzunnnuhil valaathu peiher malivalanchurakka mannanKohnmurai arasuseiher, kurai vilathu uyirhal vazhaNanmarai arangal ohnga, nattavam vellvi malha VMeinmaíkhol saiva neethi, vilanguha ulahamellam- Kasiyappa Sivachariar

177

178AumSivamayamM 3)4 yn' nf,\. ÉThiruchítmmpalamThiruvasagamThollai irum piraví soolum thalai neekiAllal aruthu aanantham aakiathey - ellaiMaruva neri yalikum Vathavoor enkoneThimvasagam ennum thane.„ SivapuranamNamachivaya vazhga Nathan Thaal vazhgaImmai poluthum en nenjí1Neengathaan thaal vazhgaKokazhi aanda kurumani than thaal vazhgaAakamum aahínindru annipaan thaal vazhgaEkan anekan Iraivan adí vazhgaVekam keduth thaanda Venthan adí velgaPirapparukum pingnakandran Peykalalgal velgaPurath tharku cheyon then Poonkalalgal velgaKaranguvivar ul rnagilurn kon kalalgal velgaSiran guvivar ongu vikkum seeron kalal vclgaEesan adi potri Enthaí adí potriThesan adí potri Sivan se vadi potn`Neyathe nindra N imalan adí polriMaya pirapparukum Mannan adí PotriSeerar perunthurai nam Thevan adí Pomimnd” .n,Il|a°n› Hindu TridltinnsAaratha inbam Arulum malai potri

Sivan avan en sinthzúyul nindra athanaalAvan arulaale avan thaal vanangiSinthai Mahila Sivapuranam thannaiMunthai vinai muluthum oya uraippaniyanKannuthalaan than karunai kann kaatta vantheythxEnnuthatketta elizhaar kazhal irranjiVinnirainthu mannirainthu mikaí vilangoliyaaiEnniranthellai ilathaaney nin perunjeerPolla vinaiyan PugalumaaronrraiyanPullaahi Poodaai puluvaai maramaahíPal viruvam aahi paravayaai pampaahiKallaai manitharaai peyaai kanangalaaiVal asurar aahi munivaraai thevaraaiSellaa nindra ith thaavara sun gamathulEllap pirappum piranth iluithan emperumaanMeiyai un ponnadigal kandu indru veedutrenUyya en ullaththul Omkaaramuui nindraMei ya vimala vidai paaguzl vcdhangalAya” ena ongi azhnthu akandru nunniyaneVeyaai thaniyaai Iyamaana naam vimalaPoyaayina ellaam Poyagala vantharuliMegnzmam aahiMi1irkindra mcichudarayEngnanam illathen inpap pcmmaancyAngnanam Lhannai akalvikum nul lan' veyAakam alaviruthi íllaai anaithulukumAakuvai Kaapai alippaai arul tharuvaaiPokkuvaui ennai pukuvippaai nimholumpinNaattraththín neri yaai seyaai nuni yaneMaatram manam kazhiya nindra marayoney

Karanth a paal kann al odu nei Kalanthaal polaSiranthadiyar sinthan ayul Lhenooñ níndruPirantha pirapparuk um engal perumaanNirangalor ayinthudayaai vinnorga] ethaMarainthirunthaai cmperumaan valvinaiyen thannai 50Marainthida moodiya maya irulaiAram paavam ennum arungkaitraal kaltipPuranthol ponhu eñgum pulu azhuku moodiMalam sorum onpathu vayit kudilaiMalankap pulan ayinthum yanjanaiyai seyya 55Vüangu manaththaal vimala unakkuKalantha anbaahik kasinthu ullurugum

Nalanthaan ilatha siriyetku nalkiNilanthan mei] vantharuli neer kazhalkal kaattiNaayit kadayaaik kidantha adiyetkuth 60Thaayit sirantha thayavaana thaththuvanayMaasatra sothy Malamtha malar chudarayTheisanay thenaar amuthay siva puranayPasamaam pattraruthup paarikum aariyanayN esa Arul purinthu nenjil vanjam kedap 65Peraathu nindra perun karunaip peraarayAara amuthay alavilaap pemmaanayOradhaar ullaththu olikkum oliyaanayN eeraai urukki en aaruyiraai nindranayInbamum thunbamum illaanay ullaanay 70Anbanxkku anbanay yaaveyumaam allayumaamSothiyanay thun irulay thondraap perumayanayAathiyanay andham N aduvaaki allaanayEeflhennai ankonda endhai perumaanayKom-tha men gnanathaul kondunarvaar than gkaruthin 7580 mnuu rraummuNokariya nokay nunukariya nunnunarvayPokkum varavum punarvum ilaap punniyanayKaakkum em kaavalanay kaanpariya peroliyayAatru inba vellamay Aththamikkaai nindraThottrach chudar oliy-aai sollaatha nunnunarvaaí 80Maatramaam vayyakaththin vewerai vantharivaamThen-an ay thelra lhelivay en sinthanaiyulOottraana unnaar amuthay udaiyaanayVetru vigaara vidakudambin udkidappaAatren em ayyaa aranai oh endrendru 85Potrip pugazhnthirunthu Poikettu meyyaanaarMeettingu vanthu vinaip piravi saaraamayKallap pulakuramhai kattazhika vallaanayNallirulil nattam puyindraadum naathanayThillaiyil koothunuy Then pazmdi naattaanay 90Allal piravi aruppaanay oh endguSollatku ariyaanai solli thiruvzldikeezhSolliya paattin porul unarnlhu solluvaarSelvar si vapuraththin u|1;uu'Sivz1nadikeezhPallorum Ethap pzminthu 95Thiruchitmmpalam- Maníckavasagar Swami“@"(„ #1*

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A Kandhar Sashtí KavasamåïNerisai VenpaaThuthipporkku Valvinaipoom Thunbampoom NenjilPathippoorkkuch Selvam Paliththuk - Kathíth OngumNishtaiyung Kaikoodunz NimalarArul KandharSashti Kavasanth thanai.Kural VeqpaaAmarar idar dheera amaram purínthaKumaran adi manche kuriNoolSashtíyaí nokkach Saravana BhavanarSishtaruk kuthavum senkathir VelonPadham irandil panmanich sadhangaiGeetham padak kin kini yadaMyya nadanjseyum MylvagananarKaiyilve lalenaik kakkavenru vanthuVaravara Velaudhanar varugaVaruga Varuga mylon Varuga2 mun rmnumuNlrlIndhjran mudhala endisai portaMandhira Vadivel varuga varugaVasavan Maruga Varuga varugaNesak Kuramagal ninaivon varugaArumugam padaíthdha lyah varugaNeeridum Velavan nithdham varugaSiragiri Velavan seekkiram varugaSaravana Bhavanar Sadudhiyil VarugaRavana bhavasa ta ta ta ta ta ta taTivana bhavasa ti ti ti ti ti ti ti

Vinabhava saravana veera N amoh Namoh _Níbhava Saravana niranira nirenaVasara Vanabha Varuga VarugaAsurar kudikeduthdha Iyah varugaEnnai alum Ilaiyon kaiyilPannirandayudham pasa angusamumParandha vizhiga] panniran dilangaViraindhenaik kakkah Velon varugaIyumkiliyum adaivudan chowvumUyyoli chowvum uyiraiyung kiliyumKjliyunj chowvum kilaroli yaiyumNilaipet renmun nithdhamum olirumShanmugan neeyum thaniyoli yowvumKundali yam shiva kugan dhinam VarugaArumugamum animudi arumNeeridu netriyum neenda puruvamumPanniru kannum pavalach chev vayumNannen` netriyil navamanich chuddiyumEraru seviyil ilagu kundalamumAriru thinpuyath thazhagiya marbilnu rraultlons18

Palpoo shanamum padhakkamum dharíthdhuNanmani poonda navaratna malaiyumMuppuri noolum muthdhani marbumCheppazha gudajya Thiruvayiru undhiyumDhuvanda marungil sudarolip pattumNavaratnam pathithdha natsce ravumIruthodai azhagum inai muzhandhalumThiruvadi yadhanil silamboli muzhangaSegagana segaganasegagana seganaMogamoga mogamoga mogamoga moganaNaga naga naga naga naga naga nagqnaDi gu guna digudigu diguguna digunaTatatata tatatata tatatata tatataT itititi titititi tititi _Dudududu dudududu dudududu dudududagu dagu digudigu dangu dinguguVindha vindhu mylon vindhuMundhu mundhu murugavel mundhuEndhanai yalum eragach Selve

Myndhan vendum vanamahjzhn dhulhavumLala Lala Lala vesamumLeela Leela Leela vinodhanenruUnthiru vadiyai urudhiyen rcnnumEndhalai vaithdhun inaiyadi kakkahEnnuyirk Kuyiram lraivan kakkahPanniru vizhiyal Balanaik kakkahAdiyen vadhanam azhaguvel kakkahPodipunai netriyaip punidhavel kakkahKathirvel irandu kanninaik kakkahVidhi sevi yirandum Velavar kakkah4 ""'"' '"""°"' runau rraaifimßZ 5N asi gal irandum Nalvel kakkahPesiya vaidhanaip pcruvcl kakkahMuppath dhirupal munaivel kakkahSeppiya navaich Sewel kakkahKanna mirandum Kathirvel kakkahFnnilung kazhuthdhai iniyavel kakkahmarbai Ratna Vadi vel kakkahSerila mulaimar Thiruvel kakkahVadivel ruthol valamperak kakkahPidarigalirandum peruvel kakkahAzhägudan mudhugai Arulbel kakkahPazhupathi narum paruvel kakkahVetri vel vayitrai vilfmgave kakkahSitridai azhagurash Sewl kakkahNanan kayitrai Nalvcl kakkahAnn kuri yirandum Ayilvcl kukkhPittamirandum Pcruvel kakkahVattak kudhalhdhai Vulvel kakkahPanaith thodai yirandum paruvel kakkahKanaikkal muzhandhal kathirvel kakkahIviral adiyinai Arulvel kakkahKaika lirandum Karunaivel kakkahMunkai yirandum murannvcl kakkahPinkai yirandum pinnaval írukkahNavi] saraswathy natrunaiyagaNabik Kamalam N alvel kakkahMuppal nadiyai Munaivel kakkahEppozhudhum enai Ethirvel kakkahAdíyen vasanam asaivula neramKadugave vandhu Kanagavel kakkah

Varumpagal dhanníl vachchiravel kakkahArajyiml dhannil Anaiyavel kakkahEmathdhil samathdhjl Ethirvcl kakkahThamadham neekkich sadhurvel kakkahKakkah kakkah kanaga vcl kakkahNokkah nokkah nodiyil nokkah 'Thakkath Lhakkah thadaiyarath thakkahParkkap pakkap pavam podipadaPilli sooniyam perumpagai agalaValla poodham valaddigap peygalAllat paduthdhum adan ga muniyumPillai gal thinnum puzhakkadai muniyumKollivaip peygalum kuralaip peygalumPengalaith thodarum brahmarak kathamrnAdi yanaik kandal alarik kalangidaIrisi kadderi ith thunba senaiyumEllilum iruddilum ethirppadum annarumkanapoosai kollum kaliyo danai varumVittangkararum mi gupala peygalumThandiyak kararum chandalakalumEn peyar sollavum idivizhunthodidaAnai adiyinil ammpavai kalum ›Poonai mayinil arumpavai kalumNagamum maayimm neenmudi mandaiyumPavaikaludane palakala saththudanManaiyit puthaithdha vanjanai thanaiyumOttíya pavaiyurn ottiyach cherukkumKasum panarnum kavudan chorumOdhumanj anamum oruvazhip pokkumAdiyanaik kandal alaindhu kulaindhida6 ' u|nuu^ n=í1|'e|ons* mnau rvaømmuMatrar vanj agar vandhu vanangidaKaladhoo dhalenaik kandat kalangidaAnji nadungida randu purandidaVaiviltalari mathiked dodaPadiyinil muddap pasak kayitralKaddudan angam kalharidak kadduKaddi uruddu kaikai muri yakKaddu kaddu katharidak kadduMuddu muddu vizhi gal pithungidaChekku chekku scdhil sedhilaga

Chokku chokku soorpagaich chokkuKuttu kuttu koor vadivelalPatru patru pagalavzm dhanaleriDha{1aleri dhanalcri dhunaladhu vagaViduvidu velai verundathu vodapPuliyum nariyum punnuri nayumEliyum karadiyum inilh thodumth thodath 'Thelum pambum sciyan poorzmKadivida vishan gal kadi th th uyarangamEriya vishangal elidhinil imngaOlippunj chulukkum omdhalai noyumVadhanj sayithdhiyam valippup pithdhamChoolasayang kunmam chokkuch chiranguKudaichchal silandhi kudalvip piridhiPakkap pilavai padarthodai vazhaiPaduvan paduduvan kaithdhal silandhiPatkmhdhu aranaí paru arai yuppumEllap pini yum cnranaik kandalNilla thoda nee enak karulvaiEcrezh ulagamum enakkura vaga7

188Anum pennum anaivamm enakkahMannalara sarum mahizhndhura vagavumUnnaith thuthikka unthim namanSaravana Bhavane Sailo1iBhavaneThiripura Bhavanc Thigazholi BhavaneParipura Bhavane Bhavamoli BhavaneArithiru rnaruga Amara pathiyaikKathlhuth Devargal kadunj sirai viduthdhajKandha Kugane kathir VelavaneKathirgai rnayindha kadamba kadambanaiIdumbanai azhithadha iniyavel MurugaThani gasalane sankaran puthalvaKathirga maththurai Kathirvel MurugaPazhanip pathyvazh Bala KumaraAvinan Kudivazyazhagiya velaSenthinma malaiyurum Sengalva rayaSamar pufivazh Shanmugath tharaseKarar kuzh alal Kalairnagal nanrai ,En - naa irukka yanunaip pada

Enaith thodamth thirukkum endhi MuruganaipPadinen adinen paravasamagaAdinen nadinen avinan poothiyaiNesamudan yan netriyil aniyapPasa vinaigal patradhu neen giUn padham perave unarulagaAnbudan iradchi annamumnj sormamumMethdha methdhaga veladhanarSithdhí petradiyen sirappudan vaazh gaVan/.h ga vaazhaga mylon vaazhgaVaazh ga vaazhaga vadivel vaazhgaulnuu Iran-mlnnx Hindu ïramtlonsVaazhga vaazhaga Malaikkuru VaazhgaVaazhga vaazhaga Malaikkura magaludanVaazhga vaazhaga varanath thuvasamVaazh ga vaazhaga en varumaigal nccngaEthdhanai kuraigal cthdhanai pizhaigalEthdhanai adiyen ethdhanai seyinumPetravan nee Guru poruppa dhun kadanPetravalKuramagal petrava lamePillaiyen ranbaip pri ya malithdhuMayindhanen meedhun manamahizhnth arulithThanjamen radiyar thuzhaiththida Aru] seiKandhar Sashti Kavasam virumbiBaian Dhevaraayan pagarnthathaikKalaiyil malaiyil karulh lhudan naalumAsaa rathdhudan ungzlm LhulakkiNesa mudanoru ninuivudhu vuagikKandhar Shasti Kuvusa midhunaichChindhai kalangadhu dhiyunippavurgalOrunal muppat tarutuk konduOdhíye sebithdhu ugandhu nccmniyaAshtathik kullor adangalum vusamuithThisai manna renmar semthdhan garuluvarMatrala rellam vandhu vanunguvarN avakol mahizhndhu nanmai yulilhdhidumNavamadha nenavum nallezhil pcruvarEndha naalumcc rettài vaazhvarKandharkai velam kavasalh thádiyaiVazhiyaaik kana meiyai vilungumVizhiyaat kzma verundidum peygalPolladhavaraip podippodi yakkum

188Anum pennum anaivarum enaldwhMannalara sarum mahizhndh ura vagavumUnnaith thuthikka unthiru namanSaravana Bhuvane Sailoli BhavaneThiripura Bhavanc Thigazholi BhavaneParipura Bhavane Bhavamoli BhavaneArithiru maruga Amara pathiyaikKaththuth Devargal kadunj síraí viduthdhaiKandha Kugane kathir VelavaneKathirgai mayindha kadamba kadambanaiIdumbanai azhithadha iniyavel MurugaThanigasalane sankaran puthalvaKathirga maththurai Kathirvel MumgaPazhanip pathyvazh B-ala KumaraAvínan Kudivazyazhagiya velaSenthinma malaiyurum Sengalva rayaSamar purivazh Shanmugath tharaseKarar kuzhalal Kalaimagal nanraiEn - naa irukka yanunaip padaEnaíth thodamth thirukkum endhi MuruganaipPadinen adinen paravasamagaAdinen nadinen avinan poothiyaiN esamudan yan nctriyil aniyapPasa vinaigal patradhu neengiUn padham perave unarulagaAnbudan iradchi annamumnj sonnarnumMethdha mcthdhaga veladhanarSithdhi petradiyen sirappudan vaazhgaVaazhga vaazhaga mylon vaazhgaVaazhga vaazhaga vadível vaazh gaNlnnu rrafllclons mnau ïraumønsVaazhga vaazhaga Malaikkuru VaazhgaVaazhga vaazhaga Malaikkura magaludanVaazhga vaazhaga varanath thuvasamVaazh ga vaazhuga en vammaigal neengaEthdhanai kuraigal ethdhanai pizhaigalEthdhanai adiyen ethdhanai seyinumPetravan nee Guru poruppa dhun kadanPetraval Kuramagal petrava lame _Pillaiyen ranbaip priya malithdhuMayindhanen meedhun manamahizhnth arulithThanjamen radiyarthazhaiththida Arul sei

Kandhar Sashti Kavasam virumbiBahn Dhevaraayan pagarnthathaikKalaiyil malaiyil karuth thudan naalumAsaa rathdhudan angum thulakkiNesa mudanoru ninuivadhu vaagikKandhar Shasti Kuvusu midhanuichChindhai kalangadhu dhiyunippavargalOrunal muppat tarutuk konduOdhiye scbithdhu ugundhu nccraniyaAshtathik kullor adangalum vasamaithThisai manna renmar semthdhan garuluvarMatrala rellam vandhu vananguvarNavakol mahizhndhu nanmai yulithdhidumNavamadha nenavum nallczhil pemvarEndha naalumee rettnai vaazhvarKandharkai vclam kavasath thildiyaiVazhiyaaik kana meiyai vilzm gumVizhiyaat kana vcrundidum peygalPolladhavaraip podippodi yakkum

Nallor ninavil nadanam puriyumSarva sathdhuru sanka rathdhadiArindhuru dhullam Ashtaluxmy galilVeeraluxmykku virundhuna vakachSoorapath maavaith thuniththakai yadhanalIrupath thezhvarkku uvanthamu thalíthdhaGuruparan pazhanik kunrini lírukkumSinnak kuzhandhai sevadi portiEnaith thaduth thadkola enrena thullamMeviya vadivurum velava portíDhevargal Sena Pathiye portiKuramaga] manamahizh Kove portiThiramigu divya Dhega portíIdumda yudhane Idumba portiKadamba porti kandha portiVedchi punaiyum vele portiUyar Giri Kanaga sabaikko raraseMayíllnada miduvoi rnalarady saranamSaranam saranam saranam Bhava OmSaranam Saranam Shanmuga saranam- V W Vvk vr vk

na “V6175%!@íf 4J: *gif›© a (vis-EIBhaiansVinayakaShuklam Baratharam Ganapathi ManthramNityam N ityam J apol apoVighna Vinayaka Vidya DhayakaVeera Ganpathi Bhajo BhajoGuruMaanasa Bhajare Guru CharanamDhustara Bhava Sagara DharanamGuru Maharaj Guru J ai J aiSai Natha Sathguru Jai JaiOm N ama Shivaya Om Nama Shivaya Om N amaShivaya Shivaya N ama OmArunachal Shiva Arunachala Shiva Arunachala ShivaAmna Shiva OmOmkaram Baba Omkaram Baba Omkaram Baba OmNamo BabaShivaDam Dam Dam Dam Damam BhajeyHam Bhola Natha Shiva Shambho BhajeyGhana Ghana Ghana Ghana Ghanta BhajeyHara Gowii N atha Shiva Shambho Bhajeyllara Sai N atha Shiva Shambho BhajcyShakthiJananí Janani Sathya Sai Subha IananiIagath Karini Pari Poorani Sayeeshwari IananiSathya Swaroopini J anani Dhanna Samvarlhini Ianani, Shantha Swaroopini J anani Sai Prema Pradhayini Janani"mn" Tnlmong With, Yrallitiøns '

MnuugaSubrarnanyam SubramanyamShanmuganatha SubramanyamSiva Siva Siva Siva Subramanyam

Hara Hara Hara Hara SubramanyamSiva Siva Hara Ham SubramanyamHara Hara Si va Siva SubramanyamSiva Sharavanabhava SubramanyamGuru Sharavanabhava SubramanyamSiva Siva Hara Hara SubramanyamHara Hara Siva Siva SubramanyamPaanduranga Vittale Pandarinaflia VittaleRamaPrema Mudhitha Manasa Kaho Rama Rama RamRama Rama Ram Rama Rama Ram Sri Rama Rama RamPapa Ghate Dhukkha Mite Lckc Rama NamBhava Samudra Sukhadanava Ek Rama Nam (Rama)Paramashanthi Sukha Nidhana Dhivya Rama NamNiradhara ko Adhara Ek Rama N am (Rama)Parama Gopya Parama Divya Manthra Rama NamSantha Hrudaya Solhavastha Ek Rama Nam (Rama)Matha Pilha Bandhu Saka Sabhi R:1maNamBhaktha Janara Ieevanathana Ek Rama N am (Rama)91 meu maison: "M" "“'fi°'“ 1NarayanaGamda Vahana NarayanaHey Shesha Shayana NarayanaShri Lakshmi Ramana N afayanaHari Om Hari Om NarayanaKrishnaGovindha Krishna Vittale VenuGopala Kri shna VittalePaanduranga Vittalc I ayaPandarinatha VittaleGovindha Vittale Gopala VmaleVitmle Vitmle Paanduranga (4)MangalamJ ay J aya Man gala Sai NamoJay Partheeswara Sai Namo ›Siva Saktheeswara Sai NamoSri Sailcswara Sai NamoIš Efï

6)Sri Ganesha PaucharathnamMutha Karaatha - mothakam satha vimukthi saathagam

Kalaatharaa Vathamsagam Vilaasiloga rakshagamAnaayakaiga N ayagam Vinasithe va - ThaithyagamNathaasupaasu N asagam Namaami Tham VinayagamSamastha Loga Shangaram N irastha Thaithya Kun jaramThareytharotharam Varam Varaypuakthara MaksharamKrupagaram Kshamaagaram Muthagaram YagasasramManaskaram N amaskruthaam Namaskaromi BaasuaramAMBAL BHAJANSuththa Sakthi Suththa Sakthi Suththa Sakthi Om SivamSuththa Sakthi Suththa Sakthi Suththa Sakthi Om SivamSathyagnana Dharma Sakthi Shantha Sakthi Om SivamSatchithaanantha Aathma Sakthi San/a Sakthi Om SivamVethasasthra Sakalakala Vidhya Sakthi Om SivamVeera Dheera Dhairya Sakthi Víj aya Sakthi Om SivamNaatha Geetha Gaanakala Nadana Sakthi Om SivamMahamanthra Yanthra Thanthra Vasiyasakthi Om SivamYoga Boga Thiyaga Sakthi Logasakthi Om SivamThaaga Moha Soharahitha Thabo Sakthi Om SivamThushta Sathiu Naasa Sakthi Durga Sakthi Om SivamAshtaluxmi Gnanavaani Amara Sakthi Om SivamKunchitha Patha Abayahastha Vaanjithapala ThayagamGurupara Siva Hara Hara Nadarajah Sutha Sakthi Om.ë4 umau rraanlong' "'/' " '” =Our AssociationThe Colombo Young Women°s Hindu Association was foundedin 1965. with the blessings of holy men, for the development of social,religious, art and cultural activities.Since then. we have been obsen/in g religious festivals every year.Most of the Hindu women in Colombo have joined us in social serviceactivities to bring honour to our Association. From the very beginning,we all had a strong desire to run a home for the elderly women, anddue to the selfless service of our members, such a project was startedin 1997 with the blcssings of “Matha Parasakthï. To fulfill this desire,our Pzttron, the late Mrs. Visalambal Ariyakutti, gave us a piece of landwith a house at a concessional rate, and we in turn named it °VisalambalAnbu Illam' in her memory.Our members, knowing that the Almighty has given us this lifeto lead it honestly, and to help others for their well-being, are runningthis Illam with the co-operation of everyone with utmost devotion. INlnau iraaiclom 19

would likc in slmrc the fcclings cxpi'-`±_\s±-<1 hy ilmsc \vho have visilcdlhis `/\nbu Illam`.`Anbu lllam` Ixus ii .~p;xuiu\1s court_\-';ird. wilh hu;m|iful flmx-'cmand trucs, und u pcaccful utimisphuru. l:`\'c|'y |||<›rning__›. dcvnliuiiul :~;n|1;_g.~'are played from 7 nm unwzurds. Thu '/\nhu lllum` pmvid›:.< puucc :mdhappiness to the elLlel'ly.wl1i:;h:heyn:quí|'u.'I`uk›ukaxllcrilncnfsidunls.we have cmploycd S\|pcr\'i.\-um. (`ooks. :md u\hcr |1ccu››;|ry .\mH` wimwork with \hc 'service' muuu. l)uc1urs volunlawily \-i›ix uur lllaun lwicca month und comlucl hcahh chcckups. llmlur lhc supurx-'isiun ol' nurExcculivemcx11bc1's. this humc is run well,We also have al small library. :md though il is small. il has _~c\'c|';\lreligious books und books un ilcvmionul ›;ung:s.T|1cimi<Ic1›|s|›;|>›\|\ui|^lime by reading hunks.walclii|1g'!'\/. Iis1c11i|1glu|hcru|.liu.lulking\o||1uvisitors. amd purlicipzxlíng in our annual l`csli\-'ul cululwmiíouis,Our lnslilulion is pmviding scrvicc. \villium expecting amy ruwurds.to lhosc who are unubic lu lnuk ;1l`1cr lhuir p;ul~nl.\ :luc in |nig|'u\innproblems or ollle.r1'cusuns. Wc luuk uflcr lhcm wilh mr_›l|\ci'ly luvc midcare, Food is provided according lo lhcir hculili ruqui|'cmcms. und dailyall the rasidunls ussunilwic ul (1 in \hu evening lo sing Bh:|jz\n.s.Thu President nfour .-'\.<.<uci:|li«›n. .\-lr_~. Yzlmunn (š:|m-.~lmlin_;;|m.:always insisls 1|1;u_\\fe luuk uflçr llic \:h.|c|'i_\' likc nur m\-'n p;|rul\l.\.'l'h\ls\hc `Anbu lllum`. undc1'l1c|'guidm1cc_ .\hr›u|d cn|1linm: i1:~ucu\'i1ic.~;. \Vuseek the hlessings uf 'Muthu Pu|'us;1kIl1i`. :md the znssisluixcc n|`u\'crynm:10 hclp run our l Iomc succcssfully. Wc believe lhnl :ill ynnr gum] \vislluswill support und slrcnglhcn us.Rajeswary Rawikillumjan`f\I|[1n /[lam '.›\</›m`ni\'mIIln:195 meu muunnm2003/2004 I\/Iembcrs

l)2)3)4)5)5)7)3)9)10)11)

12)Mrs.Shan|hi Bulusubr:\n1nni:1n1Mrs. Nucia DhayapnrunMrs. Sriranjnni VishnukrmllinnMrs. Kumulhini Muhalhcx-'anMrs. Indra MahadcvuMrs. Suhruhru GzmcsanMrs. Yamumi GaneslmlingnmMrs. Vannja ThavuyogrrmjahMrs. Ahirumi KuilnsapillzniMrs. Rangnnayaki PurhmanulhmiMrs. Navnrmnam KunugasabuiMrs.Mn1lika '1`hiyugura_iahStanding Left to Right13)r4›15)lo)I7)is)ro)I)2)3)4)5)6)7)8)9)io)1 1)12)Mrs.Nim1ala RagunuahunMrs. Ponmniur KandusmnyMrs. Mahulum1iGeevnr:nnamMrs. Kmnini YngcswurunMrs. Knnshnlya MurugadasMrs. Gunarani Na\gu|es\vnrunMrs. Kalnwarhy MylvuganumMrs. Rajeswari RavikularajnnMrs. Shanlhi MahenrlranMrs. Yogeswary LugcnlhiramMrs. \Ãjyaluxmi Kulheeswnrnn

Mrs. Mzmuvalhana Canngasnury:nr|Mrs. Kmnini AsnkunMrs. Eshwnry BalusubrzrmnninmMrs. Jcgulhccswary SivanumhunMrs. Pulhma GunaramumMrs. Padmini VadivelknrusunMrs.Vasnnlhngowri VimulrzndmnMrs. Pmhma SumukanlhamAbsentccs.'1)2)3)4)Mrs. lndimni Yogarujuh (Pusl President)Mrs. Kmnnla Kunugasubai (Parren)Mrs. Vumini SalhyzinioonhyMrs. Shcrmila Rnjnratnum(VicePrcsi1l::|1l)(Assl. Sccrc.l;|ry)('l'rcu›:urcr)l/\.~:s\. Sccrulairyi(Vice Prcsidcnlj(Secretary)(Prcsidcnrl(Vice Presirlem›(Pulrnn)[Palmn)lPu\ron)(ASM. TrcnsurcrbI98 'Pioneer Members of Our Association iff"/W/ ,›- m".W W .,1 ==`ï-_=. f, _\,fiš'Tfi; nu1`\ fi ._

7*"' NIIIGI WIUIIIM“›.'v;-=~=. wffl-~ .~.-> f. <1; “!\;~-.-É ` 1:: “\ ~ *_ ..j g.~L.~` ..

r3 ,___.Hindu naamanx:Esemi Leamaigm 7. 1; _ _. 5.1.; ._f- ;;'±f;_'-_1.§::f~_ 1 :",_,f .«< “:ff: `__e"\\\".É;2 rvi, ',7 f 4. * . »_\ _`._._.x e ä ~ L:-ëw-1*.. «.S braman am res dh..\s Nm<..\'.1 surubunanaranrs S\ rs..\ nuT. Kant: namk nu n.Sea wd I. l\ RJsf.\y ar.l\$l|'íl.\(7U\'Is. KAPPUhy. .\w. _\ r›.5.bapais;_-:,\ rs. (ziamSu 1h2

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'/1/.-3ur.i-_.E:-::-5'EnšCZ.s S Ba usg.rm..\1rsR .\1r1; naršA:nS anrfn\ir§.S.Y 'W

GRATEFUL TI-IANKS“Ennandri Kondraarkum Uyvundaam UyvillaiSeinandri Kondra magharkku"( Kural ~ 110 )4 Dr. N. S. Saravanan° Arulmozhi Selvi Mrs. Vasantha Vaidhyanathan0 Mr. S. Navaneethakurnar0 Mrs. Sandhana Nallalingam

0 Mr. T. Shamugalingam0 Pandithai Mrs. Maragathavalli Sivalingam0 Mrs. Yamuna GaneshalíngamQ Mrs. Padma Somakandanø Mm Vagamhagowri Vimalendran0 Mrs. Neeia Thayaparan0 Mrs. Rajeswari Ravikuiarajan› Mm Ayunmathy RajasinghamWe exiend our gratitude to the above who have helped us incompmng this bo0k without any expectaiions.Colombo Young WomenäHindu Association.

: É2/XLC200 Hlnfiu YrídltloluREFERENCE BOOKSSaivakiriyai Vilakkam - Saiva Periyar S.SivaPadhasundaram B.A.Naalaam Balzí Paadam - Srila Sri Aarumuga NavalarSaiva BhooshanamKriya Krema JyotiSaiva Thirukoyil Kiriyai Neri « Prof. K. Kailasanatha GurukkalSaiva Aalaya Kiriyaikal - P. SivanandhasarmaHindu Samaya Kalanghiam - M. DiraviyamHindu Madha Sadangugaium Thaththuvangalum - Pr0f.T.K. NarayananHindu Madha Arthangal ~ Mizhalai ThondanHindu Madham 1000 Unmaikkal ~ SingaravelanarSirrardha Deepikai - Siva Sri. S. Kumaraswami GurukkalSaiva Kiriyaigal - Sivasankara. Subramaniya DesikarSiddhanta Vilakkil Saivakiriyaíkal - Pandilhar. M. KandiahApara Kiriyai lyal - T. ShamugalingamAsowsa Vilakkam - A. SabaratinamHindu Madha Nambikkaigalum Thaththuvangalum - Kavingar Sakthi DasanOru Hindu Arindhukolla Vendiyavai ~ Devakottai B. NarayananSaiva Thirumanam ~ Brahma Sri. K. Balasundzira GurukkalVivaka Sobana ~ Brahma Sri. P. SivanandasharmaSaivasamaya Tamizh Thimmana Sadangumurai - Sivasree K.P.Ramanatha Gurukka]Thirumana Sadangugalum Sambiratayangaium - VenkadavanTamizh Thirumanam - K.Ramalinganar 'Poosaikuriya Porrulkalum Pazhangalum - VenkadavanIndu Viradhangalum Pandikaigalum - BalamuruganAalayangalum Agamangalum V `Najan'Thiru Koilgalum Vazhipatiu Muraigalum - Pulavar. Sendurai Muthu.Saiva Virathangalum Vizhakkangalum. - P. Sivanadasharma

Aanmeega Vishayzmgal › S.S. Vasanlndu Samayam - Swami Madhurandalndu Makalukku Oru Kaiyedu - All Ceylon Hindu CongressIlzmgai Saiva Vazhvu - Brahma Sree S. GukanandasharmaSymbolism in 1-linduism - Swami Nityananda/\guma Chithirangal - Kalaimamani Sam. SomaskanlhasharmaDivine Teachings of Bhagawan Sri Salhya Sai babanmnu muicimu 201

Qgøgfg " ášgj7' oua 'rrmmcs ,ášš<1äi#f:R*$$'?„1. We humbly extend our gratitude to Swami Atmagananandaji2. Our Association would like to thank Mr. M. Thavayogarajah3. We thank Dr. N.S. Saravanan (Dept of Saiva Sithantham,4. We thank Mr. P. Vimalendran, Proprietnr of Unie Arts, for5. We also thank Mrs.VanajaThavayogarajah, who was the°'§<3“Clzeíyaamal Cheídhrl Udhzzvikku Vaiyakamum 'ëšVaunakamum Aarral Arid/zu " åpKural - (101)for his heartfelt blessin gs for the successful publication of thisbook.and Mr. A. Kandaswamy, J.P. director U.P.S., whovoluntarily took the responsibility of publishing this book.Madras University- Chennai) for translating the Tamil book“InthuPal"an1pariyam”into English.piinting this book in good man ner.facilitator to this publication on Hindu lraditions. 1 render myheartfelt gratitude to our Association members for extendin g theirkind co-operation.Subathra Ganesan,SecretaryColombo Ynung Womenls' Ilimlu Association.\ J2 Nlnuu TraultlnnsAanavaAanavamalamAbhishekamAgamas

AgnanaAgniAgni DevanAhan karaAikyamAkshadhaiAndhiyeshtiAradhanaiAramArchanaiArthaArugampulArulAruvamAsuraAtmaAvatarBali peedam(B adralingam)BhajanBhakthaBhakthiBhulhiBindhiBrahmaBrahman'OOmnuu YraultlousGlossaryAirogance, prideOne of three letters covering the soul untilliberationHoly hathing of idols in tcmplesReligious scripturesIgnoranceFireGod of FirePride, egoUnionRice mixed with turmeric powder used forblessíngsLast ritesDivine service, Worship~ Ethical code of conduct

Pooja done in temples on the name and birthstar ofthe devoteeWealth and powerA kind of grass (Cynodon dactylon)Grace AFormlessDemonSoulIncarnationAn inverted lotus shaped stone on top of apedestal, situated near the kodimaram in thetempleGroup singing by devoteesDevoteeDcvotion `IntellectMark worn onforeheadThc Creator, the first god of the Hindu TrinityAbsolute reality, _ 203

CamphorChakkarai / .laggery -ChanthanamDhaanamDh ari sanamDharmaDharpai / Kusa grass -DheekshaiDheepamDheeparadhanaiDhoopamDhoshamDhotiDhyanaGnanaGnana SakthiGopurumGunaGuruHoma KundamIchcha Sakthi

Ishta DevathaíIdhikasamJebamJeevaathmaJ eevan MukthiJ yothi _KaalarnKaamaAromatic white crystal from the wood ofcamphor treeMade of sugar caneSandalwood pasteGenerosity, charityView, insightRighteousnessSacrificial grass used in Hindu worshipThe blessings of a Guru in order to lead aSaivite lifelamp burning with oil, gheeAarathi / waving of an oil lamp or camphorincense / smoke of incense offered ,during thetime of worshipEvil influence, fault, defect, blernish, blight, sin;offenceA trational Hindu apparel for men tied aroundthe waistMeditation\V1sdom,sacred knowledgePower of knowledgeOmamental tower built over a Hindu templeQuality or attributeReligious teacher and spiritual guideA pit for making holy fireDesire, willChosen deityAncient epicRepetiti on of holy nameSoul - The individual soul, self with limitationsSalvation attained while in bodyLightT`mleLawful of moral desires for wealth, Success,position of family, sense of pleasureHindu 'friúlßlfllli

204Kaappu tyingKaavadiKalasamKalasamKalpavimshaKandarvaKarmaKarma MargaKarpagrahamKatpuramKarthaKavasamKaviyamKetti MelamKiriyaKiriya,MargaKodimaramKolamKomuhaiKoorchamKri ya (action)Kriya SakthiKrodhamKu mbaabishekamKumbamKumkumSacred thread lied with recitation of mantrasaround the wrist as protection till the Ceremonyis overA penance offered to Lord MuruganA pot›shaped silver vessel adorned withmango leaves and a coconnt smeared withturmeric and vermillionWater vessel, integral to certain sacred HinduritesWish fulfilling treeCelestial beings fromIndra's heavenAction, deedThe path of actionSanctum SanctorumCamphorPerformerArmouncovering, applying chanthanam on idol

Epic poemNadhaswaram and Thavil played loudlyWorship according to the AgamasReligious action, WorshipFlag pole at the temple entranceDecorative designs drawn on the floor, stoneetc. with the powder, flower, flour paste etc.A temple gutter whose opening resembles acow”s headA bunch of dharpais ticd at one endOne of the paths of the Saiva SidhaanthaAction power, operative energy VHatredThe consecration of an idol by pouring waterfrm the sacrificial pots with appropriateceremoniesA pot ofwater adorned with a husked coconutand mango leaves representing the deityAuspicious red mark worn on forehead, madeof turmeric and slaked limemnäu naumons 205

KurukkalKuththu VilakkuLayamMalamMantrasMayaMelamMohamMokshaMoorthyMountMukthiMulai PaalígaiMurukkuNadhamNaamasmaranaN ayuruviNadhaswaramNaivedhyamNakshathra

NandhiN avathanyamNeemNi yamasOmOmkaaramPaaranamPaasamPaddhatiThe chief priest in a templeA standing lampDissolution iFettersMystic formula, music syllable or word symboluttered during the performance of the ritualsor meditationIllusionMusical instrumentsFascinationSalvation, liberation after death, heavenDeity, pertnanently installed in the SanctumSanctorumThe vehicle of GodSalvation, liberationGerminating seeds in an earthen potPalas treePrimordial SoundRemembering God through His nameRough chaff treeMusical instrumentThe ritualistic offering of cooked food, fruitsetc. to a deityStarsA white bull, the mount ofLord Shiva9 types of grains « paddy, wheat, green gram,Ben gal gram, horse gram, sesame seeds, fieldbeans, toor dhal, urid dhalMargosa tree (Vcambu)Restrained, religious duty. rules and regulationsThe most Sacred mantra of ShivaA name of God as the source of primal soundAUMTo take food before 8.3()am the day afterfasting

BoundGuide book for temple rituals206Jtlndu rranltiomPanchaboothamPanchakavyamPanchamirthamPanchatcharamPasuPatchamPathiPavithramPidhirPidhir dharpanamPidhir SirarthamPidhir YagnaPindamPoojaPranaPradakshinaPrakaramPralayaPrasadhamPremaPunniyavasanamPuraanamPurusharthaas (4)RajagopuramRajasnlnøu mnieiniu 207Five elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Air andSpaceMixture of milk, curd, ghee, dung and urine ofa cow. Considered to be a purifying substanceCOW`s milk, curd, ghee, honey and chakkaraiMost sacred mantra “Namasivaya", 5 syllablemantra of ShivaSoulLunar foitnight - from Prathamai to ChathurdhasiGodRing made from dharpai ,Paternal ancestorsPouring water with dharpai and sesame seedsto the departed manes or spirits .

Annual sacrifices to the manes of a deceasedfatherOffering to the ancestorsA ball made ofrice flour, urid dhal flour,sesame seeds, milk, curd, ghee, honey andbananaRitual WorshipLife force, vital airWalking around the temple in a clockwisedirectionCourtyardEnd of cosmosThings distributed to the devotees after theyare offered to the deityLovePuriíication, propitious ceremonySacred narrative stories / religious storiesThe 4 aims of life, Aram (righteousness),Porul (Wealth), lnbam (happiness), Veedu(salvation)The tower crowning the main entranceOne of the gunas of nature, Rajas is the qualityof passion, energy and attachment

RudrakshaRupamSaathvaSacred ashSaiva SiddhanthaSaivitesSamadhiSanctum Sanctorum -SankalpamSannidhiSandhyaSarvaroga Nivarani -ShrishtiSiddhiSirarthamSristiSuddhiSumangali

SuryaSuukshmaThamasThamboolamThapasThavilThevaramsThirumantramThithiThudakkuTrinity /IhinimurthyTrisoola208Sacred bead wom by saintsFonnOne of the 3 gunas of nature, it is the qualityof purily, brightness, peace of harmonyVibhuthiPhilosophy of religionDcvotees of Lord SivaThe supreme state of peaceShrine of the main deity in a templeA solemn vow or declaration of purpose toperform any ritual observanceThe place where the deity is in a templeEveningPanacea, a remedy for all kinds of diseasespCreation of the cosmosSuccess, powerCeremonies performed annually inremembrance of the deadCreationPurificationHappily married women who adorns kumkumand flowersSunSubtle form fOne of the gunas of nature, it is the quality ofdullness, darkness and evil tendenciesBetel leaves and areca nutsAusterity, PenanceA kind of drumDevotional Hymns sung by Appar, Sambantharand Sundarar

Holy incemtation, wrote by Rishi ThirumularLunar day, phase of moonDefilementBrahma, Vishnu, SivaA three pronged spear or trident wield of LordShivauinau tradition:Ubavaasam -Uthsava Moorthy -Vaakku -Vaasthu shastram -Vaahanam -Vaishnavites -VastramsVibhuthi -Vidhya -Vidhyaaramba -Vimana -Vmthu -Waning periodof the moon -Waxing periodof the moon -Yamadharmaruja -(Yama)3 Elements -3 Malas -3 Flames -5 Divine functions -3 Karunas -3 Gunas (Quztlities) -3 Sakthis ›5 Faces of Siva -Trinity -nlnøu rraultlunsFasting - comprising abstinence from food anddrinkldols made of metals and are meant to be takenin a procession during festivalsSpeechRules of architectureMount/vehicle of the deityDevotees of Lord VishnuDhoti and shawl

Sacred ashPractical knowledgelnitiation into studiesTall tower above the sanctum sanctorum ofthe templeUnified form of the soul, mind and lustPeriod from Full moon to New moonPeriod from New moon to Full moonGod of deathPathi. Pasu, Paasam (God, Soul. Bond)Aanava, Kanma, Maya (Arrogance, Action,Illusion) VSun, Moon, Agni (fire)Creation, Protection, Destruction,Concealmenl, Conferment of GraceManam, Vaakku, Kayam (Mind, Speech,Body)Sathva, Rajas, ThamasIchcha, Kiriya, GnanaEasanam, Thatpurusham, Agoram,Vamadcvam, SathyojathamBrahma, Vishnu, Siva209

Tamil Calendar MonthsChithirai -Vaikasi -Aani -Aadi -Aavani -Puratlasi -Aipasi -Karlhigai -Margazhi -Thai -Maasi -Panguni -Days of the weekSunday -Monday -Tuesday -Wednesday -

Thursday -Friday ›Saturday ›Thithis (Lunar days)Amavaasai -Prathamai -Thuthiyai -Thiruthiyai -Chathunhi -210 . “um” namflom Nlndll VrfllllløllsMid-April to Mid-MayMid~May to Mid-June`Mid~] une to Mid›JulyMid-July to Mid~AugustMid-August to Mid-SeptemberMid›S eptcmber to Mid-OctoberMid~October to Mid-NovemberMid-November to Mid-DecemberMid-December to Mid-JanuaryMid-January to Mid-FebruaryMid-February Lo Mid-MarchMid-March to Mid-AprilGnaayiruThingalChevaaiPuthanViyaazhanVelliSaniNew Moon day1” day2"” day3” day4"* dayPanchamiSashtiSabthamiAttamiNavamiThasamiEkadhasiThuvadhasiThrayodhasiChathurdhasi

Pournami(The same Thírhís (ie. Prathamai to Chalhurdhasi) repeat agazn5"* day6"' day7"' day8"* day9"' day10* day11"* dayl2“' day13"* day14* dayFull Moon dayfrom Full Moon to New Moon.)Names of the 12 houses (Rasis) of the zodiacV Ra sis' MehdamIdabamM idhunamKadagamSinghamKanníThulamViruchjkamThnnuMakaramKumhamMeenam`AriesTaurusGeminiCancerLeuVirgoLibraScorpioSagittariusCapricomAquariusPiscesfigfiRamBullTwins -

CrabLionVirginScalesScorpionArcherSea GoatWater BcarcrFish

Planets and the corresponding days of the weekPlanets DaysSooriyan - Sun Gnaayiru - SundayChandran - Moon Thingal - MondayAngaragan - Mars Chevaai - TuesdayPuthan - Mercury Puthan - WednesdayGuru - Jupiter Viyaazhan - ThursdaySukkiran - Venus Velli - FridaySani - Saturn Sani - SaturdayRaaghu - The Moon's ascending nodeKethu - The Dragon"s descending node,1 ›a›áiâåš21 2 ulnuu rraulmm› N utes

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