Sri Noorondhu Swamy Temple - Denkanikottai

Exploring the wonders of forests, mountains, and landscapes allows us to reconnect with the elements and rediscover our sense of belonging. Nature has the power to heal, rejuvenate, and provide a much-needed escape from the confines of city life. So, let us venture beyond the urban landscape and immerse ourselves in the beauty and serenity that nature has to offer. 

Before delving deep into the history, it's important to understand the significance behind the name "Noorondhu". Around 850 years ago, there lived an unnamed sage who dedicatedly engaged in intense meditation, residing within the caves. Renowned for his profound wisdom and mystical abilities, the sage performed extraordinary miracles that captivated the people. He even showcased similar miraculous feats in the presence of the Maharaja of Mysore. Over the years, swords and other combat weapons were presented and preserved to commemorate these remarkable happenings and events.

Moreover, the sage possessed an object similar to the Akshaya Patra, a divine vessel said to fulfill the hunger of 100 disciples, including the sage himself, making it a total of 101 individuals (100 + 1). In the local Kannada dialect, this translates to "Nooru Ondu." Consequently, the sage came to be known as "Noorondhu Swamy" (meaning "ನೂರು ಒಂದು ಸ್ವಾಮಿ" in Kannada). This intriguing backstory adds to the mystique surrounding the name "Noorondhu" and offers a glimpse into the remarkable persona of the sage, who left a lasting impression on the people and the region.

Noorondhu Swamy Betta (நூருந்துசாமிமலை) is located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and there are two routes to reach it. The route passing through Hosur, Denkanikottai, and Anchetty is preferable compared to the other route that goes through Bangalore, Bannerghatta, Jigani, and Thali. Both routes converge at a junction (77° 37' 33.852" E, 12° 20' 18.348" N) where a signboard directs towards Urigam, Noorondhu Swamy Betta, and Udubarani.

After proceeding towards Noorondhu Swamy Betta, you will need to travel an additional 10 km to reach the Noorondhu Swamy Temple. This serene location, nestled among the Mallehalli R.F, boasts an impressive array of plant and animal species, showcasing excellent biodiversity. The presence of elephant droppings along the roadside serves as a gentle reminder to remain vigilant at all times.

Overall, the road leading to the temple offers a pleasant driving experience, with well-maintained surfaces made of asphalt and bitumen. However, it is worth noting that there are a few sections where the roads have deteriorated, resulting in uneven mud roads, gravel, and occasional puddles. Exercise caution while navigating these areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Once you arrive at the parking area, you will need to descend the mountain slope to reach a cave-like structure with concrete side walls and an iron enclosure gate. Upon entering the gate and proceeding further, you will come across a talus cave nestled between large boulders. This cave holds significance as it is believed to have been used by the sage for intense meditation and a life devoid of material possessions. To honor his greatness, a Shiva Lingam has been installed and continues to be worshipped. Additionally, there is a mystical aspect associated with this cave, where a clay oil lamp can be lit using tender coconut water instead of traditional oil-based fuel. 🪔 This extraordinary occurrence is said to be possible only within the confines of this cave, attributed to the sage's profound yogic powers, tantras, and mantras.

About 2.1 kilometers away from this temple lies the main village where the Mutt and Shrine are situated. The majority of the residents in the village are Kannada-speaking, and the village is home to approximately 60 families. The Mutt takes care of all administrative activities in the area. Mr. Nagaraj, the current secretary of the Mutt, graciously arranged for food and accommodation for a few days at the Mutt. The shrine primarily houses the Jeeva Samadhi of Noorondhu Swamy, along with the samadhis of two of his disciples and 12 Madathipathis spanning 12 generations.

I also discovered that this place was officially declared as a village free from vices such as drinking and smoking by the Krishnagiri district's collector in 2007. This indicates a promising social environment where such activities are prohibited.

இடம்: நூருந்து சாமி திருக்கோயில், நூருந்துசாமிமலை, தேன்கனிகோட்டை தாலுகா