Ratnagiri BalaMurugan Temple, Vellore

Address

Ratnagiri BalaMurugan Temple, Ratnagiri Kilminnal, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu 632517

Deity

Balamurugan Amman: Valli and Devasena.

Introduction

• Location: The Balamurugan Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is situated atop Thirumanikundram Hill in Rathnagiri Village, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu. This ancient temple, believed to have been built around the 14th century, is accessible by climbing 130 steps to reach the hillock’s summit.
• Historical Context: According to ancient scriptures, where there is a hill, there is Lord Murugan. Originally an ordinary sand structure, the temple has been transformed into a magnificent stone shrine over time. Rathnagiri is a quaint village along the route from Chennai to Bangalore. The temple is part of a collection of significant shrines known as Kundruthoradal, which includes notable temples like Tiruchendur and Tiruparankundram.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Timeline: Though the temple was likely established over 1000 years ago, it fell into disrepair until a devoted individual visited in 1968. This devotee, after witnessing the temple’s dilapidated state, became a saint and dedicated his life to its restoration. His efforts resulted in the temple’s reconstruction, leading to the establishment of its current grandeur.
• Swami Balamurugan Adimai: The saint who played a pivotal role in reviving the temple was Bala Murugan Adimai, also known as Swami Balamurugan Adimai. Born on January 24, 1941, in the village of Kilminnal, he experienced a divine awakening on March 20, 1968, which motivated him to vow not to leave until the temple was restored to its former glory. He has since become a revered figure, providing spiritual guidance to many devotees.

Special Features

• Deities and Iconography: The sanctum enshrines Bala Murugan along with his consorts, Valli and Devasena. The presiding deity’s idol is notably beautiful, surrounded by small niche images of Ganesha, Dhakshinamoorthi, Murugan, Brahma, and Durga, with Chandikeswara located near Brahma.
• Temple Structure: Separate pathways for ascending and descending the hill ensure convenience for devotees. A granite chariot was constructed for the main deity during renovations. Two temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha are located at both the foothill and hilltop.
• Decor and Atmosphere: The temple features a golden chariot for circumambulating the shrine and is adorned with gold, silver, and precious stones. The three-story-high ceilings, supported by large pillars, protect pilgrims from the sun while ensuring ample airflow. The temple maintains a clean environment, with granite floors providing a soothing surface for worshippers.
• Cultural Significance: Unique to this temple, prayers and archanai (holy verses) are recited in Tamil, allowing local devotees to connect deeply with the divine. It is believed that the temple’s divine power manifests in three forms: through the idol of Lord Murugan, through Swami Balamurugan Adimai, and through the devotees themselves.

Festivals

• Skanda Shasthi: The most significant and auspicious festival at the Balamurugan Temple is Skanda Shasthi, during which thousands of devotees gather to express their devotion and respect to Lord Murugan.
• Aadi Kruthukai: Another important festival celebrated in July-August, Aadi Kruthukai is observed with great enthusiasm, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of the local community.

Century/Period/Age

14th century.

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Ranipet

Nearest Railway Station

Vellore

Nearest Airport

Chennai

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