Siva related - Navagraha dosha planetory problems remedies

This article is to give brief details about the Brahampureeswar temple at Thirukolili or Thirukuvalai near Thiruvarur in Nagapattinam District of Tamilnad. Offering worship here will remove the Navagra doshas.

For removal/redressal of Navagraha dosha the foremost place to visit is the Brahamapureeswar temple at Thirukolili or Thirukuvalai. one who offer worship here to Brahmapureeswar is expected to get removal of all troubles arising from Navagra dosha (wrong placing of the planets) in one's horoscope. Brahmapureeswar is Lord Siva also called by the local people as Kolilinathan. In Tamil 'kol' means planet. It is the belief that Lord Brahma, Agasthya maharishi and Pandavaas etc came here, worshiped the Lord Siva/Brahmapureeswar/Kolilinathan and obtained salvation.

There is Navagraha installation here which is very special to this temple. The same is in the North-Eastern corner in its own shrine. The Navagrahas (( planets) are all facing South direction. Normally the Navagrahas are placed in a different way. All planets will be installed on a square granite stone. The Sun, the main planet will be at the center. The other planets are placed in such a way that no two planets will be facing each other. The placings will be usually as follows: As mentioned the Sun (Surya) will be at the center. Planets Surya (Sun), Sukra (Venus) and Budh will be facing East. Guru (Jupiter) will be facing North. Chandra (Moon) and  Sani (Saturn) will be facing West direction. Rahu and Kethu will be facing South. The placing of the Grahas will be: Surya - center; Chandra - South East; Kuja (Mangal) - South; Budha - North - East; Guru (Bruhaaspati) - North; Sukr (Brigu) - East; Sani (Manda) - West; Rahu - South - West; Kethu - North - West. There is references about this temple from 7th century onwards.

The Main deity Lord Siva is in the form of Swayamboo Linga. It is of white sand. The belief about the Linga is that the same in consecrated by Lord Brahma himself. 

The temple is on the Thiruvarur - Thriuthiraipoondi. It is about 3km from Ettukudi and 5 k m from Kachinam. The temple is in Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu, India.

General - Tilak - Kumkum wearing, its benefits

 This article is to give a brief details of the tilak, bindhi, 'tika', 'pottu', 'sindoor', 'tilak', 'tilakam', and 'kumkum and why it is applied, where it is applied, who are to apply, and how to apply along with the benefits of applying the same etc. The tilak is usually a round dot small or big or red or vermillion in  color.

Wearing tilak is an important custom to Hindus

Wearing the thilak/tilak on the forehead is as important an item of life as is taking bath, lighting an oil lamp or going to the temple for worship, for the Hindus. The women wear the tilak/kumkum on the forehead, in between the eyebrows above the nose. Women especially after marriage when entering the house of the husband fully adorned and beautifully attired is a considered as very auspicious and considered to help the welfare of the family and for good progeny. Widows are not expected to wear tilak.

Men folk applying tilak

Even the menfolks used to wear tilak traditionally as is the examples of the ladies of the house, the mother or wife, brothers, or Gurus - any one of them just before the men go out for a war, martial training or for performing Yagas etc. In case of Kshatriya (warrior communities) there used to be a practice of making a small cut in the thumb and the blood is applied by wife to the men going out on war. The men in normal circumstances wear the tilak not necessarily in round shape. If they are wearing the vibhooti (sacred ash) it will be 3 horizontal lines made by 3 fingers with the ash made wet. In the center spot some may wear the kumkum (vermillion) or raksha (a mixture of ghee and the burnt homa or burnt Dhurva - dharba grass) which will be  black colored. Some wear sandal paste instead of ash or in addition to ash. The sandal paste may horizontal or a vertical one applied with the ring finger from above the eyebrows to the head. Men wear these tilaks in other places like the chest, upper arms near the shoulders also. Some of the rishees, munees, sages or priests wear the tilak on every joints on the upper portion of the body in addition to the places mentioned. 

Why tilak on forehead

Whether it is men or women the place to wear tilak is at the center of the forehead at least. The place between the 2  brows above the nose is a very sensitive point of the human beings. This spot is symbolized by the scriptures as the place of the 3rd eye of Parameswar. The spot is supposed to be a center controlling knowledge, intelligence, memory etc. The tilak is to be applied after taking bath. Immediately after bath the temperature of the body may be at variance from the atmosphere which may result in fever, cold etc. Wearing tilak will give relief to such problems. 

Applying sacred ash on the top of the head and the joints after bath will take care of the possible problems of cold, fever and dropsy (swellings) of the joints. Applying or wearing the tilak while meditating or chanting mantras on the deity of ones liking will prevent many of the doshas due to the positions of the planets. This will also bring in prosperity. During the time of inauspicious times like immediately after death or birth in the family and the menses time of ladies wearing or applying tilak should be avoided. 

How one should wear or apply Tilak?

Tilak should not be applied with the use of nails or the little finger.

If one applies tilak with the ring finger it is expected to bring mental and bodily ease or peace and salvation etc. 

If the applying is done by the middle finger, it is expected to result in longevity of life.

If with the index finger tilak is applied it will being salvation and with the thumb finger if tilak is applied it will result in proper growth of teh body. 

The items used for tilak are Bhasm (Vibhooti or sacred ash), sandal paste, kumkum etc. 

Applying sacred ash - Basm

The sacred ash is made by making balls of cow dung and thoroughly drying the same in the sun. This is burnt with the paddy husk overnight. In the morning the cow dung balls would have been burnt and became ash which are taken out carefully without mixing the husk parts. The burnings are done normally on the Siva ratri nights. Basm is supposed to give health, wealth and prosperity. 

If the positions of Sun (aditya) and Saturn (Sani) are not in favorable position at the time of birth, wearing Basm after bath with chanting of 'Om Nama:sivaya:' will give relief from the doshas. Since Basm is associated with Lord Siva, it is expected to protect us from evil spirits and the consequences. It is to be applied by making it wet with water in the mornings; mixing with sandal paste in the afternoon and applying dry in the evenings is the correct procedure. 

 Applying Sandal paste

Just as Lord Siva is associated with the Basm, Sandal is associated with Lord Vishnu. Applying or wearing sandal will bring tranquility to mind, gives a bit of cooling effect, raise the mind to the satvik level (pious making). There are two kinds of sandals, the whitish normal one and the red colored (known as rakt chandan)one. The red sandal paste is used for blood purification. For Sun worship (Aaditya pooja) red sandal or Rakt Chandan is used. People having problems due to the wrong positions of Surya (Sun) or any other planet/s are advised to take pieces of red sandal pieces the same on Sunday mornings after bath and go to temples where Surya or Navagrahas are installed and offer the same will reduce the problems. Such people may also get the daily archana done with flowers and the red sandal paste at Devi temples and wear the prasad of the red sandal used for the archan for relief. At all times whether with or without any planetary dosha is present or not it is a good practice to wear sandal paste with chanting of 'Om Namo Naaraayanaaya' is a very good practice.

Applying Kumkum (vermillion)  

Kumkum is associated with Devi and applying kumkum will bring the blessings of the Devi. Kumkum is to be made by drying and powdering the kumkum flower (saffron flower -  kesar flower). It is also good to apply the kumkum during the dasa period of the planets moon, kuja (mangal - Mars), Sukr (Venus) and Kethu. Daily wearing kumkum is expected to give family security, keep the evil spirits and their consequences away besides help enhancing beauty. The kumkum used for abhishek or archan for Devi idols is very god if applied daily. Since saffron is very costly, kumkum is made by mixing of calcium and turmeric powder. The tow are mixed in such a way that the calcium is added to turmeric bit by bit and mixing thoroughly till the desired color is arrived.

Applying Raksha for tilak

After performing Ganesh homa (sacred fire) where coconut, and other auspicious homa items are used the charcoal is taken out and mixed with ghee or honey making it a loose paste. This is known as raksha (protection). Applying or wearing this will help to remove obstacles form ones path. This is also good for people suffering from Kethu or Sani dasa to wear to get relief from the troubles. 

Other items for tilak

From Naaga (snake) temples and Devi temples turmeric used for abhishek or archan is given as prasad. It is very good to wear this to get relief from Rahu dosha. It also helps to reduce the poisonous elements in blood, and for increasing beauty. 

The Bhadrakali temples use a coal paste made of raw green till (gingelli) plant by burning after taking out the sesame seeds or burning or rice and making paste with til oil. This will be a black colored paste like thing used to adorn the deity during abhishek. This is given as prasad and using this will ward of Kuja or Chandra doshas. This will be very helpful during the Kuja or Chandra dasa in one's life.

Kalabham is another item used for tilak. This is made by mixing sandal, gulgulu (Indian bdellium tree - Commiphora mukul or Gugal, Guggulin Hindi), maanja , Kumkum flower (saffron), Kotam, Iruveli, Ramacham (vetiver - khas grass) and Akil all Ayurveda medicinal items. This will be made as paste in the temples and applied to the deities. This after removing from the idols are distributed as prasad. Applying this on the body or using it for tilak is very good. This will give cooling effect to the body.

There area also some other such items used to make particular or specific tilak for specific purposes.

Though tilak is predominantly used by Hindus, people of other faiths have also started using this slowly.

Murugan related - Stomachache and other doshaas cure through Thiruchenthoor milk dhaara darsan and vibhooti

This is an article about the power of darsan of teh ksheerabhishek/ksheer dhaara and the vibhooti (sacred ash) of Thiruchendoor/Thiruchenthoor Lord Murugan/Karthikeyan/Subramanian.

Thiruchendur is a famous pilgrim center in Tamilnad. It is on the East coast on the edge of the Bay of Bengal. Since the sea waves constantly touch this place, the place is also known as 'Theeruchcheeralaivai'. This is one of the places where Lord Subramanya/Karthikeya camped with his padai (army) during the course of his fight against the demon Soorapadman. Hence it is one of the 6 padi veedu of Lord Subramanya. Padai veedu means army camp. Thiruchendur is the 2nd one of the 6 padai veedus(camps). Since the Lord killed and released the innocents from the clutches of Soorapadmasura (Soorapadma demon) Thiruchendur or Theeruchcheeralaivai is also known as Jayanthipuram. This place is also called as Vyazhaksetram (temple of Lord Guru - Jupiter) as the Lord Guru is believed to have come and did pooja in this temple.

This is a very big temple complex in Tamilnad and have several shrines for so many sub deities in the temple complex. But the main deity is Murugan/Subramanian/Karthikeyan. There is a special offerings to the Lord Murugan. The offering is known as ksheera (paal - milk)dhaara. Above the idol of the deity of Lord Subramanya a sliver pot with a small hole at the   bottom from which the liquid inside will fall in trickle (slender - thin stream) on to the idol. For the special offering this silver pot is filled with milk and the milk falls on to the idol through the hole. It will take around 3 - 4 hours for the milk in the pot to empty. This is a special abhishek (sacred bat) done to the deity. Devotees who come here on the days of this special ksheera dhaara (abhishek) and have the darsan of the deity during this special abhishek will receive all the blessings of the Lord. The devotees who want to have this special abhisheka darsan should have their bath in the 24 theerthas (holy ponds)  before the abhisheka darsan. The devotees are given sandal paste and sacred ash which was used to adorn the deity in a leaf. If the devotees adorn this sacred ash in front of the deity, fully concentrating on him are cured of the stomach pains which defied the medicines also. Along with the cure of the stomach problems many doshaas due to planetary positions also will get relief. There are other offerings offered by devotees like vratha and kavadi dance, pulling the chariot of the lord etc for cure of their problems including mental worries. People believe that those who perform the vows get relief from their problems.

It is said that the Adi Sankaracharyar came here and had the sacred ash and was cured of his chronic stomach disease and after that he sang the Sri Subramanya Bhujangam. There are several such incidents mentioned by the local people here.

There are several specialties attached to this temple. One such specialty is that there is hole in the wall on the eastern side opposite to the flag staff at the Southern side of the temple. One can see the foamy waves of the sea if peeped through the hole. If one keep the ear to the hole, the pranava mantra 'Om' can be heard.

    

Vishnu related - Sarpa and Rahu Doshas relief from Oothukkadu Sri Krishana worship

 This article gives details of Oothukkadu Sri Krishna temple. Worshiping here gives relief to Sarpa dosha or Rahu dosha.

Oothukkadu is a small village near to the town Aavoor near to the famous temple city of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. This village is an ancient holy place due to the presence of a very old Vishnu temple. The deity, Lord Vishnu of this temple is installed here as Lord Veda Narayana Perumal with his consorts Sreedevi and Bhoodevi. There is one more idol made of Pancha Loha (5 metals). The idol is of Lord Krishna dancing on the hoods of Kaliya the poisonous snake which was troubling people around Kaalindi river. The deity is popularly known as Sri Kaalinga Narthana Krishnar. This idol of Lord Krishna is of about two half feet. The idol will appear as the Lord dancing on the hoods of the Kaliya with his left hand holding the tail of Kaliya, the snake and the right hand in abhaya (granting of boon - aaseervad) position.

The specialty of the Oothukkadu Sri Krishna idol is that though the feet of the Lord appears to touch the head of the snake, it does not touch actually. There is a thin gap between the feet and the head and a thin paper can be passed through the gap. This is to mean that the entire weight of the idol of the Lord is balanced on the right hand of the lord and the tail of the snake.

This temple is believed to give relief against the Sarpa dosha and Rahu dosha.

Siva related - Thiruvizha Mahadeva (Siva) temple for cure of Inasanity and skin problems

This is an article to explain the about the Thiruvizha Siva temple ad the prasad offered to the persons suffering from insanity and some skin diseases like dropsy and leprosy. 

Thiruvizha Mahadeva (Siva) temple is in a village by the name Thiruvizha near to Cherthala town in Alapuzha (Alappey) district of Kerala State in South India. As the name suggests the temple is dedicated to Lord Siva (Mahadev). This is a very old temple but a small one. The temple opens at 5 am and the usual abhisheks (bathing of the deity) is done and the idol is decorated. At the Thiruvizha temple the main prasad given is a special one. The temple complex is having a peculiar plant the leaves of the same is plucked and the juice extracted from this is mixed with the cow milk. this is offered to the Lord Siva at the pooja known as the Pantheeradi pooja which is around 8 to 8.30 am.after offering this mix of the milk and juice the same is distributed to the devotees who have given the names of the persons to whom the prasad is to be given. The priest call out the names of those devotees for whom this prasad is to be given. Around 100 ml of this is given to each of the devotees who have registered for the same. These people are to drink the prasad in front of the deity. After one hour after taking this milk, they are given warm water of about 200 ml. After taking the water the devotees (mostly who are affected with mental or skin problems) are to circumambulate (walk around place of worship ritualistically) around the temple in clock wise direction. After each round the persons are to take 200 ml of warm water. By the time they complete 5 rounds they start vomiting whatever is there in their stomach. Once the stomach is empty around noon they are given another prasad which is offered to a shrine in the complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu. By the time the patients are expected to have relief. 

Large number of people come here for cure or relief from not only from problems of insanity, but from skin diseases like dropsy or leprosy etc. The prasad of this temple is believed to have the curing power of troubles from Alchemy/black magic, witchcraft (mantravada), evil spirits. Apart from all these the prasadam has the power to rejuvenate/energize/recharge the mind and body. 

A visit here is a worthwhile deed.

 The temple address is:prasad of
Thiruvizha Mahadeva Kshetram,
Kanichchu Kulangara P O, Cherthala, Alapuzha Dst. Kerala State, India
Phone Number: 011-91-478-2864836

It is near to Cherthala town and Alapuzha town. 

Vishnu related - Ravan experienced the power of Ram naam

This is an article explaining the fact that Ravan experimented with the power of Rama's name. Let us see as to what is the incident mentioned in Ramayan.

Even after Hanuman came to Lanka and demonstrated a sample of his power first by crossing the ocean and then  by burning several housed in Lanka with the torch  made on Hanuman's tail by the demons with the cloths covered and dipped in oil Ravan felt that he is invincible. Hanuman could have crossed the ocean by some magic which cannot be repeated by all.

One day one of his spies came and informed Ravan that Sri Ram is trying to build a bridge with the help of the vaanaras (monkeys). He further informed that the boulders and the hillocks put in the ocean by the monkeys are not downed, but are floating on the  water.  Ravan did not believe it. While the discussion was going on between Ravan and the spy, Ravan's wife Mandodari went to her garden and wrote the name of 'Sri Ram' on a small boulder and put it in the garden pond. The stone did not went down in the water. She came back and told  the incident to Ravan when the spy has gone away. Ravan still did not believe the same. However he decided to test the incident by himself. He went with his wife to the pond and saw the stone put by her, lying over the water. He took a stone in his hands and told that he is telling the Ram's name and putting the stone in the water and threw the stone in to the water with some force. To his consternation the stone did not go down in the water but was lying on the water. Ravan meditated on this and told to himself that Sri Ram is a capable person who is equal to fight him (Ravan). 

General - Some prasadas (edible offerings) becoming medicines

There are some temples, especially in Kerala where some special prasadas offered to the respective deities which are distributed t devotees. These prasadas act as medicines for some diseases. Let us have a look at some of them.

Normally the Vaishnav temples give Tulsi theerth (holy water with Tulsi) as prasad.This prasad taken daily will give relief against common cold, headache, Stomach disorders, some types of poisoning. It may give relief in some types of blood glucose, cholesterol levels, radiation problems and in some types of cancers in the beginning stages.

Near to Dindigul There is a village bu the name Thaadi Kombu with a perumal (Vaishnav) temple with the deity known as Soundararajan. The Danuvanthri deity here is having Avaleha (Lehyam) and Thaila as neivedyam. If this prasad is offered t the deity on Amaavasi (Amaya - new moon) days and taken as internally as prasad many diseases will be cured as per the belief of the devotees.

The Danvantri temple at Maruthorvattam near Cherthala in South Kerala there is an offering of 'Thaalu kari' (Colocasia stem) to the deity and the same is distributed as prasad. This prasad is believed to cure stomach pain and indigestion.

Near Cherthala there is another temple where the deity is Lord Siva. Here the offering is milk mixed with a substance having poisonous matter. The priest reads the names of the devotees who have registered their names with the temple for the prasad in front of the deity and give the prasad to the concerned devotees. The prasad taken as prescribed is believed to cure  for some mental illness, skin problems like leprosy, swelling from excessive accumulation of serous fluid in tissue etc and energize  body & soul.                  

Near Thrissur, in Nelluvai Village there is a Danwantri temple. Here one f the offering is a 'mukudi' a preparation of turmeric, pepper, curd and salt . This mukudi is believed to give relief for Asthma (respiratory) problem. 

The Thaila prasad of the Dharma Sastha temple at Thakazhi is believed to cure skin diseases and progressive paralysis. 

The Kashaya theertha (a kind of extract) of Mookambika temple is a like an all purpose remedy for many diseases. 

One of the  oldest Vishnu temples of Kerala in Irinjalakuda of Thrissur District of Kerala is the only temple in the whole country dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Bharath the inimitable brother of Sri Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Devotees come here with with various requests to the Lord and offer different worships. The main prasad is 'Mukkudi Nivedyam' and 'Brinjal Nivedyam' offered on the day of 'Avittom' star in the Malayalam month of 'Thulam' (during October - November) is a rare one. The mukkudi, if taken will cure all diseases related to blood. This Mukkudi is prepared at this temple by one of the Ashta Vaidyas of Kerala the Musad of Kuttancheri (a place in Kerala). This medical preparation of one of the 'Ashta Vaidyas' Kuttencheri Moose is mixed by pure curd in new mud pot in the temple and offered to the deity as neivedya first and is distributed to the thousands of the devotees who throng the temple on this day of 'Avittam - Sravishta' star day of Thula (Libra) of Malayalam month. There is a legend about the introduction of this special 'neivedya of mukudi'. It is connected with 'Vilva Mangalm Swamiyar' (also known as Leela Sukan). He is a known figure to all Keralites Hindu devotees. He is connected with several temples in Kerala. He was supposed to have the ability to see god whenever he wish to see. He was a staunch devotee of Lord Krishna and it is believed that Lord Krishna used to come in disguise as a Brahmin boy and help the Swamiyar in his pooja activities. The Swamiyar during his wanderings between temples, came to the Irinjalakuda Bharatha temple and he could not feel the presence of the Lord in the temple. When he went around the temple he saw the Lord lying with pretended stomach problem for his attention. The Swamiyar called the Kutanchery Moose made his to prepare the 'Mukudi" and transferred the same in new mud pot and offered the same to the Lord and distributed to the devotees present there. This practice is followed thereafter every year on the day. This 'mukudi' gives relief to any devotee who believes.

Hanuman related - How Hanmuman became Chiranjeevi - Amar

This article is to explain why Seetha Devi blessed Hanuman to be living as long as the world exist.

After abduction Sitha Devi by Ravan to Lanka Sriram and Sugreev deployed their forces to search for Sitha Devi. Hanuman went to Lanka after crossing the sea and met Sita Devi and tried to convince her that he (Hanuman) was a messenger or ambassador of Sriram. To convince her Hanuman narrates many incident that happened between Sriram and Sita Devi even some intimate happenings when only the two of them were present at the place. But non of these could convince her  fully that Hanuman is coming from Sriram, but may be a trick being tried by Ravan who is know for such tricks. Ultimately when Hanuman shows the finger ring the insignia of Sriram she is fully convinced that he is a person coming from her lord Sriram,.

On this realization she felt sad that she did not rust such a staunch follower of Sriram and tears started  rolling down from her eyes. Hanuman consoled her and said that her master will vanquish Ravan and rescue her. She felt repentance and sympathy with Hanuman and blessed him that Hanuman has no death as long as the world lives and he thus became Chiranjeevi, ever living being or Amar.

Goddess related - Gayathri Mantra chanting for courage and strength of mind

This is an article to explain the benefit of Gayatri Mantra to the mind, the mantra, meaning of the mantra, preferable way to adopt and the originator or codifier for the common man's benefit. Daily in the morning after taking bath chant this for 108 times will give maximum effect. Depending on the time available it may be done 18, 28, 58 etc may be done at least which may bring some effect.

There is a strong belief that Gayatri mantra is directed to Devi Gayatri. Some believe that it is directed to the Surya Deva. Some believe that it is not directed at any particular god/goddess and hence can be directed to any god/goddess one likes to.

The Gayatri Mantra is:

Oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ

tát savitúr váreṇ(i)yaṃ

bhárgo devásya dhīmahi

dhíyo yó naḥ pracodáyāt

  

Meaning of Gayatri mantra

Let us meditate on the goddess/god who is capable of removing our sins and ignorance; one who created this universe and all beings to be revered and greatness of the god. Let him /her lead our mind and intellect to our good.

There is a say that there is no food better or wholesome for human beings and there  is no mantra greater than Gayatri mantra. 

Each mantra of the Vedaas are associated with a Rishi and is having an adhidevatha. For Gayatri mantra it is Viswamitra Rishi and Savitha Devatha. 

Preferable way to chant Gayatri mantra 

Sit facing East or North. Sit squatting cross legged (preferably in Padmasan) on a plank or a mat of grass. Train to chant without mistakes. Along with some observe the pranayama (concentration with regulated breathing) and the counting with concetration of the chanting. This procedure help to have clear and clean mind, increased memory power and peace of mind. The the word appears to be denoting feminine one can use this mantra  to one's won ishta devatha (god of one's own preference). 

Originator of Gayatri mantra

Sage (Maharishi) Viswamitra is credited to have mastered Gayatri sadhana and derived the all powers of Gayatri mantra. He standardized the procedures the Gayatri mantra japa (chanting procedures of Gayatri mantra) and made it available for the common man to practice after getting initiated through a competent Guru (teacher - priest).

Hanuman related - Sani dosh parihar through worship Hanuman and other gods

 Why praying to Hanuman and other gods give relief against Sani dasa/dosha

This is an article to explain why proper worship of lord Hanuman helps to remove or reduce the effect of the transitional affections of Lord Sani planet fro m one house to another. The effect will be there for up to 7 and half years. two and half years before coming to the house, two and half in the house and tow and half years after going out of the house to the next one. The first two and half years comparatively  mild, next period severe and the final period again less and some times some benefits also at the time of going out of the house. Let us see.

During the transit of the planet Sani the hose in which it has entered may affect the persons born in that rasi and other rasi connected. People coming under these rasees will have to undergo problems from mild to severe intensity depending on the rasees and the birth stars of the persons concerned. For the proper guidance and advices people concerned may approach competent astrologers. But there are some general religious remedies which will eliminate or at least reduce the effect of the Sani Dosh.

 Sani dasa period of Hanuman

One version is that When lord Sani felt it is time for Hanuman to come under his influence or effect, he came to Hanuman. Hanuman was sitting in a room. Sani sat on Hanuman's shoulder to start his effects. Lord Hanuman immediately started increasing his size using his ability to do so. He increased his size to such a level that Lord Sani was caught sandwiched between the should or Hanuman and the ceiling of the room. He was squeezed tight and was about to be crushed. Lord sani pleaded with Lord Hanuman that Sani will not trouble Hanuman any more and also will not harm or at least reduce the malefic effects of anyone who prayed to Hanuman.On this assurance Hanuman released lord Sani.

Another version of the above

It is known to all Hindus that tall the planets transit from house to houses and each take its own specific time to cross over from one house to the next. Lord Sani takes two and half years. All scriptures explain that Lord Hanuman as a extremely knowledgeable, a vedhanthi and an extremely strong one. Sani do not spare any one form its turn to punish. Even the thrimurthees (Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara)  were not spared. Lord Ganapathi escaped by fooling Sani. Dhrama Sastha was freed by Sani as Sani was troubled by Sastha and Hanuman escaped by his strength. Lord Sani was proud that even the thrimurthees did not have escape from his and others are no match to him Thinking this Sani felt that Hanuman's turn has come for the trouble, and went to Hanuman. Hanuman did not like the expression of Lord Sani and Hanuman thought of teaching a lesson to Sani. Sani said to Hanuman that your time to come under my effect is slightly overdue and be ready to face the effect. Hanuman smiled to himself and said O K please come. Sani was enraged with the attitude of Hanuman and  his hairs were erect with the anger. Hanuman used his power to increase in size and became so huge like a mountain and caught hold of the hair on the head of Sani which were standing erect due to the anger and started swirling so fast that Sani felt miserable and the pain was unbearable.  He requested Hanuman to release him and promised that he will not trouble Hanuman. Hanuman put a condition that not only he (Hanuman) but but anyone who is a devotee or who worship him (Hanuman) should not be troubled by Sani. Lord Sani agreed to this condition upon which Hanuman released Lord Sani.

One more version of Sani dasa of Hanuman

Lord Hanuman was in deep meditation of Lord Ram by chanting lord Ram's name. Lord Sani thought of teasing Hanuman. When he tried to do so Lord Hanuman warned him to get off as he respect Sani as the son of Hanuman's Guru Lord Surya (Sun) and do not want to hurt his as far as possible. But Lord Sani did not listen to his warning, Lord Hanuman started thrashing Lord Sani. Lord Sani could not withstand this and pleaded with Hanuman that he will leave Hanuman. Hanuman took a promise from Lord Sani that he will not go near to devotees who pray to Hanuman or those who meditate on Lord Ram. 

Helped Lord Sani from Ravan

As per Ramayan  Hanuman had rescued Lord Sani from the clutches of Ravan who had enormous power and strength due to the blessings of Lord Siva. In gratitude Lord Sani promised Hanuman that he will not trouble those who prayed to Hanuman.

Because of these reasons people who worship Hanuman are not troubled by lord Sani.

Worship  of other gods for Sani Dosha Parihara

Offering proper worship to Lord Siva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Dharma Sastha, Lord Sani himself  and Lord Hanuman are believed to give relief against Sani dosha.For more effect these worships are to made on Saturdays.

Visiting Saneeswar temples or temples where Navagrah with Saniswar is installed is considered good. There are few temples in South mainly in Tamilnad where Saneeswar is a main deity like Thirunallar Karaickal in Pondichery state; Koochanur in Theni district; Suryanar temple near Kumbakonam - Mayiladuthurai; Vaidyanatheswar temple of Madavarvalaakam in Srivalliputhur near Chennai and Nachiyar temple in Thanjavur are considered to give very good effect.

Performing neeranjana on Saturdays at Ayyappa (Sastha) temples are considered as to good relief. Neeranjana is lighting lamp with a special wick of a black cloth piece filled with black sesame seeds (black til seeds, ellu). (put sesame in cloth and make a pouch and tie the cloth to keep the sesame in the pouch). The tied end will have the cloth protruding as a thick wick. Soak this in till (gingelli) oil and place it in a lamp. Pour sufficient oil in the lamp to burn the cloth pouch fully and light the end of the cloth.   The person suffering from Sani dosha should stand near the lamp so that the smoke coming from the lamp is availed by the body through nose and skin. It it done for a specified number of Saturdays relief should be available,

Chant Sani Gayathri every day mornings during pooja time.

Chant Saneeswara manthra (oum sree Saneeswaraya namah) 108 times everyday during the trouble period

Give rice with some sesame mixed to cows daily.

Give food to hungry persons. Give clothing to persons with tattered cloths on Saturdays. Giving iron items as gift is considered good.


The best thing is to consult a competent astrologer and be guided. 

Ganapathi related - Why strange type of worship Lord Ganesh?

When we go to the temple/shrine of Lord Ganesh/Vinayak/Vigneswar we do strange worship by having an odd posture. We hold the right ear with the left hand and left ear with the right and cross the legs and then do the sit and stand ritual. Why this is done?

There is an incident in the puranas which gives a hint about the reason or origin of this practice. The legend is that once when Lord Vishnu came to visit Kailash, little Ganapathi was playing. When he saw the Sudarsan chakra (discus disc) on the finger of Lord Vishnu, his uncle, Ganesh wanted to play with it and insisted for the same. Lord Vishnu gave the same and went to Lord Siva, his brother-in-law. After finishing his talk with Lord Siva, Lord Vishnu was to go back when he saw the Ganesh with Sudarsan disc in his mouth. Lord asked his nephew to return the disc and tried his level best without result. Then he thought of making little Ganesh to laugh so that the disc can come back to him without injuring Ganesh. For this he adopted the strange posture of holding the ears with opposite side hands and crossing legs and doing the sit and stand activity. Immediately Lord Ganesha laughed and the discus came back to Lord Vishnu. This is supposed to be the origin of this type of strange worship to the Lord Ganesh.

The physical benefit of this practice is that the knees of legs and hands get exercise which strengthen them. Another benefit by this is that the brain get more blood to circulate as the heart pumps more blood. This increase in blood circulation will help activate the memory and the brain will be alert..

Ganapathi related - How Kubera was humbled by Lord Ganapathi?

Kubera is the Lord of the North side with the capital of Alakaapuri and the Lord of wealth. He was a staunch devotee of Lord Siva and on his blessings only Kubera became what he was. Once Kubera visited the Lord Siva at Kailas. He saw that the Lord and his consort were living in place of snow without any roof over them and the place was surrounded by the snow clad mountains. He was scornful at the site and invited the lord to go over to his place where he will give him a warm welcome and feed him with 50 + delicious dishes. He thought that if the Lord comes to his place, he will know the difference between the facilities and comforts of the 2 places (lord's place and Kubera's place). The lord smiled to himself. But goddess Parvathy became very angry and said that we are not very particular about food but since you invited us with your devotion and love, I will send my son Ganesh (Ganapathy, Vinayak). Since he is fond of food he will be pleased. Accordingly Kubera with the Lord Ganesh and his vehicle mouse went in Kubera's Pushpak Viman (Kuber's plane) to Alakaapuri.

For the occasion of the feeding, all the VIP's of all the 14 lokas of the universe had come. The food items were delicious and flavored the aroma was making every body's mouth to water. As soon as Lord Vinayak reached Kuber's place he started telling about his hunger. Since Ganesh was a child they thought first let him be fed. Hundreds of dishes were kept in front of Ganesh for him to eat.Instantly Ganesh finished all the items given to him and informed that he is still hungry. Whatever food was prepared was finished and fresh preparations were also finished and still the hunger is not satisfied. Ganesh started to swallow the everything he could see around including the furniture of Kuber's palace in spite of Kuber's pleadings to spare. Kuber immediately flew to the Kailas and prostrated at the feet of Lord Siva and requested him to save. All his pride and ego vanished and he only wanted to save his skin.  The lord smiled to himself and gave Kuber a handful of 'Avil' (pounded and flattened rice flakes) and advised Kuber to give the same to Lord Ganesh. By the time he returned not only the palace but the entire city of Alakapuri has gone into the stomach of Lord Ganesha. Kuber gave the avil to Ganapthai and prostrated at the feet of Ganapathi and stood in front of the lord with folded hands and repentance for his pride and ego. Lord Ganesh took a bit of the avil of his father. Immediately his hunger was satisfied.

The essence is that one should not be unduly proud, elated or egoistic at gains and scorn others.

Siva related - Thittakudi Siva temple - where Maharishi Vasishta got 'Raja Rishi' position

Sage (maharishi)  Vasisht is known as the Brhmarishi to the Hindus. But before he became a Brahmarishi first he got the title of Rajarishi from non other than the Lord Siva. On the basis of this title he was appointed as the 'Kula Guru' (family teacher) of their families by Manu, Dasarath and Sriram. Sage Vasisht did penance to please the Lord Siva at a place called 'Thittakudi' near a village town by name Thozhudur which is about 120 km on the Trichy - Chennai road. From Thozhudur, Thittakudi might be around 15 km deviation the Trichy - Chennai route. 

Pleased with Sage Vasisht's penance Lord Siva appeared in front of him and gave the title 'Rajarishi'. As the Guru of Sriram, Vasisht gave a collection of advises which was written down and codified as the 'Jnana Vasishtam'. This is like the Geetha advises to Arjuna by Lord Krishna.

The place where the lord gave darsan to Vasisht has 7 ghats (saptha thurai in Tamil), in the river Swetha, considered as sacred for bathing. Since the rivers of this area are only seasonal rivers, water may be present only durig the rainy season. There is a Siva temple with his consort Asanambigai in separate shrine on to the right side of the shrine of the Lord. As per the legend the Saptharishees  came to this place took bath in all the 7 ghats to rid of their guilt for having participated in the yaga conducted by Daksha, father - in - law of Lord Siva to insult his son - in - Siva. It is also believed that Sage Vasisht came here with his mother Saraswathi and wife Arundhati to offer worship to the Lord and goddess. It is also believed that Lord Natarajar, and aspect of Lord Siva came here and danced. A Nirtha Mandap is built in the place of dance by Natarajar with beautifully carved pillars.

Siva related - Differences in ritual in Siva temples

 Circumambulations in Shiva temples

There is a difference in the worship of Lord Siva between and Kerala Siva temples and most Siva temples in the rest of the county. In most of the Siva temples in rest of India full circumambulations are done. In Kerala temples of Siva, full circumambulations are not done. It is done only in the form of a crescent moon to the extent of 80 to 90% of the sanctum sanctorum where idol of deity of Siva are installed. First in clockwise direction proceed to 3/4th distance (till the drain pipe or provision to remove the water from the sanctum from the abhishek) then return anti clock wise and proceed to the other side of the drain pipe. The idea is not to cross the drain provision from the sanctum, even if the same is concealed underground. This rule is not applicable where the Linga is swayambhoo or at homes. Similarly if there is a shrine of some other deity on the right side, the place where the drain is found usually this rule is not applied as there is no chance of the water from sanctum coming here. There is no proper explanation available for this peculiar circumambulations. On explanation is that the water coming from the drain contains energy and crossing the same will affect our energy. Another one is that by crossing one may step over the water and make it defiled. I am not sure about these explanations as the water coming from the shrines of other deities also may contain energy and are also sacred to be defiled. I hope some knowing about this will make comment.

Another specialty of procedure is that in most places after worshiping in the temple just at outside people sit for a moment and then go out.In Kerala and some other places this practice is not followed. This procedure of sitting is followed under the belief that the Siva ganaas will come upto the main door to see us off.

Ganapathi related - Nethra Ganapathi who cures eye diseses

There is an idol of Lord Ganesha/Ganapathi/Vinayaka in the temple of Lord Subramanya/Karthikeya at Swamy Malai (near Kumbakonam town), one of the Aaru Padai Veedu (6 bodes of the Lord Muruga). This deity is called as the 'kan kodutha vinayagar' (Lord Vinayaga who gave eye sight). The reason for the name is that once Sage Brighu contracted eye troubles and lost his eye sight. He did penance to please Lord Ganapthi and the Lord was kind to appear before Brighu and suggested to take bath in the 'nethra pushkarini' (the temple tank/pond)and worship the idol of the Lord Ganapthy for 48 days. On completion of this worship he (Brighu) will regain his sight. On following this advice Sage Brighu got back his eye sight. Subsequently a devotee of Lord Ganapathy by name Samanthan came here and offered worship to the Lord for cure of his eye disease and got relief.

Now also several eye patients come here to worship and get relief from their eye diseases.

General - What is the meaning of the Mangalya Mantra?

The meaning of the mantra or verse is : O! girl/lady I am starting my married life with you from today. From my side I assure you that I will contribute my full share for a good married family life.With this assurance I am tying the 'thiru mangalya', 'thali' or 'mangal sutra' around your neck. Be my life partner and share all my happiness and sorrows and let us live a prosperous life for a very long time together.

General - Prerequisites for the ultimate realisation

Persons in the quest of the ultimate knowledge are to follow some DOs and DONTs as per Bhagavath Geetha.

Persons should not take pride in wealth, family, caste and religion.

Do not have ego on the ability.

Ability to anything in one's stride.

In every field follow straight forward way.

Serve the knowledgeable Guru  (master - teacher) and try to learn the knowledge from him.

Keep the heart clean and pure always.

Do not deviate from the Goal.

Have control on your mind.

With the above one is ready to know the ultimate knowledge.

Indian temples: Navagraha Suryanar - Sun temple at Thirumangalakud...

Indian temples: Navagraha Suryanar - Sun temple at Thirumangalakud...: Suryanar  - Sun temple   As per the astrology the sun placed in favorable position in the horoscope gives intelligence, perception, ...

Navagraha related - Religious/Planetory remedies for troubles due Surya planet's wrong position

Why we have problems of various kinds in our life?

There are several reasons for our problems. It may not be possible to cover all aspects in an article like this as it requires research in various aspects of life and the life time of a person may not be sufficient for this. However some of the aspects can be visualized. There are the genes, the compounds or cells with which we are in the present form, the nutrition, the physical activities, mental activities, the supplements of vitamins and mineral requirements of the body, our beliefs, the benevolence of the deities/gods and the planetary positions etc. Many of the problems specially related to health may be purely physical like an injury, or infectious or seasonal health problems etc. These can be attended through the medicines taken through the advises of competent doctors of any faculty. Some may be related to excess or deficiency in vitamins and minerals which can be corrected by regulating these elements. Some problem may be related to excess or lack f physical or mental activities which can be adjusted by our regulating the activities. We can find some cases where the problems appears to be physical but whatever we do no relief comes. Take the case of sicknesses. There are some health problems for which we do not get relief even by going to best competent doctors. These may be due to some other factor mentioned above.

As mentioned above there are some aspects or problems which are due to the  non benevolent attitude of gods towards us for some of our mistakes or may be due to the improper position of the planets which also affects us.  For such problems which may be about health or other matters of life a visit to some specified places of worship and doing the specified type of worship at this place may give us some relief. Let us have a look at the problems caused by planetary positions and their remedies.

In the olden days temples are built and procedures of worships are devised in such a way that those who go there and worship in the temples can expect to get specific relief. This is in additions to the spiritual or psychological solace and relief we derive from such worships. 

Planets in unfavorable positions

It is the belief of a large percentage of population in India that the positions of the planets at the time of the birth and positions during their transition affect the health favorably or unfavorably.   Each of the 9 planets control specific part of the body. The planet and the part of the body influenced are:

Sun  (Soorya)     .............................. head and eyes

Moon (Chandra)   ........................... water, breast, glands and stomach

Mars  (Kuja, Angaraka, Mangal) ....  Muscles, bile, ear, nose, 

Mercury (Budh)   ...........................   nerves, brain, spinal chord

Jupiter (Guru, Bruhaspathi)   ...........   Phlegm (flum), blood

Venus (Sukra)    ..............................  reproductive organs

Saturn (Sani, Manda)   ....................  bones, joints

Rahu (shadowy planet) ....................  poison, mental trouble

Kethu (shadowy planet)   ................   Mental sickness, giddiness

From the above we may presume that for head and eye problems arising out of the planetary position of Sun we may expect relief by worshiping the god related to Sun planet. There are many places for worship. I am giving the places I am aware of and which are supposed to give relief. The basic thing to note is that the person concerned should have faith and the worship should be as prescribed at the place of worship concerned. The persons should consult the appropriate authorities concerned at those places.

Suryanar  - Sun temple 

 As per the astrology the sun placed in favorable position in the horoscope gives intelligence, perception, strength and character, endurance, stamina, vitality, positive spirit, courage, confidence and leadership. If the placing is not correct then the result will be dullness of intellect and perception, weak will and character, eyes and head  troubles. For this Surya's worship benefits and give strength, health, good eyesight, intelligence, relief from skin ailments and longevity of life.The worship include among other things abhishek (sacred bathing) by cool water, offerings of wheat and archana with lotus of red color to please the lord Suryanarayan. Those f the devotees who are unable to go to the other Navagraha temples or the problems from other planets may offer the necessary worship or parihara pooja to the respective planets in their respective shrines in this temple. But the best way is to go to the temples dedicated to the respective planets which are withing 50 km from here. Preferable days to worship here is Sundays. Reciting Surya mantras, surya gaythri etc are good.

Thirumangalakudi Suryanar koil - temple

There is a temple dedicated to the Surya (Sun god - planet - Suryanarayan) near Kumbakonam in a village by name Thirumangalakudi. Offering worship here properly is supposed to give relief for the troubles arising out of the unfavorable planetary position of Sun planet. Though the main deity of this temple is Suryanarayan there are shrines for other gods like Kasi Viswanathan and his consort Vissalakshi, Kol Vinai Theertha Vinayagar (Papa vimochana pillayar) and near by is the temple for Thirumangalakudi Prananatheswar and his consort Thirumangalambigai. The procedure is to first offer worship here and then proceed to the Suryanar temple.

Offering proper worship here is expected to give relief for problems caused by wrong position of the planet Sun. Benefit to problems of dullness of intellect and perception, weak will and character, eyes and head  troubles can be expected.

Thirumangalakudi is in between Myiladuthurai and Kumbakonam and conveyance facilities at both places are available. 

Keezhsurya Moolai Soorya Koteeswaran

Another the temple of Suryanar is the Soorya Koteeswaran (Lord Siva as Sun manifestation) temple. This temple is in a village known as Keezhsurya Moolai. The deity of the temple is Lord Siva in the form of Surya Koteeswar. This is near to Kumbakonam Town in Tamil Nadu. Like many other temples in the area this temple is an ancient one. It is the belief that Suns, Stars and all other planets in the entire universe come here to pay their respects to the deity here. 

By coming and doing proper worship here is expected to give relief  to the problems arising out of the wrong planetary position of the planet Surya (Sun) like mental vacillation, mental restlessness, problems in the work place, curse of the ancestors etc the devotees can expect relief from these troubles. Similarly those affected with eye problems too get relief by proper worship in this Temple. Tender coconut abhishek to the deity is one important offering to the deity. 

Navagraha related - Mangal or Kuja dosha and relief by worships

 Marriage problems

There are many problems  related to marriage. Some are the problem of not getting or finding a proper match and not getting married and some problems are the misunderstanding between the couple for various reasons sometimes even leading to divorce. Here we will consider the delay in getting married or not at all getting married.

There are several reasons for this. One of the main reason according to astrology is the Manglik (mangal dosha, chovva dosha or kuja dosha). According to astrologers if the planet Mars is in the 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th or 12th house from the lagna (the house where the planet sun was at the time of birth) the horoscope is subject to mangal dosha. Though this is the general position there are several exceptions. Since it is an astrological subject, it is better for the astrologers to deal with it. In this article we will consider the parihara prescriptions (remedial measures) suggested to remove or reduce the effect of mangal (kuja) dosha. The main remedies prescribed are going to specified temples and doing appropriate worships. It is better to consult a competent astrologer in this matter.

Vaitheeswaran Temple

One of the very important temples for Chovva or Kuja or Mangal (Manglik) dosha parihara (remedy) is the Vaitheeswaran or Vaidhyanathaswamy (god of medicines) temple. This temple is dedicated to Vaitheswaran but is famous for the sub deity Angarakan / Kujan / Mangal / Chovva. This is a very old temple near to Myiladuthurai (14 km) on the way to Kumbhakonam (60km) and Chennai. This place is also very famous for Naadi jyothisham. By doing proper offerings and worship at this temple Manglik dosha is said to be removed. It is considered as the temple for Chovva / Kujan / Mangal. Within a radius of about 60 km around this there are other 8 temples to the remaining 8 grahas of the Navagrahas.

 Kailasnatha worship

Chovva or Kuja or Mangal (manglik) dosha is considered as an apprehensive or fearsome dosha just as Sani Dosha as per the horoscope positions. There is a temple abut 37 kn from Madurai. This temple is abdicated to Lord Siva as kailasanathar.

This temple is having Navagraha Prathishta (sub shrine for Navagrahas). The Navagrahas in this temple are tottally different from other Navagraha temples. Here the Navagrahas are in sitting posture.

By doing appropriate worship and offerings here it is believed that the Mangal/Kuja/Cevvai dosha will have relief.

Pazhani Andavar temple

 Offering worship at the Sri Subramanya (andava) temple at Pazhani is believed to bring relief to those who are affected by the kuja or chovva dosha.

Thirumanancheri

Thirumancheri a Tamil word means place of marriage. As per a legend goddess Parvathy consort of Lord Siva wanted to marry the lord once again in earth with both in the form of human beings. The wish was fulfilled at this place. The deities of Siva here is known as Kalyanasundareswarar, Uthvaanganathar and Arul Vallal and goddess Parvathy is known as Kokilaambal, also as 'Kuyilinmenmozhiammai'. This temple is near Myiladuthurai and Kumbakonam. Offering proper worship here is said to reduce kuja dosha and helps in getting married to good spouse.

There may several other such temples in other states also. As suggested earlier it is better to consult a competent astrologer.

Ganapathi related - Lord Ganesh worship for removing Brahma hathya dosha

Nethra Ganapathi who cures eye diseases

There is an idol of Lord Ganesha/Ganapathi/Vinayaka in the temple of Lord Subramanya/Karthikeya at Swamy Malai (near Kumbakonam town), one of the Aaru Padai Veedu (6 bodes of the Lord Muruga). This deity is called as the 'kan kodutha vinayagar' (Lord Vinayaga who gave eye sight). The reason for the name is that once Sage Brighu contracted eye troubles and lost his eye sight. He did penance to please Lord Ganapthi and the Lord was kind to appear before Brighu and suggested to take bath in the 'nethra pushkarini' (the temple tank/pond)and worship the idol of the Lord Ganapthy for 48 days. On completion of this worship he (Brighu) will regain his sight. On following this advice Sage Brighu got back his eye sight. Subsequently a devotee of Lord Ganapathy by name Samanthan came here and offered worship to the Lord for cure of his eye disease and got relief.

Now also several eye patients come here to worship and get relief from their eye diseases. 

To ward off Brahmahathya Dosha worship of Ganapathi

Lord Sriram by the act of killing the demon king Ravan in the war at Lank to rescue his wife Sitha Devi was stigmatized by Brhmahathya sin. For remedy from this stigma Sriram went to Vedaranya a place in Tamilnad. At Vedaranya he went to the Vedaranyeswar Temple and offered prayer to the Lord Ganesh there. Immediately Lord Ganapathi removed the Brahmahathya by kicking it and  released Srirama from the stigma. Because of this incident the lord Ganapathi (Ganesh) here is also known as the 'Veerahathi Vinayagan'. The idol of the deity Lord Ganapathy is in the pose of kicking. The belief is that those who are suffering from Brahmahathya sin can get rid of the sin by offering appropriate worship to the Lord Ganapathi here.
  

Lord Ganapathi the symbol of simplicity 

The Hindu philosophy teaches to love and appreciate everything in the nature. Even in the idols of the gods and worship this aspect of love and appreciation towards nature is reflected. We can find several animals and birds as the vehicles of various gods and goddesses. Coming to the lord Ganapathi who is the first deity to be worshiped and appeased to remove all obstacles in the path and at the start of any function.

Lord Ganapathi, Ganesha, Vinayaka, Vigghneswara, there are several names and cannot be mentioned here as the names itself will occupy pages and pages of the article. The Lord is the symbol of simplicity. The form of the lord itself is a symbol of simplicity. It is a combination of a human and an animal. This is to reflect the relation in nature to the human beings and the animals. The lord accepted the body of a man with the head of an elephant for his form. The man is proud of his head – brain which is in the head which is not taken by the lord. The elephant has the body the strongest amongst the animals and that also is not taken by the lord. Instead he had opted for the frail body of the human and frail head of the elephant leaving out the strong parts of both. Now let us see his vehicle or carrier. It is the mice. An animal of the most ordinary level and normally despised by all. What is the most preferred offering in place of flowers to Lord Ganapathi? It is the ordinary Dhurva (Berumuda, doob, karuka, garge etc in different languages) grass, a kind of commonest among the common grass. He will be pleased by the offer of the Dhurva grass. Now coming to the neivedya (food offering) the preferred items are the sugar cane, coconut and jaggery (bella, vellam - unrefined sugar in molded form) which are also the most common items. Thus the lord is pointing out that even the common and ordinary things of the nature are valuable. He is considered as the most helpful god for all and removes the obstacles if pleased and at the same time he can create obstacles which cannot be solved by anything or anybody if he is displeased. Even the ultimate of the gods the thrimurhtyees offer worship to Lord Ganesh before starting any task. 

Siva related - Pranaveswaran to remove stammering

In Tamil Nadu there is a temple dedicated for Lord Sivananda (Siva). The temple is known as Thirupperunthurai Sivananda temple in the village Perunthurai near Kumbakonam. This temple is built in the place where Lord Murugan (Subramanian, Shanmukhan, Kandhan, Karthikeyan) gave the meaning of the 'pranava manthra' to his all knowing father Lord Siva. Because of this incident Lord Subramania is known as 'Gurunathan' (teacher), 'Swaminathan' (lord of the lord). as per a legend the Bala Muruga lost the power of speech after this incident. Lord Muruga felt bad for having taken the roll of a teacher to his own father and was brooding over the matter and for getting peace lord Muruga installed a Linga representing his father and started worship and penance. Lord Siva was pleased with the devotion of Lord Muruga and advised Muruga that both the Lord Siva and Muruga are one and the same and there is no need for any repentance. Because of this  Lord Muruga is known as Pranaveswar in this place.There is a shrine dedicated to Lord Mururga as 'Pranaveswar'

As per the belief of the devotees those who are affected with stammering if come here and offer appropriate poojas and worships can get rid of their stammering problem.

The title or tag are given to 4 gods namely the Lord Ganesh, Lord Sani, Ravaneswar and Chandikeswar. The Lord Mururga of this temple is called as Pranaveswar.

General - Important days/occassions and special offerings to different Deities

For Goddess Badra Kali

All Tuesdays, Fridays, all Bharani star days and specially the Bharani day of Meena (Pisces) month and mandala vratha (41 days special rituals) normally falling during Vrischika and Dhanu months (November and December).

Red silk cloths, kuruthi (a red colored water prepared by mixing water, calcium and turmeric powder) and Payasam (a preparation with cooking of strong raw sugar candy, rice and water) are the special offerings.

For Goddess Durga

Karthik star day of all months are important days for worship of Goddess Durga. The Karthik day of Vrischik month (falls in Feb - March months of English calendar) is still more important. Other important occasion is the Navarathri festival time falling in Sept - Oct months of the English Calendar.

The main offering is Nei Payasam (a preparation made of rice, jaggery (raw sweet prepared out of sugar cane juice) and ghee with some spices like cardamom and dry fruits like Cashew and dry grapes.

For Goddess Parvathy

For Goddess Parvathy offer a garland made out of Asoka flowers (Saraca asoca), Pichak poo (Fabiana imbricata) and Chembak flower to adorn on head for prosperity.

Offer garland made out of lotus buds with due observance of Thingal Vratha (Monday - Somavara vrath) to beget a good natured husband. The garland has to be made by the concerned lady devotee herself.

For Lord Siva

All Pradoshas (thrayodasi saayam sandhya - dusk of the 13th day of waxing moon of all months), Sivarathri falling in February - March of the English Calendar, Thruvathira (Aarudra) star days and Ashtami thithi (8ty day) of waning moon of all months are important days to worship lord Siva for more effect.

Main offerings are abhishek (sacred bath) through Conch (Sanku), Dhara (arranging for water falling continuously  on the Siva Linga from a copper pot with a small hole at bottom suspended above), abhishek by 'ilaneer' (tender coconut water), a lighted lamp at the back and adorning of the linga with Bilva maala (Bael leaves garland) are the important offerings. 

For Lord Vishnu

Offer Paal payasam (a preparation made out of rice cooked in milk with sugar) for prosperity

Offer butter for  begetting children.

Offer 'Thrimadhuram' (a mix of plantain pieces, ghee and honey) for increase in intelligence.

Offer Kadali banana fruit (a special kind of banana mainly used to offer in temples) for harmony in family, prosperity and good health.  

Offer 'aval' (rice flakes) pounded rice for getting good crop in agriculture and income. 

 

Vishnu related - Thirukkollikadu - Pongu Saneeswaran who gives boon

Thirukkollikadu - Pongu Saneeswaran Temple

Normally all the temples where the deity is Sani (Saturn) Bhagavan devotees come to get relief from Sani Dasa (saade saathi - Ezharai Sani,  Ashtma Sani etc) in the horoscope. But there is one temple dedicated the Lord Sani where the lord instead of just giving remedy for the dosha gives the desired boons to the devotees.

It is the general belief of the people that Lord Sani is a malefic Graha (house - planet) creating miseries and obstacles in one's life during the period of the Sani Dasa (planetary position of planet Sani - Saturn in disadvantageous position). These periods are known as saade saathi, ezhara sani, sani payarchi, Ashtma sani etc when the concerned persons will have the experience of living as if in a horrible hell subjected to all kinds of obstacles, terrors and humiliations etc. Hence people dread at the very mention of the name Sani. But  the real position is that Sani is a just planet doing its duties without fear or favour. The sufferings to be undergone by persons are due to their Karmas (deeds) of the past or past life. He is only doing what is to be done as just. So Sani did not like this unenviable position in the minds of people for no fault of his. He approached the Lord Param Eswar and explained his position and wanted not to blamed for his doing the work assigned to him. The Lord Param Eswar was pleased with Sani and directed him to stay in the place as Pongu Sani and bless the devotees who come to him. He also conferred on Sani the title of 'Saneeswar'. Saneeswar is the only planet to get the tag Eswar attached to his name. This took place in a temple at Thirukollikadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Agni (fire - Mangal) but is famous for Saneeswar's presence. The lord here is seated on his carrier (vehicle) crow as anugraha murthy meaning one who showers blessings. His lower right hand is in abhaya posture meaning showering blessings to the seekers.The temple is also known as Pongu Saneeswaran Temple as the lord here gives prosperity (pongu means higher position, prosperity, improvement, growth etc).  

Sani Pradosh (pradosh falling on Saturday. Pradosh means the dusk - sayam sandhya  falling on the waxing moon - Thrayodasi after Amavasya)  is an important day which is considered as an extremely auspicious day of worship.

It is the belief that people affected by Sani Dasa should go to Thirunallar another Saneeswara temple to get the effect of the dasa reduced or removed and then go to Thirukollikadu Saneeswar temple and get his blessings.

Sani planet is also called as Saneeschar (planet moving slowly). Many people mix up the words Saneeswar and Saneeschar as if both are same. Both are not same as one identify it as a god (eswar) and the other word is to indicate the slow pace of movement of the planet.

Thirukollikadu Saneeswar is in Agneeswar (lord Fire) temple in the village Thirukollikkadu under the Thirunellikaval P O in Thiruvarur District of Tamilnad. It is about 25 km from Thiruvarur. Nearest towns are Thrivarur and Mannargudi and are having decent accommodations.

http://templesoftamilnadu.co.in/2010/02/thirukkollikadu-pongu-saneeswaran/

General - Religious and planatory remedies for delay in marriages

This is an article top give the various tit bits found scattered in various literature about the remedies for delays in getting married. There are several reasons for the delays. Depending on the reasons the concerned persons can find the remedies by various sources. I am giving some f the remedies below.

There is a belief that by helping the poor people in their marriages financially or otherwise will help the helper in getting married easier.

Another procedure for removing delays in getting marriage is to perform Thulasi marriage. 

There are some specific temples where appropriate offerings are made with belief and devotion, the marriage may take place easier.

One temple is Thiruvidanthai Nithya Kalyana Perumal (Lord Vishnu) near Mahabalipuram on the Chennai  - Mahabalipuram route.As per a legend there was a Rishi by name Kaalava who had 360 daughters and he was finding it difficult to marry off the daughters. He took penance and prayed to Lord Vishnu for solution. The Lord came here as a Brahmachari and married Kaalava's daughters one by one each day for 3670 days. At the end of 360 days the lord joined all the brides to make one and hence the goddess is called Agila Valli Thayaar. Since there was marriage on every day it is the belief that this is an auspicious temple to get rid of the delays and get married easily.

Another belief is to light panchadeepa  with oil and do abhisheka (sacred bathing) with turmeric powder, milk etc to Lord Ganapathi who is seated under neem tree and pray sincerely to the deity sincerely.  The result will bring a good spouse without much delay.

Another famous temple where large number of devotees go for getting married in difficult cases is Thirumanancheri near Kumbakonam  in Tamilnad. Goddess Uma prayed to Lord Siva to marry her. Lord Siva pleased with her devotion married her in this place. It is the belief that people coming here and offering sincere pooja and worship will get good partner without further delay.

One more temple is Thirumangalakudi in the Mngalakudi village between Kumbakonam and Mayladuthurai in Tamilnad. the goddess is Mangalambigai. those with difficulties in getting married come here and offer worship so that they get a good partner and get married soon.

Worshipping the Dakshinamurthy (Guru Bhagavan) deity at Alangudi near Myiladuthurai also facilitates early marriage.

Some temples in Kerala where people go for removal of delays in marriage are  Aariyankaavu Dharma Sasta, Thrichattukulam Mahadever, Maararikulam Mahadevar and Peruvaaram Mahaadeva temple etc.

Those with Rahu dosha if offers worship at Durga temples, the delay for marriage will be removed.

Worshipping at Navagraha temples where the deities are with consorts are installed will remove the delays in getting married.