Vayalur Sri Subramaniya Swamy (Murugan) Temple- Trichy

Address

Vayalur (Kumaravayalur), Tiruchirappalli district,

Tamil Nadu 620021

Moolavar

Sri Subramaniya Swamy

Amman

Valli and Deivanai

Introduction

Location:
The Vayalur Murugan Temple is located in Kumaravayalur village, in Tiruchirapalli district, Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is maintained by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. While the presiding deity is Shiva, the temple is renowned for its shrine dedicated to Murugan.

Puranic Significance

Temple Origins: The Vayalur Murugan Temple dates back to the 9th century and was built by a Chola King.
Arunagirinathar’s Visit:
Arunagirinathar, a 15th-century Tamil poet and devotee of Murugan, initially lived a life of indulgence. After attempting suicide, he was saved by Lord Murugan’s grace. He then composed the famous Thirupugazh hymns in praise of Murugan. During his travels, Arunagirinathar visited Vayalur and sang praises of Murugan. This visit is considered significant in the temple’s history.
The Swayambu Shiva Linga:
According to a legend, a Chola King discovered a Shiva Linga after breaking a sugarcane, from which blood sprang. Upon digging, he found the Linga and built the temple at that spot in honor of Lord Shiva.
Lord Muruga’s Instruction to Arunagirinathar:
After saving Arunagirinathar, Lord Muruga directed him to visit Vayalur. Arunagirinathar prayed to Lord Ganapati first and was blessed with divine inspiration to compose hymns praising Lord Murugan. These hymns, including eighteen praises for Murugan, especially highlight his Vel (spear), his Kadamba flower garland, and his form as Agneeswarar.
Contribution of Kripanandavariar:
In the 20th century, Kripanandavariar, a great devotee of Murugan, played a key role in reviving the temple’s significance, making it one of the prominent Murugan temples in Tamil Nadu.

Beliefs

Blessings for a Prosperous Life:
The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, believed to bless devotees with health, happiness, success, and prosperity.
Healing Powers:
A dip in the temple tank is said to help remove obstacles in life, including issues like Naga Dosha (snake curse) and marital difficulties. Devotees also seek blessings for children, longevity, education, wisdom, and good farm yields.
Common Rituals:
Devotees undertake various commitments, such as tonsuring, ear boring, carrying milk pots, Kavadi offerings, Sashti fasting, and circumambulating the temple for health and spiritual benefits. Shanmugarchana (praising Lord Muruga with sacred names), Shanmuga Yagna, and feeding the poor are common practices.

Special Features

Temple Architecture:
The temple was built during the Chola dynasty in the 9th century and is surrounded by lush green fields. The Rajagopuram (gateway tower) is a prominent feature of the temple.
Moolavar and Other Deities:
The main deity of the temple is Lord Muruga, and the Shiva Sannidhi (shrine for Lord Shiva) is located behind the Moolavar Murugan shrine. There are also shrines for Athi Nathar (Lord Shiva) and Agni Theertham, which is associated with a legend that Lord Muruga himself created the tank using his Vel.
Sthala Vriksham (Sacred Tree):
The temple’s sacred tree is the Vanni tree (Vanni Maram), located near the entrance of the Rajagopuram.

Festivals

Daily Rituals:
The temple performs six rituals daily:
- Kalasanthi: 6:00 a.m.
- Muthalam Kalam: 8:00 a.m.
- Uchikalam: 12:00 p.m.
- Sayarakshai: 6:00 p.m.
- Rendam Kalam: 8:00 p.m.
- Arthajamam: 9:00 p.m.
Special Rituals:
Weekly rituals include Somavaram (Monday) and Sukravaram (Friday), as well as Pradosham (fortnightly), and monthly observances like Amavasai (new moon), Kiruthigai, Pournami (full moon), and Sathurthi.
Key Festivals:
- Vaikasi Visakam (May-June): Celebrating the birth star of Murugan.
- Thai Poosam (January-February).
- Panguni Uthiram (March-April).
- Adi Kirthikai (July-August).
- Thiru Karthikai (October-November).
- Kanda Shasti (November).