2016 Pavala Kundru Temple at Arunachala -- Mahabhishekam

The Pavala Kundru (i.e. Jewel of the Hill) Temple has a fascinating history which starts with the legend of Goddess Parvati and her time on the Hill whilst performing tapas. I have made a number of postings of the famed Pavala Kundru Temple at Arunachala. To read some of its history and view a short video of aarti at the Temple, go to this link here.

Amman Ammani Gopuram, Big Temple. Pavala Kundru on spur right of photograph

Older photograph of Pavala Kundru Temple on Coral Hill, Arunachala spur

To find out more about the invasion of Tiruvannamalai by Tippu Sultan and the role of the Temple during that time, go to this link here.

One of the most unique features of the current Temple is that there is both the Pavalagiriswarar Lingam and a statue of Ardhanariswarar are in the Shrine room. 

Today November 7, 2016 Mahakumbhabhishekam was performed at the Pavala Kundru Temple. Photos below. 

2016 Pavala Kundru Mahakumbhabhishekam 

Arunachala in background

Friday: January 29, 2016 -- Mahakumbhabhishekam Durga Amman Temple

Today the ceremony of Mahakumbhabhishekam was completed at the Durga Amman Temple Tiruvannamalai. Over the course of the previous week homams were conducted in the Temple compound consecrating and sanctifying waters in order to bathe the Kumbha (pinnacles) of the Vimanas at the Temple.

A Maha Kumbhabhishekam is held either to formally consecrate a new temple or reconsecrate an old one, which usually occurs at twelve-year intervals, following renovation, extensive cleaning and renewal. The rites culminate with the priests' pouring sanctified water over the temple spires, each of which resembles an inverted pot, or kumbha. Leading up to the consecration, a number of rituals are performed by the sthapati (main temple architect) in charge of the construction or renovation. 

Divine Power is transferred back to the deities by performing an abhishekam (salutary bathing) to the Vigrahas and Vimanas (pinnacles) on the roof with the sanctified holy waters from the kalasas accompanied by Vedic chanting and special rites. On that day at the designated auspicious time, when the Kumbha is bathed with the charged and sanctified holy waters contained in the sacrificial pots, consecrated and sanctified pranic powers trickle down a silver wire and enter the Deity installed inside the Sanctum Sanctorum of the Temple.

After the consecration of the Vimanas on top of the Temple, worship is then specifically performed inside the Sanctum Sanctorum in which further pranic powers are transferred to the Deities.

Pouring consecrated water over Kumbha

Kumbha on Gopuram Main Gate being sanctified with holy water

In the above photograph at the back of the Durga Amman Temple and inset into the Hill itself, is the famed Pavala Kundru Temple. To view photographs of his unique Temple go to this link here.

Wonderful photograph of ritual with Arunachala in background