THE ENIGMATIC ARUNCHALAM TEMPLE

The Arunachalam temple stands at the foot of the majestic Arunachala hill in the heart of Tamil Nadu. This magnificent place, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dhanush Kumar delves into the history and the story behind the Arunchalam temple that transcends the boundaries of mere architecture, becoming a tapestry woven with history, divinity, and captivating mystery. The Arunchalam Temple boasts a rich lineage, its origins veiled in the mists of time. Legends trace its creation back to the Puranic era, while inscriptions reveal its evolution throughout the Chola, Pallava, and Vijayanagara dynasties. Through the ages, it has observed empires' ascent and decline alongside the steadfast devotion of numerous pilgrims.

- Dhanush Kumar

Story of the Arunchalam Temple

The story begins with a dispute between the two powerful deities. Brahma and Vishnu argued over who the supreme creator was. Lord Shiva transformed himself into a Jyotirlinga of infinite light to settle the debate. He challenged Brahma and Vishnu to find the beginning and end of the fiery column.

In his avatar as a boar, Vishnu plunged deep into the earth. Yet he couldn’t find the base of the Jyotirlinga. Brahma, in the form of a swan, soared into the heavens, reaching unimaginable heights, but still, he couldn’t find its beginning.

Exhausted and humbled, Brahma and Vishnu returned to Jyotirlinga, acknowledging their inability to comprehend its true form. Recognizing their surrender, Lord Shiva revealed himself as the eternal flame, the source of all creator and destruction.