Subramaniya Swamy Temple: Perched 700 feet above sea level, the beautiful temple of Lord Muruga at Tiruttani stands proudly atop a single rock, showing a breathtaking panoramic view amidst the hills. Located 13 kilometers from Arakkonam and 84 kilometers from Chennai on the Chennai-Mumbai route, this sacred site carries a special place in the hearts of devotees.
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Surrounded by famous religious destinations like Kancheepuram to the South, Sholingar and Vallimalai to the West, Tirupati and Kalahasti to the North, and Tiruvalangadu to the East, Tiruttani is a hub of spiritual energy.
Puranic Significance of Tirutanikai
Among Lord Murugan’s six Padaiveedus, Tirutanikai stands out as the crown jewel. Its name, “Shantipuri” or “Abode of Peace,” remembers the divine tranquility experienced by devotees who seek comfort here. Legend has it that Lord Murugan’s righteous wrath against asuras found resolution at Tirutanikai.
In Treta Yuga, Lord Rama found peace of mind here after defeating Ravana, while Arjuna sought blessings during his Teertha Yatra in Dwapara Yuga. Even Lord Vishnu regained his powerful symbols, Cakra and Shanku, at Tiruttani.
Historical and Literary Meaning
Tiruttani’s grandeur is not limited to puranic tales. Saint Arunagirinathar, Saint Ramalinga Swamigal, and Sri Muttuswami Deekshitar have all discovered inspiration and divine connections on this sacred hill. The hill is praised as a chosen place for worship by devas and a favorite abode of saints practicing austerities.
Unique Features of Tiruttani
Saravana Poikai:
The holy tank at the foot of the hill, known as Saravanapoikai, is celebrated for its mineral-rich, curative waters. A dip in this holy tank rejuvenates the body and mind, preparing devotees for heartfelt worship.
Sapta Rishi Teertham:
In a garden south of the sacred hill, the Seven Rishis worshipped Lord Muruga. Sapta Kannikas (Seven Virgins) are enshrined in a tiny temple at this serene location.
Annual Festivals
Aadi Krittikai (July-August):
A three-day festival with a Float Festival attracts devotees from far and wide. Witnessing lakhs of devotees taking flower kavadis and chanting “Haro Hara!” is a fascinating experience.
December 31st Step Festival:
As the old year gives way to the new, devotees ascend the hill at midnight on December 31st to seek the Lord’s blessings for peace and prosperity in the coming year. This unique festival, instituted during the British Raj, involves bhajana parties singing Tiruppugazh songs and burning camphor on each of the hill’s 365 steps.
Tiruttani, with its rich history, puranic significance, and unique features, continues to captivate the hearts of devotees, making it a divine destination on the spiritual map.