The Mythological Origins of Pazhani Murugan Temple: The Legend of Idumban and the Sacred Hills

The Pazhani Murugan Temple, one of the six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Murugan, occupies a prominent place in Tamil religious and cultural traditions. Its origin is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of Sage Agastya, his disciple Idumban, and Lord Murugan. This paper examines the mythological narrative associated with the establishment of the sacred hills of Pazhani and highlights its religious significance in contemporary pilgrimage practices.