Arunachaleshvarar

Arunachaleshvarar is the presiding deity of the Arunachaleshvarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, and is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams representing the element of fire (Agni). The name 'Arunachaleshvarar' means 'Lord of the Dawn Mountain,' referring to the sacred Arunachala hill, which is itself considered a manifestation of Shiva. According to the Shiva Purana, the origin of this deity is tied to the cosmic dispute between Brahma and Vishnu over supremacy. Shiva appeared as an infinite pillar of fire (Jyotirlinga) to demonstrate his transcendence, and Brahma and Vishnu failed to find its top or bottom. This pillar of fire is identified with Arunachala hill, and the linga at the temple is said to be a representation of that fiery column. The Arunachala Mahatmya, a section of the Skanda Purana, elaborates on the glory of this site, describing how Shiva took the form of the hill to bestow grace upon devotees.

Iconographically, Arunachaleshvarar is worshipped in the form of a linga, typically made of stone, enshrined in the inner sanctum. The temple complex is situated at the foot of the hill, and the hill itself is venerated as a sacred symbol. The most significant festival is Kartigai Deepam, celebrated on the full moon of the Tamil month of Kartigai (November–December), when a massive beacon is lit atop the hill, symbolizing Shiva's pillar of fire. This event is described in the Arunachala Mahatmya as a manifestation of the divine light. Regional worship traditions include Girivalam, the circumambulation of the hill, which is considered highly meritorious. Devotees walk the 14-kilometer path, often barefoot, while chanting the name of Shiva.

In Hindu cosmology, Arunachaleshvarar represents the fire element (Agni) among the five primordial elements (Pancha Bhoota), each associated with a specific temple in Tamil Nadu. The temple is also a major center for Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy and has been revered by saints such as Manikkavacakar and Ramana Maharshi. The consort of Arunachaleshvarar is Parvati, known locally as Unnamalai Amman, and his mount is Nandi. The associated mantras include 'Om Aruṇācaleśvarāya Namaḥ' and the Arunachala Stotram. Festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and monthly pradoshams are observed with great devotion. The temple's scriptures, including the Shiva Purana and Arunachala Mahatmya, continue to guide the rituals and beliefs surrounding this ancient deity.

Linga form. Temple at the foot of Arunachala hill. The Deepam festival celebrates Shiva as the pillar of fire.