American nationals turn devotees of Lord Murugan

A group of American nationals, who learnt about Lord Murugan, during a study tour to this holy town, almost a decade ago have turned into his devotees and are now among those visiting the temple here, annually.
The former Tamil language students from the University of Rochester, US, had learnt about the Hindu god during a course on Tamil Literature and Culture.
They were informed of the six abodes of the deity, and had also been brought to South India, where one of the abodes is located, ten years ago.
Since then the former students have been "yearly" visitors to the Palani Sri Dhandayuthapani Swamy temple.

"They (students) got attracted and have been worshipping the God every year with fervour," Students Coordinator Jegannath Babu said.
Around 60 Americans visit the Palani temple annually in two batches, he said.

"They climb up the hill shrine using the "Padikattu" (steps) and offer worship to the deity after noon time pooja....," he said.
"The men, clad in shirt and dhotis and women in sarees take the sacred ash and apply it on their forehead. They also apply the scented ash with devotion and spiritual fervour," he said.
The students visit all the six abodes in Tamil Nadu, Thiruthani, Swamimalai, Palani, Pazhamudircholai, Thirupparankunram and Thiruchendur, every year.

The group had visited the temple on Sunday, as part of its annual visit.