Tiruvannamalai is renowned as a sacred place that grants spiritual liberation (moksha) simply by contemplating it. Among its many spiritual highlights, the Girivalam (circumambulation) path and Ashtalingam Darshan hold special significance.
There are eight Lingam shrines, each positioned in a different cardinal direction along the Girivalam path, believed to have been worshipped by different celestial beings. According to scriptures, offering prayers at the Annamalaiyar Temple bestows devotees with the collective blessings of all eight Lingams. Moreover, each of these Lingams is associated with a specific zodiac sign, offering unique benefits to devotees based on their birth sign.
The Eight Ashtalingams and their zodiac associations
1. Indra Lingam (East) – Rishabam (Taurus) & Thulam (Libra)
Located near the Rajagopuram of Annamalaiyar Temple, Indra Lingam is dedicated to Lord Indra. Worshipping here brings the blessings of the Sun and Venus, leading to a life of prosperity and honour.
2. Agni Lingam (Southeast) – Simmam (Leo)
Positioned near Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, Agni Lingam symbolizes Lord Shiva’s fiery form that later cooled into its current state. Devotees of Simmam (Leo) can worship here to overcome mental distress and achieve inner peace.
3. Yama Lingam (South) – Viruchigam (Scorpio)
Dedicated to Lord Yama, the god of death, this Lingam is believed to remove negative thoughts and instil strength and resilience. People born under Viruchigam (Scorpio) are encouraged to pray here for protection and stability.
4. Niruthi Lingam (Southwest) – Mesham (Aries)
Associated with Lord Niruthi, this Lingam is revered for its fertility blessings. Worshippers, especially those of Mesham (Aries), seek divine grace for peace of mind and protection from malefic Rahu effects.
5. Varuna Lingam (West) – Magaram (Capricorn) & Kumbam (Aquarius)
Lord Varuna, the deity of rain and water, is honoured at this shrine. Worshipping here is believed to cure ailments and bring abundance and wealth. People born under Magaram (Capricorn) and Kumbam (Aquarius) are particularly encouraged to visit.
6. Vayu Lingam (Northwest) – Kadagam (Cancer)
Dedicated to Lord Vayu (Wind God), this shrine is linked to Ketu and is believed to bestow spiritual and material prosperity. Devotees born under Kadagam (Cancer) can worship here to attain success and positive energy.
7. Kubera Lingam (North) – Dhanusu (Sagittarius) & Meenam (Pisces)
Lord Kubera, the guardian of wealth, is believed to have regained his lost riches at this shrine. Worshippers, especially those of Dhanusu (Sagittarius) and Meenam (Pisces), seek financial stability and prosperity here.
8. Isanya Lingam (Northeast) – Mithunam (Gemini) & Kanni (Virgo)
Dedicated to Lord Nandeeswara, this Lingam represents the eternal truth that only Lord Shiva is unchanging. Worshippers, particularly those of Mithunam (Gemini) and Kanni (Virgo), receive blessings for academic excellence and artistic achievements.
Tiruvannamalai’s Ashtalingams hold profound spiritual significance, offering blessings tailored to each zodiac sign. By worshipping these sacred Lingams, devotees can attain divine grace, prosperity, health, and wisdom.
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