Thiruvempavai

Manikkavachagar’s work ‘Thiruvempavai’, a collection of twenty hymns, in which he has imagined himself as a woman following the ‘Paavai Nonbu’, praising Lord Shiva.

Thiruvempavai songs are part of an ancient tradition amongst unmarried young girls, where they would light lamps in the early mornings of Margazhi, and sing songs in praise of Lord Shiva. The 20 stanzas of Thrivempavai are recited everyday. It is believed that such rituals would bring prosperity and a suitable husband to the girls.

Daily Programme:

08.00am: Thiruvempavai recitation.
09.00am: Abhishekam for Sri Sivakami Sundari & Lord Sri Chandramouliswarar.

Arudhra Darshanam:

Thiruvaadhirai also known as Arudhra Darshanam is observed on the 10th day of Thiruvempavai festival commencement, which happens to be thiruvaadhirai nakshaththram, the full moon day during the month of Maarkazhi, (December-January as per the Gregorian calendar). The Thiruvadhirai is one of the eight significant “Vratas” dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thiruvaadhirai is also considered to be the nakshaththram (birth star) of Lord Natarajar and is the longest night of the year. The word “Thiruvathirai” implies a ‘sacred big wave’ that was used during the creation of the universe by Lord Shiva.

Thiruvadhirai vrata is a part of the renowned Hindu festival called as Arudhra Darishanam or Thiruvadhirai. The Arudhra Darshanam celebrates ‘Lord Natarajar’, the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.

Programme:

06.00am: Rituals commence with Kalasa Pooja
07.00am: Abhishekam, Alankaram & Maha Deeparadhanai for Lord Sri Natarajar, followed by recitation of Thiruvempavai and procession within the Temple.
11.00am: Abhishekam for Lord Sri Chandramouleeswarar.

Ritual Donations:

Abhishekam – $101
Archana       – $20

All are welcome to participate during the Festival and seek the blessings of the Lord.