Annamalaiyar Temple – Niruthi Lingam
Niruthi lingam in Thiruvannamalai is the fourth of the
eight Lingams (Ashta Lingams) which one encounters during Girivalam in Thiruvannamalai.
This lingam is also known as Nirudhi lingam. The Niruthi Lingam has South West
as its direction. This is the fourth lingam, while we see the peak of the holy
hill Arunachala, it views accompanying of two parts of mountain and shows
'Sivan' and ’Sakthi’ together. It placed in south west of
Arunachala. It also has a holy tank nearby, called "Sani Theertha",
worshipping here relieves us from our difficulties.
It is situated on the Girivalam pathway near the
Shantimalai Compound. It is associated with Lord Rahu. Niruthi is the king of the Asuras (demons)
and he jointly rules the Southern realm along with Yama. His associate is a
dog.
Legend reports that king Nala bathed in Niruthi Lingam
Theertham to be relieved of sins incurred due to his karma. This Lingam is
especially renowned to help people recover from the bad effects of black magic
and other negative energies.
Health, wealth and fame are the beneficial aspects of
this lingam. It is also beneficial for couples to worship at this Lingam if
they wish to have a child. Worshipping this Lingam is believed to help devotees
achieve detachment to worldly desire.
Creation
This lingam had been created by Niruthi who rules over
giants. Niruthi has a fierce dog as his Vahana.
Navagraha
Niruthi Lingam’s dominant Navagraha is Rahu who is also
known as Raghu.
Nala
It is believed that king Nala came here and worshipped
Shiva and when he took bath in the theertham he felt the burden of his sins
being removed.
Speciality
People who worship this lingam will come out from dark
magic and clutches of evil forces. Couples who wish to have a child also pray
at this Lingam for child boon.
Location
Niruthi lingam is located to the south west direction of
the Thiruvannamalai Mountain. Sani theertham and Shantimalai are the landmarks
near this lingam. Niruthi Lingam is located 4.6 km from the Arulmigu
Arunachaleswarar Temple.
Geographic Position
Nirudhi Lingam or Niruthi Lingam in Thiruvannamalai is
located at 12°14'04.0"N 79°01'55.8"E or 12.234443, 79.032163.