A Spiritual Journey: Girivalam and the Temples on Its Path

The Sacred Journey of Girivalam: A Spiritual Pilgrimage Around Arunachala Hill

Tiruvannamalai, a town deeply rooted in spirituality, is renowned for the practice of Girivalam, the sacred circumambulation of Arunachala Hill. Adi Shankara, the great philosopher, referred to Arunachala as Giripradakshinapriya, one of the thousand and eight names of the Lord, highlighting the importance of this practice. This spiritual journey, covering a distance of about 14 kilometers, is more than just a walk; it is a profound act of devotion that connects the devotee with the divine presence of Lord Shiva, who is believed to manifest as the Arunachala Hill. Known as Giripradakshinapriya—one who loves the circumambulation of the hill—Arunachala holds a special place in Hindu spirituality, particularly among devotees seeking Moksha (liberation).

The Significance of Girivalam

Girivalam is derived from the Sanskrit words "Giri," meaning hill, and "Valam," meaning circumambulation. This sacred ritual is undertaken by thousands of devotees, especially on auspicious days such as Pournami (Full Moon), as they believe that walking around the holy hill with sincere devotion can cleanse their souls, bring spiritual enlightenment, and bestow material blessings. The practice of Girivalam is deeply entrenched in the belief that Arunachala is not just a physical hill but a living embodiment of Lord Shiva, making the circumambulation a direct act of worship.

The journey around Arunachala is not merely a physical exercise but a spiritual practice that has the power to transform the life of the devotee. The 14-kilometer path is filled with spiritual energy, and each step taken with devotion is believed to bring the pilgrim closer to the divine, offering them a unique opportunity to attain inner peace and divine grace.

The Ashta Lingams: The Pillars of Divine Energy

As devotees embark on the Girivalam, they encounter eight sacred shrines known as the Ashta Lingams. These shrines, each associated with a different cardinal direction, are dedicated to different forms of Lord Shiva, installed by various gods, and connected with specific Navagrahas (planetary deities). Each lingam is believed to offer distinct spiritual and material benefits, making the journey around Arunachala a holistic spiritual experience.

1. Indira Lingam (East):

• Installed by Lord Indra, the king of celestials, this lingam is associated with the Sun and Sukiran (Venus).
• Benefits: Worshiping at the Indira Lingam is believed to grant devotees long life and fame.

1. Agni Lingam (Southeast):

• Dedicated to Lord Agni, the god of fire, this lingam is connected with Chandran (Moon).
• Benefits: It provides relief from diseases and fears, offering devotees protection and healing.

1. Yama Lingam (South):

• This lingam is installed by Yama, the god of death, and is linked with Sevvai (Mars).
• Benefits: Devotees seek blessings here for longevity and protection from untimely death.

1. Niruthi Lingam (Southwest):

• Installed by Niruthi, the king of giants, and associated with Raghu, this lingam offers powerful blessings.
• Benefits: It bestows health, wealth, fame, and blessings for those seeking children.

1. Varuna Lingam (West):

• Dedicated to Varuna, the god of rain, and connected with Sani (Saturn), this lingam is crucial for those seeking relief from ailments.
• Benefits: It provides relief from water-related diseases and other illnesses.

1. Vayu Lingam (Northwest):

• Installed by Vayu, the god of air, and linked with Kedhu, this lingam is a source of healing.
• Benefits: It offers relief from heart, breathing, and stomach ailments, making it essential for those with health concerns.

1. Kubera Lingam (North):

• Dedicated to Kubera, the god of wealth, and associated with Guru (Jupiter), this lingam attracts those seeking prosperity.
• Benefits: It bestows wealth and elevates the devotee’s status in life.

1. Easanya Lingam (Northeast):

• Associated with Easanya (Shiva) and Budhan (Mercury), this lingam is revered for the peace it brings.
• Benefits: It grants peace of mind and spiritual serenity.

The Spiritual Journey of Girivalam

The Girivalam begins with a visit to Boodha Narayana, the guardian deity of Tiruvannamalai, near the Annamalaiyar Temple. It is customary to seek his permission before embarking on the journey. Following this, devotees pay their respects at the Rettai Pillaiyar shrine and the temple Raja Gopuram before starting the circumambulation.

As devotees proceed on the Girivalam path, they follow certain traditional practices to enhance their spiritual experience:

1. Look at the Peak: Devotees are encouraged to keep their eyes on the peak of Arunachala Hill with every step they take. It is believed that each glance at the hill bestows a blessing.
2. Chanting and Meditation: Constant chanting of the mantra “Arunachala Siva” is recommended. Devotees are advised to meditate and avoid mundane conversations during the Girivalam, focusing solely on the divine.
3. Charity: Acts of charity, such as feeding the poor and needy, are integral to the Girivalam. Devotees carry food items like biscuits, porai (local bread), and bananas to feed animals, particularly dogs, monkeys, and cows along the path.
4. Feeding Animals: The dogs encountered on the path are considered sacred as they are seen as the vehicle (Vahana) of Lord Kala Bhairava. Feeding them is seen as an act of honoring the deity and fulfilling one’s duty towards all living beings.
5. Walking Pace: The recommended pace for Girivalam is slow and steady, akin to that of a woman in the ninth month of pregnancy. This deliberate pace allows devotees to remain mindful and connected to the sacred energy of Arunachala.
6. Barefoot Walk: Walking barefoot is a mandatory practice during Girivalam, symbolizing humility and reverence. This practice is non-negotiable and is observed by all devotees.

The Temples and Ashrams Along the Girivalam Path

In addition to the Ashta Lingams, the Girivalam path is lined with numerous temples and ashrams, each contributing to the spiritual richness of the journey. Among these are:

• Adi Annamalai and Ner Annamalai: Ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Lunar and Surya Lingams: Temples dedicated to the Moon and Sun deities.
• Vinayagar Temples: Sixteen temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
• Murugan Temples: Seven temples dedicated to Lord Murugan.
• Adhikamatshi Amman Temple: A temple dedicated to the goddess.

Additionally, devotees can visit the ashrams of revered saints such as Seshadri Swamigal, Ramana Maharshi, and Yogi Ramsuratkumar, who have contributed to the spiritual heritage of Tiruvannamalai.

Concluding the Girivalam

After completing the circumambulation, devotees return to the Annamalaiyar Temple to offer their final prayers and seek the blessings of Annamalaiyar (Lord Shiva) and Ninnamula Ambigai (Goddess Parvati). The journey concludes with a deep sense of fulfillment and divine grace, leaving the devotees spiritually rejuvenated and closer to attaining Moksha.

Girivalam is more than just a ritual; it is a sacred journey that offers devotees a profound connection with the divine. By walking the path around Arunachala Hill, devotees not only seek spiritual liberation but also experience the immense grace of Lord Shiva, making it one of the most revered practices in Hindu spirituality.