A significant spiritual procession, the Adiyogi Rath Yatra, has commenced from Coimbatore, marking the beginning of a two-month-long journey leading up to the grand Mahashivaratri festival in February. The yatra was officially inaugurated on Wednesday in front of the iconic Adiyogi statue at the Isha Yoga Center, setting the stage for statewide devotional celebrations.
Sacred Launch by Prominent Spiritual Leaders
The ceremonial flag-off was conducted by revered spiritual heads Thavathiru Perur Adheenam Marudachala Adigalar and Thavathiru Siravai Adheenam Kumaragurubara Swamigal. This initiative is spearheaded by the Then Kailaya Bhakti Peravai, in collaboration with several traditional Adheenams of Tamil Nadu. According to Adiyar Valluvan of the Peravai, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday, similar yatras will be flagged off in four different regions of the state, collectively forming a massive devotional outreach.
The Journey of the Specially Designed Rathams
Each Adiyogi ratham (chariot) is a unique and specially designed vehicle carrying a majestic 7-feet tall idol of Adiyogi Shiva. The primary objective of this extensive pilgrimage is to bring the divine presence of Adiyogi to the doorsteps of devotees across Tamil Nadu. The organizers aim to invite the public to participate in the upcoming Mahashivaratri festivities and offer darshan to those who may not be able to travel to the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore.
An Extensive Pilgrimage Covering Ancient Temples
The yatra is set to traverse a spiritually and geographically significant path over the next two months. Key details of the route include:
- The procession will travel through the hallowed Paadal Petra Shiva Temples, which are revered in the ancient Thevaram hymns.
- The chariots are expected to cover a staggering distance of nearly 30,000 kilometers.
- The journey will pass through more than 1,000 villages, connecting with countless devotees.
- This spiritual caravan will culminate its journey in time for the Mahashivaratri celebrations on February 15, 2024.
This large-scale movement represents a profound effort to revive and spread the spiritual essence of Shaivism, uniting communities across the state in devotion and celebration ahead of one of Hinduism's most significant festivals.
