It was November 19 when I embarked on a journey of devotion, a 48-day fast for Lord Murugan of Tiruchendur. Being a frequent non-vegetarian, I faced my first challenge of abstaining from meat. For my Murugan, I held strong, eating only in the morning and evening while skipping food at noon. Each day, I prepared myself mentally and spiritually for the grand pilgrimage, a 100-kilometre barefoot walk from Kalathimadam to Tiruchendur.
On January 1, after a long period of fasting, I had the privilege of partaking in the Annadhanam at Kalathimadam Vinayagar Kovil. The feast was in honour of Lord Murugan’s pooja, and it fuelled my spirit for the journey ahead. That evening ended with the sacred ritual of Kattu Kattutal, sealing my commitment to this holy endeavour.
The next morning, the grand walk began. Hundreds of Murugan devotees, myself included, started from Kalathimadam Vinayagar Temple, chanting prayers and singing praises. With every step, the devotees’ voices echoed through the day, resonating with the divine chant: “Vetri Vel Muruganukku Arohara!” The sound grew louder, filling the air with faith and energy. The words, meaning “Victory to the spear of Lord Murugan, hail to him,” became the rhythm of the journey, uniting every pilgrim in spirit and purpose.
The first stop was Nochiyadi Sudalai Madan Temple, just 1.3 kilometres away. As a first-timer walking barefoot, I had little knowledge of pacing myself. Enthusiastic and determined, I walked as fast as I could, covering an astonishing 16 kilometres to reach Maranthai village.
Crossing Maranthai, I felt the first signs of strain. My feet began to ache, and my leg muscles protested. Determined to continue, I took brief 2-5 minute breaks, but the pain only intensified. I reached a fuel station, 12 kilometres from Maranthai, where we paused for dinner. The rest was short-lived. After 40 minutes, we resumed the walk, but by then, the pain in my feet was unbearable.
As I walked, barefoot and determined, I felt the power of those words lifting my spirits, even as my body ached. The chant was more than just a mantra; it was a shield against pain, exhaustion, and doubt. Each “Vetri Vel” reminded me of Lord Murugan's triumph over evil, while every “Arohara” was a cry of surrender, trusting the divine to guide me.
Through the chanting, I was reminded that this journey was not about physical strength but about the victory of faith over limitations. “Vetri Vel Muruganukku Arohara!” became the heartbeat of my pilgrimage, echoing in my soul as the journey continued.
The ball and heel of my feet felt like they were on fire, and my ankle began to swell. My thighs and calves throbbed with inflammation, and muscle spasms made each step a test of endurance. When I reached Old Pettai, just 3.5 kilometres from the fuel station, my body gave up. My pain-bearing capacity was overwhelmed, and I could walk no further.
It was then that the Mayil Vagana, the chariot carrying the Kalathi Murugar statue, came to my rescue. This sacred chariot, which always followed behind the last devotee, became my saviour. Climbing aboard, I rested as the Mayil Vagana carried me to the night sleeping spot.
Though my body had failed me, my spirit remained unbroken. The pain was a testament to my devotion, a reminder of the strength and sacrifice this pilgrimage demanded. As I lay under the open sky that night, I felt a deep connection to Lord Murugan, knowing that my journey was not just about the destination but the unwavering faith that carried me forward.
The dawn of Day 2 broke gently, and I found myself at the banks of the sacred Thamirabarani River. The icy cold water embraced me as I took a holy bath, cleansing my body and soul for the day ahead. But as I prepared for the second day of walking, my feet refused to comply. The pain from the previous day lingered, unyielding. Reluctantly, I boarded the Mayil Vagana once more, the divine chariot that carried the image of Lord Murugan. I reached Ammanpuram, the lunch spot, with a heart weighed down by disappointment.
After lunch, I resolved to push through the pain. My faith in Murugan was my only strength. Despite my aching feet, I walked 9 to 10 kilometres, step by agonising step. But eventually, my body gave in again, and I returned to the Mayil Vagana. That night, as I rested at the temple in Alwar Thirunagari, a storm brewed in my mind. "Why can't I do this? Why am I not strong enough?" I asked myself. But deep within, a spark of determination ignited. I promised myself that on Day 3, I would walk, no matter what.
The next morning, I prepared for the journey. After a short ride on the Mayil Vagana, I reached the breakfast spot, refreshed myself in a small water canal, and prayed fervently. I applied thiruneeru (sacred ash) to my feet and whispered, “Muruga, I believe in you. Protect me.” With renewed resolve, I began to walk.
I walked 12 to 13 kilometres, each step a testament to my devotion. The pain clawed at my feet, but my spirit soared. Reaching the lunch spot felt like a victory, and I rested for a few hours before continuing. By the afternoon, I walked another 8 kilometres and arrived at the sacred Thiruchendur Arch.
My colleague words echoed in my mind: "From here, the Lord will test your dedication severely." And indeed, the pain surged through my body with every step. Tears filled my eyes, but my voice rose above the agony as I chanted, “Muruga, I believe in you.” Behind me, the Mayil Vagana, carrying Kalathi Murugar, became my constant reassurance. I reminded myself, "Murugan is protecting you from behind. Don't worry."
As I approached the temple, my pain dissolved into a sense of profound peace. I had reached my destination. Though it was late and I could not worship the Lord that night, I felt an indescribable satisfaction. The next morning, I offered my prayers to Lord Murugan, my heart brimming with gratitude. The blister on my heel was no longer a wound—it was a mark of my sacrifice, a symbol of my devotion.
Returning home that afternoon, I reflected on the journey. Every chant of “Vetrivel Veeravel, Vetrivel Muruganukku Arohara” now held a deeper meaning. It wasn’t just a prayer; it was an emotion, a lifeline for devotees like me. Through the pain, the struggle, and the tears, I had found a connection with Murugan that transcended words. I had sacrificed my body, but I had gained something far greater—faith, strength, and an unbreakable bond with my Lord.
“Vetri Vel Muruganukku Arohara!”
Stay connected with Madai Thirantu, the blog by Er. Nishanth Manikumar BE., BSc., where ideas come to life in Tamil and English. Get updates on the latest articles, exclusive insights, and join meaningful discussions.
👉 Click the link to follow our official WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb308E05PO17OF6THZ2L
Let’s open doors (மடை திறந்து) to new perspectives and knowledge!
Posts
0 Comments