Historical Significance of Thiruchendur Murugan Temple
The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is one of the six major temples dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya), the Tamil God of war and victory, who is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Located in the coastal town of Thiruchendur in Tamil Nadu, India, this temple holds immense religious, cultural, and historical significance.
Legend and Mythology
The temple is closely linked to various mythological events, particularly the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Soorapadman, who was wreaking havoc on the divine realms. The battle between Murugan and Soorapadman is one of the most famous myths in Tamil mythology and is central to the significance of the temple. It is believed that Lord Murugan, after receiving a divine spear (Vel) from his mother Parvati, defeated Soorapadman at Thiruchendur, bringing peace and prosperity to the world.
In this myth, the location of the temple is believed to be the site where Murugan vanquished the demon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The victory is commemorated through festivals like Thaipoosam, where Murugan’s devotees celebrate his victory by offering prayers and vows, sometimes involving acts of physical devotion, such as carrying kavadi (a ritualistic burden).
Historical Evolution
The temple’s history dates back to ancient times. It is believed to have been constructed during the Pandya Dynasty period (around the 2nd century BCE to the 13th century CE), with significant renovations over time. The temple complex has seen various dynasties taking part in its development, including the Cholas and the Pandyas, who made substantial contributions in terms of architecture and religious patronage.
Several inscriptions from the Pandya and Chola periods have been found in the temple, which detail the religious and cultural importance of the site. These inscriptions mention gifts and land grants to the temple from kings and nobles.
Significance of Thiruchendur Murugan Temple
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One of the Six Abodes of Lord Murugan (Arupadai Veedu) The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is one of the six sacred temples known as the Arupadai Veedu (the Six Abodes of Murugan). These six temples—located in Tamil Nadu—are considered the most sacred places associated with Lord Murugan and are deeply revered by his devotees.
The six temples are:
- Thiruchendur (Sea-side temple)
- Thirupparankundram (Hill-top temple)
- Palani (Mountain temple)
- Tiruttani (Temple on a hill)
- Swamimalai (Temple dedicated to the intellect and knowledge)
- Kumari Amman Temple (Southernmost temple in Kanyakumari)
Each of these temples represents a significant phase in the legend of Murugan and his various triumphs.
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Spiritual Significance
- Divine Blessing: The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is believed to be a place where devotees can receive the divine blessings of Lord Murugan. It is regarded as the embodiment of courage, victory, and the removal of obstacles, making it a focal point for people seeking spiritual growth and prosperity.
- Pilgrimage Destination: Thousands of devotees visit the temple annually, especially during festivals, to seek Lord Murugan’s grace. The temple is particularly famous for its role in the Thaipoosam festival, where people from all over the world gather to pay homage to Murugan.
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Cultural and Ritual Significance
- The temple plays an integral role in the Tamil culture and is central to Tamil Nadu’s spiritual identity. The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is celebrated not only for its religious importance but also for its involvement in the cultural fabric of Tamil society.
- The daily rituals and offerings (poojas) conducted in the temple include traditional practices and involve recitations of hymns, such as the Skanda Sashti Kavasam, dedicated to Lord Murugan.
- The temple is also associated with the famous Kavadi Attam (a ritualistic dance performed by devotees as an offering to Lord Murugan), especially during the Thaipoosam festival.
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Architectural Beauty
- The architecture of the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is striking. The temple is built in the traditional Dravidian style, characterized by towering Vimanams (temple spires) and intricately carved sculptures depicting various gods, goddesses, and mythical beings.
- The temple is situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, and its location near the sea makes it visually and spiritually significant. It is unique among Murugan temples because it is one of the few that is located by the sea, creating a serene atmosphere for worship.
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Healing and Devotional Practices
- The temple is believed to have healing powers, and many devotees visit it to seek relief from various ailments or to overcome personal obstacles. The blessings of Murugan are thought to provide both physical and mental peace.
- People perform vows and make offerings (such as carrying the Kavadi) to Lord Murugan as a form of penance or thanksgiving.
Major Festivals
- Thaipoosam: This is the most important and widely celebrated festival at Thiruchendur, typically observed in the Tamil month of Thai (January-February). It marks the day Lord Murugan received the divine spear to defeat the demon Soorapadman. Devotees from all over the world flock to the temple during this time to offer prayers and participate in rituals.
- Skanda Sashti: This festival celebrates the victory of Murugan over Soorapadman. It is celebrated with special poojas, processions, and cultural events.
- Vaikasi Visakam: The birthday of Lord Murugan, celebrated with great fervor, includes processions and special offerings.
Architectural Grandeur and Sacred Structures
The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is renowned for its stunning architectural grandeur, which is an excellent example of the Dravidian style of temple architecture. The temple’s intricate design, sacred structures, and strategic location on the coastal shore of the Bay of Bengal make it an extraordinary spiritual and architectural site.
Key Elements of the Temple’s Architecture and Sacred Structures
1. Main Sanctum (Garbhagriha)
- The central structure of the temple is the Sanctum Sanctorum or Garbhagriha, where the idol of Lord Murugan, in the form of Subramanya, is enshrined. The deity is depicted with his divine weapon, the Vel (spear), symbolizing courage and victory. Devotees offer prayers here, seeking blessings for success, health, and peace.
- The sanctum is typically surrounded by a Prakaram (outer courtyard) where devotees can walk around in a process known as Pradakshina (circumambulation), symbolizing the cyclical nature of life and devotion.
2. Towering Gopuram
- The temple is famous for its towering Gopuram (temple tower), which is a common feature in Dravidian temples. This Gopuram is intricately carved with sculptures of deities, gods, and mythological figures, creating a magnificent first impression for visitors. The towering spires of the Gopuram represent the temple’s spiritual aspirations and serve as a beacon of faith.
- The Gopuram is adorned with colorful sculptures and carvings, depicting various episodes from Lord Murugan's life and his divine acts of valor, including his victory over the demon Soorapadman.
3. The Temple Tank (Pushkarini)
- A sacred temple tank or Pushkarini lies within the temple complex. The tank is considered holy and is believed to possess divine healing properties. Devotees take a ritual dip here to purify themselves before entering the main temple to offer prayers. The presence of a sacred water body is a common feature in many South Indian temples and adds to the overall sanctity of the temple.
4. Mandapams (Hall Structures)
- The temple is home to several Mandapams or halls, which serve both functional and decorative purposes. These halls are used for various religious rituals, festivals, and gatherings. The most significant mandapams include:
- Raja Mandapam: This hall is dedicated to religious events and gatherings and is often used for ceremonies like weddings, religious discourses, and celebrations.
- Kalyana Mandapam: The hall where the divine marriage of Lord Murugan with his consorts is depicted during certain festivals.
- These Mandapams are beautifully designed with columns adorned with intricate carvings, depicting stories and legends from Tamil mythology.
5. The Courtyards and Prakarams
- The temple complex is surrounded by multiple Prakarams or courtyards, which are an important aspect of the temple’s layout. These are spaces for devotees to walk around the temple in reverence, meditate, and perform Pradakshina. The Prakarams also contain smaller shrines dedicated to other gods and goddesses associated with Lord Murugan, such as his consorts Valli and Deivanai.
- The entire temple complex is designed in a way that draws devotees into the divine presence step by step, moving inward from the outer courtyards to the sanctum, symbolizing the journey toward spiritual enlightenment.
6. The Sacred Seashore
- One of the most unique aspects of the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is its location by the sea, along the coast of the Bay of Bengal. This rare feature not only enhances the beauty of the temple but also imbues the temple with an additional level of spirituality, as it is believed to be the site where Lord Murugan defeated the demon Soorapadman.
- The temple’s proximity to the sea provides a sense of serenity and calm, and many devotees find spiritual solace while gazing out at the ocean. The temple's coastal location also adds to its visual grandeur, as the temple stands tall against the backdrop of the vast blue sea.
7. The Vimana
- Above the Garbhagriha (sanctum), the temple features a Vimana, which is the pyramidal tower that sits over the sanctum. This Vimana is designed to represent the cosmic axis or the path to the divine. It is intricately sculpted with reliefs of deities and divine figures, showcasing the grandeur of South Indian temple architecture.
- The Vimana is typically made from stone and is adorned with detailed carvings of mythological events, illustrating the rich heritage of Hindu religious traditions and the artistic mastery of the time.
8. Kavadi Mandapam
- The Kavadi Mandapam holds significant importance during the festival of Thaipoosam. This is where devotees prepare for their vow fulfillment by carrying the Kavadi (a ritualistic structure that can be adorned with peacock feathers, flowers, and other symbolic items). It is a highly revered structure and plays a central role in the annual celebrations.
9. Shrines of Other Deities
- Apart from the primary sanctum of Lord Murugan, the temple complex also contains smaller shrines dedicated to other gods and goddesses, including:
- Valli and Deivanai, the two consorts of Lord Murugan.
- Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva, is often placed at the entrance of the temple to bless devotees before they enter.
- Lord Shiva and Parvati: As the parents of Murugan, they are honored with smaller shrines within the temple complex.
Symbolism in the Architecture
The architectural design of the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is deeply symbolic. The use of intricate carvings and sculptures of gods and celestial beings not only adds to its visual beauty but also serves to tell the stories from Hindu mythology, making the temple a living embodiment of divine lore. The temple’s coastal location symbolizes the bridging of spiritual realms between the divine and the material world, while the towering gopuram signifies the connection between the earthly and the divine.
Administration of thiruchendur temple
The administration of the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is a structured and well-organized system that ensures the temple operates smoothly and continues its rich tradition of worship, culture, and service to devotees. Here's an overview of the administration:
1. Temple Trust and Management
- The Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is managed by the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, which is responsible for overseeing the temple’s financial and administrative functions. This department is under the government of Tamil Nadu and ensures the temple operates in accordance with religious guidelines and laws.
- The day-to-day management, including financial audits, disbursement of funds for temple activities, and maintenance of infrastructure, is carried out by the Executive Officer appointed by HR&CE.
2. Executive Officer
- The Executive Officer (EO) plays a vital role in the temple administration. The EO is responsible for managing the temple’s operations, including overseeing staff, managing finances, ensuring that daily rituals and worship are conducted properly, and handling the administrative work. This role also includes managing temple properties and organizing special festivals.
- The EO reports to the HR&CE Department, which ensures that the temple is in line with the regulations set by the state government.
3. Archakas (Priests)
- The temple's religious activities are carried out by the Archakas, a group of priests who are responsible for performing rituals and pujas in accordance with the traditional Tamil Agama Shastras. These priests are appointed based on their qualifications and expertise.
- They conduct regular poojas, special ceremonies, and religious rituals for devotees, especially during festivals like Thai Poosam, Vaikasi Visakam, and others.
4. Temple Staff
- In addition to the priests, there is a large number of support staff who handle various aspects of the temple's functioning. This includes security personnel, maintenance staff, kitchen staff (who handle prasadam distribution), and others.
- Volunteers, often devotees, also play a significant role, especially during large festivals, helping with crowd control, providing assistance to pilgrims, and supporting the overall operation of the temple.
5. Governing Body
- In some cases, a Governing Body is set up to help guide the temple's administration. This body might include members from the local community, government representatives, and other stakeholders. The body’s role is more advisory and to ensure that the temple’s administration adheres to its religious purpose while serving the needs of the public.
6. Financial Management
- The financial aspect of the temple includes managing the revenue generated through donations, ticket sales for darshan (viewing the deity), sale of prasadam, and other temple services. The funds are utilized for temple maintenance, religious ceremonies, social services, and charitable works.
- Transparency in financial management is essential to ensure trust and accountability, with regular audits carried out by the government and internal systems.
7. Security and Infrastructure
- Given the large number of devotees who visit the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple every year, especially during festivals, security and infrastructure management are important. The administration works in collaboration with local authorities to provide adequate security, transportation, crowd management, and cleanliness.
- The temple also focuses on maintaining the sanctity and heritage of the structure while ensuring the comfort and safety of visitors.
8. Festivals and Special Pujas
- The temple is renowned for its grand celebrations during various festivals, which are an integral part of the temple’s administration. These include:
- Karthigai Deepam
- Thai Poosam
- Vaikasi Visakam
- Aadi Thiruvizha
- During these festivals, the temple administration makes special arrangements for devotees, including lighting, decoration, transportation, and ensuring that enough priests and volunteers are available.
9. Community and Social Engagement
- The Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is not just a place of worship but also a social and cultural center. It organizes religious lectures, classes, and social programs that help in spreading spiritual awareness and promoting community welfare.
In short, the administration of the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is a well-structured system involving religious authorities, administrative officers, local community members, and the government to ensure that the temple’s operations run efficiently while maintaining its rich traditions and serving the needs of devotees.
Architectural Grandeur and Sacred Structures
The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is steeped in rich mythology and ancient legends that form the spiritual foundation of the temple's significance. The temple is intricately linked to the epic battle between Lord Murugan and the demon Soorapadman, and several other legends tied to the life and divine exploits of Lord Murugan are associated with the temple. These myths and stories continue to inspire devotion and form a central part of the worship at the temple.
1. The Battle with Soorapadman
The most famous legend associated with the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is that of Lord Murugan's battle with the demon Soorapadman. According to the myth, Soorapadman was a powerful demon who terrorized the heavens and the world, and he challenged Lord Murugan for a fight. The demon had three brothers, and together they wreaked havoc on the celestial beings.
To help the gods, Lord Shiva and Parvati sent their son, Murugan, to defeat Soorapadman. Armed with a divine weapon, the Vel (spear), which was given to him by his mother Parvati, Lord Murugan engaged in a fierce battle with Soorapadman and his brothers.
It is believed that the final battle between Murugan and Soorapadman took place at Thiruchendur, a sacred location by the sea. After a long and intense fight, Lord Murugan finally defeated Soorapadman by piercing him with the Vel. The demon, realizing his defeat, transformed into a peacock and surrendered to Murugan. In his defeated form, he became Murugan's vahana (vehicle), and Murugan is often depicted riding the peacock in iconography.
The victory of Murugan over Soorapadman is celebrated in festivals like Thaipoosam and Skanda Sashti, with devotees reenacting parts of this divine victory. The temple at Thiruchendur is regarded as the sacred place where this historic and mythological battle occurred, making it one of the most significant places of worship for Lord Murugan.
2. The Birth of Lord Murugan
Another myth associated with the temple and Lord Murugan's origin is his divine birth. According to the legend, Lord Murugan was born out of the divine sparks from Lord Shiva's third eye. These sparks were scattered across the sky, and they eventually fell into the waters of the Sarasvati River. From the river emerged six divine babies, who were later united into one by Goddess Parvati.
In some versions of the myth, the babies are said to have been nurtured by six Krittikas (a group of six stars), and they grew into a single child, Lord Murugan. This story is significant in the context of Thiruchendur because it ties into the theme of Murugan's divine birth and his role as a warrior god sent to vanquish evil forces.
3. The Name "Thiruchendur" and the Blessing of the Sea
The name Thiruchendur itself holds deep significance. It is believed that the name is derived from "Thiru", meaning sacred or holy, and "Chendur", which refers to the sea or the shore. The temple is unique among Murugan temples because it is situated on the seashore, with the temple’s outer walls facing the Bay of Bengal. This divine connection with the sea is symbolic of Lord Murugan’s association with victory over the ocean of ignorance and obstacles.
The legend suggests that when Lord Murugan defeated Soorapadman, the battle occurred near the coast, and the sea itself was blessed by his victory. The presence of the temple on the coastline reinforces the connection between the divine warrior and the natural elements. The temple’s coastal setting adds an extra layer of sacredness, as it is said to symbolize the crossing of the waters of worldly suffering and reaching divine enlightenment.
4. Lord Murugan and His Consorts
The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is also tied to the myths surrounding Lord Murugan's two consorts—Valli and Deivanai. The stories of their marriages to Murugan are central to the temple’s lore and are depicted in various temple rituals and festivals.
- Valli, the tribal princess, is considered Murugan's earthly consort. The legend tells of her deep devotion to Murugan and how she prayed for him to marry her. After a series of divine encounters, Lord Murugan married her, and she is often depicted as a simple, devoted woman who symbolizes the virtues of love and simplicity.
- Deivanai, the daughter of the king of the gods (Indra), is Murugan's celestial consort. According to the myth, she was betrothed to Murugan after a series of divine events, and their union represents the balance between the earthly and divine realms.
Both Valli and Deivanai are worshipped at the temple, and their stories are commemorated in various festivals, with special poojas and rituals conducted to honor the divine couples.
5. Lord Murugan and the Devas
The mythological stories also recount the relationship between Lord Murugan and the devas (gods). Murugan is often depicted as the general of the divine army and the protector of the heavens. The temple at Thiruchendur symbolizes Murugan's role as the defender of the gods and the destroyer of evil. His valor in defeating demons like Soorapadman highlights his importance as a warrior god, revered by both gods and humans alike.
6. Divine Vision of Lord Murugan
There is also a legend associated with the temple where a devotee had a divine vision of Lord Murugan. It is said that a great sage or devotee, while meditating at the location of the temple, had a vision of Lord Murugan appearing in his full glory. The sight of Murugan, riding a peacock and holding his divine spear, was so powerful that it led to the establishment of the temple. This vision of the Lord is considered a sign of divine grace and is a reason why the temple is seen as a place of immense spiritual power.
7. Vow Fulfillment at Thiruchendur
Many devotees visit the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple to fulfill vows or offer penance for past wrongdoings. It is believed that if a devotee takes a vow and visits the temple with full devotion, Lord Murugan will bless them with the fulfillment of their wishes. The custom of carrying the Kavadi (a ritualistic offering carried by devotees as a form of penance) is closely tied to this temple, where devotees bear the burden of the Kavadi during Thaipoosam and other festivals as a form of gratitude or penance.
Spiritual Importance of Thiruchendur Murugan Temple
The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple holds immense spiritual significance for devotees, particularly those who revere Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya), the Hindu god of war, victory, wisdom, and love. As one of the six sacred Arupadai Veedu temples dedicated to Lord Murugan, Thiruchendur is a prominent pilgrimage site and is considered one of the holiest places for Murugan devotees. The spiritual importance of the temple can be understood through its deep connection to Lord Murugan’s mythology, the divine nature of its location, and its central role in the religious and cultural practices of Tamil Nadu.
1. Connection with Lord Murugan’s Victory
The temple is closely tied to the mythological event of Lord Murugan's victory over the demon Soorapadman. The site is believed to be where Murugan defeated Soorapadman with his divine spear (Vel), symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This battle is not only a divine victory but also represents the spiritual victory over internal obstacles like ignorance, pride, and attachment. The temple, thus, becomes a sacred place where devotees seek blessings for overcoming personal struggles and achieving spiritual liberation.
2. Symbol of Purity and Protection
The temple's proximity to the sea further enhances its spiritual significance. The sea is often considered a symbol of purification, and by situating the temple on the shore of the Bay of Bengal, the temple is believed to offer both physical and spiritual purification. Devotees visit to take a ritual dip in the temple tank, known as Pushkarini, which is believed to cleanse the mind and body of sin and to bring peace and protection.
3. A Place for Divine Healing
The temple is also seen as a place of healing. Many devotees visit Thiruchendur to seek relief from various ailments or to overcome mental and physical hardships. The blessings of Lord Murugan are believed to bring about physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. The temple is said to have divine energy that empowers its devotees to overcome difficulties and experience personal transformation.
4. Lord Murugan as the Patron of Devotees
Lord Murugan is often seen as a patron deity who protects devotees from harm and provides them with strength, wisdom, and guidance. Thiruchendur, as one of the most sacred abodes of Murugan, is a place where devotees come seeking his grace for success, prosperity, and protection. It is considered that praying at this temple helps devotees achieve their desires and attain peace of mind, both materially and spiritually.
Annual Festivals at Thiruchendur Murugan Temple
The Thiruchendur Murugan Temple celebrates several grand festivals throughout the year, attracting thousands of devotees from across India and the world. These festivals play a key role in enhancing the temple’s spiritual and cultural significance and are marked by elaborate rituals, prayers, processions, and celebrations. Here are the major annual festivals at the temple:
1. Thaipoosam (January-February)
Thaipoosam is the most important and widely celebrated festival at Thiruchendur. It marks the occasion when Lord Murugan received the divine spear (Vel) from his mother, Parvati, to defeat the demon Soorapadman. This event is deeply symbolic of Murugan's role as the protector of the divine realms.
- Rituals and Offerings: Devotees come in large numbers to seek Murugan’s blessings, offering prayers, singing hymns, and participating in rituals. A major highlight of Thaipoosam is the Kavadi Attam (carrying the Kavadi), where devotees carry a decorated structure (Kavadi) as a form of devotion and penance. The Kavadi often weighs heavily on the devotee's shoulders and can be decorated with flowers, peacock feathers, and fruits, symbolizing a personal sacrifice to Lord Murugan.
- Processions: The procession on Thaipoosam day is grand, with the idol of Lord Murugan being taken out in a procession accompanied by music, dance, and chants. The atmosphere is electric, and the entire temple complex and its surroundings are filled with devotion and fervor.
2. Skanda Sashti (October-November)
Skanda Sashti is another major festival celebrated with great enthusiasm at Thiruchendur. It commemorates the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Soorapadman and is observed during the sixth day of the waxing moon in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).
- Fasting and Prayer: Devotees observe a period of fasting and prayer in the lead-up to Skanda Sashti. The fasting is a form of penance, and it is believed to help devotees purify themselves before the main day of the festival.
- Puja and Rituals: On the day of Skanda Sashti, the temple conducts elaborate pujas and rituals to honor Lord Murugan’s victory. The Abhishekam (ritualistic bathing of the deity) is performed, and special offerings are made to Murugan.
- Procession: The temple celebrates the victory with a grand procession, and devotees participate in chanting Skanda Sashti Kavasam (a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Murugan).
3. Vaikasi Visakam (May-June)
Vaikasi Visakam celebrates the birth of Lord Murugan, and it is observed during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June). The festival is significant because it marks the day Lord Murugan was born as the divine child of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Special Prayers: Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings for health, wealth, and success in their endeavors. The temple is decorated beautifully, and processions of Lord Murugan are held, especially in the evening.
- Cultural Events: The day is also marked by various cultural programs, including traditional Tamil music, dance, and drama that depict episodes from Murugan's life.
4. Aadi Thiruvizha (July-August)
The Aadi Thiruvizha is another important festival observed in the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August). The festival is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Murugan, and it is a time when devotees express their gratitude and seek blessings for a good harvest, health, and prosperity.
- Rituals: Special prayers and rituals are held at the temple during this time, and devotees engage in offerings, including fruits, flowers, and prayers to Lord Murugan.
- Kavadi Processions: As with Thaipoosam, the Kavadi procession is an important aspect of Aadi Thiruvizha. Devotees carry Kavadis as a sign of their devotion and penance.
5. Panguni Uthiram (March-April)
Panguni Uthiram is another significant festival dedicated to Lord Murugan and his consorts, Valli and Deivanai. The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Tamil month Panguni (March-April).
- Celebration of Marriages: The festival celebrates the divine marriage of Lord Murugan to his two consorts. During this time, devotees offer prayers and perform special rituals to honor the union of Murugan with Valli and Deivanai.
- Grand Procession: The temple holds a grand procession with the idols of Lord Murugan and his consorts, and the devotees join in with chants and prayers.
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