That is a significant change in the daily ritual schedule for the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple (Palani Murugan Temple). The tradition of opening the temple much earlier than usual is strictly followed during this auspicious month.
Here is the additional data regarding the temple tradition, the auspicious month, and the impact on devotees:
🌟 Special Schedule for Dhanur Maasam (Margazhi)
- Standard Opening Time: On regular days, the Palani Temple opens around 5:45 AM or 6:00 AM for the Vishwaroopa Darshan.
- New Opening Time (Dhanur Maasam): Starting today, Tuesday, December 16, 2025 (which marks the commencement of Dhanur Maasam/Margazhi), the temple will open at the special time of 4:00 AM.
- Reason for Early Opening: This early opening is to accommodate the special rituals performed during the Brahma Muhurta (the pre-dawn time considered highly sacred).
- Rituals Performed: The primary reason for the early opening is to perform the special early-morning service known as Thirupalli Ezhuchi and to recite the Thiruppavai verses (popularly associated with Lord Vishnu, but adopted in Murugan and Shiva temples during this month). This early ritual is a key tradition during Margazhi/Dhanur Maasam.
🗓️ Dhanur Maasam / Margazhi Period
- Commencement:Dhanur Maasam (or Margazhi in the Tamil calendar) begins with the entry of the Sun into the Dhanu Rashi (Sagittarius zodiac sign). This usually occurs on or around December 16th every year.
- For 2025, Dhanu Sankranti, marking the start, occurred on December 16, 2025.
- Duration: The special schedule (opening at 4 AM) will be in effect for the entire month, ending around January 14, 2026 (with Makara Sankranti/Thai Pongal).
- Significance: This month is considered one of the most sacred for spiritual practices, chanting, and early morning temple visits. It is believed that worship performed during this pre-dawn period yields immense spiritual benefit.
Impact on Devotees and Temple Access
- Winch/Rope Car Timings: To facilitate the early morning rush, the Winch and possibly the Rope Car services usually start operations earlier than the regular 6:00 AM start time, potentially around 4:00 AM or 4:30 AM, during this month.
- Crowd: Since early morning worship is highly auspicious, devotees can expect a significant increase in crowds at Palani during the 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM slot.
The early opening at 4 AM is a deeply rooted devotional practice, ensuring that the deity receives the special morning worship that characterizes the Margazhi month.
