Navagraha Temple, Palani
Navagraha Temple, Palani

Navagraha Temples are dedicated to the nine celestial bodies of the universe, which are considered as significant in Vedic astrology. Palani, a small town situated in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, is home to one such revered Navagraha temple. The temple attracts devotees from all over the country who come to seek the blessings of the planetary deities. In this article, we will delve into the history, significance, and unique features of the Navagraha temple in Palani.

Navagraha Temple Palani – Overview

Date built:The exact date of construction of the Navagraha Temple in Palani is not known. However, it is believed to have been in existence for several centuries.
Deity:The presiding deity of the Navagraha Temple in Palani is Lord Murugan, also known as Lord Subramanya. The temple also has separate shrines dedicated to the Navagrahas, the nine celestial bodies.
Architectural style:The Navagraha Temple in Palani features a traditional Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has a towering gopuram (entrance tower) that is adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings.
Major festivalsSome of the major festivals celebrated at the Navagraha Temple in Palani include Thai Poosam, Panguni Uthiram, and Skanda Sashti. Thai Poosam is the most significant festival, and it attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country.
Locale:The Navagraha Temple is located in the town of Palani, which is situated in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. Palani is a famous pilgrimage center and is known for its religious and cultural significance.
District::Dindigul
Address:Navagraha Temple, Palani, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu, India.
PhoneThe contact number for the Navagraha Temple in Palani is not readily available. However, visitors can contact the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department or the local tourism board for more information about the temple.
Navagraha Temple, Palani

We are now approaching the bridge. Only if you ask for Navagraha temple people will identify and show this place. Shrines more important than the nine planets are here. Through a narrow path to the left of the main road, amidst crowded shops one should proceed. In between the main road and the narrow path, a big shed for tonsure ceremonies has been erected. It is always crowded to the brim. We enter the bathing ghat. Water will bi only trickling except during rainy seasons.

See also  Thazuvikandeswarar Temple, Thiruvalangadu, Thiruvallur

This river has never seen a flood. Devotees after tonsure bathe here. Those who have vowed to take Kavadi star from this drums, pipes, etc. as tonsure and Kavadis centers round this place, the very placed is saturated with devotion.

History of Navagraha Temple, Palani

The history of the Navagraha temple in Palani dates back to the 9th century AD, when the temple was constructed by the Chera dynasty. The temple has undergone many renovations over the years, with the most recent one taking place in 2014. According to legends, Lord Murugan, the presiding deity of the temple, was worshipped here by the sages and saints, including Agastya and Bhogar. The temple has a fascinating history and is an excellent example of the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Significance of Navagraha Temple, Palani

The Navagraha temple in Palani is a revered place of worship for people who believe in astrology and its significance in their lives. The nine celestial bodies worshipped in the temple are Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. Each planet is believed to influence human life in a unique way, and people offer prayers to seek their blessings for a prosperous and fulfilling life. The temple is also famous for its medicinal properties, and the holy water of the temple tank is believed to cure various ailments.

Architecture of Navagraha Temple, Palani

The Navagraha temple in Palani boasts of exquisite Dravidian-style architecture. The temple complex has four gopurams, each facing one of the four cardinal directions. The main entrance to the temple is through the eastern gopuram, which is the tallest of all and stands at a height of 100 feet. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the idol of Lord Murugan, and the walls are adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The temple also has a holy tank, which is believed to have healing powers.

See also  Lakshmi Narayanar Temple, Elavambedu, Thiruvallur

Festivals Celebrated at Navagraha Temple, Palani

The Navagraha temple in Palani celebrates various festivals throughout the year, with the most significant one being the Skanda Sashti festival. The festival, which is celebrated in the Tamil month of Aippasi, is a six-day-long celebration that marks the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Surapadma. The temple is beautifully decorated during the festival, and devotees from all over the world come to witness the grand celebrations.

Procedure of Worship at Navagraha Temple, Palani

The procedure of worship at the Navagraha temple in Palani is unique and different from other temples. Devotees are required to offer prayers to all nine planetary deities by performing a circumambulation around the Navagraha Mandapam. The circumambulation is called Navagraha Pradakshina and is believed to bring peace and prosperity to the devotees’ lives. Devotees also offer various offerings, including milk, flowers, and fruits, to seek the blessings of the deities.

Legend / Local stories

According to the legend, a group of sages who were suffering from various ailments came to Palani seeking a cure. Lord Murugan, the presiding deity of the temple, appeared to them and asked them to bathe in the Saravana Poigai, a sacred pond located near the temple. The sages did as they were told and were miraculously cured of their ailments.

Another mythological story associated with the Navagraha Temple in Palani is about the holy hill on which the temple is located. According to the legend, the hill was once a part of Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva. The hill was brought to Palani by Lord Murugan and is believed to be a manifestation of his divine power.

See also  Ponsei Natrunaiyappar Temple, Thirunanipalli, Nagapattinam
NavagrahaShrine, Navagraha Temple, Palani
NavagrahaShrine, Navagraha Temple, Palani

How to Reach Navagraha Temple, Palani

The Navagraha temple in Palani is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Palani Railway Station, which is just 3 km from the temple. The town is also well-connected by road, and buses are available from various cities in Tamil Nadu. The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, which is around 100 km from Palani. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.

Palani is approximately 100 kilometers from the Coimbatore. Mode of transport from the Coimbatore to the Palani includes taxi, bus and train.

By plane

The nearest air port is in Coimbatore. Coimbatore has has regular flights from Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calicut, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi and Sharjah. Air India, Kingfisher,Indigo,Spicejet and Jet Airways operate flights out of Coimbatore Airport.

By Train

There is a rail line through Palani station, stretching Madurai to Coimbatore via Pollachi. Now Tiruchendur to palani via madurai, Chennai central – Palani Express, operating on this line.

By bus

The state transport corporation and a lot of private bus operators ply bus from Palani to major cities in Tamil Nadu (Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Trichy, Tuticorin etc) and also to the neighboring Kerala(Palakkadu, Kochin).

Accommodation Facilities near Navagraha Temple, Palani

There are several accommodation options available near the Navagraha temple in Palani, ranging from budget to luxury hotels. The temple also has a guest house facility for devotees who wish to stay close to the temple. The town also has many restaurants serving delicious South Indian cuisine, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the temple.

Best Time to Visit Navagraha Temple, Palani

The best time to visit the Navagraha temple in Palani is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant, and the festival season adds to the charm of the temple. The Skanda Sashti festival, which is celebrated in the Tamil month of Aippasi, is also a great time to visit the temple.

Precautions to be Taken while Visiting Navagraha Temple, Palani

While visiting the Navagraha temple in Palani, it is advisable to follow certain precautions to ensure a safe and hassle-free visit. Devotees should dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothes. Photography is not allowed inside the temple premises, and devotees should not disturb the peaceful environment inside the temple. It is also advisable to carry adequate cash and avoid carrying valuables.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Navagraha temple in Palani?

The Navagraha temple in Palani is dedicated to the nine celestial bodies of the universe and is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and good health to the devotees.

What is the best time to visit the Navagraha temple in Palani?

The best time to visit the Navagraha temple in Palani is during the winter months, from November to February.

Is there any accommodation facility available near the Navagraha temple in Palani?

Yes, there are several accommodation options available near the Navagraha temple in Palani, ranging from budget to luxury hotels, and the temple also has a guest house facility for devotees.

Browse Temples in India

Recent Posts