Why are there no Divya Desams in the Coimbatore region?

 Gautham

1.There was no need. This is my view with historic perspective.

2.Karamadai Ranganatha Perumal Temple is equivalent to 107th Divyadesam.

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Historic Reasons:

1.Tamil Kingdoms were captured by Kalappirayars (read as Biharis/ Northern Kingdoms) by revolt and Shramanic religions (Buddhism, Jainism, Ajvika) were imposed. The Brahmins were executed, the Princes were Jailed and Endowments to temples were stopped. The period from 3rd to 7th century is the darkest period in Tamil History.

2.Bhakti Movement by 64 Nayanmars and 12 Azhwars revived Saivism, Sri Vaishnavism and replaced Shramanic Religions.

3.What are Divyadesams? During Bhakti Movement from 7th to 10th Century, Azhwars visited many Vishnu Temples and sung the glory of the Lord and those temples are called Divyadesams. The sacred text is Nalayira Divya Prabandham (4000 Sacred verses on Perumal).

4.Ganga Dynasty was ruling Kongu region from 5th to 10th century. They were supported by Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas during that time. Azhwars never visited these regions.

5.Kongu region came under Chozhas during 11th century. Ramanujar, founder of Vishistadvaitam did visit many Sri Vaishnavism Temples in Kongu region during Chozha regime.

6.Karamadai Perumal Temple, as I mentioned at the beginning, visited by Ramanujar during 11th century and it follows rituals of Thenkalai Sri Vaishnavism sect, head quartered at Nanguneri. The temple was built by Chozhas and expanded by Tirumalai Naicker in 17th century.Maasi festival is an important festival.

7. In otherwords, Kongu is a Punya Bhoomi. It came under Chozhas only in 10th century and hence no Divyadesam.

Hope I answered your question with the best of my knowledge.

Opening of Major Temples in Tamil Nadu

Do you think these temples are constructed by Brahmins or Other so called upper classes?

No.

It is constructed by all classes- locals and expert Shilpis.

That means the “not allowing certain people has come in between”

When?

When Tamil country is in chaos- exactly end of 17th century onwards.

There were lot of players - family feuds of rulers, Marathas, Nawabs, Nizams, Portuguese, Dutch, French and British.

All around- every player had spies, they want to loot treasures, local individuals were targeted. Rulers, temple authorities had suspicion - but they could not single out. This resulted into mass ban of communities.

Normally, these bans are lifted whenever normalcy return. But unfortunately, that peace never happened, gone into the hands of European invaders.

On the otherday, I saw an eminent NRI person on social media dragged the issue of ‘banning his community to tiruchendur temple’. I do not know mentioning the community here is appropriate.

I am also completely against ‘not allowing’ anyone by birth. But only clarify the reason in that timeline.

Here is the Tiruchendur episode: of Dutch fortifying the temple and stealing the idol for money.

Kayalpattinum was the trade center then with Dutch and Portuguese. Dutch had a base at Ceylon. Portugese and Dutch were at Kayalpattinam, Tuticorin for the trading spices to Europe.

One incident to remember and one of its kind is that Dutch occupied the temple of Tiruchendur at a time when the king was in war with Bijapur Sultan and looted the treasures.

When the king returned victorious, Dutch try to set fire the temple and moved to Ceylon along with the deity idol and treasures. They demanded 100000 reals for the idol. Travancore king was ready to bid for the idol. He was requested not to buy the idol.

Madurai King managed to get the idol by warning and attacking the island region with the help of Kandy kings.

After getting the idol, the investigations done by Tinnevely officials revealed that the details of treasures were taken by spies from toddy shops. Now the ruling is that not allowing the people involved in toddy making and selling.

Normally, these bans are lifted whenever normalcy return. But unfortunately, that peace never happened, gone into the hands of otherEuropean invaders.

Only, time need to be blamed and there were our own people, helped the invaders- both Brahmins or others. Some did help, others suffered because of them.

What are the famous Kartikeya temples outside Tamil Nadu?

 OLD IS GOLD:

Outside the Tamil Nadu region, the oldest temples can be found in Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka where ancient seafaring empires like the Chozha Empire and Vijayanagara Empire spread their dominions.

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MODERN:

“Do not live in a village where there is no temple” says a Tamil Proverb.

In the early modern period, Mauritius, Fizi, Malaysia, Singapore and Suriname have seen many temples being built, as the Indian Diaspora settled across these areas over the past 250-300 years.

We will start with the famous list:

1.Muruga Cave Temple, Malaysia

Batu Cave Temple and Lord Murugan Statue is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and home to tallest statue of Lord Murugan in the world.

2.Kathirgamam Murugan Movil, Sinhala Region, Sri Lanka:

Ruhunu Maha Kataragama devalaya in Sinhala
Kathirgamam Murugan Kovil in Tamil

Maha Devale/murugan Kovil

3.Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, Tamil region, Sri Lanka

Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in the Jaffna district of Sri Lanka is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Sri Lanka.

4.Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, Fiji

Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple in Nadi is the largest Hindu Temple in Fiji. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Murugan and witness very large numbers of devotees.

5. Shri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, Myanmer

6.Subramaniam Temple - Ho Chill Minh, Vietnam

7.Sri Thendayutthapani Temple - Ho Chill Minh, Vietnam

8.Sri Velmurugan Temple, England

9.Murugan Temple, Roermond, the Netherlands

10.Sri Sivasubramaniar Temple, Switzerland

11.Murugan Temple, Sydney, Australia

12.Murugan Temple, Melbourne, Australia

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The list excludes, the Karthikeya temples in other parts of India.

The Murugan Worship and rituals followed by Tamils are different and standardised by a Tamil Mystic Arunagiri Nathar in 15th Century. Murugan is worshipped with two consorts - Valli and Deivayani.

The list of 12 temples mentioned above follows the rituals of “Aru Padai Veedu’’ Murugan Worship. There are Murugan Temples on the same lines in Southern and Western Karnataka, Seema Andhra and Sri Balamurugan Temple (Madrasi Mandir) in Hatkeshwar, Ahmedabad.

VEERA VEL VETRI VEL.

What is your view on naming the new Motera stadium as 'Narendra Modi Stadium' and two ends as 'Adani End' and 'Ambani End'?

 1

A decade before, without google map,

In a hurry to watch IPL first time in Ahmedabad,

I landed in Sardar Vallabhai Patel Stadium

In Navrangpura locality in City Center

Instead of Motera Sardar Patel Stadium

In Ranip locality on the outskirts .

Yes. Need to be distinguished with different name.

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2

I was standing in Ardha Mandapam of a temple;

Garbha Graham was screened;

My eyes spotted a tubelight frame worth 150 Rs;

Where it was painted in Red on a White frame-

‘ Vaiyapuri Pillai- Ulagammai Ubhayam’

When I came out of the temple, I learned that

India bowled out England

Twice in a matter of 2 days in Ahmedabad Test,

Both from Reliance as well as Ambani End.

Why is only Lord Murugan specifically called Tamil god (Thamizh Kadavuzh)? Will it be okay to call other deities using this title?

 Part I : Language

Tamizh is Murugan and

Murugan is Tamizh.

You must read a master piece “Tamil Pirappu Rahasyam” by one Mr N R V Appasamy in his blogspot (7 articles). It is not appreciated to give a link of it in Quora, I am providing a gist of his first article “What is in a Sound”.

It is a belief among Tamils that they are one of the first civilized society which existed alongwith Rock and Sand in this planet. Like other socities of this holy land, they worshipped first nature, then kuldev before identified as Saivities worshipping Shiv, including its tantric rituals of Sakthism and Shaiva Siddhantam. Their agamas are pre vedic.

#According to legends, Agasthiyar got the Tamil Language from God Shiva and written Tamil Grammer and its Syntex to the Tamil people in Podhigai Hills.

#One litmus test for any classical language is its Structue with Sound (Uyir Mei Mantram), corresponding light (Visual Form) and environment (Mandalam). Simply put Mantra, Yantra and Mandalam.

#Lord of Kurinji (Podhigai Hills) is Murugan, a War God. Kurunji is one of five landscapes mentioned in Sangam literature referring to Hill and adjacent areas. He has chosen as the Yantra or Visual Form of Tamil.

Yantra [form] - Light:

The visual form of Tamil language is Lord Muruga. He is born on the day of suklapaksha (sixth day of bright half of lunar month) carried by Lord Agni (Manipuragam Chakram) with six faces (2x6 vowels; 3x6 consonants), wield a Vel (spear or ak or ayudham). His beauty can be well defined as that of sun’s rays and is considered as a war God. (Anahatam Chakram). Worshipping this form makes one Success in wars and endurance.

Mantiram [Tamil Sounds] - Sound

Visuddhi Chakram- a aa e ee u uu ae aea I o oo ou (uyir) [Communication]
Anahatam heart chakram and Manipura chakram (mei) [Warrior & Materialism]
Right – ka sa da ta pa ra (Hard consonants)
Left - ngha nggha na nha ma nhha (Soft consonants)
Swadhistanam - Ya, ra, va, la, lha, zha (Eternal consonants)
Aagya – Ak (Ayutha) (vision-trinetra)

Mandalam - Environment

The mandalam or piece of environment where it puts its ownership rights and encompasses cosmic elements of temples, art, architecture and music. The mandalam will act as an auric centre (protective seal) and the effect is now felt in the subtler dimension of consciousness of over 70 million people.

Tamizh is Murugan and

Murugan is Tamizh.

It is appropriate to consider Murugan as the Forefather of Tamizhians as they breathe Tamizh Vibrations 21600 times a day.

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Annexure:

How to worship Lord Muruga? Read below:

Rituals in Six Abodes are unique to Murugan:

One of the main traditions of the six abodes, is the mottai or tonsuring of devotees, who vow to discard their hair. Another is the anointing of the tonsured head with raktha (red) sandalwood paste, at night. The paste, upon being allowed to stay overnight, is said to energise devotees.

Devotees carry kavadi, wearing spiritual clothes, walking on foot from long distances, body piercing are commonly followed worship practice.

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Part 2: Winning Territories

Murugan is Victory;

Lord of Conquering New Territories.

Politics and History:

Like Europeans brought Christianity and Persians and Turks brought Islam, Tamils taken Murugan (a war god) Worship or Kaumaram to conquered South East Asian Countries. Read the account here:

Indian Invasions:

South of Vindhyas, had Empires powerful enough to attack any country- Cheras, Chozhas, Vijayanagara, Marathas. They did it many times in various point in centuries. But their focus was South East.

Examples:Cheran Senguttavan, Raja Raja Chozhan, Pandiyan Nedunchzhian, Prauda Devaraya II, Kumara Krishnappa Naicker.

In fact, Hinduism was flourishing during 13th to 18th centuries, under Vijayanagara Empire / Marathas while the North was bambarded by Invasions.

Hinduism never taught us to leave your self esteem and remain slaves.

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Bhakti Movement of 64 Nayanmars (Shaivism) and 12 Alwars (Sri Vaishnavism) uprooted the Shramanic religions from Central/ Eastern Himalayas and foreign languages from our land in 9th century.

15th Century saw Mystic Arunagirinathar supported by Vijayanagara Empires / Madurai Naicker to take the Murugan Worship (Kaumaram) to Buddhist countries in South East Asia. These Emperors/Kings invaded Ceylon, Burma and other South Eastern Countries.

Murugan is Victory;

Conquering New Territories.

How much would it cost to start a cotton mill in India?

 A Study of listed big corporates in India, in 2021, shows that investment needed to set up a Cotton Spinning Mill is 34000 Rs per Spindle.

A cotton mill of economic size, say 25,000 spindles need an investment of 85 Cr.

A Big mill normally have 1 Lac + Spindles capacity.

How different is Tamil spoken in Sri Lanka to the Tamil spoken in India?

 In Mainland, Tamil has many diaelects, varies every 200 Kms- like Tinnevely Tamil, Madurai Tamil, Kongu Tamil, Tanjavur Tamil and the great Madras Basha.

One may find different regional words in use and slight variation in slang, but can be understood easily.

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A Malayali from Kerala, an another Indian State, can understand Sri Lankan Tamil but a Mainland Tamil find it difficult to undertand Sri Lankan Tamil. Such is the beauty of it.

Vazhga Tamizh.

Why did Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu travel to South India?

 

1. Sri Chaitanya is well versed in Brahmanic Vaishnavism as practiced in North India which is based on an avatar of Vasudev Krsna.
2. South India Practiced Sri Vaisnavisn and worshipped Narayana, called Perumal. Sri Vaishnavism is rich with literature (Nalayira Divya Prabhandam or 4000 verses on Lord Vishnu is their sacred text) due to Bhakti Movement of Alwars during 7 to 9 century. They travelled and established 108 Divyadesams all over India and in other world. Mystic Ramanuja and his followers established Rituals to be followed.
3. Sri Chaitanya astonished seeing the grandness of these works, got inspired, read the literature and started applying the principles in Gaudiya Vaishnavism.

Annexure:Sri Vaishnavism:

Want to taste the difference in South and North- read below:

1. You may be thinking, Vaishnavism and Sri Vaishnavism are same. It is not.
2. The complex history is reflected in the two main historical denominations of Vishnuvism.
3. South India worship Vishnu or Narayana, called Perumal as their founder, and are followers of Mayonism or Sri Vaishnavism.
4. While North regard Vasudeva-Krsna as their founder and are followers of Brahmanic Vaishnavism.
5. To make it little complicated, Sri Vaishnavism has two sects, Vadakalai (head quartered Kanchi) and Thenkalai(head quartered Nanguneri, Tirunelveli Dist).
6. Have you ever heard of Gaudiya Vaishnavism or ISKCON?

South has its own Mystics 12 Azhwars (64 Nayanmars of Shaivism, Sakthism and Murugan Worship) to follow and do not give much weightage to an Avatar Raman who is also present but more prominant elsewhere.

1. The Sanskrit Bhagavata Purana is essentially a Sanskrit "translation" of the bhakti of the Tamil alvars.
2. Sri Vaishnavism flourished in predominantly Shaivite South India during the seventh to tenth centuries CE with the twelve Alvars. One can find idols of 12 always in Northern side of temples within first enclosure.
3. Early writings in Tamil culture Sangam literatures, Tholkappiam and epics as Manimekalai and the Cilappatikaram present Mayon / Vishnu/ Perumal. References about Krishna can be found in Manimekalai and Cilappadikaram.
4. The Alvars, whose name can be translated "sages" or "saints", were devotees of
1. Mal -
2. Tiru Mal-
3. Sri and Mal-
4. Sri and her Pati-
5. Tiru and her Pati -
6. Tirupati. and there are 108 Tirupatis.
5. Vaishnavism in the 8th century came into contact with the advaidya doctrine of Adi Shankarar.
6. Many of the early Sri Vaishnava scholars such as Nathamuni, Yamunacharya and Ramanuja, contested the Advaita Vedanta doctrines and proposed Vishnu bhakti ideas instead.
7. Sri Vaishnavism flourished in predominantly Shaivite South India during the seventh to tenth centuries CE with the twelve Alvars, (many are non brahmins, including kings and others from all communities) saints who spread the sect to the common people with their devotional hymns. The temples that the Alvars visited or founded ( ritual certifications - present day ISO) are now known as Divya Desams and there are 108 TiruPatis or Divyadesams.
1. Tirumala Tirupati is one among them and
2. Yes, worlds largest functioning hindu temple Sri Rangam also one among them and
3. Richest temple Tiru Anantha Puram included.
4. Worlds Tallest Temple Gopuram in 1956,(Sri Rangam since 1987) and Tamil Nadu State Emblem, Tiruvilliputtur Andal (who wrote Tiruppavai) temple also one of Divya Desam.
5. One can find Vishnu in any of these three, lying, sitting and standing positions in Divyadesams.
8. Their poems in praise of Vishnu in Tamil language are collectively known as Naalayira Divya Prabandham(4000 divine verses).
9. Many of the Vijayanagara Emperors and their feudatory kings of Madurai, Tanjavur, Chenji, Chandragiri, Mysore who ruled South for over three centuries from 14th till 18th century are predominantly Sri Vaishnavites.

Can South Indians use a mother’s name as an initial?

 Elavarasan Anand,

In TN, a Government Order has been passed on 13.4.2003, by Jayalalitha Government that either of the parents can lend their name as initial to their children.

A Tamil film in 2004 titled on the same lines as

M Kumaran (Son of Mahalakshmi)

Having said that, we do not know anyone followed this GO and suffered in its implication in Passport, Aadhar and other documents.

And also how Central Government offices in other states as well as in TN (where other state officers are heavily imported), handled this and how many are victimized or delayed is not surfaced so far.

Everyone is aware how an eminent IPS officer Kiran Bedi, though highly educated, who is not the daughter of the soil, handled the situation badly in Puducherry.

Why are some Indian names so much longer than other Indian names? Do they seem very long to Indians?

 Yes. Some Indian Names in the past.

Things are changing now.

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There is a belief,

“Recite God’name always

Life goes in vain-

If you do not sing God’s praise.

Sing God’s name ceaselessly -

You will be freed of birth and death.

Yama(God of death) will be afraid to approach you.

Recite God’s name always.

And attain freedom, bliss and peace.”

How to recite God’s name ceaselessly? They name their children with the God’s name. Keep on calling their child (recitimg God’s name) - twin purpose.

“Power of Name:

Name is powerful

Name is great purifier

Name helps one to cross this life

Name is God

Name is the truth

Name is the means

Name is the end

Name is your goal

Name is your Grand Father

Always recite the name

And attain the eternal now”

-Japa Yoga

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An extreme example:

The parents named their child who born after two decades of their marriage with the grace of Gods they worshipped, with the blessing of a saint,

Included names of all Gods they prayed and included to their child’ name, included the nick name of the saint, then included the name of their family God and it is one of the longest name in Tamil Nadu, an Indian state.

“Ravilla (Surname) Paper Ananda (name of one mystic saint from Kutrala ilanji) Ramachandra Venkatachala Surappa Sankaranayana (first name- which is also the name of his grandfather and GFs brothers as he is the heir to all their families) Appaswamy (Last Name).

Or

P R V S S Appaswamy”

No of digits for exceed the provisions in any digital platform.

Why are Sri Lankan Vellalars fairer than Tamil Vellallars?

 Anonymous-

Which side you belong to?

• Many of us, may not be knowing how fair Sri Lankan Vellalars are?

Be specific:

• In Mainland of 70 million population, there are many Vellalars, classified based on historic countries (Chozhiya, Pandiya, Kongu, Thondai Mandala, Tuluva, Aru Nattu, Kotte etc);
• within country there are sub divisions,
• again classified as FC, BC, MBC, SC after independence for reservation.
• It run anywhere between 800 subdivisions in 8 broader classifications.

Put in comments, which vellalar you are comparing with.

Points to Ponder: Is Parakrama Bahu VI, a Sinhala King, a Nan Kudi Vellalar (Sri Vaikundam Kotte Pillaimar)?

We have goddesses called Meenakshi (fish eyed) , Padmakshi (lotus eyed) , Kamakshi, Visalakshi etc - but no goddess with names like blue eyed, green eyed, brown eyed, etc. Why?

 It is not directly related. It can be inferred.

You are referring Goddesses of Sakthi Pithas/ Ten Mahavidyas.

Eyes represent Fire element in the world of creation with 5 elements.

Mahavidyas depict Energy centers with visible and invisible spectral lights.

We will see some Example of yours:

Meenakshi is Energy of Knowledge - in the of spectrum of VIBGYOR, it comes somewhere in fourth quadrant, as Blue/ Green.

Kamakshi is Raja Rajeshwari, Energy of Desire - it comes somewhere in first quadrant, as Red Orange.

What universities existed in Tamil Nadu during the Sangam age similar to Takshasila and Nalanda?

 Kanchi is great University than Takshila and Nalanda.

In the history, whatever is destroyed wifully have been declared heritage sites.

Takshila and Nalanda are destroyed Study Centres while Kanchi could change the fortunes of its land, and its alummis revenged invading turks, pers and eurs to establish a Hindu kingdom which lasted from 14th to 17th century.

Takshila and Nalanda are in the memories brought over centuries hearsay whereas Kanchi have been vibrant with many temples, sects, cultures, innovations and pioneering.

If one has to exclaim contributions, it is Kanchi or Kanchipuram in present day Tamil Nadu.

But hardly anyone knows it. That is Indian History.

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History:

Kanchipuram is one of the most-ancient cities of southern India and traces its history to the 2nd century BCE as an early Chazha capital.

From the 3rd to the 9th century CE, it was the Pallava capital.

From the 10th to the 13th century, it served as the late Chola government headquarters.

An important Vijayanagar town from the 15th to the 17th century. Many temples expanded by Saluva Narasimha, Krishnadevaraya and Achuta Devaraya. Endowments were given to Ekambareswar and Athi Varadha Perumal Kovil.

It was conquered by Golcunda and Maratha armies in the late 17th century.

By the British in the 18th century, after which it was twice sacked by the French.

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Pilgrimage and Study Centre:

Throughout its history, Kanchipuram remained an important pilgrimage centre.

In its early years it was a Jain, Buddhist and Hindu centre of learning.

The great Sri Vaishnavite philosopher Ramanujar (of trio Adhi Sankarar, Ramanujar, Madhuvar) (traditionally dated 1017–1137) was educated there.

Now considered one of the seven great sacred Hindu cities in India, it contains 108 Shaiva and 18 Vaishnava temples.

Vadakalai Sect of Sri Vaisnavism is head quartered here.

Also a modern centre of learning, it has several colleges affiliated with the University of Madras in Chennai.

Which are the countries where Tamil is one of the its National language?

 The Tamil diaspora refers to descendants of the Tamil immigrants who emigrated from their native lands to other parts of the world.

Native Lands/ Official Languages

1.Tamil Nadu- Dependent entity & Official Language

2.Auroville- Dependent entity

3.Puducherry- Dependent entity & Official Language

4.Haryana- Former Dependent entity & Official Language

5.Sri Lanka- Official language

6.Singapore- Official Language

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Minority Language:

Malaysia - Minority Language

Mauritius-Minority Language

South Africa-Minority Language

Tamils are also found in, (where chances of official language in upcoming years):

Myanmar- No, Sometimes face discrimination

Canada- No

Australia- No

New Zealand- No

Europe- No

US- No

Fiji- No

Unrecognised Territories, where Tamil an official language:

Tamil Ealam

Kailaasa- a digital Hindu nation

A word for our internalization?

Many countries and Indian States graciously accepted Tamil as official/minority language for their minority.

In a similar gesture, what are the official languages recognised by Tamil Nadu other than Tamil for their minority linguistic population?

Should TN Government show a similar gesture?

Saraswati River doesn't exist indeed, but why does the branch of Luni River include Saraswati river as its headwater near Pushkar in Rajasthan?

 “Saraswat” means water in solid form or a holy form rich with forever freshness.

So Saraswati river is a generic term, does not represent any specific river.

In prayag raj or Triveni Sangam, Saraswat represents the presence of Sukshma form of Glacier Solid Water.

If you trace the Ganges, up to Dev Prayag and beyond till origination of Alak Nanda- the clear blue color Glacier river, called Saraswati River short lived merging with Pancha Tara Streams at Mana village.

Learn from now-

Saraswat” means water in solid form from a glacier or a holy form rich with forever freshness.

Are all Tamils Dalits and are all sinhala considered Brahmins?

 This answer is specific to the original questioner “Helmand Silva”

On his question:

Are all Tamils Dalits and are all sinhala considered Brahmins?

Let us understand the history,

1. The Varna System of “Brahmins and Sudras ( Dalits?)” is applicable to region North of Vindhyas and South of Himalayas earlier. (The terms Originated from an erstwhile country called “Aryavardha” in North West Corner of the sub continent)
2. During 3rd Century, the Hinduism (Saktheism) focused more on rituals including animal and human sacrifices.
3. This lead to the revolt against the Brahmins in North by Sudras( Dalits?). Sudras executed Brahmins who performed these rituals.
4. The revolt spread to Maharashtra, and revolters from North reached Kanchi, Chozha, Pandiyan countries before reaching the Island nation.(Note the size of Island nation is about few polypats of that of Pandya Kingdom)
5. Sudra (Dalit)Revolters from Avadh, Magadh, Maharashtra Sata Vahanas, Kalingas toppled Governments in South as well by captivating the Princes, putting them in jail. New rulers stopped endowment to Temples and their monks ensured “no such bali rituals” watching from nearby hillock beds.
6. The revolters are called “Kalabhras” (Kalappirayars in Tamil) and locals had no clue from where they came and what language they spoke.
7. The period between 3rd and 7th century is called “Darkest Period” and all lieterary work came standstill, they imposed Shramanic religions on locals.
8. Bhakti Movement of 64 Nayanmars and 12 Azhwars from 7th to 9th century saw the revival of Shaivism and Vaishnavism and uprooted the Shramanic religions from TN.
9. The Island nation is untouched during Bhakti Movements till 12th century and Sudras of North India mingled with locals of Island Nation and their descendants practice Shramanic religions.
10. During 15th century, there was an effort to convert Buddhist countries in South East Asia to Kaumaram (Murugan Worship) by a mystic Arunagiri Nathar Patronised by Vijayanagara Emperor Prauda Devaraya II. His commander Lakkanna defeated Ceylon and installed a small polygar at Kandy which paved the formation of Kota Dynasty at Kandy.
11. During 16th Century, (after Talikata War 1547) Kandy stopped paying tribute to Vijayanagara Empire. Kumara Krisnappa Naicker of Madurai captured Kandy again, changed the reigns to Sithawakas and rebuilt Kataragama Temple. This time he made Gopala Naidu, his brother in law as Viceroy to oversee the tributes are paid in time to accept sovereignity. But successive rulers of Madurai, Tanjavur and Chenji are secular and focused on trade. They had marital alliance and supported the Kandy kingdom till 1815.
12. Yes. If we apply North Indian Varna profession based Classification System (Is it relevant in today's era?) Sinhalese are descendants of Sudras (Dalits?) from Magadh to Kalinga regions who embraced Shramanic religions.
13. and
14. Island Tamils follow the caste system of Mainland Tamils.
15. Either putting a scale of Varnas or Caste system is condemnable in today's digital era where anyone take any profession.

Religion is Politics; Whereas Spirituality is Not.

Do Tamils want a separate country?

 Yes. They want a separate country in Sri Lanka since 1980s and named it as “ Tamizh Ealam”.

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Tamils are the victims by Sri Lankan Nationals.

Yes.

Sri Lankan Population is only 2 Cr, one fourth of Indian State of TN. And Plantation Tamils are about 4% or 8 lakhs and Sri Lankan Tamils are about 11% or 22 lakhs. (Chennai population is 1 crore).

Let us see the break up of demographics in timeline:

In 1931,

Sinhalese :65%

Indian Plantation Tamils:15%

Sri Lankan Tamils:11%

Moors:5%

Description of who is who and what has happened from 1931 till 2012:

The Sinhalese make up 74.9% (up from 65%) of the population and are concentrated in the densely populated south-west and central parts of the island.

Sri Lankan Tamils (Sri Lankan Natives and Malayalis migrated to Sri Lanka in 12th century, they speak Malayalam and Tamil scripts are used for writing. They alongwith Sinhalese raised the voice in 1960s to drive out Plantation Tamils from Sri Lanka) who live predominantly in the North and East of the island, form the largest minority group remained same from 1931,at 11.1% (according to the 2012 census) of the population.

The Moors descendants of Arab traders that settled in Sri Lanka and married local women, form the third largest ethnic group at 9.3% (up from 5%)of the population.

There are also Indian Tamils who form a distinct ethnic group comprising 4.1% (down from 15% in 1931)of the population.

The British brought them to Sri Lanka in the 19th century as tea and rubber plantation workers, and they remain concentrated in the "tea country" of south-central Sri Lanka.

What is the reason for the decline from 15% to 4%:

In 1960s Sri Lankan Tamils ( Sri Lankan Natives and Malayalis who migrated to Sri Lanka in 12th century. they speak Malayalam and Tamil scripts are used for writing) alongwith Sinhalese raised the voice in 1960s to drive out Tamils from Sri Lanka.

The Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka were considered to be "stateless" and over 300 000 Indian Tamils were deported back to India, due to the agreement between Sri Lanka and India in 1964. Remaining were made Sri Lankan citizens in trenches till 2003.

In a nation of 2 cr population where majority (Sinhalese) cannot take along the minorities and another minority(Sri Lankan Tamils) alongwith majority drive out Tamils and made them stateless.

Majority turned against Minority Sri Lankan Tamils since 1980s is another history and now Sri Lankan Tamils fight with Sinhalese and want a separate nation - Tamil Ealam.

Temple Series 8: Why is God Kartikeya known as Subrahmanyam?

 Lord Murugan, at certain period of time in cosmic evolution, took the role of “Creator” and Perfected the role and hence called Su+Brahma+ nyan.

The Famous Story Behind Swamimalai Murugan Temple

Swamimalai holds a special place in the hearts of Murugan devotees. The temple is said to have been built in early 2nd century BC by Parantaka Chola I. It is the fourth of six Aarupadaiveedu (the six most significant shrines dedicated to Murugan in Tamil Nadu) and is important because this is when and where the secret of the Pranava Mantra “Aum” was revealed.

The child Murugan reveals the meaning of the Pranava Mantra (Aum); Pranava means “cosmic sound” in Sanskrit. Hindus believe the whole universe is created from “Aum” and that everything has its origin in “Aum”. Swamimalai is closely linked to the story of how the meaning of this cosmic sound was revealed by Lord Murugan to his father, Lord Shiva.

Once Brahma, the Lord of all creation, disrespected Murugan when he was visiting Mount Kailash. Then, the ever-playful Murugan boldly asked Brahma the meaning of the Pranava Mantra “AUM”. Failing to answer the question, Brahma admitted his ignorance. Murugan knocked his forehead, and imprisoned Brahma, bringing the whole of creation to a standstill.

The demigods prayed to Lord Shiva for the release of Brahma. But Murugan insisted the imprisonment was a just punishment for Brahma's ignorance. Lord Shiva then asked Murugan whether he Himself knew the meaning of Pranava “Aum”.

Murugan said he knew its meaning, but would only explain it if Lord Shiva accepted him as a guru and listened to him as a devoted disciple. Shiva accepted the request, and the son became the teacher. He then imparted upon the father the meaning of the sacred Pranava mantra “Aum” and the divine father, proud of understanding the significance, conferred respect to Murugan for his wisdom.

You will see in the main shrine in the temple complex in Swamimalai that Murugan is depicted as a teacher and Shiva is listening as a disciple and, in this temple, the son is on a higher pedestal than the father.

Temple Series 7: How many Lord Vishnu temples are there in India and where are they all?

 No of Temples:

There is a proverb in Tamil:

“Do not live in a village where there is no Temple”

That means, there are as many or more temples as the number of villages in India.

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No of Ancient Temples:

I do not know about whole of India, but in Tamil Nadu itself there are 38615 ancient temples of 800 to 5000 years old. It covers entire spectrum of Shaivite, Vaishavite, Shakti, Murugan and Vinayakar and few Jain temples.

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Lord Vishnu Temples:

There are 108 Vishnu Temples in Indian Subcontinent certified as “Divya Desams” by 12 Tamil Mystics Alwars. These temples still follow “Mangalasan” or “Standardised worship rituals”as prescribed by Alwars and other Teachers in 5–9 th centuries and later.

These 108 Divyadesams include:

1.Tirumala Tirupati, the temple patronised by Vijayanagara Emperors.

2.Yes, worlds largest functioning hindu temple ThiruvaRangam (or Sri Rangam) also one among them.

3.Richest temple Tiru Anantha Puram included.

4.Worlds Tallest Temple Gopuram in 1956 and Tamil Nadu State Emblem, Thiruvilliputtur (or Srivilliputtur) Andal (who wrote Tiruppavai) temple.

5.The 106 earthly Divya Desam temples are spread over the Indian states of

Tamil Nadu (85),

Kerala (11),

Uttar Pradesh(4),

Uttarakhand (3),

Andhra Pradesh (2),

Gujarat (1), and

Country of Nepal(1)- Muktinath.

The last two are believed to be outside earthly realms.

6.One can find the idols of Vishnu in any of these three, lying, sitting and standing positions in Divyadesams.

• Kidantha Thirukkolam ( Sleeping Position ) – 27 Divya desams
• Veetrirundha Thirukkolam ( Sitting Position ) – 21 Divya desams
• Nindra Thirukkolam ( Standing Position ) – 60 Divya desam

Annexure: What is Tirupati mean?

Vishnu in Tamil is “PeruMal” and Lakshmi is “Tiru”

1. Mal (Peru Mal)
2. Tiru Mal (Lakshmi included)
3. Sri and Vishnu-
4. Sri and her Pati-
5. Tiru and her Pati -
6. Tirupati. and there are 108 Tirupatis.

Annexure: Sri Vaishnavism

Kindly note these temples belong to Sri Vaishnavism. It is necessary to know the difference between different sects of Vaishnavism.

1. South India worship Vishnu or Narayana, called Perumal as their founder, and are followers of Mayonism or Sri Vaishnavism.
2. While North regard Vasudeva-Krsna as their founder and are followers of Brahmanic Vaishnavism.
3. The poems in praise of Vishnu in Tamil language are collectively known as Naalayira Divya Prabandham(4000 divine verses) which is considered as a sacred text.
4. Yes.There are plenty of literature available dealing with philosophical doctrines.
5. The Sanskrit Bhagavata Purana is essentially a Sanskrit "translation" of the bhakti of the Tamil Azhvars.
6. Within Sri Vaishnavism, there are two sects+ Thenkalai (Tamirabharani River) Vadakalai (Kaveri River)

Ellam Narayan Tiruvarul; only penned by Mohan N R

Temple Series 6: Why are there too few temples dedicated to Narasimha Varaha and Vamana incarnations of Vishnu in North India, whereas South India have sufficient temples dedicate to all 10 incarnations?

 

1. South India worship Vishnu or Narayana, called Perumal as their founder, and are followers of Mayonism or Sri Vaishnavism. It gives importance to Vishnu and all his avatars. You can find Narasimha, Varaha and Vamana as well.
2. While North regard Vasudeva-Krsna as their founder and are followers of Brahmanic Vaishnavism. More focus is centered around Ram and Krishna.

Are there any temples dedicated to the matsya and koorma avataram?

Matsya Avatar:

• Vedanarayana Swamy temple, Nagalapuram, Chittoor, Andra Pradesh
• Matsya Narayana Swamy Temple, Hegdal, Bellary, Karnataka

Koorma Avatar:

Kurmanathaswamy temple, Srikurmam, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh.

Temple Series 5: Why are many people visiting the Tirupati temple daily?

 Senthil Kumar,

Fascinating Statistics:

No of pilgrims visited in a month: 2,096,992

No of Annaprasadam:4,908,152

No of Laddus:8,749,222

alongwith other services.

Why are many people visiting the Tirupati temple daily? For tasty laddus? For Annaprasadam?

Over 2 million people visit Tirumala every month, because Lord and Hill Tiruvengadam fulfilled their material and spiritual wishes. He fulfills even wishes of Gods.

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Why? It is Secret. (Read “Tiruvaimozhi”, 3rd Song):

Nammalvar (one of 12 Alwars who revived Sri Vaishnavism) details 10 reasons to visit Tirupati in Tiruvaimozhi 3rd Song.

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Sri Ramanujar Mangalasasanam:

Reconsecration of the deity done by Sri Ramanujar 1130. Ramanujar was born in Sri Perumbudur and his physical body is still preserved in Sri Rangam - the worlds largest Temple.

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Ranganathar Stay at Tirupati: Uniting Indians:

Between 1330 till 1370, Sri Ranganathar idol of Sri Rangam was kept here as there was no safe place other than the Hill they found after the attack of Malik Kafur on Sri Rangam.

Attack on Sri Rangam, Kanchi and Madurai brought Telugu Speaking Pallavas, Kannada Speaking Chalukyas and Hoyslas together on the hills to see Sri Ranganathar and to liberate Tamil Country. (One can see now Ranga Mandapam in South East corner of the temple - now empty without Ranganathar)

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Habit of Indian Rich and Wealthy:

Patronised by Emperors/ Kings/ Rich and Wealthy over 20 Centuries: Starting from King Tondaiman in 1st AD; Chozhas; Gold for Ananda Nilayam by Pandyas and Pallavas.

Endowmenting the villages started from Saluva Narasimha of Vijayanagara Empire in 1480 followed by the famous emperor Krishna DevaRaya and Achuta Raya.

Early kings of Chola, Pallava, Pandya, Vijayanagara were liberal in providing grants and free comforts to pilgrims as they have to negotiate hardship in travelling.

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Below is the 2000 year chronology of Tirupati:

(based on History of Tirupati- a TTD publication)

1.The idol is stated to have buried inside an ant hill. It was discovered by some cowherds and reported it to the King Tondaiman in the first century BC or AD. He built a temple to house the idol. Whether the temple was of cut stone, brick in mud or wood, we are not told.

2.Account of the Temple found in Tamil classic Silappadhikaram states that the idol on the hill represented Vishnu (Sengan Nediyon). The description states that the Sun and the Moon illumined the deity shows that there is no covering at the top or that the covering was of a pavilion type.

3.Alvars who flourished in the 8th and 9th centuries, who sang the glories of the lord referred only the sanctity of the Hill, not the temple.

Nammalvar (one of 12 Alwars who revived Sri Vaishnavism) details 10 reasons to visit Tirupati in Tiruvaimozhi 3rd Song.

4.The present temple would have built later during the Pallava regime and the temple is not built at one and the same time.

5.Garbhagraham and ante chamber was built at the end of 9th century or early 10th century.

6.Reconsecration of the deity done by Sri Ramanujar 1130. At that point in time there was no Gopuram. It belong to Sri Vaishnavism Sect.

9.Between 1330 till 1370, Sri Ranganathar idol of Sri Rangam was kept here as there was no safe place other than the Hill they found after the attack of Malik Kafur on Sri Rangam.

10.Till 13th century, only Tamil Pilgrims had Venkatadri as their beloved Deity. The attack by Malik Kafur brought all South Indians together to fight back. Tirupati temple played a major political role during that period. Till this time there is no account of Telugu or Kannada or other pilgrims to this temple.

11.Attack on Sri Rangam, Kanchi and Madurai brought Telugu Speaking Pallavas, Kannada Speaking Chalukyas and Hoyslas together on the hills to see Sri Ranganathar and to liberate Tamil Country. (One can see now Ranga Mandapam in South East corner of the temple - without Ranganathar)

12.The extension of the temple structures extended upto the 15th and 16th centuries.

13. Endowmenting the villages started from Saluva Narasimha of Vijayanagara Empire in 1480 followed by the famous emperor Krishna DevaRaya and Achuta Raya.

14.Pushkarni steps are constructed in 16th Century.

15.Portuguese in 16th century planned to loot treasures in Tirupati Temple. When portuguese troup went to the temple, Aliya Rama Raya of Vijayanagara was there with his huge army. Portuguese flee from East coast(Chennai) to Bengal. This has led to the attack by Vittala Raya in Goa. Portuguese surrendered

16.After the defeat in Talikota in 1565, the Aravidu dyansty of Vijayanagara Empire lasted another 95 years and they patronsied the temple till 1660.

17.After 1660 invaders found the way to negotiate the hills through passess in Eastern Ghatts and taken their pound of wealth from this Golden Goose for not destructing it. This continued upto East India Co.

18.After independence, when AP is carved out from erstwhile Madras State, Tirupati become a part of AP.

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Here are randomly picked fascinating stories about Tirupati, extracted from “108 Fascinating Stories of Tirupati” by Narasimha Renga Venkadathiri Appasamy

I. VVIP Temple:

Tirumala Tirupati is truly a VVIP temple as many emperors of Southern India, preferred to perform their first coronation ceremony at Tirpati, before crowned as emperor. The list includes Saluva Narasimha Raya Tuluva Narasa Naicker, Vira Narasimha Raya, Krishna Devaraya, Achuta Devaraya and many followed.

Krishna Devarayas coronation took place in two places- first at Tirupati Venkatadri Temple and second at Hampi. He gifted “Gnana Chintamani “ to Sri Rangam and its verses recited every morning till his rule.

Achuta Devarayas coronation took place in three places- first at Tirupati Venkatadri Temple, second at Kalahasti and third at Hampi. He gifted/ endowed villages to Kanchi Perumal Kovil and Ekambareswar temple.

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II Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham

Each and every ritual in Tirupati has a history attached to it. To cite an example, Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham or Bell Sound at Night 7.30 to 7.50 pm.

Quote:

The bell sound (Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham) has a long history dating back to 1592.

Venkatadri Raya of Vijayanagara Empire wanted to shift his capital from Penukonda to Tirumala so that he can worship the deity daily in his temple.

(Little description about the emperor -Venkatadri Raya a.k.a Venkata II 1585-1616 : His reign of three decades saw a revival of the strength and prosperity of the empire, after the empires humiliating defeat at Talikota in 1565. He dealt successfully with the deccan sultans of Bijapur and Golkonda, the internal disorders, promoting economic revival in the country.)

But Lord Venkateswara had other plans.

While discussing his pet project at Tirupati Temple, an eagle came down and taken away his turban (mistaken as flesh). His soldiers followed the eagle to bring back his turban. The eagle finally dropped it in Chandragiri, few Kms away from temple, which became Emperor's place for his pet project.

He shifted his capital to Chandragiri in 1592. He used to take dinner only after feeding ritual of the God is completed. To inform him of the completion of the feeding ritual(neyvedyam) of the Lord, the bell is ring.

This is continuing since then at 19.30 pm till 19.50 pm. The bell sound, called Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham being telecasted in SVBC channel from the temple, live, everyday. One may tune to hear it.

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III Tradition of Sri Vaishnavism:

Tirumala Tirupati Temple belongs to Sri Vaishnavism Tradition. (Sri or Tiru refers to Maha Lakshmi Thayar) performing Vaikhasana ritual with Jeeyar from Tenkalai Tradition head quartered at Nanguneri.

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IV Power of Balaji:Fulfilling the wishes of Gods:

It would be interesting, if one say, because other temples were invaded (Sri Rangam, Madurai Meeanakshi in 1323) Tirumala Tirupati becomes famous.

Sri Rangam was very famous in those days. When Malik Kafur invaded Sri Rangam in 1323. The temple was defended and according to the Tamil tradition some 13,000 Sri Vaishnavas devotees of Srirangam, died in the fierce battle.

They found Sri Rangam or Kanchi or Madurai were no longer safe. The idol of Sriranganathar was taken through villages of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. They finally went to the hills of Tirumala Tirupati, where they remained until the temple was rebuilt in 1371.

This is the power of Thiruvengadam Hills that it fulfilled the wishes of Gods and redeveloped their temples (of Sri Ranganathar, Meenakshi, Sudareswar) within 48 years. That is the reason, his devotees believe their wishes will be manifested within 48 days.

V Historic Importance & Formation of Hindu Empire:

Because of Ranganathar idol kept in Tirumala Tirupati for 48 years (It is called Ranga Mandapam -now, without Ranganathar, at South East Corner of the Temple), this tiny temple of Tamil country, become political importance. Till then the pilgrims were from Tamil country. Now Tamils could meet Telugu and Kannada speaking Pallavas, Chalukyas and Hoysalas because of Ranganathar.

Hoysalas try to liberate Maduarai but their king Ballala was killed in a battle. Finally Vijayanagara Emperors liberated, Kanchi, Sri Rangam and Madurai. They (Bukkaraya’s Son Kumara Kampanna and Saluva Narasimharaya’s grand father) used to frequent Tirupati in those 48 years of Sri Rangnathar’s stay in Tirupati. (It took 200 years to rebulid the present day Sri Rangam by Vijayanagara Kings, Maduari and Thanjavur Naickers.) Later Krishna Devaraya and his successors patronised this temple with lot of Jewels, Gifts and Grants and endowment of villages.

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VI Journey through Seven Hills:

Here the Lord, who manifested here due to a kick of Bhrigu Maharishi on his chest, is the Servant of Bhakta. He always take care of Pilgrims.

Earlier Tirumala Tirupati was inaccessible in the past due to its location in the Eastern Ghatts. Early kings of Chola, Pallava, Pandya, Vijayanagara were liberal in providing grants and free comforts to pilgrims as they have to negotiate hardship in travelling. Today also TTD provides lot of comforts for those who walk up the steps, as they are dearer to Venkatadri.

Tirupati temple can be reached by steps. The major route is about 11 kms and there are about 3550 steps.

The motorable road is from last 6 decades only, while the temple is of over 2000 years old.

Many, including Senior Citizens from 60 even upto 90, do sankalpa and complete it. Many NRIs patiently accompany 80 year old mom to slowly climbing up the steps.

If any one walks for the first time, he prefer walking only in subsequent visits. For youngsters it is a type of trekking in a forest, with lot of greenery and enjoyable.

For us, not only the deity, the entire Hill, the range of seven hills including Venkatadri (where the Lord resides), in Eastern Ghatts is considered sacred.

When the pilgrim negotiates the 11 km through harship of walking 3550 steps or in comfort on bus / car, his body, mind and soul experiences the dharana, pratyahara and oneness with his deity, manifesting his wishes.

It is the faith and an experience to live visually many times in one’s life.

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VII TTD Temples in India:

Apart from Tirumala Tirupati, TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam) runs many many temples in India and around the world.

In North, the following temples are constructed and run bt TTD. Not only the rituals, even ingredients used in cooking prasadams exactly followed as per Tirumala.

*Tirumala Tirupati Devastanams Andhra Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

*Venkateswara Temple, New Delhi

*Tirupati Balaji Temple, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

*Sri Venkateswara Swamy Tirupati Balaji Temple, Kurukshetra, Haryana

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VIII.Tamil Connection and Tamil Inscriptions:

No. Tirupati does not belong to Tamil Nadu.

But Tirupati Venkatadri belong to everyone in the world, including his Tamil devotees. He still prefers to hear Tamil pasurams.

Nalayira Divyaprabandham (4000 Verses on Vishnu) a holy text of Sri Vaishnavites by 12 mystic alwars, which enlightened NathaMuni and Sri Ramanujar is written in Tamil.

Till 13th century, only Tamil Pilgrims had Venkatadri as their beloved Deity. The attack by Malik Kafur brought all South Indians together to fight back. Tirupati temple played a major political role during that period. Till this time there is no account of Telugu or Kannada or other pilgrims to this temple.

Tirupati played a major role in political fortunes of Tamil Country from 13th to 17th century and safe guarded it from Invasions.

The temple belongs to Sri Vaishnavism Sect performing Vaikhasana ritual with Jeeyar from Tenkalai Tradition head quartered at Nanguneri.

One can find the tamil inscriptions upto 1641 till Vijayanagara Regime. After that inscriptions are found in Telugu with Kanungos replacing Kanakka Pillais.

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IX.Tirupati - A Siddha Bhoomi

Kongana Siddhar was born in Oothiyur in present Erode District in 4th to 5th century.

Because of it, the areas adjust to that village are called Kongu Nadu.

The place is famous for forging of metals into idols or any instruments.

He was born to the family of metal smith, so naturally he was good at forging metals and transmutation of the same.

After a brief period of family life and he quit it for the search of supreme truth to dispel all kinds of ignorance.

He got the privilege of being mentored by Sidfhar Bhogar.

He learnt Siddha Medicine System under Siddhar Bogar and became a power house of knowledge.

Siddhar Bogar describes Konganavar as the first and best disciple among his students.

He also learnt the gospels of Siddha from Agathiyar.

He excelled in alchemy, Siddha yoga, Siddha gnana philosophies, Siddha meditation and also as a physician.

He compiled numerous treatises on alchemy and medicine, which is a way ahead from the modern discoveries and innovations in the field of chemistry and medicine.

He by his austerities, strong mind and will power raised himself to the level of a great Siddha.

He lived for long and performed astounding miracles and discoveries in the field of Siddha science for the benefit of mankind and world.

He also got knowledge transfer from Siddha Gautamar and Pararishi

Use of copper compounds in Tamil Siddha Medicine System came in vogue by incisive and fastidious intellects of Siddhar Konganavar or Konganar.

He synthesized all the copper compounds from the extracts of stipulated herbs and used it as a Siddha Medicines.

He was trailed as the “Father of Medicinal Chemistry” in the realm of Tamil Siddha Medicine System”

Konganar has achieved the highest level among 18 Siddhas in Tamil Tradition and considered one among the 84 Siddhas of Nath Tradition.

He is the worshipper of Kaumari, a Sakthi of Tamil God Kumaran and a Saktha of Bala Tripura Sundari.

For unknown reasons, he left the place, a wandering soul, breathed his last in Tirumala.

He entered jeeva samathi at Tirupati. He used to take bath in Devi Pushkarni and sometimes found near Sri Bhu Varaha Swami Temple.

Temple Series 4: Where is the Muthumari Amman Temple situated, and what is special about it?

 Chetan

Chowdeshwari is known as Muthumariamman in Tamil Nadu. You can find her temple in almost all the villages/ towns/ Cities.

In North and West India, She is known as Shitala Devi and in East she is called Oli Chandi.

Temple Series 3: What does it indicate that all the biggest Hindu temples in India are located in South India, more particularly in Tamil Nadu?

 Sounderrajan Balakrishnan:

To put it in bullet points:

1.Religious Rulers.

2.Technology (Dravidian Architect) following the agama rules.

3.Self sustaining economic power house through endowments

4.Sacrifices made during Persian and European invasions and finally

5.Untirely reconstructing and expanding, surpassing the earlier structure and protecting/ safeguarding it from the learning of invasions.

It applies to entire South India including Maharashtra, but I am limiting myself to TN due to my limited visits to few temples in other states.

If any one is interested in reading the case studies from History can read further:

Cosmic Power House:

Many across the globe wonder, how these big temples find a place in small villages. What type of technology they had used to build these temples and how the resources are generated to build such magnificient temples.

Significantly, all the major towering temples of Tamil country built over the centuries have been consecrated according to agama rules.A temple is a place where an intense Cosmic energy is available for everyone to experience. Kindly note that Agamas are pre vedic.

The kings ruled endowed heavily and made temples to act as a economic power house in addition to learning, interacting.

Distinguisher from History:

Unfortunately, we need to site the History, 13th to 17th century, (though many of the grand temples constructed earlier from 7th century and many existing over 3500 years) which distinguished the creation of Temples using Dravidian Architect in Tamil Country from other parts of India.

It may be possible that North might have had bigger temples, similar to Tamil Country but would have destroyed during invasions- Islamic invasions of the Indian subcontinent to create, thereafter expand the Muslim rule in the form of Sultanates and later the Mughal Empire.

Yes, Tamil country also witnessed few invasions.

Persian Invasions:

Lot of Temples, including Sri Rangam, Madurai Meenakshi were destroyed during the invasion of Malik Kafur in 14th Century. But Tamil Country reacted differently than the rest. All are reconstructed by the Hindu Kings of Vijaya Nagara Empire and their feudatories in Chandragiri, Madurai, Chenji, and Thanjavur Naickers. It took two hundred years to reconstruct the temple of Sri Rangam - the largest functioning Hindu Temple in the world as on today..

During 13th to 17th century, Hinduism has reached its peak in Tamil Country. With the new Temples built, Old Temples expanded using Dravidian Architect during 300 year rule of Hindu Vijayanagara and Naicker Empires in Tamil Country (13th to 17th Century). Conservative Hindus from Kannada, Telugu, Saurashtra and Maratha found it as a safe place.

The tradition is still continuing. Unlike other states, Hindus are over 87% in Tamil Nadu. They are more accommodative to others including atheists. Maintaining a Temple is not easy, unless there is a huge follow up.

It is the land, Tamil land, which houses towering temples where an intense Cosmic energy is available for everyone to experience and have been protecting our culture.

European Invasions:

I will give you below all accounts of Europeans, engaged war with Vijayanagara Empire and their Vassals.

Vijayanagara had powerful army of huge size in three layers-Empire had, their Kingdoms had, Vassals of Kingdom had. Vassals & Kingdoms managed Regional battles on their own. If they could not manage, then only requested the Empire. For big wars, all are called with necessary logistics by the Empire.

In addition, local forces are trained to defend the temples.

European looters, (Portugese, Dutch, French and British) had the habit of seizing treasures from temples, when there is internal conflict or King is engaged some where else.

Few examples,

1. Portuguese in 16th century planned to loot treasures in Tirupati Temple. When portuguese troup went to the temple, Aliya Rama Raya of Vijayanagara was there with his huge army. Portuguese flee from East coast(Chenna Mylopore) to Bengal. This has led to the attack by Vittala Raya in Goa. Portuguese surrendered.
2. In 17th century, Dutch and Portugese were based at Kayalpattinam, Tuticorin for the trading spices to Europe. Fortification of temples and looting of temples were a common thing with European traders and invaders when the king is engaged in war elsewhere. The temples recovered from them, once the king is back. Tiruchendur Senthil Andavar temple invasion by Dutch in 17th century is another example. Dutch fortified the temple, looted, set fire and had taken away the idol to Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and demanded money. When Thirumalai Naicker returned from the war victorious, he recovered the idol by warning and further plan with Kandy Naickers in ceylon, made Dutch to return the idol.
3. Naicker Kings of Chenji, Tanjore, Madurai created local forces to defend temples based on 14th century invasion memory of Malik Kafur. For example, Sri Rangam was well defended in 18th Century when Tipu Sultan tried to seize it.
4. Some polypats are created and their main duty is to safeguard the Temple, - one example is Sethu Patis of Rameswaram.
5. Temples along the Kaveri and Tamirabharani river basins, there are plenty, were well defended by Local Polygars. In 18th century, British and French fortified few temples at some point in time. Example: Aththi Varadhar rising in Kanchi.

Life after Vijayanagara Empire and Naicker Kingdoms:

During Yusuf Khan’s (a British General) time, there were plans to demolish Madurai Meenakshi Temple and build a dargah on it.

In 1756, an old fakir prepare to build a dargah (Islamic tomb) for himself atop the Madurai Meenakshi Temple with the support of Burkadullah (representing Hyder Ali, Mysore) and Yusuf Khan (representing the British).

This has angered the locals.

Unfortunately, there were no Naicker Kingdom at Madurai after the death of Madurai Regent Queen Minaxi in 1739 and there was no support from Vijayanagara empire which ended at Chandra Giri / Vellore in 1646.

This time the Goddess appeared in the form of mere 500 Kallar Polygar Soldiers.

Kallar Polygar soldiers, mere 500 in number, ravaged the Muslim King Burkadullah and the British commander Yusuf Khan and their forces.

Fakir expelled.

Burkadullah ran for cover to Sivagangai.

Yusuf Ali Khan was withdrawn by the British.

Disturbances continued to prevail in Madurai.

It is the Goddess in the form of Kallar Polygar’s fury saved the temple.

Otherwise Madurai could be another Madura, (Krishnas Birth place)

She and her aboard is still alive with holy vibrations.

Madurai Meenakshi had destroyed the plans to convert her abode to a darghah.

Ever wondered, can 500 Soldiers ravage two armies of Mysore Vassal and British forces.

Sacrifices

1. Today, in TN itself, there are over 30000 temple gopurams of 300 to 5000 years old pointing to the sky.
2. Because of sacrifices made by millions of our ancestors and their vision to safeguard these architectural marvels, the deities in these temples exist today.
3. These temples show a tip of the wealth, the abundance, culture, tradition, food habits, language India had in ancient times before these European and Persian Invasions.
1. Finally, I bow to the Temple Tower of Srivilliputtur Andal Temple, which is the Emblem of Tamil Nadu State Government. “Devotion Frees”. Penned by N R Mohan