Annamalai Girivalam ~ A Sacred Journey of Devotion

Annamalai Girivalam ~ A Sacred Journey of Devotion

Annamalayar Girivalam is a spiritual and cultural practice that takes place in the holy town of Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu, India. It involves a ritualistic circumambulation, or walking around, of the Annamalai Hill, which is considered sacred by devotees. The hill is closely associated with Lord Shiva and is believed to be the earthly manifestation of Lord Shiva’s divine presence. The Girivalam is a form of worship, a way for devotees to express their devotion, seek blessings, and connect spiritually with the divine.

The Significance of Annamalai Hill

Annamalai Hill, also known as Arunachala Hill, holds a deep spiritual significance in Hinduism. It is believed to be one of the five elements (Pancha Bhootas) and is associated with the element of fire. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva appeared as a pillar of fire (Jyotirlinga) on this hill to prove his supremacy in a divine debate between Brahma and Vishnu. As a result, Arunachala is considered a sacred place of immense spiritual energy.

The hill is also associated with the famous saint Sri Ramana Maharshi, who spent a large part of his life in Tiruvannamalai. His teachings and spiritual practices have made the hill even more sacred for people worldwide.

What is Girivalam?

The word Girivalam is derived from two Tamil words: “Giri” meaning mountain or hill, and “Valam” meaning to walk around. Therefore, Girivalam refers to the act of walking around Annamalai Hill. This spiritual practice involves walking a distance of approximately 14 kilometers, starting from the base of the hill and completing a full circle around it. Devotees typically walk barefoot as an act of humility and to show their devotion to Lord Shiva.

The Girivalam path is marked with several holy shrines, temples, and sacred spots, which hold their own significance. Along the way, pilgrims offer prayers, chant mantras, and reflect on their spiritual journey.

The Ritual of Girivalam

Devotees usually perform Girivalam on specific days, most notably during the full moon night. It is believed that walking around the hill during the full moon brings extra spiritual benefits, as the moon’s light is said to amplify the divine energy of Lord Shiva. Additionally, the 9th day of the Tamil month of Karthigai (which falls in November or December) is another significant time for performing Girivalam.

During the Girivalam, pilgrims pass through several sacred spots, including temples dedicated to various deities and holy trees, where they stop to pray and seek blessings. The whole journey is not only about physical endurance but also about mental and spiritual purification. It’s a way of surrendering oneself to God, seeking peace, and attaining self-realization.

Benefits of Annamalayar Girivalam

The Girivalam is believed to bring many spiritual benefits. It is said that walking around the Annamalai Hill with devotion purifies the mind and soul, removes negative energy, and brings one closer to the divine. The ritual is also said to help in attaining peace, wisdom, and liberation (Moksha).

Many people visit Tiruvannamalai and perform Girivalam to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The practice is seen as a way of showing gratitude and reverence to Lord Shiva, and is believed to bring inner transformation and divine blessings.

Annamalayar Girivalam is a sacred practice that holds immense spiritual significance. The act of walking around Annamalai Hill is a deeply moving and meaningful experience for many. It is a symbol of the devotion and reverence that people have for their faith, and it helps them connect with the divine in a profound way.