Thiruvempaavai-a ten day worship for Lord Siva begins
By Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai
Thiruvempaavai – a ten day worship for Lord Siva begins today, Dec 23rd. Devotees gather at dawn in temples to sing melodious Thiruvempaavai.
This is a penance observed by unmarried girls to get good husbands.They wake up early,go to the streams to have a bath&sing at temples.
Thirukoneswaram – One of the five Eswarams – Sivan temples in Sri Lanka. – more pics
Thiruvempaavai is a part of Thiruvaasagam which was composed in the temple town of Thiruvannaamalai during the Tamil month of Margazhi.
Thiruvempaavai consists of 20 hymns & sung by devotees during the month of December & January. Saint Maanikkavaasagar composed Thiruvaasagam.
Kolam is drawn at the main entrance of the Hindu temple during the Tamil month of Margazhi. It invites the devotees to the temple.
Special rituals are performed & Lord Siva is decorated gorgeously . It adds extra flavour to the cold morning. It’s also known as “Paavai Nonpu”.
Saint Maanikkavaasagar’s life story “Thiru Vathaur Adigal Puranam” is read during the festival at the temple by the devotees.
The month of Margazhi is considered holy & ideal for prayers & meditation. Saint Maanikkavaasagar’s marvelous love flows like honey in his songs.
Chithamparam is famous for Thiruvempaavai.Tenth day celebration is known as “Aaruthraa Thrisanam”. Many travel to Chithamparam witness it.
A slide presentation of Thirukoneswaram, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka; and Thiruvasagam rendered by ‘Isaignani’ Ilaiyaraja, with Budapest Symphony Ochestra
“Thiruvaasagaththitkku Urugaathaar Oru Vaasagaththitkkum Urugaar”- “One who doesn’t melt for Thiruvaasagam, would melt for no other words.”
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