Arambapuri is one of the revered Shiva Kshetras, where the presiding deity is called Arambeswarar.

The Lord was worshipped by celestial beauties. Arambaiyar Rambha, Urvasi and Menaka were relieved of the curse that rendered them deformed of some kind and lose their beauty and charm. Thus the Lord is called Arambeswarar. Legend also has it that Chandran, to get rid of Daksha's curse, bathed in the temple tank and worshipped the deity with the fragrant jasmine. The sthala vriksam here is the jasmine creeper. The tank is known as Chandrapushkarani. Those who have moon in a weaker position in their horoscopes are advised to visit the place. Chandran rules the heart, the mind and the brain. It is recommended that those who wish to have the blessings of Ilambaiyam Kottur Chandrasekara must pay obeisance to him at least on Monday (Somavara).

'Enathurai Thanathurai'

Thirugnana Sambandar has sung a 'Thevaram' of 10 stanzas about the 'Thaiva Nayageswarar' in this temple. Lord Shiva explained that he was the cause for whatever Thirugnana Sambandar says. Thus the words of Sambandar are those of Lord Shiva himself.

The Yoga Dakshinamoorthy idol in this temple is a wonderful work of art. He sits under the Kallala (banyan) tree, with his hair open. He has positioned the famous 'chin muthra' on his chest and has a 'Yoga Pattam' (a belt like thing) between His right leg and hip. Specifically signifying the importance of Atma Gnyanam, His left hand is on the thigh, the rear arms holding the Trisulam and japamala. His right leg is folded to strike the posture of yoga mudra with the left foot stamping 'Muyalagan'.

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Those who worship him on Pournami (Full Moon day), are blessed with knowledge, wisdom and peace of mind.

Guru Peyarchi falls on 23rd July, 2003. It is a significant day to worship Yoga Dakshinamoorthy. It is a sacred place to visit any time, even before the Guru Peyarchi.

Ilambayam Kottur (now known as Elumiyam Kottur) is situated between Koovam and Thakkolam towns - 40 kms from Poonamalee near Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is 2,000 years old. Worship is offered six times a day. 

Published on 17^th July 2003