Delhi Gate Arcot – The Beginning of Robert Clive

Major-General Robert Clive a name synonymous

with East India Company and the British India had a
very different job with the company at the beginning and
had nothing to do with battlefield or the conquest over
the Mughals. Being from Kolkata I was well aware
of Robert Clive and his role in the city for
defeating Siraj Ud Daulah and recapturing Fort
William(old) but it did not strike me that much before his
accomplishment in my city he had done something
dramatic in the city of Arcot.

Major-General Robert Clive by Nathaniel Dance

(National Portrait Gallery – Public Domain)

Robert Clive as a Clerk

Robert Clive started working for East India Company in 1744 as a clerk mostly keeping the
records and other desk jobs. He was posted in Madras (Chennai) and it was also during this time
that the French were also consolidating their influence in Southern India and with their base from
Pondicherry attacked Madras in the year 1746. The company’s forces were heavily defeated by
the French and the town was captured.
 Surrender of the City of Madras 1746 by Jacques Francois Joseph Swebach (Public Domain)

Clive along with others was captured and taken as prisoners, somehow few of the British soldiers
along with Clive managed to escape and reached Cuddalore at Fort St. David which was some
80 kilometres away.

Fort St. David by Francis Swaine (Public Domain)

Robert Clive Joins the Army

This was the changing moment in his life, he decided to leave his desk job behind and enlist in
the army. In 1747 the French army attacked Fort St. David and it is then for the first time Clive
took charge of the situation and manage to defend the fort. This was the beginning of a new
chapter in his life.

What followed next was some major war first at Tanjore (Thanjavur) and then at Second
Carnatic war. Slowly the Southern theatre was warming up between the British and French
forces who were constantly at log ahead for capturing more and more territories in the Indian
subcontinent.

Arcot
What happened next catapulted Robert Clive to prominence. In 1751 a Siege of
Trichinopoly (Tiruchirappalli) by Chanda Sahib who was the Nawab of the Carnatic
on Muhammed Ali Khan Wallajah. Chanda Sahib was backed by the French and Muhammed
Ali Khan Wallajah was supporting the British.

Clive sought this opportunity and offered his service on the condition that he would lead the
force as a Captain. Thus along with 200 European soldiers, 300 sepoys, and 8 officers. This
combination was important since on papers this was no match for the standing army at Arcot.
Moreover, the eight officers who were supposed to assist Clive had no previous experience of
any conflict thus Clive was completely depending on his strategy than strength. With the
monsoon at its peak, Clive managed to march on with his army on September 6th.

Clive Marching towards Conjeveram (Kanjivaram) – (Public Domain)

Clive showed his natural leadership quality by managing this untrained army and within 6 days
managed to enter Arcot and take over the fort on 23 September 1751 which had more
than 1100 soldiers who completely abandoned their position and fled.
The Siege & Final Attack Tiruchirapalli
Clive then knew that if he had to succeed then he had to defend his position from an imminent
repulsive attack from the forces of Chanda Sahib. The position of the fort was important, three
sides were open with just a moat separating the fields and on one side he had Palar River.

Arcot Fort – Battlefield

Royal Artillery Encampment at Arcot – James Hunter (Public Domain)

In the meantime, the French had also sent their army to assist Chanda Sahib thus making the
siege more dramatic but Clive managed to hold on with the small forces against such vast
numbers of opponents.

Negotiations continued between Chanda Sahib and Clive with Chanda Sahib constantly asking
Clive to surrender with his small forces. When all these failed Chanda Sahib decided to attack
the fort with full might on 14th of November. This major offence was successfully defended by
Clive and his men, while Chanda Sahib’s army suffered heavy casualty Clive’s company had
very less casualty’s amount to only six.

Clive Firing Field Guns – New York Public Library (Public Domain)
 War Elephants Charge the Gates of the Fort at Arcot – Allan Stewart (Creative Commons)

The siege which had lasted for 52 days was successfully defended by Clive and his men,
moreover, this gallant defence was a remarkable show of efficiency by someone who was not
trained in warfare but showed courage when it was most needed.

Clive became Major-General Robert Clive and the rest, as they say, was history.

Vellore – Arcot Delhi Gate

Only this portion of the fort which was originally built by Daud Khan
Panni around 1698 remains visible now. Much of the original fort was destroyed by Tippu
Sultan in 1783. Apart from this gate inside you can see some of the last remaining portions of
the old fort, nothing much can be made out of except the foundations and some pillars.

Not many people know that the very ground that the gate now sits saw one of the longest sieges
something which made Clive a key figure in the political history of British India. This very
battleground transformed a clerk into one of the fiercest general of East India Company which
ultimately and eventually took over the Mughals and ruled subcontinent India for nearly 200
years.

The gate that we can see now was named “Delhi Gate” to signify the next move of the company
to capture the Mughal throne in Delhi and ultimately ruling over entire India. There is a room
atop this gate which was Clive’s personal room.
 Delhi Gate at Arcot – Outside View

Delhi Gate at Arcot – Clive’s Room on the Top

Store Room With Plaque On Top – Under The gate

Plaque – Under The gate

 Delhi Gate at Arcot – Some Portion of the Original Fort Can Be Seen Inside

Palar River is like a barren land now, with the water either diverted or stored in holding tanks
upstream the riverbed now is being used for cultivation. Only the portion of the gate is fenced
and I am sure if ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) excavated the surrounding they would
sure find a major portion of the fort underground.

The significance of this gate is unknown to many and even for the locals it’s just some British
monument but in reality, it’s much more it stands a witness in the history of a man who forever
changed the map of India.
 Arulmigu Balamurugan Tirukkovil, Rathinagiri

Gallery of 30 photos of Rathingiri

The History of the Shrine

Rathinagiri Bāla Murugan Temple was built around the 14th century. Over the passage of time
an ordinary sand structure was converted into a stone shrine.

Greatness of the Shrine:

Ancient Hindu scriptures say that wherever there is a hill,

Lord Murugan resides as the all-powerful Deity. Of
these Tirupparamkundram, Tiruchendur, Tiruvavinankudi,
Tiruveragam and Palamuthircholai are famous shrines,
collectively called 'Kundruthoradal'. The holy shrine at
Rathinagiri also features in this category.

Literary Evidence:

The 14th Century poet Arunagirinathar has sung about

this temple as Rathinakiri Vazh Murukane Ilaya
Vaaramarar Perumaley', which means 'Murugan, the God
of Devas resides in Rathinagiri'.

Divine Blessings

The Omnipotent Power manifests His Blessings to mankind in three

forms:

1. In the form of idol in the shrine.

2. In the form of the guru.
3. In the form of the devotee.

Of these three, Lord Bālamurugan manifests himself at Rathinagiri in

two forms. The first is in the form of the deity with his two consorts
Valli and Teyvanai. The second is in the form of our Guru, Swami Bālamurugan Adimai.

The History of Swami Bālamurugan Adimai through whom the Blessings of Lord
Bālamurugan are channeled to us is praise worthy.

History of Swami Bālamurugan Adimai

Born on the 24th of January 1941 (in the Vikrama year of the Tamil calendar on the 11th day
of the month of Thai) in the small village of Kilminnal adjacent to Rathinagiri, he was the
 fourth child born to Śrī Kandaswami Mudaliar and Smt. Sinagarammal. He was named
Dakshinamurthy and Sachidanandam, both being names of Lord Shiva.

On completion of his schooling he entered the services of the Electricity Department. Soon
after, he entered into holy matrimony with Sivakami and was blessed with two daughters and a
son.

One day in his 27th year, on his way to work, he climbed the hill to offer his prayers. There
was neither camphor nor incense available at the temple. He walked around the shrine with a
heavy heart and was suddenly overcome with divine awakening. He fell in a faint to the
ground and on waking up was unable to remember his own self. He dressed himself in a
loincloth. He took a sacred vow not to leave until the temple was restored to its former glory.

This memorable event of Swami's spiritual awakening took place on 20th March 1968. Ever
since then Swami's spiritual well being of his devotees has continued unabated.

Renovation of the Temple

Separate pathways were laid to ascend and descend the hill. A chariot made of granite was
made and the main deity was installed there to facilitate renovation of the sanctum sanctorum.
Two temples for Lord Ganesha were built at the foothill and uphill. A golden chariot was
made for the Lord Murugan to circumambulate the shrine. Ornaments of gold, silver and
precious stones were made to decorate the idol.

Presently (October 2001), a motorable road is under construction to the summit that will
enable elderly and infirm devotees to visit Balamurugan Tirukkovil easily.

Motorable road to the Hill Temple

Six-sided tank, Rathinagiri

Kalyana Mandapam, Rathinagiri

Matriculation School, Rathinagiri

 25-bed charity hospital, Rathinagiri

Cottages for visiting devotees

Work Completed to Date

A granite sanctum sanctorum modeled according to the Chola architecture has been built at a
cost of 20 lakhs for installing the deity. A spacious hall around the shrine, vimanam and a
beautiful entrance has been completed at a cost of 50 lakhs. The rest of the renovation work
estimated to cost another 50 lakhs is in progress. With the inflow of donations from devotees
work may be completed soon and the kumbhabhishekam may be performed at a close date in
2002.

The worship of Durga Devi 'the bestower of success' has been carried on since time
immemorial. A temple for Durga Devi was built at Rathinagiri and Kumbhabhishekam,
performed on 8 June 1995.

Motorable Road

A motorable road to the Hill Temple is presently nearing completion. This road will ensure
that no devotee, however old or infirm, should come to Rathinagiri without ascending the hill
to enjoy the darshanam of Rathinagiri Bala Murugan.

Six Sided Holy Tank

A six-sided tank has been dug out and steps have been made. Further progress on this work
has postponed until Kumbhabhishekam of the main temple. The cost of completing the work
on the tank will be around nine lakhs.

Archana in Tamil

Lord Murugan being the God of Tamil it is only befitting that worship be carried on in Tamil.
All mantras are chanted in Tamil so that the common man can better understand the worship.
Service to the Devotees

 Public toilets and drinking water have been provided for the general visitors.
 Around 40 shops at a low rent have been built along the Arcot - Vellore road.
 Four marriage halls are present for public use at a low rent.
 A police outpost, post office, bank and a co-operative store are present for the benefit of
the public.
 A hall with bathrooms for those who wish to tonsure their head has been provided.

Education

In order to provide facilities to enable the rural youth to compete with the urban, a
matriculation school was established for the children of the employees of the shrine in 1987. It
has gradually developed and at present about 1,019 children of the surrounding 18 villages are
benefited by it.

Every first Friday and Saturday lectures are held on Tiruvilaiyadal Purina, Tolkapiyam,
Periyapuranam and Tirukkural for the public.

Health Facility

A 25-bed charity hospital has been built for the benefit of the poor. Specialists from all fields
offer their services freely to the poor. Free eye camps are held every month and around 70
patients are operated free of cost.

Cottages for visitors

Cottages for the devotees have been built and are available

Temple hours

 Temple is kept open between 6 am to 1 pm & 4 pm. to 8 pm.

 Abhishekam timings: 6 am to 10:30 am & 5:30 pm.
 Temple office working hours: 9 am to 1 pm & 3 pm to 6 pm.

Days of principal importance in the calendar year

 Tamil New Year Day;

 Ādi Krittikai celebrations (Lord Murugan's Birthday);
 Ādi Velli (auspicious Friday in the month of August or September);
 Kanda Shashti celebrations (Six Days);
 Navaratri (Nine Nights of the Goddess Festival);
 Panguni Uttiram;
 January 1st;
 The anniversary of Swamiji's enlightenment 20th March
 Sri yoga Narasimahar Temple.

Thirukkadigai or Sholingapuram in Sholinghur, a village in Vellore district of the South

Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Constructed in
the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is glorified in the Naalayira Divya
Prabandham, the early medieval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th–9th centuries
CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu, who is worshipped as Lakshmi
Narasimhar, and his consort Lakshmi as Thirumamagal.[1] There are three separate shrines in
the form of Narasimha, Bhaktavatsala Perumal and Hanuman (Anjaneya). They are situated
on the larger hill, at the base of the larger hill and on the smaller hill respectively.

A granite wall surrounds the temple, enclosing all its shrines uphill. The temple has a five-
tiered rajagopuram at the top of hill, while the temple tank is located opposite to the temple,
outside the main entrance in the foothills. The temple follows Tenkalai tradition of worship.
Six daily rituals and many yearly festivals are held at the temple, of which the Karthikai
festival during November - December, Brahmotsavam during the Tamil month
of Chittirai (March - April), and Narasimha Jayanti during Vaikasi (May - June) being the
most prominent. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and
Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

History
 Festival images of the deity

The place was originally called as Cholasimhapuram, which later became Sholinghar.
Various scriptures quote the place as Kadigachalam or Thirukadigai as the place is believed
to offer blessings to devotees with a worship lasting a Kadigai (24 minutes). Peyalvar refers
the presiding deity as "Vaan Poonkadigai Ilankumaran", while based on legend the presiding
deity is also called Bhakotchita Swami. Vishnu Purana and Padma Purana refer this place as
Kadigai and since Vishwamitra got his Brahmarishi title here, it became Simhapuram. The
temple has many inscriptions at the foothills and also on the top of the hill. They indicate
generous contributions from Kulothunga Chola III Mayuravarman and
Seeyagangan. Manavala Mamunigal is believed to have performed enunciation
of Thirupavai at this place on the request of his disciple Erumbiappa. The town originally
was under the control of Shaivites which is substantiated by the temple ruins near Parappan
Kulam, in the valley between two hills. This is where original Sholinghur was situated.
Unfinished Nandhis and Sthupas are found in numerous places in Sholinghur.[2] The temple
is seen as one of the famous temples of Narasimha and a powerful image of Hanuman.[3]

Sholingur was the scene of the battle between the British and Hyder Ali during July 1781, in
which the British won.[4]

The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable
Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.[5]

Architecture[edit]

The image of the Gopuram

The temple has twin hills, with the one of Yoga Narasimha called the Periya malai (big hill)
750 ft (230 m) tall and occupying an area of 1.25 acres (5,100 m2). The top of the hill is
approached through a flight of 1,305 steps. The temple at the top measures 200 ft (61 m) by
150 ft (46 m) and has a five-tiered gateway tower, the rajagopuram. Narasimha sits in
a Yogic posture in a shrine facing East and is called Yoga Narasimha Swamy. The vimana,
the tapering roof over the sanctum is called Hemakoti Viamanam. There is a separate shrine
for his consort Amrithavalli Thayaar. Yoga Anjenayar Swamy temple
of Hanuman (Anjaneya) is present in the second hill called Chinna malai (small hill) 350 ft
(110 m) tall. Yoga Anjenayar is sported with chathurpujam (four hands) with a conch and
discus in the upper hands and a Jeba malai and Jeba Shankaram in other two respectively.
The image of the festival deity, Varadaraja, is housed in the lower shrine of the big hill.[2] The
lower shrine has images of Bhaktavatchala Perumal and Sudavalli Thayar. There is a four
pillared hall midway to the top of the hill housing the images of Doddacharya and
Sudarshana. The temple tanks is called Brahmatheertham as Brahma is believed to have
performed penance at this place to propitiate himself from the sins of one of his five heads
getting cut by Shiva. In modern times, devotees perform rites at the temple tank seeking
blessing from their forefathers.[6] The consecration of the temple was performed during
September 2010 at a cost of ₹25 crore and the foundation for rope car facility was also
inaugurated.[7]

Religious importance[edit]

Festival images of the deity and that of Hanuman

Thirukkadigai is revered in Naalayira Divya Prabhandam, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava

canon, by Peyalvar and Thirumangai Alvar. The temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one
of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in the book.[8] Peyalvar describes the place as
the one having gardens thronged by a swam by bees.[9] The temple also finds mention in later
works by Nathamuni, Thirukachi Nambi, Ramanuja, and Manavala Mamunigal. The temple
is believed to be one of the 74 seats established by Ramanuja to spread Vishishtadvaita.
[10]
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the temple finds mention in several works like 108
Tirupathi Anthathi by Divya Kavi Pillai Perumal Aiyangar.[11] Doddacharya was a Vaishnava
saint believed to be the descendant of Mudaliandan. Doddacharya followed the steps of
Ramanuja in advocating Vishishadvaita and maintained the temples hailed by the Alvars. He
is believed to have performed lot of miracles and impressed by his work, Achyuta Deva
Raya (1529-42 CE), the relative of Krishnadevaraya gave him benovelent donations for
maintenance of temples. During festival occasion in the temple like Brahmostavam,
Doddacharya is given a special place in processions and also during the Garuda Sevai in
Kanchipuram temple. A festival named Doddacharya Utsavam is celebrated during the Tamil
month of Masi (February - March). His descendants are believed to administer the religious
activities during modern times.[6] The temple is frequented by people with mental illness,
who are believed to get cured by the grace of the presiding deity.[12]

Worship practices and festivals[edit]

Festive image of Doddacharya, one of the proponents of Vishishadvaita philosophy

The temple follows Tenkalai tradition of worship based on Vaikasana Agamic tradition. The
temple is open from 6:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The temple priests
perform the puja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. The temple priests are
believed to be the descendants of Doddacharya, who follow the hereditary practises. The
temple rituals are performed four times a day: Ushathkalam at 8 a.m., Kalasanthi at
10:00 a.m., Sayarakshai at 5:00 p.m. and Ardha Jamam at 8:00 p.m. Each ritual has three
steps: alangaram (decoration), neivethanam (food offering) and deepa aradanai (waving of
lamps) for both Yoga Narasimhar and his consort Thirumangaivalli. There are weekly,
monthly and fortnightly rituals performed in the temple. Various festivals are celebrated in
the temple, with the Chittirai Brahmotsavam during the Tamil of Chittirai (during April -
May), Karthigai Thiruvizha during November - December and Narasimha Jayanthi
during Vaikasi (May - June) being the most prominent.[11] During Brahmotsavam festival, the
temple car housing the festival deities of Narasimhar and Amirtavalli is drawn around the
streets of the temple. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and
Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.[7]
 Panchapandava Cave Temple

Panchapandava Cave Temple (also known as Pancha Pandava Temples and Mandapa of the
Five Pandavas) is a monument at Mahabalipuram, on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of
Bengal, in the Kancheepuram district of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The mandapa (rock
sanctuary) is part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram.[1] It is the largest cave temple
in Mahabalipuram.[citation needed] It is an example of Indian rock-cut architecture dating from the late
7th century. The temple is one of the finest testimonial to the ancient Vishwakarma Sthapathis,
of rock-cut cave architecture, out of many such caves also called mandapas. Part of the Group of
Monuments at Mahabalipuram, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as inscribed in
1984 under criteria i, ii, iii and iv.[2]

Geography[edit]
Main article: Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
The Panchapandava Mandapa or Pancha Pandava Cave Temple, is near the open-air bas-
relief of Arjuna’s Penance, in Mahablaipuram town.[3] It is situated on the top of a hill range
along with other caves in Mahabalipuram, on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal of
the Indian Ocean. Now in the Kanchipuram district, it is approximately 58 kilometres (36 mi)
from Chennai city (previously, Madras) and about 20 miles (32 km) from Chengelpet.[4]

History[edit]

General view of the entrance to the Panchapandava Cave

Temple, 1885
The columns of the verandah, which have lion bases are a typical style of Pallava architecture.
From the architectural features carved in the cave it is conjectured that this style could be
assigned to Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla period) to Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) during the
mid-7th century.[3][5]

Layout[edit]
 Another view of the Pancha Pandava Cave Temple
The cave temple is unfinished. The entrance is east facing. The temple has the longest cavern, 50
feet (15 m) long, among Mahabalipuram Cave Temples. The length of the opening is indicative
of creating a circumambulatory passage within the cave to go round the main shrine.

Architecture

The entrance to the cave has columns resting on seated lions, which is a typical Pallava style of
rock-cut architecture.There are six lion based pillars on the front façade of the cave, apart from
two pilasters at both ends abutting the rock. As compared to other caves there is an improvement
in the layout and the architectural elements that have been carved in the cave. One is the
circumambulatory passage around regular structural temples in South India and the other feature
is provision of brackets with lion caryatids over the pillars forming the facade; each caryatid
consists of three lions one facing to the front and the other two facing to the sides without a lion
on the backside. The brackets above the capitals of the pillars have decorations of griffins with
human riders also, in addition to the lions. The pillars and pilasters with Yyala base of the pillars
and Pilasters are cut out over a square pitha bass plate.

Within the cave, there is long chamber with a second row of four pillars and two pilasters. To the
back of this second veranda there is small chamber cut in an octagonal shape flanked by two
niches; it is inferred from this that the intended purpose was to carve this chamber to a square
plan and making a passage behind it for circumambulation. Only a small chamber has been
carved at the centre, which has remained attached to the main rock. At the entrance, the curved
cornice has a series of shrines with the four central shrines projecting out. The vaulted roofs of
the shrines are carved with kudu horseshoe-arch dormer-like projections and each shrine houses
another smaller shrine. The niche below the kudu has a carved deity. Ferocious looking lions are
also carved.
Thiru Kanchanagiri Devasthanam Temple,
Kanchanagiri, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu
This Temple is also known as Thiruchitrambalam Sri Jothi Lingeshwarar Alayam. This
Temple is located on a hill range called Kanchanagiri which is close to Lalapet. The single
road leading to the hill top Temple is muddy and rickety and the uphill drive is very steep.

A Welcome Arch to the Temple is being constructed at the base of the ghat road. The
Presiding Deity of this Temple is Lord Shiva. Here He can be seen as a self manifested
Swayambhu Lingam. There is a huge Shiva Lingam here mounted on a pedestal and just
before that is a smaller Shiva Lingam which too is mounted on another small pedestal where
Devotees are allowed to perform Abhishekam.

The entire flooring of the main Temple is neatly done with Tiles. The Main Temple is built
of tin sheets and metal cables and even the main door is made out of filmsy iron. Facing the
Sanctum Santorum is a huge Nandhi gorgeously painted and predominently white in
colour. There are nearly 1008 Self Manifested Lingam here in this Temple and Devotees
believe that all these are Sidhars who lived here. Sivagnana Swamigal laid a temporary road
in the year 1910 to this Temple which is believed to be about 500 years old.

Later an Ashram was established and many developments were done to this Temple
complex. Festivals like Pournami, Prodhosam, Kiruthigai, Shivarathri, Karthikai Deepam
and Chitra Pournami are celebrated in a grand manner. There is a small shop close to this
Temple which is temporarily built with tin sheets and this shop sells all Divine and Pooja
articles related to the Temple and is kept open only when the Temple is thrown open to the
public.

The Temple has a Sacred Tank but the Pushkarani needs a thorough cleaning. The Temple is
built on an eleated platform to avoid flsh floods during peak rainy season and therefore
Devotees may have to climb 8 to 10 steps to reach the Sanctum Sanctorum. Since the
Temple is built on a hilltop there is ample space for parking all types of vehicles.
The Great Lord Dhanvantari
Temple : A Living University : To
India’s Scientific
Approach Behind Its Spiritual
Traditions of Worship

How Can Statutes of Gods Give Us Blessings ?

I read this below story on a whatsapp chat and although it made some sense
intellectually, sadly it uses occidental sense of logic to undermine the great Indian sacred
heritage and traditions of worship. Most well educated, westernized Indian’s tend to
degrade our great India’s core culture and traditions of worship because of the successful
brainwash done by western intellectualism. We cannot think beyond logic or don’t even
attempt to try and understand this great sacred heritage of India.

The Insensitive Whatsapp Paragraph : Father and daughter went to a temple.

Suddenly daughter shouted after seeing the lions at the entrance of the temple : Run
dad or those lions will eat us. Dad consoled her saying “they are just statues and won’t
harm us. Daughter replied if those lion statues won’t harms us how could
statues of God’s gives us blessings ? The father wrote in his diary I am still
speechless of my child’s answer and have started searching for God in humans instead
of statues. I did’t find God but I found humanity!

This is the way most global, secular, well-educated, intellectual Indians think. That
India’s culture and tradition of idol worhsip is silly and lacks intelligence.
To clarify to all these fans of the occident, we find God’s in our statues,because these
idols, (we call them idols and not statues) are ignited, consecrated through a
very scientific process involving all the elements.Through this consecration
process, the idol enlivens to radiate a specific energy field which is kept
strengthened by a series of repeated scientific process which to the
untrained, ignorant eye merely seems as basic rituals reflecting a certain
religious context. How far away from truth can the anglicized intellect get, I
wondered. In this sailor’s opinion, it is more of this God charge or shakti that pulls
millions to a certain temple not a crazy immature mind belief that some statue will solve
an Indian’s life problems. If a soul is tuned, it will be drawn to the shakti peeths its tuned
to ! And depending on the openness of the soul to receive, that level of transformation
begins. In India we tune in to our temples that are shakti peeths, in the west as
they tune in to outdoors and nature, music, bands, rock and roll, gymns, pilates, happy
hours and so much else. One is what one tunes to.

I thank God that I chose to return to India from San Francisco because in India, I found
both God and Guru. I found God in India’s temple idol of Lord Dhanvantari Temple in
Coimbatore as also Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu and Tirupathi Temple in
Andhra Pradesh and i found God in human beings in form of “Gurus”s like my Guru Sri
Sri Ravi Shankar, my Mother and so many other spiritual realised souls.

Lord Dhanvantari : The Journey From An Idol, To A Nice Stranger, To A

Friend, To A God

Over the last 12+ years, my family has been visiting an ayurvedic centre called Arya
Vaidya Chikitsalyam in Tamil Nadu and the the Lord Dhanvantari Temple is a part of the
ayurvedic center.
Thus began a relationship that began superficially but evolved in many ways to become a
big part of the heartbeat of this sailor’s life for last 12+ years. This heartbeat began out of
cordiality. My mother would make us sit with her in the temple complex as she
performed various yagnas and we would feel holy and sacred. At the end of the yagna we
would go into a main temple Lord Dhanvantari Temple for our customary darshan, do
the same quick nod, sometimes a namaste depending on the degree of devotion and then
move on. Lord Dhanvantari is the Indian God of Health.

Entrance to the Dhanvantari Temple

Slowly but surely over the years my relationship with The Lord Dhanvantari
grew from a stranger to an acquaintance, to a friend, to a best friend to a
God Energy. As I continued my daily Sadhana (spiritual practices), I began to pick up
the vibration of temples, which over time became increasingly palpable as also powerful.
I started experiencing temples as powerful, holistic healing eco systems. When I walk
into temples during my lowest moments, healing occurs automatically probably due to
the scientific combination of all the 5 elements earth, fire, water, air and space enhanced
beautifully by the fragrance of diyas (oil lamps), burning of camphor, vibrant colours of
chandan, kumkum, adoration of the Gods by beautiful flowers and the air thick with
reverberations of Sanskrit chanting.

How uplifting are the environments of our temples (those that are scientifically run) to a
burdened mind and heart. This is the greatness of South Indian temples as these are the
temples this sailor knows. If administered with a pure heart, scientific
temperament along with the precision that they do here, at this great
Dhanvantari shakti peeth, temples can create a vibratory field that not only
heals but potentially can also accelerate evolution of consciousness.
A Priest Performing His Daily Rituals At Navagraha Temple At The Lord
Dhanvantari Temple

Sometimes There is No Such Thing As A Coincidence

The testimony to my experience which added so much credibility to what I was going
through happened in the year 2013. It appeared as though my body and soul had
completely connected with this great reverberation of the main temple. I understood and
began to see this temple as a massive shakti right at the center of the complex filled with
doctors and patients moving around its circumference. The doctors were giving the
treatments and the patients were receiving the healing as per their karmic situations. All
this was fairly automated by the temple it seemed. The whole place exuded a great
void like atmosphere, showing me the illusory, dreamlike nature of life and
living. Life was just a place where we burnt our respective karmas nothing
more.

Lord Dhanvantari Being Worshipped

2013 : An Unbelievable Lord Dhanvantari Miracle

As the kinship with Lord Dhanvantari built, an amazing coincidence beyond my wildest
imagination occurred. As I was completing a Maha Mrityunjaya Yagna in the temple
complex, I noticed my phone ringing. It was the Art of Living Teacher Coordinator from
Mumbai. I could’nt take her call as I was in the temple. But she kept calling incessantly,
so I finished my prayers and stepped out to call her back. Now is the great miracle : The
coordinator asked if I would like to help lead the organization of the first Lord
Dhanvantari Homa in Mumbai as an Art of Living teacher. I was taken aback and
nearly fainted. When asked why was I picked over a 1000 other AOL teachers in
Mumbai, she replied saying she didn’t know the reason and said maybe it was because
she knew I liked doing homas and pujas.

Therein began the strengthening of my faith, respect and love for Lord Dhanvantari.
Over the last 3 years we have had the privilege to work for the puja desk of the Art of
Living, ‘Vaidic Dharma Sansthan’ for leading the Dhanvantari Homa in Mumbai at the
Nath Gagangiri Ashram at Malabar Hill for 3 consecutive years.

The First Lord Dhanvantari Homa By Art of Living In Mumbai Nath

Gagangiri Ashram Year 2013

Year 2017 : The Magic Continues

Like in my previous visits, 2017 saw me walk in to meet the God who had become my
friend, the shoulder which I lean on during occasionally challenging times. Lord
Dhanavantari of Coimbatore has become the focus of my devotion and in many ways my
‘isht devata’(Cherished Divinity). I was returning after a year to the temple and meeting
someone after so long, as it sometimes happens when you meet someone deeply
connected to you tends to have a particular anticipation to it. I was wondering of the
various possibilities to how I might feel : normal, elated, slightly elated or even nothing at
all and lo and behold within 5 minutes of walking in, I felt a cannonball of positive
energy hit me.
My head started buzzing with this great trickle of energy, the nectar, the amrit
(nectar) flowing from heavens along the various grooves of my
brain. Standing in front of my beloved Lord Dhanvantari I felt a potent charge as if
being surrounded by waves emitting out of potent ghee present all around. Slowly but
surely it started enveloping me in its ecstasy and all the cells of my body
started receiving this great, great charge.

Lighting Diyas at Temple

19th July 2017 : Our Temples Are Great Protectors Against Malefic Planetary
Movements

On this July morning I woke up in our cottage in the Dhanvantari Temple complex and I
found that there was a slight tinge of aggression in my system which the morning sadhna
of yoga, pranayama, kriya, dhyana, could not succeed entirely in cleansing. I wondered
about it and quickly dropped it as I was in a hurry to leave for Chidambaram temple,
which was nearly a 7 hour journey from the Lord Dhanvantari Temple. Before leaving I
proceeded to the Lord Dhanvantari Temple to take the Lord’s blessings.
Whilst walking down the steps of our cottage, I felt the subtle body around my head and
body were becoming increasingly totally mis-aligned with the subtle energy around my
head moving to the right and the subtle energy around my body moving to the left hereby
making walking a bit difficult. It seemed as if all planets, were beginning to ignite with
some turbo charge and starting to move in a way seemingly threatening to clash with
each other. As a meditator I have had this experience a few times where one actually
feels that one’s planetary chart has got activated and all planets are highly
energised and have started moving in a fairly chaotic manner, sometimes
the planets seem to be in some kind of a crazy frenzy, and it feels and seems
there will be a malefic collision. As a seasoned meditator, I continued my walk
hurriedly towards the temple as I was really behind time and needed to leave for
Chidambaram Temple as soon as possible. So I kept walking and just watched, and
remained in the space consciousness tattva (field) watching the hailstorm of planets in
my consciousness enrage, remaining super calm as experience had taught me to stay
present, watchful and patient…all things move and change one merely has to
wait it out, patience being a hallmark of a good sailor and a meditator. I also
knew that July-August was a potent month with the shadow planets Rahu-Ketu
transiting from July 27th till August 18th. I thought to myself maybe that’s causing this
great churn.
I stood at the Lord Dhanvantari Temple first in line of darshan, with nobody in front of
me other than the Lord, continuing to experience this planetary collision in my head and
body. I stayed in front of the God and waited trying to open up to the grace of the
reverberation of this great temple. I was feeling uneasy in the head, as if planets were
going to start colliding and suddenly I found a great wash, I repeat I felt a great wash and
suddenly all those planets melted away and I was left feeling serene and calm and crystal
clear like a lake. It was unbelievable and I knew I had hooked on to the great Lord
Dhanvantari reverberation and was full of gratitude to the temple priests and
administrators who provided this eco system with their rituals and prayers for us citizens
who visit these temples and if citizen’s are appropriately receptive and aligned through
these temples they can get cleansed of planetary doshas of past life karma’s.

I took my systematic pradakshina around the main temple and as customary I stopped at
the photograph of Lord Dhanvantari and His consort at the back wall of the temple, a
space which overlooks a beautiful blue clear sky and bamboo trees. I have always found
the energy there pleasing and different and on this day to my utter amazement all sound
stopped. Silence began. The void came forward and very gently swallowed me
up. I had become a spaceball. A loud message rang in my ears which I cannot share
but I was also told 3 times…. go spread love and peace. Go spread love and peace, go
spread love and peace. I know it sounds all a fair bit of baloney but I felt this in every
cell in my body. It was a cellular experience and not a mental thought form.

That’s when I had this great crystallisation that the temple provides the
safety umbrella to deflect all planetary doshas and protect one’s body, mind
and soul if one is open and aligned to it. It is perhaps no coincidence that during
July of 2017 the shadow planets Rahu and Ketu will transit. The important Rahu-Ketu
axis, by their transit and retrograde motion, affect all with their transits and elicit
changes within the human person. During this period all is change in the body of time
and space.
The First Lord Dhanvantari Homa By Art of Living In Mumbai Nath
Gagangiri Ashram Year 2013

On searching the internet about the Rahu-Ketu transit I found this on the Sathya Sai
related website,

The Atharva Veda gives the following mantra:

May we get welfare from the planets and Moon. May we get welfare from the Sun as
well as Rahu

This sacred narrative helps us understand that the actions of shadow planets Rahu
and Ketu are in fact loka sevanam, actions taken for our welfare on this our home
planet, Bhumi Devi (Mother Earth). This action of the two shadow planets, causing
eclipses, is in fact for our spiritual progress: what is dark must be brought out into the
light. What is in our birth chart must be experience, we must do the seva indicated by
the 6th house andserve with selfless love, nishkama karma; thus do we
multiply love on the Earth as our service reaches the heart of the other,
wherein resides as hrudaya vasi, Easwara in the form of God. Reading this I
recalled the words I heard in my head at the Dhanvantari Temple — spread love and
peace, spread love and peace, spread love and peace, the same message being reiterated a
million times by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and I thought to myself seva saves
all and even this Lord Dhanvantari Temple is driving home the same message.

It is This Sacred India Heritage Which Makes India the Mother Nation of
Peace

Art of Living Lord Dhanvantari Homa in Year 2017

It is this great scientific heritage of worship which keeps, India the mother nation of
peace. It is these temples and traditions of India that keep this great land
reverberating with peace thereby making India the rare nation of never having
invaded or shown aggression to any living thing. India is a non-aggressive culture, being
essentially a vegetarian culture and non-invasive. A culture with no self-
aggrandizement proclaiming ‘this way is the only way’. There is no “way”
in India. All ways are ways to God vibration. God is worshipped everywhere.
In trees, homes, temples, animals, even cars and bullock carts are
worshipped. Everything is worshipped. From parents to little girls, we
honor, respect and show reverence everywhere. So what if there is chaos, long
lines, and a bit of dirt and dust. This is Shiva country, not a country where spit
and polish is needed to look good or feel good. Goodness is everywhere even in
the dirt and chaos, in the fire and the ether.

The Guru Principle : India’s Ultimate Reverberation

My Mother Santosh Maa an embodiment of Shiva tattva and my Guru Poojya Gurudev
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ignited this overly americanised sailor’s interest in Indian spiritual
traditions of yagnas and worship. This great Lord Dhanvantari Temple has further
strengthened this experience, and made me realise and respect and revere India’s great
heritage and tradition. My beloved India and its sacred India heritage of temples,
prayers, pujas, yoga, pranayama and meditation have made this sailor’s life sacred.

Of course the ultimate way to God realization is complete surrender to the Guru Tattva-
the Guru Principle. As in India the Guru is above all. Above all temples. Above even God.
I pray I can be of service to this great Guru Parampara tradition and the God vibration
that the Lord Dhanvantari, India, my Mother and all my family’s Guru’s and my Guru Sri
Sri Ravi Shankar represent.

The First Lord Dhanvantari Homa By Art of Living In Mumbai Nath

Gagangiri Ashram Year 2013
 THIRUCHENDUR MURUGAN TEMPLE
Tiruchendur, a tiny but beautiful coastal town located in the Thoothukudi district in the southern
Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple attracts millions of devotees
every year who come to pay respect to the in-house deity of Lord Murugan.

The temple’s history is rooted in the story of Lord Murugan’s ultimate battle, which is widely
believed by many as the purpose of his birth. It is one of the only few temples in India which
houses various avatars of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva within the same boundary.

The shrine at Thiruchendur was built as a symbol to mark the victory of Lord Murugan over the
demon king Surapadman after a long vicious battle. As the legend says, after Lord Murugan
finished Surapadman, he wanted to thank his father Shiva, for which he summoned the divine
architect Mayan and the shrine was laid.

Story Behind the Temple

Surapadman, the demon king, reigned over Veera Mahendrapuri, an island fortress. Lord Shiva
granted him many boons as the Lord was impressed by Surapadman’s immense devotion and
loyalty. Surapadman became more and more powerful with time, and with the immortality he
possessed, it wasn’t much longer for his arrogance to take over. He rebelled and successfully
captured all the three worlds—Heaven, earth, and hell. He made the Devas, the heavenly
immortals to do menial tasks. The Devas fed up and unable to bear his torture and complained to
Lord Shiva. As Lord Shiva’s third eye opened to create six sparks of fire emanated and gave rise
to six babies. As the babies were clasped by Goddess Uma, they joined together, which gave
birth to Lord Murugan, a god with six faces and twelve arms who was crafted to fulfill one
purpose, get Surapadman’s head. An intense battle ensued, which was fought for a few days after
Surapadman denied to release the devas. This resulted in Surapadman’s demise and the birth of
Murugan’s signature vahana, the peacock. Lord Muruga desired to worship his father, Lord
Shiva. Hence Mayan, the divine architect, constructed this shrine at Tiruchendur. Even now,
Lord Subramaniyan is seen in the posture of worshiping Lord Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum.
The Temple is said to be two thousand years old and has overcome the adversities of time.
The Temple was captured by the Dutch East India company between the years 1646 to 1648, on
course of their war with the Portuguese. The Dutch finally agreed to vacate the Temple on orders
from the Naik ruler but not before they looted away the idols and took them along to Galle,
Dutch Ceylon. The idols were finally returned after many negotiations with the ruler. This
incident has many stories associated with it, to which even science doesn’t offer any explanation.

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The Ancient Architecture

The beauty of The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is mesmerizing. Avast mandapam adorns the
entrance of the main temple, which has 124 pillars. The principal gate of the temple faces the
south and opens into the first temple prakaram. It is SiviliMandapam. The foremost western
Gopuram stands on the outer side of this doorway. A humongous entrance tower, measuring up
to 140 feet! Clearly justifies the temple being among the largest temple complexes in South
India, There are nine Kalasams (sacred copper pots) atop the Gopuram to indicate that the
Gopuram consists of 9 storeys. Welcoming the devotees stands a giant idol of Lord Ganesha.
The shrine of Venkatesh depicts the twelve Alwars, Gajalakshmi, Pallikonda Ranganathar,
Sridevi, Bhudevi, and Neeladevi.
MIRACLES
Like most of the ancient structures in India that have a string of seemingly unbelievable tales and
miracles attached to them, the Thiruchendur temple, too has its share of unexplainable events
that make it a legend.

The Dutch curse

One such story goes back to the time when the desire for power and greed lured the Europeans
across the Asian subcontinent. Most of their conquests were in vogue. Ancient India was touted
as The World’s Golden Bird with trade network spreading as far as Egypt and Greece.

Hence most conquests were flagged off with the sole intention of greed-driven plundering.
When a group of Dutch mercenaries stumbled upon the temple in Thiruchendur in 17th century
AD, they wreaked havoc looting everything in sight. Even taking along the idol of Murugan,
which they foolishly assumed to be entirely made of gold.

But fate had something other in store for them.

Having crossed only a few nautical miles, they fell prey to a storm so daunting that the sailors
began to believe that it was the wrath of the Lord Murugan from the temple they had looted,
which must have triggered the thunderstorm. Frightened out of their minds, they heaved the idol
into the ocean.

According to the locals, the ominous demeanor that had set on the skies had only a second ago
mysteriously vanished the moment the tip of the statue touched the surface, much to the soldiers’
relief. As the mercenaries began to move forward with their journey, the idol sank into the depths
of the ocean.

It is said Murugan urged one of the priests who performed the sacerdotal duties in the shrine in
his dream to bring back the idol from the clutches of the ocean.

The priest and his accomplices finally managed to retrieve the idol following Murugan’s
instructions.
 Another incident that is sure to give goosebumps to anyone who’s hearing. It is not a thing of a
past, but quite a recent one.

The 2004 Tsunami

The Thiruchendur temple once again scripted its name in the annals of history for guarding
devotees against the onslaught of the lethal The 2004 deadly Tsunami that washed away the
shores of the Indian subcontinent did not manage to do any harm or damage to the temple or its
devotees. Even today, the incident continues to baffle even the best of skeptics, while believers
hail Murugan for being the sole guardian of not just his abode but his devotees as well.

Intersting Facts

 Thiruchendur Murugan is the only Temple out of the six abodes of Muruga, which is located
near a seashore while the other five are located in hilly regions.
 It is one of the largest temple complexes (by area) in entire India, and it is one of the most visited
temple complexes in India with devotees flocking from countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Sri
Lanka, England, and Australia.
 This is the only Temple where Raja Gopura is situated in the western gate. This Temple was not
constructed by Kings but was built by three holy saints.
 In terms of wealth and funding, it one of the top contenders and is among the wealthiest temples
in India.
 Raja Rani Monument Ranipet: A Historical
Landmark

The Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet is a magnificent structure that stands as a testament to the
rich historical and cultural heritage of India. This significant landmark has played a pivotal role
in shaping the identity of the region and has gained prominence as a symbol of pride and heritage
for the people of Ranipet.

Historical Context and Key Figures

The Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet holds immense historical significance, dating back to the
reigns of the Chola dynasty in the 9th century AD. The Chola dynasty, known for its patronage
of art and architecture, left an indelible mark on the region, with the construction of numerous
temples and monuments that stand as a testament to their grandeur and opulence. The Raja Rani
Monument, with its exquisite carvings and intricate detailing, is believed to have been built
during this period, serving as a tribute to the rulers and their benevolence towards the people.
The monument is also associated with the legendary love story of Raja and Rani, whose romance
and devotion to each other have been immortalized in stone. The monument is adorned with
sculptures and reliefs depicting their love story, which has captivated the imagination of
generations and has become an integral part of the local folklore and cultural heritage.

The Impact of Raja Rani Monument Ranipet

The Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet has had a profound impact on the cultural and historical
landscape of the region. It has become a revered symbol of the rich heritage of India and has
attracted tourists, scholars, and enthusiasts from around the world. Its architectural splendor and
historical significance have made it a cherished site for cultural and historical studies, drawing
attention to the rich legacy of the Chola dynasty and their contribution to the art and architecture
of India.

The monument has also become a focal point for cultural events and festivals, serving as a venue
for celebrations and gatherings that showcase the traditional art forms, music, and dance of the
region. It has played a crucial role in promoting the local cultural heritage and has become a hub
for fostering artistic talent and creativity.

In addition, the monument has also contributed to the economic development of the region by
attracting tourists and generating revenue for the local community. Its status as a prominent
tourist attraction has led to the growth of hospitality and service industries, providing
employment opportunities and contributing to the overall prosperity of Ranipet.

Influential Individuals in the Field of Raja Rani Monument Ranipet

The preservation and promotion of the Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet have been the result of
the dedicated efforts of numerous individuals who have contributed to its conservation and
enhancement. One such figure is Dr. S. Vijayalakshmi, a renowned historian and archaeologist,
whose research and advocacy have been instrumental in raising awareness about the historical
significance of the monument and its cultural value. Her contributions in documenting the
history and significance of the monument have been pivotal in shaping its recognition as a
heritage site and have garnered support for its preservation and maintenance.

Another influential figure is Mr. S. Rajendran, a local leader and advocate for heritage
conservation, who has been instrumental in mobilizing community support for the preservation
of the monument. His efforts in organizing awareness campaigns, fundraising initiatives, and
advocacy have played a crucial role in garnering public support and government intervention in
safeguarding the Raja Rani Monument and ensuring its continued relevance.

Perspectives and Analysis

The Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet has evoked a multitude of perspectives, ranging from
admiration and reverence to skepticism and criticism. While many view the monument as a
source of pride and reverence for the rich cultural heritage of the region, some have raised
concerns about its maintenance and preservation. The lack of adequate funding and resources for
the upkeep of the monument has led to deterioration and neglect, raising questions about the
commitment of authorities in safeguarding our cultural legacy.

Furthermore, the commercialization and exploitation of the monument as a tourist attraction have
also sparked debates about the preservation of its sanctity and historical integrity. The influx of
tourist activities and commercial ventures in the vicinity of the monument has raised concerns
about the impact on its aesthetic and cultural significance, as well as the need for sustainable and
responsible tourism practices.

However, it is imperative to recognize that the Raja Rani Monument stands as an enduring
symbol of the historical and cultural legacy of India, and its preservation and promotion are
essential for ensuring the continuity of this heritage. Efforts to engage in sustainable
conservation practices, community involvement, and responsible tourism initiatives are crucial in
ensuring the long-term preservation and relevance of the monument.
Future Developments

The future of the Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet holds immense potential for growth
and development in various aspects. The integration of technology and innovation in the
preservation and promotion of the monument can open up new avenues for enhancing visitor
experience, educational outreach, and engagement with the local community. Digital initiatives
such as virtual tours, augmented reality experiences, and interactive educational platforms can
offer a fresh perspective on the historical and cultural significance of the monument, appealing to
a wider audience and fostering a deeper appreciation for its heritage.

Furthermore, partnerships and collaborations with public and private stakeholders, as

well as international heritage conservation organizations, can provide valuable resources and
expertise for the preservation and maintenance of the monument. Initiatives aimed at sustainable
tourism practices, cultural exchanges, and research collaborations can contribute to the global
recognition and appreciation of the monument, positioning it as a prominent cultural heritage site
of international importance.

In conclusion, the Raja Rani Monument in Ranipet stands as a remarkable testament to

the historical and cultural heritage of India, representing the grandeur and opulence of the Chola
dynasty and the enduring legacy of the region. Its impact on the local community, tourism
industry, and cultural identity has been profound, and its preservation and promotion hold
significant potential for future developments. However, it is imperative to address the challenges
of conservation and responsible tourism to ensure the sustained relevance and significance of the
monument for generations to come. The contributions of influential individuals and the
collective efforts of the community are vital in safeguarding and enhancing the legacy of the
Raja Rani Monument, reaffirming its position as a cherished historical landmark of India.