Introduction
We could have heard about the Sayana posture of Lord Vishnu, who could be seen in resting form in the Ananda Padmanaba Temple, Srirangam Temple, Govindaraja Swamy Temple and in Thiruneermalai Temple. Likewise at the Surutapalli Temple, Lord Shiva can be seen in Sayana (sleeping) form and in that temple, he is called as “PALLIKONDESWARAR”.
We can also see the form of Sri Sayana Muruga(Lord Muruga in sleeping posture), but we could find this type of rare posture only in some ancient Hindu Temples. Lord Muruga after he killed the dreaded Demon Surapadman, decided to take rest for some time in the present day Prambanan Trimurti Temple situated at Indonesia. This wonderful temple contained the rare sculpture of the Sayana(Sleeping or resting) posture of Lord Muruga. However, this temple was partially destroyed before few centuries, and due to that, several sculptures, including the Sayana Sculpture of Muruga was demolished.
Though Sri Sayana Muruga posture is rarely found in the temples, yet, whoever watch these type of posture, would lead an energetic and enthusiastic life. As per ancient legend, after Muruga had got married with Ma Devasena, both of them stayed for some time in the present day Prambanan Temple, and at this place, Lord Muruga had also taught various spiritual concepts to his consort, Devasena.
There were about six temples situated inside the Prambanan Temple of Indonesia, and these six temples represent the six heads and the six main earthly abodes of Lord Muruga.
Lord Muruga has also shown his appearance in the form of sleeping posture, to his great devotees like Ma Avvaiyar, Poet Nakeerar and Sri Arunagirinathar.
Daily we are sleeping for hours together, and sometimes we used to sleep even for long hours in day time itself. But, in general, our gods and goddesses would never sleep, since their main duty is to take care of us. But however, they also need to take rest at least for some time, and that’s why, in our Hindu Temples, Palliyarai’s(sleeping room for the deities) are being built, in order to make the divine couples to take rest, especially during the night time.
“OM SRI SAYANA MURAGANE NAMAHA”
Sent By
R.Hari Shankar
