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= THEERTHAMALAI TEMPLE = Theerthamalai Temple is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site located near the town of Harur in Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu, India. This temple complex is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna, an aspect of Lord Shiva, and is situated in the scenic Theerthamalai hills.

The temple gets its name from the numerous natural springs and water bodies that surround the area. These springs are believed to have sacred and healing properties, drawing pilgrims seeking both spiritual solace and physical rejuvenation.

Architecturally, the temple follows the traditional South Indian style, characterized by intricate carvings, colorful murals, and towering gopurams (entrance towers). The main deity, Lord Mallikarjuna, is enshrined in the form of a self-manifested (Swayambhu) linga in the main sanctum. Adjacent to it, there's a separate shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati, known as Mallikarjuna Amman. One of the distinctive features of Theerthamalai Temple is the perennial natural spring named Shiva Ganga. Devotees consider its waters to be sacred and use it for ritualistic purpose sand ceremonial ablutions before entering the temple. The temple complex also hosts smaller shrines devoted to various deities, contributing to the overall spiritual atmosphere of the place. The annual Maha Shivaratri festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, attracting a large congregation of devotees.

Theerthamalai Temple stands as a testament to the deep-rooted religious and cultural heritage of the region. Its serene natural surroundings, coupled with its spiritual significance and historical legacy, make it a cherished destination for both devotees and tourists exploring the spiritual and cultural facets of Tamil Nadu. The temple continues to be a place of solace, reflection, and divine blessings for all who visit.

SUMMARY
Theerthamalai is a significant sacred site in Harur taluk of Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu, India. Its name, in Tamil, translates to Hill with Holy Water This village is located approximately16 km northeast of Harur. At the summit of a hillock stands the Theerthagirishwarar Temple, situated about 1 km up a steep slope. The temple is named after the five springs within its premises, and Lord Theerthagireeswar (Shiva) is the revered deity

HISTORY OF THEERTHAMALAI TEMPLE
The Theerthamalai temple, also known as Theerthagirishwarar Temple, has a rich and venerable history dating back to the 7th century. It stands as an important sacred site in the Harur taluk of Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu, India.

1. 7th Century Construction: The temple was initially constructed in the 7th century, showcasing the remarkable architectural and artistic skills of that era.

2. Patronage of Chola and Pandya Kings: Over the centuries, it received substantial patronage and contributions from notable dynasties, particularly the Chola and Pandya Kings. Their support played a pivotal role in the temple's expansion and maintenance.

3. Inscriptions: The temple is adorned with numerous inscriptions that serve as valuable historical records. These inscriptions shed light on various aspects of the temple's past, including the names of benefactors and historical events.

4. Royal Visits: Notably, Chola emperors, including the illustrious Rajendra Chola, were known to be regular visitors to the temple. Their reverence for the site attests to its significance in the region.

5. Poet Saint Arunagirinathar: The temple found mention in the compositions of the revered poet-saint Arunagirinathar. His works further elevated the spiritual and cultural importance of the temple.

6. Spiritual Significance: The temple is dedicated to Lord Theerthagireeswar, an embodiment of Lord Shiva. The name Theerthagireeswar signifies the deity as the Lord of the Holy Mountain.

7. The Meaning of "Theerthamalai": In Tamil, the name "Theerthamalai" translates to Hill with Holy Water This name likely alludes to the presence of natural springs or the sanctifying qualities associated with the site.

8. Cultural Heritage: The temple stands as a living testament to the enduring cultural and religious heritage of the region, drawing devotees and visitors from far and wide.

9. Continuing Worship: Even in contemporary times, Theerthagirishwarar Temple continues to be a place of active worship and spiritual significance, perpetuating the traditions of the past.

Overall, Theerthamalai temple stands as a venerable monument, encapsulating centuries of devotion, artistic expression, and historical significance in The heart of Tamil Nadu, India.

MAJESTY OF THE TEMPLE
Lord Sri Rama, after winning the war against Ravana and returning to Ayodhya, wanted toper form Shiva Puja in the temple. As Sri Hanuman could not return in time with holy Ganga water and flowers from Kasi, Rama shot an arrow on rock creating the Rama Theertha and completed the puja. The Rama Theertham is a tiny waterfall about 9.1 meters (about 30 feet) high. During summer, even when the river is dry, there will be sweet water in the spring that flows from rock. Sri Hanuman threw the pot of water from here, which fell at a distance of about 12 km (about 7.4 mi) from the hill and became Hanuman Theertham. People take the first dip in Hanuman Theertha and then at Rama Theertha for relief from sins.

LIST OF HOLY WATER IN THEERTHAMALAI TEMPLE
Theertham means Holy water in Tamil. The most fascinating factor is that the tiny water falls never dry out, even during the most drought seasons recorded in the history. All of which have their origin in different parts of the rocky surface. They are:

★ Agasthya Theertham ( In the mandir premises )

★ Ramar Theerththam. ( In the mandir premises )

★ Agni Theertham. ( In the mandir premises )

★ Gowri Theertham. ( In the mandir premises )

★ Kumara Theertham ( In the mandir premises )

★ Vasishta theertham ( In the top of the Hill Cave )

★ Vayu Theertham ( In the Western side of the Hill )

★ Varuna Theerththam ( In the Western side of the Hill )

★ Indhira Theerththam, Andiyur (Mondukuli) ( In the eastern side of the Hill )

★ Yema Theertham, Veppampatty (Southern side of the hill )

★ Anuman theertham, Hanumantheerththam River ( Northern side of the Hill )

FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN THEERTHAMALAI TEMPLE
The temple hosts a series of renowned festivals throughout the year, drawing devotees from far and wide. These include:

1. Masi Brahmmotsavam ( February - March ): This 10-day festival features a grand procession of the presiding Lord. Highlights include a car festival on the 7th day, a wedding festival on the 5th day, and the Sathaparana festival, where the Lord is depicted in a reclining posture on the10thday.

2. Chithirai New Year (April): On this auspicious day, which typically falls on April 14th or a day earlier or later occasionally, special Abishek pujas are conducted with an offering of 365litresofmilk.

3. Navarathri (September-October): This festival spans nine nights and is celebrated with fervor, paying homage to the divine feminine energy.

4. Aadi (July-August): This month-long celebration includes special Abishek ceremonies at night, followed by Girivalam, the circumambulation of the hill, marking a significant spiritual practice.

5. Weekend Devotion: Saturdays and Sundays witness a substantial influx of devotees, creating a vibrant atmosphere of spiritual devotion.

6. Pradosha: This devotionally observed ritual adds an extra layer of sanctity to the temple's regular worship schedule.

7. New Year Celebrations: Both Tamil and English New Year's Days are marked with special observances, symbolizing fresh beginnings and spiritual renewal.

These festivals not only enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the temple but also foster a sense of community and shared devotion among its worshippers. The vibrant tapestry of traditions and celebrations adds to the temple's allure and significance in the hearts of its devotees

PHOTOS OF HOLY WATER IN THE THEERTHAMALAI TEMPLE
AGASTHYA THEERTHAM

RAMAR THEERTHAM

AGNI THEERTHAM

GOWRI THEERTHAM

KUMARA THEERTHAM

Vasishta theertham Inth top of the Hill Cave

Vayu Theertham in Vayu lingam temple

Varuna Theertham in Varuna lingam temple

Indhira Theerththam, Andiyur (Mondukuli)

Yema Theertham, Veppampatty

Anuman theertham, Hanuman theertham River

REFRENCES

 * Theerthamalai
 * https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipOfKy3GzqGN-zeNP0wis9KolHx-ZPW3jpHGSW0bcXDUh7PKmEUpL1gr2hSyggak9A?pli=1&key=VmRuVC1XbW9CLTlSd19obnpqUlpmMHBvMDNxS093
 * https://dharmapuri.nic.in/ta/tourist-place/%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%80%E0%AE%B0%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A4%E0%AE%AE%E0%AE%B2%E0%AF%88-%E0%AE%95%E0%AF%8B%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B2%E0%AF%8D/
 * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ7f_vKqstg&ab_channel=News7Tamil
 * https://temple.dinamalar.com/New.php?id=631

CREATOR INFORMATION
THIS WAS NOT CREATED FOR BUISNESS PURPOSE ONLY FOR EDUCATION

IT WAS CREATED BY :

SUJITH SURIYA

GHS AVVAINAGAR, DHARMAPURI, TAMIL NADU