Arulmigu Om Vayu Lingam Tiruvannamalai,Tamil Nadu
Vayu lingam is one of the 8 lingas in the way of girivalam. The Vayu Lingam at Arunachalam represents the element of air, symbolizing the power of breath. It stands as a reminder of the presence of Lord Shiva, fostering spiritual growth.
The Vayu Lingam is associated with the element of air and is one of the five elemental temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in South India. These temples represent the five elements of nature: Prithvi (Earth), Jal (Water), Agni (Fire), Vayu (Air), and Akasha/Ether (Space). Each temple has a unique story and spiritual essence.
The Vayu Lingam is located in the northwest direction and is linked with the nodal planet Ketu. According to tradition, Vayu is the deity of wind and the source of all life-giving air in the cosmos. His mount is a deer, and he is frequently associated with Lord Indra .
At this temple, Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of the Vayu Lingam, representing the wind element. Interestingly, there is a lamp inside the inner sanctum that constantly flickers despite the presence of air inside. The Vayu Lingam can even be observed moving when the priests close off the entrance to the main deity room, which does not have any windows.
Devotees believe that worshipping the Vayu Lingam brings relief from heart diseases, stomach problems, lung issues, and general illnesses. It’s a place where one can connect with the vital force of air and seek blessings for health and well-being.