Velliangiri Mountain Siva Temple, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.

Velliangiri Mountain Temple, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.

"Vellingiri comprises seven hills and is a part of the western range of mountains. The Lord  of Vellingiri resides in the seventh hill in the form of a ‘swayambhu’ (not man-made but formed by itself). It is situated at an altitude of 6000 feet. " 

The devotees of Shiva consider it as one of the most important centres of pilgrimage. This hill is celebrated as ‘South Kailash’ for two reasons. First Lord Shiva Himself found this place congenial for his penance once. Second-the weather on this hill is similar to that of Kailash.

Velliangiri Mountain

How to Reach

By Bus 

The Transport Corporation ply buses between Coimbatore (Gandhi Puram) and Poondi every day. Special bus services are available during festive occasions like Maha Sivrathri.

Gandhipuram to Poondi
	Am :	6.40, 7.45, 9.40, 10.35
	Pm :	1.05, 2.00, 4.00, 5.00, 6.50, 8.00, 10.10
Gandhipuram to Thanneer Pandal
	Am :	6.15, 6.55, 8.45, 10.10, 11.40
	Pm :	1.20, 2.35, 4.15, 5.30, 9.10
Poondi to Gandhipuram
	Am :	6.15, 8.00, 9.00, 11.20
	Pm :	12.20, 2.20, 3.20, 5.20, 6.20, 8.20, 9.10
Thanneer Pandal to Gandhipuram
	Am :	6.15, 8.00, 9.00, 11.20
	Pm :	12.20, 2.20, 3.20, 5.20, 6.20, 8.20, 9.10

By Taxi

Taxicabs (Gandhipuram to Poondi)

  Linga Cabs     : 9443505336

  Menaka Cabs : 9976955433

  Ponnan Cabs : 9787473124

  Shakthi Cabs : 9865373752

By Rail & Flight

Coimbatore is on the international circuit with flights connecting it to Singapore and Sharjah. On the domestic front it is well connected to Kozhikode, Chennai, Kochi, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi by both rail and road.

The Siva Temple

Of all the mountain shrines in Kongunadu, the Siva temple of Velliangiri in the western boundary is considered to be the most famous. Known as Rajathagiri, Velliangiri, Dakshin Kailash or Bhoolok Kailash, this sacred spot, according to legend, is where Siva performed his cosmic dance on the request of his consort Umadevi. The five faces of Lord Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Maheshwara and Sadasiva, are seen as Panchagiri and as Panchalingas pertaining to the panchabhutas, in Velliangiri. The hill ranges have abundant natural resources, which include rare herbs. Lord Panchalingesa and his Consort Manonmani Amman alias Parvathi, bestow their grace on the devotees who throng here annually between February and May.

Accommodation

The restaurants at the foothills allow people to sleepover on the floor. Nearby upscale Tamara Resort is one other option. These are the option for people who want to start climbing very early. There is no accommodation to stay at the hills. To stay at the hill, one has to carry tents and sleeping bags as it gets very cold at night.

Story of The Legend 

History of Velliangiri Hills

The foothills of Velliangiri hills have a rich spiritual ambiance. No wonder! The holy shrine of Vellingiri Andavar and His consort Manonmani Amman is situated here. Countless siddhas have made this their home in the past. Even today, many siddhas reside here and perform penance. 

Poondi is a small village. But it is the abode of Lord Panchalingesha. This place is filled with the vibrations of the five elements- water, fire, wind, the earth and the sky. It is the abode of the Lord of Velliangiri. Tamil nadu has thousands of temples with majestic gopurams, artistic mandapams, lengthy parikramas / prakarams, exquisitely carved sculptures and colorful festivals. 

They are the living symbols of spirituality. They have also become inseparable parts of the people of this land. Even the small, ancient temples in the tiny villages are equally rich in their spiritual association. The sacred temple of Velliangiri Andavar and His consort Manonmani Amman, situated at the foothills of Velliangiri in Coimbatore district is one such. This acts as the threshold for Velliangiri, the abode of the siddhas. 

Poondi is situated at the foothills of Vellingiri, which is a part of the Western range of mountains. Poondi village is 40 kilometers away from Coimbatore. Those who wish to climb the hill should begin from Poondi. They can have a darshan of the Swayambhu Lord, after climbing the seven hills. Saint Agasthya has lived here. Countless siddhas have walked around this place. 

People usually carry the necessary articles including food and water while climbing this hill. Women do not allowed to climb this hill. One can climb this hill between the first of Thai till Vaigasi Visakam. Climbing begins usually at dawn is the best. Velliangiri hill has an altitude of 6000 ft and one has to trek a distance of 6 k.m. to reach the summit. 

Devotees of Shiva believe that there is a Kailash in the north (Uttara Kailash), one in the centre,(Madhya Kailash) and the third in the south (Dakshina Kailash) Among them, Uttara Kailash is present only in the subtle form. Madhya Kailash is in Tibet. Velliangiri hill is the Dakshina Kailash. So it is referred to as‘Then Kayilayam’ or South Kailash. 

It is believed to be the abode of Saint Agasthya and so his successors worship this hill with great devotion. People say that Adi Shankara came here and offered his worship to the Lord.This hill is considered as a symbol of Lord Shiva . It is also looked at as a symbol of penance as saints have been doing penance here since time immemorial. 

Vellingiri has been sanctified by the presence of Mahayogi Pazhani Swamigal, Shivayogiyar, Sadguru Shri Brahma, Aghori Vimalanadaa, Azhukku Samiyar, Soundarapandi Samiyar, Kalathri Samiyar, Mysore Samiyar, Etti Kotta Samiyar, Milagaay Samiyar. 

Velliangiri symbolically represents the seven chakkras ( Energy Centers ) in the human Body.

First Hill                   Mooladhara               The shrine of Velli Vinayagar

Second Hill             Swadhishtanam         Pambatti Sunai

Third Hill                  Mani Poorakam        Symbol of Agni, Kai thatti sunai

Fourth Hill                Anahatham               Sidhar Ottar's Samathi

Fifth Hill                    Vishudhi                   Bheeman Kaliyurundai Hill

Sixth Hill                   Aagna                      Sethizhai cava, Aandi Sunai

Seventh Hill              Sahasraaram           Swayambhu Lingam, The Lord of Velliangiri

Greatness of Temple

It is strongly believed that feeding one person in Velliangiri temple is equal to feeding a thousand in Kasi-Varanasi.  The hill is associated with stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata.  There are seven hills here.  It is said that Mother Sita performed penance on Lord Shiva at the fifth hill.  According to Puranas, Velliangiri is the venue where Lord Shiva appeared as a hunter before Arjuna, fought with him as a play and granted him the Pasupatha weapon.  The hill is 6000 feet high on the Western Ghats.

The Siruvani dam supplying drinking water to Coimbatore and the beginning of Noyyal river are in this place.  It is a dense forest throughout the 5.5 Km from the first to the seventh hill.  People visit this place only during Panguni and Chithirai Tamil months covering March to May.  The first six hills from the ground are said to be the six Chakras in human body viz. Mooladara, Swadishtana, Manipooraka, Anakatha, Vishuddhi and Agnga.  The seventh, the abode of Lord Shiva, is the Sahasrara visible to the wise.  It is also known as Shiva Jyothi Dance Hill.

Only those with a well built physic and mental determination can take op the trekking.  Those of 14-50 years of age and women worship at the foot hill temple. Daily pujas are performed here.  The first and the seventh hill are difficult to tread.

Kaithatti Chunai is at the second hill and the Pambatti Chunai is at the third where devotees can quench their thirst.  Passing over the fourth, the fifth is praised as Thiruneermalai containing a kind of sand as the sacred ash.  The Andi Chunai in the sixth hill is praised as the Manasa Sarovar of the South Kailash.  People proceed further only after a bath here.  The seventh hill though appear easier at a look is indeed very steep to trek.  There are two rocks on either of the shrine here as Dwarapalakas to Lord Shiva in the 6 feet wide cave in the form of Panchalingas.  It is said that even today there are many Siddhas around the place invisible to human eye.

Special Feature  Lord Shiva graces the devotees from the 6 feet wide cave temple in the form of Panchalingas.There are two rocks on either side  of the Shrine appearing as Dwarapalakas. As the sand of the fifth hill is of scared ash, it is known as Thiruneer Malai - Thiruneer  means scared ash. Simple Guide  Reach Coimbatore located at southern part of India by train/air/road. You can take a taxi from there. For buses, 14D is the bus from Coimbatore Gandhipuram Town Bus Stand to Isha Foundation which is approx 1 hour travel for approx 38 kms distance. Poondi Shiva Temple is just 2km away from Isha Foundation. People can walk or talk an auto/bus from there to Poondi Shiva Temple. People also can take direct Coimbatore-Poodi buses. There are buses to Poondi from Gandhipuram Town Bus Stand serviced atleast every 2-hour. Special buses are operated during festival times.  February – May is appropriate time to visit. Climbing the hill up during the night is advisable as by morning 10AM the rocky terrain turns scorch becoming hard for trekking. As the hill track is steep it is fatal to plan the trip during rainy seasons as the hill track again become slippery.  If planned for night trek it is good to carry woolen cloths/jerkin, foot cover, torchlight etc along. Only women above 45 years can trek the hill. Bamboo stick used as support to climbing the steep terrain is bought back home by devotees. It is believed that the Devars what is said in Hindu myths trek along with the devotees to cleanse their curse given by the Almighty.  The springs (sunai) at the end of 2nd paambaati hill, the kaithatti sunnai at the end of 3rd hill and Aandi sunnai at the end of 6th hill serve the devotes the drinking water. Taking a dip at Aandi sunnai gives the devotees the superior consequences.  Don’t rest while in between the trek. Frequent resting block the free blood circulation of the legs that may make the trekkers feel exhausted. Don’t trek after taking heavy food and carry fruits that contain rich water source. Travel light with a backpack for a comfortable trek.  As the landscape is surrounded by thick forest, wild animals move around the hilly terrain. And it is right to trek in groups. If alone, form/join a group while at base.  Don’t litter the hill with plastic bottles and bags. If desired, while way back can carry back the spotted trash to the base and keeping the shrine clean is also a service to the almighty.  The Thenkailaya Bakthi Perravai trust arranges trip with facilities like guide, food and accommodation for devotees who donate. Contact: 94331 45660 / 94431 35660. Please spread the word to the devotees required.  Key Words : Story of 12 Jyotirlingas, Jyotirlinga Slokam, Jyotirlinga Poem, Jyotirlinga Poem Meaning

Palli Kondeswara Swamy Temple, Surutapalli, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India

Palli Kondeswara Swamy Temple, Surutapalli, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India

About

In all the temples we can see Lord Siva in form of Sivalinga. But in this temple we can see Lord Siva in sleeping posture on the lap of Sarvamangala Devi (Parvati Devi) Palli Kondeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Siva located in Surutapalli, a village in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh state close to the border of Tamil Nadu, India. Surutapalli is located 55 km away from Chennai on the Chennai Tirupati highway near Uthukottai.


How To Reach 

• Suruttapalli is about 70 kms from Tirupati in the Chennai route via Uthukottai, a town on the border between Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh. You have to get into the Tirupati first which can be reached either by Road, Rail or Air.

• From Tirupati you get APSRTC buses to Chennai running via Surutapalli.

Temple History

PALLI KONDESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE

THE ONLY PRADOSHA KSHETRAM IN ENTIRE INDIA.

Sri Palli kondeswara swamy temple at Surutapalli. Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh 3kms from Uttukottai, TamilNadu is the only place where the Lord Shiva is seen in the reclining position (sleeping position) also called as Neelakantha. It is here the Pradosha Kala pooja has began since ages. By performing this Pradosha Kaala pooja everyone will find complete solutions and get rid of poverty, ill health and will be bestowed with wealth and prosperity. This is one of the most auspicious pooja in the Hindu Dharma. Related to Shiva Skanda Puranam.

Pradosha is the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati when both are in an extremely propitious mood. Prayers during this period will fulfill one's desires and bring happiness in life.

The Pradosha Kaala pooja is highly lauded by the scriptures and is very great sanctity and importance to the worshipers of Lord Shiva. The mere sight of the Deity in the temple during this period will destroy all the sins and bestow bountiful blessings and Grace upon the fortunate beholder. Even a single Bilva leaf (leaf taken from the stone wood apple tree) offered to the Lord at this unique, auspicious moment equals a hundred Mahapujas.

During the Pradosha Kaala a large number of devotees gather to light the lamps. It is said that even to light a single wick of a lamp at this period is considered highly meritorious and productive of untold benefits both materialistic and spiritually. Most fortunate and blessed is the person who performs the Pradosha Kaala pooja, Lord Shiva showers His choicest Grace and blessings on him in a very short period.

WHAT IS KARMA

Karma is not just a metaphysical philosophy, it is real. "Karma is ones own predisposition of your previous birth which influences in your present life'. It decides the way of your living in this present life, it influences your position name, fame. money etc. of the present life. Everyone has a choice to live his /her one's own karma of the previous birth or to create a new one. because they do not know how to remove their old karma and simply live their old karma until they live.lt is the thought process that creates Karma. It is also influenced by the planets. It is important to remain positive and nurture positive thought only. as negative thoughts and negative deeds will inflict danger to mankind in the present and the future life.

HOW CAN KARMA BE REMOVED?

The ultimate purpose of our human life is realization of God. It is told that this can be achieved only when the deeds of your old karma has been wiped clean, and when it is the right time the grace of God will flow on to you. When that begins to happen, an intense flow of both the material and spiritual worlds open to us. Now it is your choice on the abundance that is presented to you, whether you take the spiritual or the material route, one thing is certain, you have to completely eliminate your karma to even to get there. The Pradosha Kaala pooja gives a great opportunity to build a road to prosperity and true happiness.

WHAT IS PRADOSHAM?

Pradosha literally means the removal of sins. This is an auspicious time or a holy spiritual time: these times are the windows of opportunity to remove bad karma as karmic energies that limit our potential in this present life. It is the best time to pray and request Lord Shiva to eliminate our bad karma and fulfil our desires.

Pradosham is a very important day for the Hindus. It is the day for worshipping Lord Shiva. It comes twice a month. i.e.

15 moon days from New moon to Full moon 15 moon days from Full moon to New moon

The evening of Trayodasi , i.e. the 13th moon day between 4.30 p.m and 6.00 p.m. is Pradosha.

Whatever sins we have committed will be forgiven by the lord if we pray wholeheartedly.

We can pray to God by performing abhishekam. Milk gives long life. Ghee gives moksha. Sandal gives Lakshmi's grace and there are lot more.

By Chant Om Namah Shivaya and write 108 times you can get God's grace...

Pradosham timings are one and half hours hours before sunset and one hour after sunset, it is observed in the twilight period (sandhya kaala). Some perform abishekas for the Lingam. some people chant "Om Namah Shivaya". some chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra 108 times and the very pious also read the Siva Skanda Purana Story. But it is said. that just lighting a lamp and praying also pleases Lord Shiva.

Among the poojas performed by Shainavas to the Graceful Lord Shiva. During Shukla Paksha (15 moon days from new moon to full moon) and Krishna Paksha (15 moon days from full moon to new moon) the evening of the Trayodasi (thirteenth moon day) between 4.30 pm to 6.00 p.m. is called "Prodosham''. It comes once in fifteen moon days. Prodosha kaala is the time to pray Lord Shiva and invoke His Blessings. Praying during this time will free us from sins and gives Moksha (hence the name Prodosha)

.

Trayodasi is categorised according to the duration of its occurrence. Prodosham is categorized into three:

Uthama Prodhosham (Maximum power) — If the Trayodasi period is present from dawn to the next day dawn

Mathima Pradhosham (Normal power) — If the Trayodasi period is present from dusk to the next day dusk

Athama Pradhosham (Minimum power) — If the Trayodasi period comes after the sunset and goes before 4:30 pm the next day.

There are various abihishekams perfomed to Lord Shiva and each has the following effects which is considered fruitful

ABISHEKA NAME	ITS EFFECTS
PANCHAGAVYAM	Removes all sins of mankind
PANCHAMRUTHAM	Gives wealth
GHEE	Gives Moksha state
MILK	Gives long life
CURD	Gives Good Children
HONEY	Melodious voice
RICE POWDER	Frees from debts
LIME JUICE	Gives good health and removes enmity
SUGAR CANE JUICE	Removes fear of death
TENDER COCONUT JUICE	Gives enjoyment and full satisfaction in life
COOKED RICE (ANNAM)	Gives Majestic life
SANDAL PASTE	Gives Lakshmi's Grace
SUGAR	Removes enmity

HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE

According to Sthalapurana (history of the place), it is said that Asuras (demons) and Devas (Gods) decided to consume the nectar from Ksheerabthi (the milk ocean) to live immortal. Hence, they churned the ocean with the help of Vasuki (the celestial snake) and the hill Mandhara, with Gods on one side and demons on the other. Unable to tolerate the pressure, Vasuki spilled out the poison from his mouth. The Gods and demons then approached Lord Shiva to save them from the harmful effects of poison as it would have killed the leaving creatures on the earth and also Gods and demons. Lord Shiva transformed himself into Vishabhakarana Moorthy and swallowed the poison. He then started feeling little giddy. As he laid down, his consort. Goddess Parvati placed Lord's head on Her lap and gently pressed His neck and thus the poison remained in His throat without affecting His body. Hence Lord Shiva got the name as Neelakantha.' (`Neela'- blue with poison and 'Kantha'- throat) (as Goddess Parvathi held the poison in the throat she is called as `Sarvamangalabigar.) It is in this place the Lord rested on the lap of Goddess Paravathi. During this time all the gods, maharishis and rishis assembled here for the well being of Lord Shiva and this place got its name as Suruttapalli. Surutta means assembly of Gods.

    The Devas and Asuras resumed their effort to get the nectar from the ocean on Lord Shiva's orders, after he regained consciousness and obtained the nectar on Dhwadashi (12th moon day). In that happiness, they forgot to thank Lord Siva who consumed the poison for everyone's well being. Realising their mistake, they prayed Him for forgiveness on Trayodasi (13th moon day) for which the Lord forgave them and in a happy mood, began His celestial dance (Shiva Tandavam) between the horns of Nandi (the mount of Lord Shiva) where all the Gods, Goddess and sages joined Him. This moment is celebrated as Pradosham every fortnight and hence Pradosha Pooja is said to have originated from this temple. It is believed that during Pradosha Punya Kaalam, anyone who offers prayers will attain shanti (peace), sakala sowbhagyam (Complete Happiness) and will be comforted from the obstacles of life. Even Lava and Kusha. who unknowingly fought with their father Lord Rama, over Aswamedha yagna horse, came to this temple along with Sage Valmiki. to worship Lord Siva and to get rid of their sins. Another prominence of Surutapalli is that most of the deities are present with their consorts in their respective temples.

ABOUT SURUTAPALLI

Surutapalli, a small village famous for Sri Palli Kondeshwara Swami (Lord Siva), temple is located in Chittoor Dist. of A.P., 53kms from Chennai and 3kms from Uttukottai. This temple is one of its kind where Lord Shiva is resting on the lap of Goddess Parvati. The temple was built during the Vijayanagaran Era by Kings Harihara and Bukkha. As you enter the temple through the entrance, you'll find the temple of Goddess Margathambigai (Goddess Parvati) on the left side and Sri Valmikeshwara (Sage Valmiki) on the right side of the entrance. It is said that one has to visit these two temples first before visiting the main temple.

The temple of Goddess Margathambigai has to be visited first, even before the shrine of Sri Valmikeshwara or the main temple. The garbha griha is guarded by Lord Kubera (God of wealth) with his consort Sanganidhi on left side and with his another consort Padumanidhi on the right side. The Goddess inside in the standing posture is seen with Kamadhenu on one side and Kalpaha Virksham on the other. There are some more Idols of Gods like Varasidhi Vinayaka (Lord Ganesha), Sri Venugopala Swami (Lord Krishna), Kasi Vishwanathan with Visalakshi and others present in the inner praharam (inner wall of the temple).

Next to the shrine of the Goddess. there are two other shrines of Sri Ramalingeshwara and Sri Valmikeswara, the main deity facing each other. It is said that Sage Valmiki performed penance before he started writing Ramayana and Lord Shiva appeared in the form of the Lingam and blessed the Sage and hence the Lingam is known as Sri Valmikeshwara Lingam. The Lingam is in triangular shape and there is a large Nandi outside the temple. Next to this temple is a slab of stone with many footprints on it. It is said that. in 1971. Kanchi Mahaperiyavar Sri Sri Chandrashekara Saraswathi swamyji (a sage), camped here for 40 days and asked some people to dig a particular place. On digging, they found a slab of stone with innumerable footprints on it. Mahaperiyavar disclosed that the footprint belongs to Lava and Khusha - the twin sons of Lord Rama. There is another idol of Lord Dakshinamoorthy (Lord Shiva) who is present as Dhambadya Dakshinamoorthy along with his consort Gown, in the outer walls of Sri Valmikeshwara shrine. The Lord is in a sitting posture with left leg slightly lifted and His left hand on His left knees in a stylish way. It is said that one who worships him on Thursday, are immensely blessed and will have a peaceful life.

The presiding deity is PaIli Kondeswara (Lord Shiva) with His consort and many other Gods. The Lord is in reclining position (about 6 feet long) with his head on the lap of Goddess Parvathi who resides as Sarva Mangalaambigai. The uniqueness of the temple lies in Lord Shiva seen in the human form unlike His usual Linga form. The Sun God and Moon God are present on the either side of Goddess Parvati. Many others including Lord Vishnu. Lord Brahma. Goddess Lakshmi, Sage Maarkandeyar, Sage Agasthair, Sage Valmiki, Indran, Sage Naradhar. Lord Subramaniyam with His consort and Lord Ganapati are also present in the temple. It appears as if the whole Kailasham (Lord . Shiva's aboard) assembled here to know the well-being of Lord Shiva after He consumed poison to save the universe.

Another prominence of Suruttapalli is that most of the deities are present with their consorts in their respective temples. Unlike the common practice of giving Vibhooti (holy ash) as Prasadam, as in the temples of Lord Shiva, holy water is given here.

Pallikondeswarar is worshipped by a celestial congregation consisting of Brighu. Brahma, Mahavishnu. Markandeya. Narada. Chandran, Surya, Kunera. Agasthya. and Vinayaka.

Till a few years back, this temple built by Vijayanagara emperor was in a dilapidated state but now it has been renovated beautifully. The paintings. floorings,Rajagopuram, Vimanams, front Nandhi making the temple look beautiful. Even the walls of the inner praharam have undergone modernization with tiles. The Nandi Idol has been beautifully painted and placed at an elevated height in the huge open space in the front of the temple welcoming the devotees.

Dhampathi Sametha Dhakshinamoorthi

After the darshan of Sri Valimikeshwara swamy you will have to visit the shrine of Dakshinamoorthi. It is customary to have Dakshinamurthy Idol facing south of the main sanctum sanctorum of Lord Shiva. Various forms of Dakshinamoorthi are present, like Gnana dakshinamoorthi, Yoga dakshinamoorthi, Veera dakshinamoorthi, Medha dakshinamoorthi etc. In Surutapalli the uniqueness is that the Lord Dhakshinamoorti is seen with his consent only one of its kind. It a visual pleasure to watch the idol. The Lord is sitting stylishly with his consent Gown i on his lap and held affectionately with his left arm and hence He is known as Dhampathi Sametha Dhakshinamoorthi. Offering prays to him gives prosperity, health, wealth, good education etc. it is also told that couples who pray for offspring are blessed with children.

 After the war with Ravana the Demon King, he was killed Lord Rama. All of us know that in the war between Lord Rama and the demon King Ravana, Rama killed Ravana and this mounted a curse on Lord Rama due to Brahmanahtaya. To get rid of this curse Lord Rama performed various yagnas, pujas and yet he was not satisfied and did not feel that he was rid of the curse. On the advice of his Guru Vashita he came to this place and placed a lingam in front of Valmikeshwara and performed prays and got rid of the curse. The idol place by Lord Rama is known as Sri Ramalingeshwara. You can see the idol of Sri Rama, Sita Lakshmana, Baratha and Shatarguna along with Hanuman in the temple opposite the Valmikeshawara.

The Pallikondeshwara Swamy temple can be reached by road from Chenai or Tirupathi on the Chenai-peripalayam- Uttukotai- Tirupathi route. It is just 3 KM away from Uttukottai.

Siva Strotram Lyrics

STOTRAS 

Lingashtakam - A Prayer To Sivalingam

The Sivalingam is a sacred symbol of the Hindus whom they revere as the manifestation of the Universal Self in His awakened aspect in union with His dynamic energy Shakti. This prayer is a declaration of faith, obedience, love and devotion to Lord Siva in His aspect as Sivalingam.

Brahma Murari Sura architha Lingam,
Nirmala bashitha Shobitha Lingam,
Janmaja dukha vinasaka lingam.
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu and other Devas,
Which is pure and resplendent,
And which destroys sorrows of birth.

Deva Murari pravarchitha Lingam,
Kama dahana Karunakara lingam,
Ravana darpa vinashana lingam,
That pranamami sad shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is worshipped by great sages and devas,
Which destroyed the god of love,
Which showers mercy,
And which destroyed the pride of Ravana.

Sarva sukandhi sulepitha lingam,
Budhi vivarthana karana lingam,
Siddha surasura vandhitha lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is anointed by perfumes,
Which leads to growth of wisdom,
And which is worshipped by sages, devas and asuras.

Kanaka mahamani bhooshitha lingam,.
Panipathi veshtitha shobitha lingam,
Daksha suyagna vinasana lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is ornamented by gold and great jewels,
Which shines with the snake being with it,
And which destroyed the Yagna of Daksha.

Kunkuma chandana lepitha lingam,
Pankaja hara sushobitha lingam,
Sanchitha papa vinasana lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is adorned by sandal paste and saffron,
Which wears the garland of lotus flowers,
And which can destroy accumulated sins.

Deva Ganarchitha sevitha lingam,
Bhavair bakthi pravesa lingam,
Dinakara koti prabhakara lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is served by gods and other beings,
Which is the doorway for devotion and good thought,
And which shines like billions of Suns.

Ashta dalopari veshtitha lingam,
Sarva samudbhava karana lingam,
Ashta daridra vinasana lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is surrounded by eight petals,
Which is the prime reason of all riches,
And which destroys eight types of poverty.

Suraguru sura vara poojitha Lingam,
Sura vana pushpa sadarchitha lingam,
Parathparam paramathmaka lingam,
That pranamai sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is worshipped by the teacher of gods,
Which is worshipped by the best of gods,
Which is always worshipped by the flowers,
From the garden of Gods,
Which is the eternal abode,
And which is the ultimate truth.

Lingashtakam, Idam Punyam padeth Shiva Sannidhow,
Shivalokam avapnothi shive na sahamodathe.

Any one who chants the holy octet of the Lingam,
In the holy presence of Lord Shiva,
Would in the end reach the world of Shiva,
And keep him company.

Bilwashtakam

The leaves of Bilwa (Aegle marmelos), which has multiple leaves, with each leaf consisting of three leaves is very dear to Lord Shiva. Offering this leaf to Lord Shiva pleases him especially on the Shivarathri .There are several stories how people got salvation by offering one Bilwa leaf to Lord Shiva.

Tridalam trigunakaaram trinethram cha triyayusham,
Trijanma papa samharam Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 1

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
Which has three leaves,
Which causes three qualities,
Which are like the three eyes of Shiva,
Which is like the triad of weapons,
And which destroys sins of three births.

Trishakhai bilwapathraischa hyachidrai komalai shubai,
Shiva poojam karishyami, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 2

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
Which has three shoots,
Which do not have holes,
Which are good and pretty,
And worship Lord Shiva.

Aganda bilwa pathrena poojithe nandikeshware,
Shudhyanthi sarva papebhyo, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 3

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
For if an uncut leaf is offered,
To his steed the god Nandi,
We get cleaned of all our sins.

Salagrama shilamekaam vipranam jatha cha arpayeth,
Soma yagna maha punyam, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 4

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
For it is equal to, offering a saligrama to a Brahmin,
Or the great blessing got out of performing Soma Yaga,

Dandi koti sahasrani vajapeya sathani cha,
Koti kanya maha danam, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 5

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
For it is equal to gifting thousand elephants,
Or the performing of hundred fire sacrifices,
Or giving away billions of girls.

Lakshmyasthanutha uthpannam mahadevasya cha priyam,
Bilwa vruksham prayachami, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 6

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
For it is equal to giving a tree of Bilwa,
Which was born from the breast of Lakshmi,
And which is very dear to the Lord Shiva.

Darshanam bilwa vrukshasya, sparsanam papa nasanam,
Aghora papa samharam, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 7

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
As seeing and touching of a tree of Bilwa,
Washes away ones sins and also very great sins.

Kasi kshethra nivasam cha kala bhairava darshanam,
Prayaga madhavam drushtwa, Eka bilwam shivarpanam. 8

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
After living in the city of Kasi,
Seeing the Kala Bhairawa,
And also visiting the temple
Of Madhawa in Allahabad.

Moolatho brahma roopaya, madhyatho Vishnu roopini
Agratha shiva roopaya, Eka bilwam shivarpanam 9

I offer one leaf of Bilwa to Lord Shiva,
As Brahma resides at its bottom,
Lord Vishnu lives in its middle,
And Lord Shiva lives in its tip.

Bilwashtakam idham punyaam, padeth shiva sannidhou,
Sarva papa nirmuktha Shiva loka maapnuyath. 10

Reading this holy octet of Bilwa,
In the presence of Lord Shiva,
Would save one from all sins,
And in the end take him to the world of Shiva. 

Shiva Panchakshara Stotram

Shiva is the destroyer among the trinity and is worshipped as their main deity by millions of Hindus. The holy word chant to worship him is made of five letters and is popularly called Panchakshara- “Na Ma Si Va ya”. In this popular stotra each of these letters is considered as him and he is praised for his great qualities.

Nagendra haraya Trilochanaya,
Basmanga ragaya maheswaraya,
Nithyaya shudhaya digambaraya,
Tasmai nakaraya namashivaya.

My salutations to the letter “Na” , which is Shiva,
Who wears as garland the king of snakes.
Who has three eyes,
Who wears ash all over Him,
Who is the greatest Lord,
Who is forever,
Who is the cleanest,
And who wears the directions themselves as dress

Mandakini salila chandana charchithaya,
Nandeeswara pramadha nadha maheswaraya,
Mandra pushpa bahu pushpa supoojithaya,
Tasmai makaraya namashivaya.

My salutations to the letter “Ma” , which is Shiva,
Who is bathed by waters of ganges,
Who applies sandal paste all over him,
Who has Lord Nandi as his chiefton,
Who is the greatest lord,
And who is worshipped by Mandhara and many other flowers.

Shivaaya gowri vadanara vinda,
Sooryaya daksha dwara naasakaya,
Sri neela kantaya vrisha dwajaya,
Tasmai sikaraya namashivaya.

My salutations to the letter “Si” , which is Shiva,
Who is peace personified,
Who is like Sun to the Lotus face of Gowri[1],
Who destroyed the fire sacrifice of Daksha[2],
Who has a blue neck,
And who has a bull in his flag.

Vasishta kumbhodhbhava gowthamadhi.
Munendra devarchitha shekaraya,
Chandrarka vaiswanara lochanaya,
Tasmai vakaraya namashivaya.

My salutations to the letter “Va” , which is Shiva,
Who is worshipped by great sages like,
Vasishta, Agasthya and Gowthama ,
As also the devas,
And who has sun , moon and fire as his three eyes.

Yaksha swaroopaya jada dharaya,
Pinaka hasthathaya sanathanaya,
Divyaya devaaya digambaraya,
Tasmai yakaraya namashivaya.

My salutations to the letter “Ya” , which is Shiva,
Who takes the form of Yaksha,
Who has a tufted hair,
Who is armed with spear,
Who is forever filled with peace,
Who is godly,
Who is the great God,
And who wears the directions themselves as dress.

Phalasruthi
Panchaksharamidham punyam,
Ya padeth Shiva sannidhou,
Shivaloka maapnothi,
Shive na saha modathe.

Those who read these holy five letters great,
In the temple of Shiva,.
Would go to the world of Shiva,
And be forever happy with Him.

Shivashtakam

The author of this great prayer is possibly one of the greatest exponents of Bhakthi Marga (Path of devotion) Getting God intoxicated is his method for salvation. His chosen path is devotion to Lord Krishna. The fact that he has written this great stotra on Lord Shiva indicates the catholicity of this great teacher.

Namo namasthe tridaseshwaraya,
Bhoothadhinathaya mridaya nithyam,
Ganga tharangothida bala Chandra,
Choodaya Gauri nayanothsavaya 1

Salutations and salutations to him,
Who is the lord of the thirty gods,
Who is the Lord of all beings,
Who is perpetually gracious,
From whose head the waves of Ganga are born,
Who wears the crescent of moon
And who is the feast to the eyes of Gauri,

Sutaptha chamikara Chandra neela,
Padma pravalambudha kanti vasthrai,
Sa nrutya rangetha vara pradhaya,
Kaivalya nadhaya, vrusha dwajaya. 2

Salutations and salutations to Him,
Who is like the moon resembling the molten gold,
Who wears dress of the colour of blue lotus and rich cloud,
Who gives boons while he is dancing,
Who is the Lord of salvation,
And who has a bull in his flag.

Sudhamsu suryagni vilochanaya,
Tamo bhidhe they jagatha shivaya,
Sahasra shubramsu sahasra rasmi,
Sahasra sanjjtwara thejasesthu 3

Salutations and salutations to Him,
Who has moon, sun and fire as his eyes,
Who is the universal Shiva who dispels darkness
And who by his thousand beamed power,
Defeats thousands of moons and suns.

Nagesa rathnojjwala vigrahaya,
Shardula charmasuka divya thejase,
Sahasra pathropari samasthithaya,
Varangadha muktha bhuja dwayaya. 4

Salutations and salutations to Him,
Whose form shines like the gem,
In the head of the king of snakes
Who wears the skin of tiger,
Who has an effulgent form,
Who stands amidst a lotus
With one thousand petals,
And who wears lustrous
Amulets in his two hands,

Sunoopura ranjitha pada padma,
Ksharath sudha bhrutya sukha pradaya,
Vichithra ratnogha vibhushithasya,
Premanam eva adya harau videhi. 5

Salutations and salutations to Him,
Who has anklets with bells tied to his lotus feet,
Who gives flowing nectar from his hands,
To his servant like devotees and make them happy,
And who dresses himself in rare gems,
With a request Please grant me your love lord Hari*.
* The author of this great prayer is a great Vaishnavite

Sri Rama Govinda Mukunda Shaure,
Sri Krishna Narayana Vasudeva,
Ithyadi namamritha pana mathra,
Bringadhipay akhila dukha hantre, 6

Salutations and salutations to Him,
Who is the Lord of his bee like devotees,
Who chant of the names like Rama,
Govinda, Mukunda, Shauri, Krishna,
Narayana, Vasudeva and others like them,
Which would completely destroy all sorrows.
Note: The Catholicity of the author who is a follower of Vishnu is reflected in this verse.

Sri Naradadhya satata sugopya,
Jignanasitaya asu vara pradaya,
Thebhyo harer bhakthi sukha pradaya,
Shivaya sarvaya Gurave Nama. 7

Salutations and salutations to Him,
Who raises confidential curiosity,
In the minds of Sage Narada and others,
Who grants boons fast,
Who blesses his devotees with devotion to Hari,
And who is the teacher of every one.

Sri Gauri nethothsava mangalaya,
Thath prana nadhaya rasa pradhaya,
Sada samuthkantha Govinda Leela,
Gana pravinya namosthu thubhyam. 8

My salutations to you who is an expert in singing,
Who is the feast to the eyes of his consort Gauri,
Who is the Lord of the soul and is interesting,
And who is always interested in the playful acts of Govinda,

Ethath Shivasyashtakam adbhtham mahat,
Shrunvan hari prema labhathe sheegram,
Jnanam cha vijnanam, apoorva vaibhavam,
Yo bhava purna paramam samadharam. 9

He who filled with loving feelings hears,
This greatly wonderful octet on Shiva,
Would soon get the grace and love of Hari,
Get knowledge and divine realization.

Sivashtakam

Octet to Lord Shiva
Translated by P. R. Ramachander

This very musical stotra, describes oneself is a useless human being and not a devotee or fit to be a devotee but requests Lord Shiva for safety. The style of the sthothram points out, it to be a work of Aadhi Sankara. But this work is not listed in the complete works of Sankara. If any one knows the author, please communicate with me.

Asaa vasa dashta digantharale,
Desanthara brantha masantha budhim,
Aakara mathra adahavanisuram maam,
Akruthya kruthyam, Shiva pahi Shambho. 1

In all the eight directions, I am full of desires.
I am mad at travelling to countries outside,
I am having a mind which does not have peace,
My form looks like a way faring Asura.
And I am the one whose duties are never done,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Mamsa asthi majja mala moothra pathra,
Gathrabhi manojjaditha kruthya jalam,
Mad bhavanam manmatha peedithangam,
Maya mayam maam Shiva pahi Shambho. 2

A vessel of flesh, bones, fat, shit and urine,
A body which is but a trick of imagination by the mind,
My thoughts tying my body with the vile of cupid,
And my thoughts are completely filled with illusion,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Samsara mayaa jaladhi pravaha,
Sammagna mad brantha masantha chitham,
Thwath pada seva vimukham sakamam,
Sudurjjanam, maam Shiva pahi Shambho. 3

My life is flowing ocean of illusions,
Drowned in imaginations leading to tumultuous mind,
And my desire being not serving your feet,
I am the worst among bad people,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Ishtanrutham brashta manishta dharmam,
Nasthathma bodham, naya lesa heenam,
Kashtari shad varga nipeedithangam,
Dushtothamam maam, Shiva pahi Shambho. 4

With banned and undesirable Dharma dancing in my mind,
With a defeatist attitude, without any doubt,
With all my body affected by the six types of problems,
I am the worst of the bad ones,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Vedagamabhya sarasanabignam,
Padaravindam thava na archayantham,
Vedoktha karmani vilopayantham,
Vedakruthe maam Shiva pahi Shambho. 5

Expert in passion rather than in Vedas,
Not worshipping your lotus like feet,
And not doing ritual according to Vedas,
I am not some one who follows Vedas.
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Anyaya vitharjana saktha chitham,
Anyasu narashwanuragavantham,
Anyanna bhoktharamashudha deham,
Acharaheenam, Shiva pahi Shambho. 6

Interested in earning money by unfair means,
In love with ladies belonging to others,
Eating others food, having a dirty body,
I am one who does not follow rules,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Puratha thapa thraya thaptha deham,
Paraam gathim gandhumupaya varjam,
Paravamanaika parathma bhavam,
Naradhamam, Shiva pahi Shambho. 7

My body is subject of three types of sufferings,
I have forsaken the way for seeking salvation,
I have the feeling of having done bad to every one else,
And I am baser than the base human being,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.

Pitha Yadha rakshati puthram eesa,
Jagat pitha thwam jagatha sahaya,
Krthaparadham thava sarva karye,
Krupanidhe, maam shiva pahi Shambho. 8

The father always protects his son, Oh God,
And you are father and helper of the universe.
And I have committed sins in all your works,
But you are the treasure house of Mercy,
So save me Lord Shiva who is Shambhu.