Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form originating from the southern state of Tamil Nadu, is a meticulously structured and stylized art with a deep historical and cultural heritage. It is a mesmerizing dance that harmoniously melds grace, rhythm, storytelling, and spirituality.
History of Bharatanatyam:
Bharatanatyam’s origins can be traced back to the temples of Tamil Nadu, where it was originally known as “Dasi Attam” or “Sadir.” It was performed by Devadasis, who were female temple dancers dedicated to serving deities through their dance and music. The Devadasis played a significant role in the rituals and religious ceremonies of the temples.
In the temples, Bharatanatyam was performed as a form of religious expression, storytelling, and devotion. It was used to convey stories from Hindu mythology, epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and other sacred narratives. The dance was considered a divine offering and a way to connect with the gods.
During the British colonial period in India, Devadasis faced significant social and cultural changes. The British administration and Christian missionaries viewed the Devadasi tradition with suspicion, leading to the suppression of temple dance practices. As a result, the dance was pushed into obscurity and underwent a transformation.
The post-independence period in India saw a resurgence of interest in Bharatanatyam. It was recognized as one of the classical dance forms of India and gained institutional support and patronage. Dancers and gurus continued to innovate and adapt the art form while preserving its core traditions.
Elements of Bharatanatyam:
Nritta : It consists of intricate and rhythmic movements of the body, particularly the legs and feet. Nritta focuses on the dancer’s physical technique, showcasing their mastery of adavus (basic dance units), footwork, and complex patterns.
Nritya: Nritya is the expressive aspect of Bharatanatyam. It involves storytelling through facial expressions, hand gestures (mudras), and body movements. The dancer conveys emotions, moods, and the meaning of the song or story through Nritya. Abhinaya, the art of expression, is a crucial part of Nritya.
Mudras: Mudras are intricate hand gestures that have specific symbolic meanings. Bharatanatyam uses over fifty mudras to convey a wide range of emotions, objects, and ideas. These gestures are essential for storytelling and are mastered through rigorous training.
Abhinaya: Abhinaya is the art of emotional expression in Bharatanatyam. It involves using the entire body, especially the eyes, face, and hands, to convey the lyrics and sentiments of a song or story. Abhinaya requires a deep understanding of the content and the ability to connect with the audience emotionally.
Rasa : In Bharatanatyam, “rasa” encapsulates the emotional essence that the dancer communicates to the audience. This classical dance form aspires to awaken distinct rasas, including love (shringara), valor (veera), compassion (karuna), and more, crafting a profound emotional resonance with the viewers.
Bhava : Complementing rasa is “bhava,” which signifies the emotional mood or state of mind portrayed by the dancer throughout the performance. Bhava works in tandem with rasa, enabling the conveyance of nuanced emotions linked to the character or theme being enacted.
Natya: Natya encompasses the dramatic aspect of Bharatanatyam. It includes the use of dramatic elements and expressions in storytelling, often involving characters, dialogues, and narratives. The dancer may enact various roles and characters within a performance.
Costume and Makeup: Traditional Bharatanatyam costumes include colorful silk saris for female dancers and dhotis for male dancers. Jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, and anklets with bells, complements the attire. Elaborate makeup, including bold eye makeup and distinctive facial expressions, is used to enhance the visibility of expressions on stage.
Music and Instruments: Bharatanatyam is often accompanied by classical South Indian music, including vocalists singing Carnatic music compositions. Instruments like the mridangam (percussion), violin, flute, and veena are commonly used. The music sets the rhythm and melody for the dance.
Stage and Lighting: The stage for Bharatanatyam performances is usually well-lit to accentuate the dancer’s expressions and movements. Special attention is given to the use of dramatic lighting to create a visually appealing and evocative atmosphere.
Choreography: Bharatanatyam choreography involves the arrangement and sequence of movements, compositions, and storytelling elements in a dance piece. Choreographers carefully structure the performance to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Global Appeal:
Bharatanatyam has gained international recognition and appreciation. Dancers and dance schools in various countries offer training in Bharatanatyam, and it is often performed at cultural events and festivals worldwide, contributing to the global dissemination of Indian culture. Dancers from diverse cultural backgrounds are increasingly taking up Bharatanatyam and collaborating with traditional Indian practitioners. This fusion of different dance styles and influences creates innovative and appealing performances.
Epilogue:
Bharatanatyam, a sublime dance form, weaves a rich tapestry of tradition, spirituality, and artistry. Its intricate hand gestures, expressive movements, and storytelling prowess mesmerize audiences globally. From its sacred origins in South Indian temples to its resurgence in the face of colonial challenges, Bharatanatyam has transcended borders and resonated with diverse cultures. This classical dance stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to unite, inspire, and evoke profound emotions.
The Vellode Bird Sanctuary, situated near the temple town of Erode in Tamil Nadu, offers a picturesque setting for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. This sanctuary, established by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India in 1996, spans approximately 0.3 square miles and is renowned for its diverse avian population. It is centered around the serene Periyakulam Lake, enhancing its appeal to visitors.
Unique Habitat of Vellode Bird Sanctuary:
- Setting it apart from other bird sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu, the Vellode Bird Sanctuary is built around a tank rather than a woodland.
- This distinctive feature makes it an attractive destination for both migratory and non-migratory birds, providing them with rest, nesting sites, and a rich source of food.
- The sanctuary serves as a haven for thousands of birds, with migratory species arriving between October and December, while the monsoon season sees an abundance of fish, a vital food source for these avian visitors.
Community Conservation Efforts for Birds:
The Vellode Bird Sanctuary is surrounded by nearly eight villages whose residents have made a remarkable commitment to bird conservation.These communities have voluntarily refrained from celebrating Diwali with fireworks for over 15 consecutive years, recognizing the potential disturbance to the birds in the sanctuary.This inspiring initiative showcases the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife in the region.
Visitor Experience at Vellode Bird Sanctuary:
- Visitors to the sanctuary are in for an enriching experience. They can indulge in birdwatching from observatory towers strategically placed around the sanctuary, gain insights into the avian species at the interpretation center, and relish a meal at the tourist canteen.
- The sanctuary staff also provide binoculars upon request, ensuring a more immersive birdwatching experience.
- The ideal time to visit is from November to February when the sanctuary teems with a wide array of bird species.
- Entry Fee to visit bird sanctuary is Rs. 25 for adults and Rs. 1 per head for student groups and the visiting hours are from 8 AM to 6 PM.
How to reach Vellode Bird Sanctuary:
To reach the Vellode Bird Sanctuary, there are multiple transportation options.
- Travelers can take a bus from Erode bus station or hire a taxi from Erode Junction railway station.
- The Coimbatore International Airport, situated approximately 90 km away from Erode, offers convenient access for those arriving by air.
Narthamalai, a small town located 25 km from Trichy on the Trichy – Pudukottai highway in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a place of both historical significance and natural beauty. The town is renowned for the Vijayalaya Choleeswaram temple, an ancient temple constructed in the 9th century. This hidden gem is home to ancient rock-cut temples, lush landscapes, and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Temples within Narthamalai cave complex – Vijayalaya Choleeswaram Temple:
- Vijayalaya Choleeswaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest stone temples in South India which showcases the Dravida style of architecture and rock-cut architecture.
- On the way here there is a headless lion. Also there is a Kudaivara temple cut for Lord Shiva at a depth of about 15 feet. Inside this sunai there is a beautiful lingam carved in a cave in the temple of Jirahareshwarar
- In the central hall of Narthamalai, there are six impressive and meticulously carved depictions of Lord Vishnu. A life-sized portrait of Lord Vishnu within the hall is bound to astonish visitors with the extraordinary skill, painstaking effort, and the considerable time invested in its creation.
- The Sattanathar Temple, the Thayumanaswamy Temple, and the Adinathar Temple are the other temples within the Narthamalai complex.
Architecture of Narthamalai Cave Temples:
- Rock-cut temples : These temples are carved out of natural rock formations, which allows for a harmonious blend of architecture with the surrounding environment.
- Intricate Carvings: The carvings depicted various deities, mythological stories, and celestial beings is a testament to the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of that era.
- Pillared Halls: The Pillared halls with beautiful carved columns were used for various religious ceremonies and gatherings.
- Frescoes: Some of the temples also have remnants of ancient frescoes on their walls and ceilings.
- inner sanctums: Inside the temples, visitors can explore the inner sanctums, which were once the focal points of religious activities. These sanctums often house the main deity of the temple and are considered sacred spaces.
- Gopurams (Entrance Towers):While the rock-cut temples do not have towering gopurams like traditional South Indian temples, they do feature modest entrance towers that are adorned with decorative elements, including sculptures and ornamental designs.
Natural Beauty of Narthamalai:
Narthamalai, surrounded by lush greenery and gentle hills, is an ideal spot for nature lovers and trekkers. Hiking up the hills gives you beautiful views of the nearby countryside and a sense of peace and quiet, which is very different from the busy cities nearby.
How to reach Narthamalai:
Narthamalai is accessible from various nearby towns and cities. The closest major city is Trichy, which has an airport and railway station. From Trichy, it’s approximately a two-hour drive to Narthamalai. Buses and taxis are readily available for the journey.
Jallikattu Festival, also referred to as sallikkattu, constitutes a traditional spectacle deeply embedded in the cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu, India. This vibrant celebration is an integral component of the Pongal festival, specifically observed on the auspicious occasion of Mattu Pongal, customarily falling within the month of January.
The Jallikattu Bull Festival is the daring interaction between humans and a formidable bull, where participants strive to clasp onto the bull’s imposing hump while the bull endeavors to evade their grasp. Typically, Jallikattu features bulls of the esteemed Pulikulam or Kangayam breeds.
Origin of Jallikattu Bull Festival:
The origins of Jallikattu bull festival trace back through the annals of time, harking to the Tamil classical era, dating from 400–100 BCE. It commenced as a pursuit of the Ayar tribes residing in the ancient Tamil Nadu’s Mullai region, evolving over time into a showcase of courage and skill. As an incentive, prize money was introduced, kindling greater participation.
Cultural Significance of Jallikattu:
Jallikattu events unite communities, nurturing a profound sense of identity and shared heritage. Moreover, the sport is regarded as a means to conserve indigenous cattle breeds, as the bulls involved are often native breeds well-suited to the local environment.
Controversies surrounding Jallikattu:
Despite its deep-rooted cultural value, Jallikattu has faced significant controversies.
- Animal rights activists argue that it involves cruelty to animals, as the bulls are subjected to stress and, in some cases, harm during the event.
- There have been instances of injuries and even fatalities among participants, adding to concerns about safety.
Legal and Regulatory Measures:
The Tamil Nadu Regulation of Jallikattu Act, 2009, enacted by the Tamil Nadu legislature, outlines a comprehensive framework to ensure the event’s orderly conduct:
- Securing written permission from the respective collector, a month in advance of the event.
- Meticulously preparing the arena and ensuring its safety standards.
- Enforcing a strict prohibition against participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Mandating the provision of medical facilities and veterinary assistance throughout the event.
- Uncompromisingly prohibiting the use of sharp objects or any form of cruelty towards the participating animals.
The Tamil Nadu Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of Jallikattu) Rules, 2017, issued by the Tamil Nadu government, lay out explicit guidelines for the proper conduct of Jallikattu:
- Validation of bulls, certifying their fitness for participation.
- Enforcing a compulsory veterinary examination preceding the event.
- Prohibiting the use of irritants or any actions amounting to cruelty against the bulls.
- Imposing stringent safety measures for the protection of participants and spectators alike.
The historical Jallikattu Protests on 2017
In 2014, the Jallikattu protests were triggered by a decisive ban on the sport, imposed by the Supreme Court of India. The ban was grounded in concerns over animal cruelty and the imperative to safeguard animals. It was the culmination of relentless efforts by animal rights activists determined to put an end to what they perceived as brutal treatment of bulls in the name of tradition. Jallikattu, a daring sport, entails young men attempting to seize the hump of a charging bull, gripping on until the bull either halts or throws them off, often resulting in injuries to both participants and the bulls themselves.
The ban, however, encountered fierce resistance in Tamil Nadu, a state where Jallikattu runs deep in the cultural and social fabric. Advocates passionately contended that Jallikattu was an inseparable part of their heritage and should be allowed to persist, albeit with stringent regulations to ensure the well-being of both animals and participants.
The year 2017 saw the Jallikattu protests gain substantial momentum. Thousands of individuals, primarily comprising young students and impassioned activists, converged at Chennai’s Marina Beach and various other locations across Tamil Nadu, united in their demand for the ban to be lifted. They asserted that Jallikattu was more than just a sport; it symbolized Tamil pride and identity.
The protests, characterized by their peaceful yet fervent nature, garnered widespread support from the people of Tamil Nadu. Eventually, responding to the collective will of the people, the state government enacted an ordinance that allowed the resumption of Jallikattu, albeit with specific safety measures in place. This decision marked a significant victory for the protesters, underscoring the influential role of public sentiment.
In conclusion, the Jallikattu protests represent a noteworthy social and cultural movement within Tamil Nadu. They illuminate the intricate interplay between tradition, animal rights, and regional identity, culminating in a compromise that permits Jallikattu to continue under regulated conditions, addressing some of the concerns expressed by both proponents and critics of the sport.
Epilogue:
Jallikattu is a centuries-old tradition that holds immense cultural significance for the people of Tamil Nadu. However, it finds itself at a crossroads where tradition clashes with concerns for animal welfare and safety. The regulations put in place in 2017 seek to strike a balance, but the debate continues. The future of Jallikattu will likely depend on ongoing dialogue and efforts to ensure that cultural heritage can coexist with ethical treatment of animals and the safety of participants. It remains an emblematic example of the complex interplay between tradition, culture, and evolving societal values.
New Year Festival is observed on January 1st every year to mark the beginning of a new year. It is the first day of the year that was initially observed according to the Julian calendar and currently followed according to the Gregorian calendar. Every new year brings with it possibilities to learn from the prior year and look ahead to the future prospects. New Year’s Day is a national holiday and a time for celebration throughout the world. It marks a date of a clean slate and a way for positive changes in one’s life. New Year is celebrated by different cultures in their unique style. In India, New Year is one of the most popular occasions celebrated in a festive manner.
Image Attribution : Fisher Chia
Origin & History of New Year Festival:
Though the exact date is not known, New Year is believed to have originated thousands of years ago during the ancient Babylon times. During ancient times the cycle of the sun and moon decided the first day of the year.
According to the early Roman calendar, March 1st was the first day of the year that consisted of ten months (from March to December). Later in pre-historic Rome as per the Julian calendar, the day was dedicated to Janus the god of gateways and beginnings.
During the middle ages a significant change was made to the Julian calendar by correcting the leap error mistake and thereby deleting ten days. The Gregorian calendar was acknowledged by Pope Gregory XIII and January 1st was reinstated as New Year’s Day. The reformed Gregorian calendar was thereby adopted by many countries gradually.
New Year Celebrations in India:
New Year is a time for new beginnings and celebrations. India is a land of diversity with different traditions and cultures. Different places in India celebrate this holiday differently. It being a restricted holiday, the Government and most of the business offices remain open.
People in India celebrate this day with family and friends. Many people make resolutions for the coming year. Live concerts, parties, singing and dancing are a part of this fun filled holiday. Night clubs, movie theatres, restaurants, resorts and amusement parks are filled with people on this day.
Wishing each other, exchanging cards and gifts and scintillating fireworks makes the day even more special.
New Year Shopping:
To keep up the spirit of the festival, special arrangements are made in advance. Markets and shopping malls become busy at this time of the year. People usually prepare themselves a week prior to New Year in order to avoid last minute hassles. The festival look can be seen as shopping centers pile up their stocks. New Year shopping becomes indispensable with all the people looking forward to New Year decorations and gifts.
New Year’s Day Traditions:
There are many ways to start off the new year. While the celebrations in different places vary, some of the common traditions include:
- The festivities in most countries begin on the day before, during New Year’s Eve which falls on December 31st.
- The day is guided in with a countdown until midnight and by making resolutions and setting goals to improve one’s life.
- A gathering of family, friends and loved ones, music, feasting and merriment add colours to the fun filled holiday.
- Purifying homes and offering prayers at home and temples also form a ritual.
- Just as the clock strikes midnight, new year wishes start pouring in.
- Cakes are cut and fireworks are burst to mark the end of the year.
- People often head to a party for a grand New Year bash and to have fun.
- Some people also prefer a quiet night at home watching movies and reading books.
- Exchanging gifts and greetings on New Year’s Day is a most common custom, one that strengthens the bond of love among friends and families.
- New Year’s Day is a time for quiet reflection where people try to let go of old regrets and try to remake one’s life.
- Modern practices include media reports through newspapers, magazines and television, about a review of the past year. Astronomical predictions for the coming year are also a common practice that people eagerly look forward to.
Epilogue:
New Year Day is all about hopes and celebrations. This fun-filled day is often seen as an opportunity to bid adieu to the past year and welcome the coming year with a ray of hope and optimism.
Ashta Lingams Temple is situated around the Arunachala Hill in Thiruvannamalai. Each of these temples is located around the octagonal perimeter reflected by the four cardinal and four inter-cardinal points. As per legend, it is believed that the cardinal points represent the vital aspects and qualities of life.
The Eight Temples
Arunachala hill is surrounded by eight Lingam Temples, each temple built in one of the eight directions. Moopanar Swamy played a vital role in the renovation and restoration of the Ashta Lingam Temples.
Temple located at the Cardinal Points:
- North – Kubera Lingam Temple
- East – Indra Lingam Temple
- West – Varuna Lingam Temple
- South – Yama Lingam Temple
Temple located at the Intercardinal Points:
- North West – Vayu Lingam Temple
- North East – Esanya Lingam Temple
- South West – Niruthi Lingam Temple
- South East – Agni Lingam Temple
Each of the Lingam is dominated by Navagrahas (the nine planetary deities) to whom they are associated with. It is believed that, by worshipping a particular Lingam, devotees receive blessings that are associated with the respective Navagraha. Here’s a look at each of the Ashta Lingam.
Kubera Lingam (North)
- The Kubera Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Kubera (The God of Wealth) and is located on the north side.
- The temple is located on the girivalam or circumambulation path around the Arunachala Hill.
- Kubera Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Brihaspati (Guru or Jupiter).
- Devotees are believed to be blessed with peace of mind and economical growth on worshipping this deity.
Indra Lingam (East)
- The Indra Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Indra (The God of Heaven) and is located on the east side.
- The temple is found on Car Street close to the eastern tower of Arunachaleswarar Temple.
- Indra Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deities – Lord Surya (Sun) and Lord Shukra (Venus).
- Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and prosperity on worshipping this deity.
Varuna Lingam (West)
- The Varuna Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Varuna (The God of Water and Rains) and is located on the west side.
- The temple is located on the outer girivalam or circumambulation path about one kilometer before the village of Adi – Annamalai.
- Varuna Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Shani (Saturn).
- Devotees are believed to be cured from illness, freed from committed sins on worshipping this deity.
Yama Lingam (South)
- The Yama Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Yama (The God of Death) and is located on the south side.
- The temple is located beside the cremation ground on Chengam Road.
- Yama Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Mangal (Mars).
- Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and to get rid of financial constraints on worshipping this deity.
Vayu Lingam (North West)
- The Vayu Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Vayu (The God of Wind) and is located on the north-west side.
- The temple is located on the girivalam or circumambulation path about one kilometer before the village of Adi Annamalai.
- Vayu Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Kethu (Neptune).
- Devotees are believed to find relief from illness on worshipping this deity.
Esanya Lingam (North East)
- The Esanya Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Esanya (one of the Rudra forms of Lord Shiva) and is located on the north-east side.
- The temple is located on the old girivalam path beside the cremation grounds.
- Esanya Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Budha (Mercury).
- Devotees are believed to be blessed with peace of mind on worshipping this deity.
Niruthi Lingam (South West)
- The Niruthi Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Niruthi (The Lord of Asuras/Demons) and is located on the south-west side.
- The temple is located on the girivalam path near to Shantimalai compound.
- Niruthi Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Rahu.
- Devotees are believed to be blessed with health, wealth and fame on worshipping this deity.
Agni Lingam (South East)
- The Agni Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Agni (The Lord of Fire and Knowledge) and is located on the south-east side.
- The temple is located on the right side of girivalam path, close to Seshadri Ashram on Chengam Road.
- Agni Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Chandra (Moon).
- Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and better health on worshipping this deity.
Sathanur Dam, one of the major dams in Tamil Nadu, is located around 30 kilometers from Thiruvannamalai. The dam is constructed across the Pennaiyar or Thenpennai River in Thandrampet Taluk of Tiruvannamalai District.
Image Attribute : Jeganila
More about the Sathanur Dam
- The dam was constructed in the year 1958.
- The dam is 119 feet high, and the water is used primarily for irrigation purposes.
- There is a fish grotto and a crocodile farm near the dam.
- Botanical garden, Children’s Park, mini zoo, flower park and swimming pool add to the attraction of the place.
- The dam and its picturesque surroundings offer a visual treat to the tourists.
How to reach Sathanur dam
Sathanur dam is well connected on the road from Thiruvannamalai. The nearest railways station is at Thiruvannamalai (around 39 kilometres away) and nearest airport is at Chennai (around 203 kilometers away).
Beemanmadavu Waterfalls also known as Bheema Falls, are the most prominent and frequent waterfalls in Javadu Hills. The falls are located 5 kilometres from Jamanamaruthur village and 80 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai.
Reference to Mythology
Beemanmadavu is believed to have been named after one of the Pandavas brother Bhima. Bhima is said to have worshipped the Sun God at this location. According to legend, Pandava brothers (of the epic fame Mahabharata) had visited this region during their exile from kingdom.
More about the Waterfalls
The altitude of the Beemanmadavu Falls ranges from 300 to 1000 meters. The water in the falls cascades for more than 8 months in a year. The falls is at its best during the rainy season. To reach the falls one has to trek for about 12 kilometres in the thin forest. The trail leading upto the falls is a great place for hiking, trekking and photography. Tourists are allowed to take a refreshing bath in the pool under the cascade.
How to reach Beemanmadavu Waterfalls
Beemanmadavu Falls is located at a distance of 80 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai and about 218 kilometres from Chennai. The nearest railway stations are at Thiruvannamalai (79 kilometres away) Katpadi (89 kilometres away) and Villupuram (140 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Chennai (209 kilometres away).
The Javadu Hills spread across parts of Vellore and Thiruvannamalai districts in the northern part of Tamil Nadu. The Javadu Hills is a total of about 3600 to 3800 feet above sea level. The hills exhibit a purple colour due to the colour of the bluish-grey granite. The hills are sparsely populated with some spectacular views to offer.
Why should you visit Javadu Hills?
- It is a far less crowded place when compared to other hill stations in Tamil Nadu.
- The dense forests cover a wide variety of flora and fauna that include some rare and endangered ones. It’s a perfect place for wildlife lovers and photographers to explore.
- Tranquil villages, silent streams, water bodies and perceptible trails are some of the striking features of Javadu Hills.
- Venture into the distinct landscape of Javadu Hills by travelling through the river, jungle and finally the rocky cliffs.
- Trekking through the rocky cliffs, enjoying a bath in the falls and climbing up the rocks affirms a wholesome experience for nature lovers.
- The region is home to numerous indigenous tribes that are involved in growing plantations that include gooseberry, coconut, jackfruit, tamarind, guava and mango. We can also find beautiful farm fields enroute.
- Be it the tranquility of the forest or the innate sounds of nature, Javadu Hills in the Eastern Ghats is a trail worth exploring.
Nearby Attractions
How to reach Javadu Hills
Javadu Hills is located about 75 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai and about 208 kilometres from Chennai. The nearest railway stations are at Katpadi (around 78 kilometres away) and Villupuram (around 145 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 198 kilometres away).
Virupaksha cave is one of the ancient caves in India with its history dating back to the 13th century. The cave is located on the eastern slopes of the Arunachala Hill. The history of the cave dates back to the time when it was the abode of Sage Virupaksha Deva. It later gained importance after Sri Ramana Maharshi stayed in the cave for 16 years.
History of Virupaksha Cave
The cave derives its name from Virupaksha Deva, who was a renowned 13th century saint. It is believed that Saint Virupaksha spent most of his life in this cave and its surroundings. It is also said that his body turned into ashes just after his Samadhi (a state of complete oneness). The holy ash is supposed to be preserved here on the altar.
Sri Ramana Maharshi & the Cave
Sri Ramana Maharshi spent 16 years in the cave from 1899 to 1916. Many significant events took place in his place during his stay in the cave. While at Virupaksha, Sri Ramana Maharshi also wrote in prose a Tamil translation of Vivekachudamani, a sacred scripture composed by Adi Sankara. He also wrote ‘Self-inquiry’ and ‘Who am I’ while residing in the cave.
More about the Virupaksha cave
Virupaksha cave is protected by constructed premises that also allow its visitors to have a peaceful time and a spiritual experience. Many devotees come here to meditate and feel the spiritual vibrations within. The Ashram is open at 8:00 AM. The cave is a year round destination and one of the popular places for Sri Ramana Maharshi devotees. It gets really hot during the day and hence it is advisable to climb up to the cave before daybreak. It is also advisable for tourists to wear trekking shoes. From the cave surroundings, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Thiruvannamalai Temple.
How to reach Virupaksha cave
The cave can be reached through two routes. One is through Ramana Ashram and the other is by walk from Thiruvannamalai Temple. The area also has some trekking routes. Thiruvannamalai town is well connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu through roadways. Thiruvannamalai Railway Station is connected to cities including Chennai, Madurai, Pondicherry, Vellore and Tirupati. Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport to Thiruvannamalai (around 155 kilometres away).