Kumaragiri Dhandayuthapani Temple, Salem

Address

Kumaragiri Dhandayuthapani Temple, Kumaragiri, Salem District, TamilNadu- 636015 Phone: +91- 427 – 240 064.

Deity

Dhandayuthapani

Introduction

• Location: The Kumaragiri Temple is situated atop Kumaragiri Hill, requiring pilgrims to ascend over 700 steps to reach the temple. This hill is also known by the same name.
• Deity: The temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga, specifically referred to as Dhandayuthapani, which signifies that he wields the divine weapon called the Dandayudham or Vel.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Background: The temple is believed to be approximately 500 years old, making it a significant site both historically and religiously.
• Rituals: The temple adheres to the pooja rituals outlined in the Karana and Kameeka Agamas, ancient texts that govern temple rituals.
• Arunagirinathar’s Praise: The temple is celebrated in the Thirupugazh Hymns by Arunagirinathar, a revered saint and poet known for his devotion to Lord Muruga.
• Legend of Establishment:
  • The temple’s founding is linked to Saint Karupanna Swamy, who experienced a divine vision of Lord Muruga. In this vision, Lord Muruga instructed him to build a temple at the site where his divine feet could be found on Kumaragiri Hill.
  • The temple’s history includes a notable story involving Lord Muruga’s protest against Lord Shiva’s decision regarding a mango fruit. This tale narrates how Lord Muruga left his home and parents, settling in Palani. During his journey, he paused at Kumaragiri with his peacock vahana (vehicle).
  • A devotee traveling to Palani also rested at this location and heard a divine voice proclaiming, “I am here as Dhandayuthapani.” Although the devotee initially did not comprehend the message, he continued on his journey. Later, Lord Muruga appeared to him in the form of a beggar, handed him a begging bowl, and instructed him to construct a temple where he had heard the voice.
  • With the donations collected via the begging bowl, the temple was established at Kumaragiri. The association with mango fruit offerings reflects the earlier mango tale, and the temple has contributed to Salem’s fame in mango production. Devotees affectionately refer to Lord Muruga as “Mambazha Murugan”, meaning “Mango Muruga.”

Beliefs

• Devotional Practices: Devotees offer mango fruit nivedhana (offerings) to Lord Dhandayuthapani seeking blessings for marriage and childbirth. Common practices include:
  • Carrying milk pots as offerings.
  • Offering cocks.
  • Performing tonsure as a commitment of prayer.

Festivals

• The temple hosts several festivals where devotees engage in rituals and offer mango fruits to Lord Dhandayuthapani, particularly seeking blessings for marriage and children.

Century/Period/Age

500 Years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Kumaragiri

Nearest Railway Station

Salem Station

Nearest Airport

Coimbatore, Trichy

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