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Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Annamalaiyar Temple – Fifth Prakaram – Banyan Tree (Sthala Vriksha)

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.