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| Location |
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Rathinagiri near Arcot. |
| Main Deity |
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Balamurugan. |
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Nearest Town : Arcot
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District : Vellore
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State : Tamil Nadu
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Rathinagiri Balamurugan Temple was built around the 14th century. Over the passage of time an ordinary sand structure was converted into a stone shrine. Ancient Hindu scriptures say that wherever there is a hill, Lord Murugan resides as the all-powerful Deity. Of these Tirupparamkundram, Tiruchendur, Tiruvavinankudi, Tiruveragam and Palamuthircholai are famous shrines, collectively called 'Kundruthoradal'. The holy shrine at Rathinagiri also features in this category.
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The 14th Century poet Arunagirinathar has sung about this temple Rathinakiri Vazh Murukane Ilaya Vaaramarar Perumaley' which means 'Murugan, the God of Devas resides in Rathinagiri'.
Separate pathways were laid to ascend and descend the hill. A chariot made of granite was made and the main deity was installed there to facilitate renovation of the sanctum sanctorum. Two temples for Lord Ganesha were built at the foothill and uphill. A golden chariot was made for the Lord Murugan to circumambulate the shrine. Ornaments made of gold, silver and precious stones were made to decorate the Idol.
A granite sanctum sanctorum modeled according to the Chola architecture has been built at a cost of 20 lakhs for installing the deity. A spacious hall around the shrine, vimanam and a beautiful entrance has been completed at a cost of 50 lakhs. The rest of the renovation work estimated to cost another 50 lakhs is in progress. With the inflow of donations from devotees work may be completed soon and the kumbhabhishekam may be performed at a close date.
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Image / Content source : rathinagiri.com
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