Description
The ancient temples in India have numerous legends and stories associated to the temples. Sri Balasubramanya Swamy Temple is located on the banks of holy Hanuman river of Ayikudi (that was Arya Kuti originally) in the Thirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. As per belief, Lord Murugan takes Payasam (a sweet made from milk and rice) on the steps of the temple. The idol of the temple is believed to be self-created (“Swayambhoo”). It was discovered by a villager during farming activities in the Mallapuram village near to the place. Though the original idol is not taken for special occasions and utsavam, a similar looking idol acts as “Utsavar Murthy” that means idol for the special festivals. It is a beautiful image of Lord Murugan standing next to a peacock (that is considered as “Vahana” or vehicle of Muruga) on a lotus seat.
History
It was a simple temple with a roof made from palm and coconut leaves in the mid of the 19th century. Maharaja of Travancore (who spearheaded the renovation of many temples in Tamil Nadu) offered his help to renovate the temple. A beautiful stone structure and nicely carved Gopuram, many Manadapam, and Praharams were built around the five sacred trees and sacred idols.
Importance/Significance
This temple is known for fulfilling the wish. Especially, childless couples visit the temple for getting blessed with a baby. It is said that thousands of people get their wishes fulfilled, and they come here to perform special rituals, offerings, and “Homas”.
Facts/Mythology
The numeral five has immense importance and significance in this temple. It is said that five trees are immensely important and sacred while seeking blessings of Lord Muruga. Pipal, Neem, Curry Leaf, Pomegranate, and Mavilangu are the trees known as Sthala Vrikshas. Similarly, there are five deities that are worshiped in the premises. The Moola Vigraha (main idol) obviously belongs to Lord Muruga. On the right side there are Mahadeva, Ambika, Ganesha, and Mahavishnu idols. On the right side, there is a beautiful idol of Lord Aditya (The Sun). The main deity is exactly below the five sacred trees, and it is at the center of five deities. Legends about the temple relate its association with Ramayana, the holy epic. It is believed that Lord Hanuman passed through this place while searching for Goddess Sita. He felt thirsty but did not find water anywhere. He created a river with his tail and quenched the thirst. Hence, the river is known as Hanuman River. The river is considered very sacred, and people believe that the water has special medicinal properties.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
November 15 to December 15 is the most important event of the temple. There is a 7 days festival with unique celebrations each day. Special rituals take place during the week, and devotees decorate the temple and deity uniquely. Chithirai Vishu, Vaigasi Vishakam and Masi Makam are three other importantevents. Lord Muruga sits on specially decorated chariot and takes a Parikrama of the town. Thousands of people come every year and get bestowed with the boon!
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