Uppiliappan Temple,
Tirunageswaram – Prayers
Each and every Thulasi leaf used
to perform Pooja (Archana) to Lord Oppiliappan would fetch the total value of
an Ashvamedha Yagna (Yagam). Every step placed to reach this kshetram would
fetch lots of eternal values (Punniyam). By devoting Dhoopakal, Deepakal, vessels
needed for pooja and Thirumanjanam (Bathing of Lord god), brass bell and silk
clothing one could get themselves out from all sorts of sins. Those who
undertake/perform Utsavam to Lord Oppiliappan would definitely have the boon of
birth of a child. Just by chanting Thulasi Vanam all the effect sins fly away.
In the Tamil month Panguni on
the day of Shravanam doing the following things would remove all the sins due
to evil sins like murder, robbery etc. Early in the morning taking bath in the
temple Pushkarini. Give alms (dhanam) to needy people. Choose any 5 Brahmins
and treat them as the 5 forms of Oppiliappan (i.e.) as Ponnappan, Maniappan,
Muthappan, Ennappan, Vinnagarappan. Then give them Thirukannal Amuthu (i.e.)
Payasam (i.e.) Sweet kheer and finally worship Oppiliappan in his Sannathi.
It is believed that praying to
Lord and Mother in the temple would ensure unity among the couples and
cultivate in them the quality of tolerance. Devotees perform Thirumanjanam to
Lord. Nivedhanas are prepared in this temple without salt. It is believed
that taking salted food into the temple is a sin. As Sage Markandeya, ever
16 in age, worshipped in this temple, special Homas as longevity and
Mrutyunjaya Homas are performed in the temple.
Shravanam is very special here.
During that day devotees take a dip in the temple tank and get the darshan of Sravana
Deepam. Another belief is that if you offer sandal and Kumkum you get salvation
from Brahmmahathi Dosha. People offer black peppers with salt at Lord
Narayana's feet in front of the Garudazhwar, to cure them of any dermal
diseases. Tonsure ceremony for getting children shaved for the first time to
promote proper growth and ear piercing is a very common practice followed in
the temple.
