Cultural Records in the Worship of Sadhu Chidambara Swamigal

Abstract

In the folk religious tradition of Tamil Nadu, Siddhar worship and Guru worship hold an important place. The aim of this research is to examine from a cultural perspective, the worship tradition of Sadhu Chidambara Swamigal, who is widely worshipped in the southern districts and surrounding areas such as Salem, Coimbatore, Erode. Sadhu Chidambara Swamigal was a religious reformer and a Jnana Guru who alleviated the sufferings of the people. His worship embodies cultural elements such as Annadhanam (food offering), equality, Saiva principles, devotion to the Guru, and a life in harmony with nature. His ancestor worship, healing practices, Amavasya worship, Guru Pooja, and the votive offerings of the Thondar Kula People stand as cultural identities of the Tamils. This research is based on fieldwork and interview methods. Oral information obtained from the people of the Thondar Kula, the practices observed at worship centers, songs, and methods of worship have been used as primary data. Through this, this article reveals that the worship of Sadhu Chidambara Swamigal is not merely a religious event, but a cultural record that proclaims the culture, ethics, and social unity of Tamil society.