Thiruvaadhirai also known as Arudhra Darshanam is observed on the thiruvaadhirai nakshaththram, the full moon day Maarkazhi, which happens during the period of 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 Nataraja 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 Darisanam or Thiruvadhirai. The Arudhra Darshanam celebrates ‘Lord Nataraja’, the cosmic dance of God Shiva.
Lord Shiva never took birth and therefore there is no “Nakshaththram” dedicated to celebrate. It was on the auspicious day of Thiruvaadhirai that He appeared before holy saint’s Vyaagra Paadha and Pathanychali. It was mentioned in the Hindu mythology that once Lord Vishnu was resting on the great serpent “Aadhi Sesha”, who felt that He was in some deep thinking. Being prompted “Lord Vishnu” told “Aadhi Sesha” that he was remembering the dance of Lord Shiva. This answer invoked the desire in Adhi seesha to witness this great dance. He asked Lord Vishnu how this desire could be fulfilled. Lord Vishnu then urged him to do rigorous ‘tapas’ at Chithamparam’ in Tamil Nadu. Adhi Sesha followed his advice and devotedly prayed to Lord Shiva for a very long time. At the same, a muni and devotee of Lord Shiva known as Vyaagra Paadha who lived in that same place, who also worshipped Lord Shiva to obtain the legs of a tiger in order to pluck flowers at dawn, without being touched by the bees for offering to the God. He also observed ‘tapas’ to see His great ‘Nataraja’ dance. Finally Lord Shiva was pleased with their prayers and devotion and he showed his ‘Nataraja’ dance in Chithamparam on the day of Thiruvaadhirai. From then onwards, the ‘Nataraaja’ image of Shiva is worshipped with great fervour on this day.
Date & Time: Sunday the 23rd December 2018, commencing at 06.00 AM.
Programme: Abhishekam for Sri.Sivakami Sundari and Lord Natarajar followed by Alankaram, Shodashopachara Maha Deeparadhana and special Archanas.
All are Welcome!
Please contact Temple office for further details:02-4214 9080
May Lord shower his blessings.