Composing…
/Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani
State Temple
Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani
अरुल्मिगु दंडायुथपाणि स्वामी मंदिर, पलानी
Location
Palani, Tamil Nadu
Darshan
–
Deity
🪔Lord Murugan (Dhandayuthapani Swamy)
Entry
Free entry
Palani is the third of the Six Abodes of Murugan (Arupadai Veedu). The presiding deity, Dhandayuthapani Swamy, represents Lord Murugan as a young ascetic carrying a staff (dhandam). The idol is unique, believed to have been created by the sage Bogar using an amalgam of nine poisonous substances (Navapashanam), which together act as a master medicine.
Mythology
According to legend, Sage Narada presented a divine 'Jnana Palam' (Fruit of Knowledge) to Lord Shiva and Parvati. Shiva held a contest between his sons Ganesha and Murugan. Ganesha won by circumambulating his parents, declaring them to be his universe. Murugan, who flew around the world on his peacock, felt cheated and renounced his family, settling atop the Palani hill as a hermit. 'Pazham Nee' (You are the fruit) is what Shiva and Parvati said to appease him, which became the name Palani.