Annamalaiyar Temple – Fifth Prakaram – Banyan Tree
(Sthala Vriksha)
The Banyan Tree is the sthala vriksha (assigned tree) of
Arunachala. This is the type of tree that Arunagiri Yogi reportedly sat under.
Several Banyan trees were previously to be found at the Arunachaleswarar Temple
compound, but in the case of the Third Prakaram (outside the Siva Sannidhi) the
tree’s deep roots were feared could undermine the integrity of the foundation
of the Temple’s Inner Shrine, thus the tree was dug out and replaced by three
Magizha trees (which have shallow roots).
In the case of the Banyan Tree located in the Fifth
Prakaram, with access on the side avenue between the Amman Ammani Gopura and
the North Kattai Gopura, the old tree became diseased and was replaced by the
current Banyan Tree at that location. In front of the Banyan Tree is a modern
shrine dedicated to Lord Vinayakar.
The Banyan tree, which is the Sthala Vriksha tree of Arunachala,
is one of the most venerated trees in India. Because of its ability to survive
and grow for centuries, it is often compared to the shelter given by God to his
devotees. It also symbolizes the personality of a benevolent ruler or head of
family who nourishes and looks after all those under his care. Its large leaf
is a motif commonly used in worship, rituals and festive sacrifices.
The Banyan tree is mentioned in many scriptures as a
tree of immortality. It was under a Banyan tree that the Hindu sages sat in a
trance seeking enlightenment and it was here that they held discourses and
conducted holy rituals. In Hindu mythology, the tree is called Kalpavriksha,
the tree that provides fulfillment of wishes and other material gains.