THE MAKING OF AVM

I stepped in onto the Siddha Marga in 2002, amidst the many misconceptions on the teachings of the Siddhas, that prevailed during the time. I refused to accept the negative outlook that people had of the Siddha path, but moved on, on my own, seeking new frontiers with Agathiyar to guide. My hunger to know about the Siddhas, led me to search all the local bookstores for anything and everything on the Siddhas.

A year later I met Supramania Swami. His message to me was simple. Besides the mantra upadesa he gave me, he ask to light an oil lamp and never let the flame die. He ignited the flame of devotion in me. Three years later I met Tavayogi and a year later, he asked me to start conducting the homam or lighting the sacrificial fire in my home. He nurtured the flame in me. Initially I was doing the rituals, something I wasn't keen about, just to comply to his directives; but Agathiyar the all knowing Sadguru, later explained to me that I was doing it not for myself and the family alone but for the well being and good of this world (ulaga semam). Only then I realized the magnanimity and extent of the task given to me. I did it with sincerity from then on. Later Agathiyar added that the act of conducting the homam would aid in overcoming one's karma.

I took his words spoken through the Nadi as the gospel truth. He then called me in for more Nadi readings, setting me on a course that he planned and executed well. But after I came to Supramania Swami and Tavayogi, my two gurus, I became contented and satisfied. Life was complete. I had to turn down further instructions to visit other gurus and places of worship that Agathiyar mentioned in the Nadi. I told him that I had him. I did not need nor want another guru in the physical form. If his intention to call me over to these places was to give me something, I told him he could do that right here in the confines of my home within these four walls. 

Eight years later Agathiyar came into my home in the form of a bronze statue, something that he planned ahead and executed with perfection. Knowing pretty well that I would not want to indulge in any form of external rituals, he struck a deal. The deal was that he would stay over at my home for some time till the construction and inauguration of the Jegathguru Sri Raghavendra Miruthiga Brindavanam Kinta in Ipoh was completed. He would then move over there. But Agathiyar chose to stay put at my home. Initially I thought he loved the libation or abhisegam and all the attention we gave him. But he was soon to reveal his purpose in staying back and more.

When I came to this marga there was very little spoken or written about the Siddhas in the public forum. Many gurus and masters chose to keep the marga within themselves and their students. Access to information was rare. Even if there was information, it was scattered over several sites and blogs. I began to compile and write on the Siddhas, something I did initially for my reference, but later decided to share it on social medias, hoping to fill the existing gap.

Over time I was fed with information on the Siddhas through fantastic Nadi revelations and speaking to visiting devotees. Agathiyar brought many wonderful souls to my home and introduced others through social medias and via online correspondence. We shared the same feelings and thoughts about the Siddhas. Agathiyar brought us together in union, hence a wonderful networking of seekers in the path of the Siddhas took shape and form. Many are the miracles that I have heard, read about and came across through them. All these built and strengthened the faith and belief I had of the Siddhas. All these lent a subject matter for my blog, hence helping to sustain it. Many shared their experiences and were willing to let me post it. Many would share too but would add at the end, with a wide grin, asking me not to post it, knowing my over zealous hunger for news related to Agathiyar and eagerness to post them on the blog.

On learning about our prayers to the Siddhas, many devotees of Agathiyar asked to attend and join in, in the prayers too. Some came on their own accord after reading the blog; while others were directed here through the Nadi. Some came out of curiosity only to leave disinterested; yet many stayed behind to learn the Siddha worship and continued conducting it in their own homes.

Soon Agathiyar made my home his place of siesta or afternoon nap. When and if he decided to help his devotees, he would bring them over. All that Agathiyar asked was to light an oil lamp and to put forward to him their sorrows, prayers and desires. He would take care of the rests he assured. We then realized the reason he was here. We began to see for ourselves Agathiyar perform miracles on these devotees. It brought us much delight and joy to hear them say with gratitude that Agathiyar had solved their problems, cured their illness, and fulfilled their wishes.

Initially we did not like strangers calling in on us at odd hours, and staying on till way past midnight. It was a home. I had a family. I had to go to work and the children to school the next day. Hence my wife and I placed our wishes across to him, asking Agathiyar to stop sending them over. We did not want to end becoming shamans. He heard our call. Agathiyar must have realised that we were terribly shaken by the new experiences and were not ready for such a huge responsibility as yet. He stopped bringing devotees over. But it was to be a temporary measure only. It was his wish to see his devotees and do something for them.

As time went by, we too became matured spiritually. Agathiyar told us that I need not go in search of an ashram and that the home itself will become an ashram. I understood that now we shared our home with Agathiyar and that he wanted very much to do some good to his devotees. We had to sacrifice our private time and space but we knew that he would always care for us as a force shield or kavasam. I felt him tell me to step aside and watch as he continued to perform his miracles. When we understood what he was doing, and began to accept that he was only using our residence and premise to carry out his noble work, he resumed bringing in more devotees. 

Soon I had to have a name for my home so as to direct these seekers over. Agathiyar Vanam, the place where the original Kallar Ashram was situated, came to my mind. With an addition of the alphabet M for Malaysia, Agathiyar Vanam Malaysia (AVM) sounded perfect a name for Agathiyar's home. It would be easily remembered too as it resembled the famous film production studio AVM Studios in Tamilnadu.

Agathiyar revealed many things over the years. But each time he stressed on the need to continue to keep praying to the Siddhas. He listed a long list of benefits derived from prayers; he gave his moola mantra to be recited and shared with all; he counseled me on my anger and taught me anger management; and he blessed me to write, both books and the blog. 

What I learnt about the Siddhas I shared with those who came by AVM. I began blogging too after I realised that the several websites I had earlier, had their limitations. I abandoned them for Siddha Heartbeat. The positive reviews and comments I received from AVM family, devotees of Agathiyar and readers of the blog, made me change my mind several times about closing shop and calling it a day. Even if I do not travel, Agathiyar provides for a topic and the relevant message, daily through the many members at AVM. In the last Nadi reading for Surendran Selvaratnam, Agathiyar has a word for me too. He asked to continue writing. I suppose he is pleased with the postings.

Soon I realized that I had been tasked a noble work in sending out the messages of Agathiyar to his devotees around the globe. I was surprised to read that this blog and its contents had a high standing in the eyes of its readers. Many devotees visited Kallar Ashram after reading the blog, I was told. A young teenager from North India wrote in to share her joy on hearing Agathiyar speak to her through the Nadi. This young girl was a constant reader of the blog and had many questions. Agathiyar in her reading told her to read the blog and that she would find the answers in it. Jnana Jyothiamma too recollected some days back, how she had dropped in on my first website indianheartbeat and was subsequently "pulled" to Kallar Ashram back in 2011. Slowly I am beginning to realize the magnanimity and extent of the task given to me. I now do it with more responsibility. Before and after each post I pray that what is written has to be the truth and ask Agathiyar to forewarn me if there was any wrong statements or false information in my writings.

This blog is a journal of my spiritual journey. It might not be comparable to all the wonderful books and blogs already available. But it gives great satisfaction to serve and talk about Agathiyar and his miracles. Many thinking that I have a Nadi ask to see it. I do not have any Nadi and am not a Nadi reader. Some do post a comment, at times critical about the subject matter, defining their views and opinions. To them, although it might sound rude and arrogant, I would say start your own blog rather than comment on others writings. But to many out there who have written in and said that they have benefited from these writings and sharings, I would like to say a BIG thank you and appreciate your encouraging words.

I am not here to influence anyone in any way. When devotees came to Bhagawan Ramanar they would request him to guide them, show them a way. Bhagawan would ask, what they were doing currently. If they answered that they were praying and frequented temples, he would ask them to continue doing that. If they told him that they were engaged in helping and doing service to others, he would ask them to continue doing that. If they answered that they were doing some form of yogic practices, he would ask them to continue doing that. If they told him that they were into meditating, he would ask them to continue doing that. Never did he once switch them to another path. Similarly I too respect all paths; all doctrines; and all practises and all forms of devotion. I believe everything has a place and a use in this wonderful world of ours. As Agathiyar says, "I am in the cosmos and the cosmos is in me", I began to understand that he is everything. And as he says "Let it be", (Irunthutthu Pogathum) to wrong perceptions, views, opinions, and stories; and practices and teachings; I began to understand that it has to take place. Eventually it will all resolve itself.

From day one Dr Krishnan, astrologer and Siddha practitioner, had asked that I pray for prayers brought good in multifold, he used to say. He started me with Agathiyar's moola mantra and prepared a yantra to go along with it. Agathiyar and all the other Siddhas in the 55 readings that I have had to date and through the numerous readings for other AVM family members had stressed the need and explained the benefits gained in prayers. People who come to Tavayogi seeking a solution to their problems, are started on prayers and worship of the Siddhas.

A realization dawned on me, only quite recently, on which I shall post separately and later, and since then I too have been advocating that all begin performing prayers in their own homes too. As a catalyst and a starter kit, I brought AVM Agathiyar over to ten homes of AVM family members and other devotees of Agathiyar, where their family members sat together to perform the homam and abhisegam to Agathiyar, by themselves, accompanied by singing of the praises of the Siddhas by AVM family. It would be a good start for them I thought to be blessed by Tavayogi and Mataji who were in Malaysia then.

AVM family took to the noble act of feeding the poor, the homeless, those in shelters and charitable homes, and those on the streets as envisioned by Agathiyar. Bala Chandran Gunasekaran took this noble act further to his home and got his family geared up to contribute, cook and feed the needy in their locality. These acts of kindness became contagious and spread like wildfire, the desire to serve fellow humans who were left out from the mainstream of society and neglected by society. Surendaran Selvaratnam and Shanga joined forces with Sri Krishna of AUM to carry out this noble act through the Pothigai Meals on Wheels program. Agathiyar acknowledged and blessed all for these wonderful deeds and encouraged them to continue.

The greatest acknowledgment was when NS Shaan mentioned to me that the one thing he loved and liked about AVM was that we were doers and not planners. We put into execution every single good thought that came our way rather than brood over it for days, calling for a discussion and planning to execute it. The reason we could do everything immediately is that we have a wonderful team in the form of Thondu Seivom members, Amudha Surabhi donors and of course AVM family, who backed us in all our undertakings and programs.

Considering that those in the AVM Whatsapp group, residing in cities like New Delhi, Chennai and Singapore, could not participate in our programs due to the physical distance that kept us apart and feeling that they were always left out, I suggested that they start a group in their own locality, district or state and serve their community too. They took up the idea. Some others were mooted to start on their own too. It is wonderful to see all of them moving towards a common goal - service to Erai and our fellowmen. 

DO NOT BE DECEIVED PART 2

When a devotee of Agathiyar out of curiosity dropped in at her sister's home to watch a cleansing and parikara puja conducted by an Achariyar, she was put at unease when the Achariyar shifted his attention to her and began questioning her about her relationship with her boyfriend, who was also a devotee of Agathiyar. He kept asking if they both had a problem. He began to fish information from her and ended up saying things that were disturbing, instiling fear in her.  He asked her to check with an astrologer to see if their horoscope matched and to determine if they were both compatible.  He wanted to see both their astrological charts too to make a comparison and gave her a grace period of three days to hand it over to him. Her family out of fear pushed her for it. She retaliated saying that Agathiyar had brought them together in the first place and hence there was no need for a comparison of their natal charts. Not willing to listen, eventually he began to terrorize her asking repeatedly if she knew who he was. Finally giving in to distress, she asked if it was Agathiyar? He laughed and nodded his head it seems, though he did not admit to be Agathiyar vocally. Confused and troubled she brought this matter to my attention. I doubted him for several reasons. Why would the all knowing father want their charts for comparison? Agathiyar has all our astrological charts at his fingertips! He knows the past, present and future! If at all it was Agathiyar, why did he, who had brought them together in the first place, want to disrupt or sabotage their plans for marriage?

There are many who have taken up an easy way of making an earning, albeit of taxation, going to homes doing pujas and rituals, something we are ignorant of, for a payment. They begin to add on rituals as in add-ons in fast food centres by using the fear factor, realizing that we are ignorant of many things. While some use our ignorance to their advantage others prey into the depths of our minds and make suggestions forcing us to comply out of fear.

When I moved house I did my own house warming prayers without engaging a purohit. Today after 23 years Agathiyar himself has come to reside in my home.

The reason they could take us for a ride is because we leave it to others to make important decisions in our life's. I have never regreted any decision I made because I knew it was the best decision and option at that moment and period in time, having carefully taken into consideration all the factors on hand. Having made a decision I left it to Erai to bless my plan and actions. When we have Erai on our side, he decides thereon whether to fulfill, modify, change or totally reject our request. As Sanjiv Malhotra says, "He takes care of us in a manner we are not even aware of. As he sees what we do not".

A friend who was in the religious way offered to initiate me into meditation some time back. I told him let my guru do it. When he saw me perform the homam he commented that I should place a kodam or water vessel otherwise it would not be complete. I told him let my guru tell me to do so. 

I realized that everybody wants to be a guru. Everybody wants to give another a technique; a mantra; a teecha; or an upadesa without realizing the implications on the recipient later on.

I received a mail from a sadhak in north India who had put in much time and practise in all the techniques taught to him by several masters. He had several belts to his credit but eventually ended up suffering from energy blockages. Sadly none of his masters could help him. After 8 years he was still in pain.

Another family man had his energy chakras blocked purposely by his guru out of envy. The wive begged his master to bring him out of his misery; and to release him, but he never lifted a finger. Finally Agathiyar helped this family. Today it brings joy and happiness to see them leading a normal life. 

Another young man complained of energy surges in his body. I asked him to go back to his master for a solution. Sadly his master had turned cuckoo, he said.

Just as in the spiritual field, a master in martial arts, besides being an exponent in his field, should also know the art of treating injuries inflicted as a result of the training and fights. Only then is it a complete art form and science. It would be ridiculous to only teach the techniques and in event of an injury like a broken bone direct him or send them to the hospital to be cast in plaster. 

The first lesson of a good guru is that he must be/have been a good student in the first place. 

The seekers too are to be blamed as in their eagerness to harness the mystical energies go seeking every tom dick and harry for a teecha, and end up not beginning on it or only to drop the practises midway or discontinue it after some time. A teecha is not something that is collected and showcased or pinned on the chest like the honorary titles and awards received. I was surprised to learn of a Swami of an establishment who does just that. Not that he pins them on his chest but they list the teechas after their names, advertising it.

When someone told my guru Supramania Swami that he has had taken several teecha from saintly men, Swami replied that he did not put it into practise and commented what was the use of taking teechas if it was not put into practise? 

When a long time devotee of Agathiyar who knew something about vastu sastra accompanied Tavayogi to my home, immediately upon stepping out of the car he commented that the neem tree in front of my home has to go as it was inauspicious to have it there. He also commented that the direction of my altar was not right. Tavayogi who was a full fledge turavi or monk did not say a word. Later the branch of the neem tree that was said to be inauspicious was used to determine if there was the presence of Siddhas and a samadhi at a magestic temple being built at that time! 

As for the altar, regardless of its placement Agathiyar had come to settle in my home! The placement or the direction of the altar is not important. What is important is the degree of devotion one has and the nano seconds of quality time he spends with his Erai.

A Swamiji from north India asked to come over to AVM through an AVM family member. After he enlightened us on Mother Ganga and the myth and legends surrounding her, her asked to call all and arrange for a puja that he will conduct after his return from Singapore. I left it to Agathiyar to decide, to give his consent or otherwise. On his way out he asked if I was conducting homams. I said yes, every Thursday, full moon and new moon days and other auspicious days too, I added. He then switched to another question. He asked if I was initiated. I said yes, by both my gurus. I knew what he was getting at. He left without saying a word further, since he knew he could not sell his wares. He never came. I was told he goes around performing home pujas and charges a fee for it. I understood that he is in the process of building an ashram and needed funds. 

Bring Agathiyar or any deity you prefer into your hearts. He/she shall then stand by you as a kavasam or force field protecting you.

A devotee of Agathiyar out of curiosity followed a family member into the woods and jungle for a secretive ritual. The person on whom suposedly the spirits came down could not bring them unto him that night even after hours of invocation. Finally getting angry he asked to know if there was a new face among the crowd that had gathered in the still of the night in a clearing deep in the dense forest. The attention of everyone fell on the devotee of Agathiyar. After questioning the devotee, he was told that he was not welcomed, for the sole reason that he worshipped Agathiyar.

The same devotee of Agathiyar has had many experiences with seeking and asking for guidance from the sakthis or beings in the higher realm through genuine mediums. These sakthis address the mundane and immediate needs of the seekers through many ways. But each time a devotee of Agathiyar comes along amazingly the whole conversation shifts to Agathiyar. The sakthis then guide them appropriately in the way of the Siddhas; to the abodes of Siddhas. These are the same sakthis that stand guard at the start of each climb and track leading to the abodes of the Siddhas.

People came to AVM too in desperation hoping for a relief from their illness, sorrow and pain; troubles and misery; and for other reasons too. Initially my wife and I would lend a ear and listen to them pour out their hearts sorrow. Out of excitement and in our eagerness to help we would start directing them to others or advising them to carry out certain remedies.  It was only natural for one to advise another out of concern.  But these good gestures of us landed us in trouble. When I called Tavayogi and narrated the happenings, he had just one thing to say! "Why do you get involve? Send them to Agathiyar! Let them pour their heart out to him!" That came as a blow to me, as usual. He taught me that day to stay aloft and not get involved directly but to show them to Agathiyar. We realized that we had made a grave mistake by taking on others problems and together with it their karma.

Agathiyar had advised a Jnani in the making that she would acquire certain siddhis or powers to heal people in the future. But he cautions her that while healing them she should not have the slightest notion or ego that she was doing the healing but instead let the consciousness come onto her and do the healing. Only then would she not take on their karma. 

Agathiyar has an advise for those in the medical profession too. There could be days and instances where after much effort to revive a patient yet he passes away at their hands. To them Agathiyar says light an oil lamp at the Bhairavar temple, passing on the karma to Erai for extinguision.

There is an urgent need for all to start praying in their individual homes. The reason we all have altars at home is to get us to engage in prayers. Invoke the deities and bring them into your homes and your lives. Once we begin doing the pujas by ourselves, and the deities are with us, there won't be an avenue or opening for someone else to budge or intrude into our homes and our minds. 

As for the gurus they should not make the devotee become dependant on them forever. Rather then conduct pujas on behalf of us, a better option would be to teach us to fish, in this sense teach us to conduct our own puja. As long as we are dependant on others they can take us for a ride. Seek out someone who would teach you a process rather than let him do it and having to call him back when the need arises again. 

And be aware that Agathiyar in his Agathiyar Gnanam has warned us of bogus gurus. Be forewarned that he has mentioned them in the latest Nadi reading for a devotee too.

ANNADHANAM

Bala Chandran Gunasekaran's family got together again for their monthly annadhanam at two homes in their vicinity. 

After serving food at the old folks home, they moved on to a children's home. AVM through its Annadhanam wing, Amudha Surabhi provides monthly groceries for both these homes. 

I admire Bala's commitment to his monthly feeding program, never skipping the event although other matters come up. Similarly his sister's wedding was held yesterday but yet the whole family with the newlyweds came out to carry out this noble service amidst all the outstanding work and chores that is usual during a wedding.

DO NOT BE DECEIVED PART 1

The day I met Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal in Malaysia in 2005, a man who introduced himself as a long time devotee of Agathiyar came up to me and asked what was my problem. I told him that I did not have any. He kept asking repeatedly, not prepared to accept that I did not have any. Finally he told me that only those who had problems came to the Siddhas.

I was a newbie on the Siddha path, hardly three years into it, trying to grasp what it was all about. When I spoke to several others purportedly in the Siddha path, they said discouraging things that brought disbelief in me and painted a very bleak picture of this marga. Those who stood outside the fence, cautioned me about the Siddhas saying that the Siddhas would confuse you and advised me to stay away. Some family members of the devotees told me that there were family break-ups as a result of their children or spouse having gone into the Siddha path. I was told children were discouraged to marry while married couples were told to stay away from their partner. I could not believe it when I was told of ridiculous remedies given to the devotees purportedly directives from the Nadi. 

I just could not believe my ears hearing these negative perceptions of the Siddhas. I refused to believe that the Siddhas were the reasons for so much mental torture and problems in the families of these devotees. I believed that it was the wrong propagation on the part of the guru and also the wrong understanding on the part of the disciples that had prevailed within these quarters then.

Over the years I learnt of gurus who took possession and control of their disciples deciding what was good for them; gurus who forbade their disciples from venturing to other establishments and organisations, ashrams and peedhams; gurus who placed unreasonable conditions on their disciples and gurus who did more harm rather than good. All these surprised me for I thought gurus do only good.

Later I find out that Agathiyar had brought to light the existence of false gurus, listing their characteristics and means to identify them in his work "Agathiyar Gnanam". Valmiki in his "Sutra Gnanam" guides us in differentiating and identifying the true gurus from the false. The thamilsiddhas blog at http://thamilsiddhas.blogspot.my/2016/08/blog-post_15.html carries an extensive compilation of hymns by Siddhas exposing the modus operandi of these gurus. I was surprised that Agathiyar even spoke about the false gurus in the latest Nadi reading for a devotee from AVM.

I was spared the trouble of searching for a guru and spared the horror of falling for a false one. I was blessed to meet two wonderful gurus. Agathiyar showed me Supramania Swami and later Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal. I stopped my search after that. I was pleased and contented. 

I remember at the beginning how I went to several organizations that carried Agathiyar's name, looking for information on the Siddhas. Sadly I did not get what I wanted. As I could not find a peedham or a teacher in the way of the Siddhas that I could dock and learn from, I stayed away from the existing organizations.

I surrendered to Agathiyar to lead me as I was keen to know more and was thirsty for more knowledge. Agathiyar soon delivered his teachings through the Nadi. He delivered mantras; he taught yoga techniques; he taught rituals; he encouraged us to do charity; and he guided us to places of worship. I turned to the books that he mentioned in the Nadi for more information. It was as if he was conducting online and distance learning or education. Amazing.

I began to understand the why and the how of the Siddha path slowly. Every happening brought me a new teaching or reinforced my beliefs and thoughts. These experiences both good and bad taught me crucial lessons. Agathiyar through his many Nadi revelations including those given to others, brought a new understanding to me. I began to see things in a different perspective. I am very much grateful to the Siddhas for these valuable lessons in life.

I am glad that I did not dock then to any party, doctrine and practices. Agathiyar kept me away from the false gurus and false teachings. I am glad that my family and friends at AVM have been led to Agathiyar too, nurtured and nourished under his watchful eyes day and night. 

HOLD ON, DON'T GIVE UP

The past few days we had been left in a state of grief and shock, saddened by the sudden turn of events and the hands of fate playing a tragic game in the lives of several devotees including Sivakavin from Chennai. Sivakavin and several others Right Mantra Sundar, Navaneeta Krishnan, Senthil Kumar, Kumar and Santhakumar were involved in a tragic accident while on their way to Sathuragiri, near Madurai last Saturday. Right Mantra Sundar and Navaneeta Krishnan passed away. The others were warded. I came to know of the shocking news from a friend in the Agathiyar Arul Alayam Whatsapp group. We at AVM express our condolences to the families of the bereaved. We are praying for the fast recovery of the rest who survived.

I met Sivakavin at Kallar Ashram last December. He had also come to participate in the Agathiyar Jayanthi and Guru Puja celebrations. Subsequently we spoke through Whatsapp. Sivakavin was mooted to start a Whatsapp group similar to Agathiyar Vanam Malaysia in Chennai. Within days he met up with the members of the newly formed Agathiyar Arul Alayam Whatsapp group, at the Pancheshti Sri Agatheeswarar temple on the outskirts of Chennai. Within weeks they ventured to climb to the peak of Pothigai and had a wonderful darshan of Agathiyar. Sivakavin used to keep me posted and updated. As usual the day before his travel to Sathuragiri with his friends, he called me with the same enthusiasm and excitement, to inform me that he was going to Sathuragiri again.

Many questions arise each time a disaster takes place in the lives of those dear and close to us, our family and friends, that threatens to shake the very faith and belief of ours. How do we explain these happenings?

A young man who made my first Nadi reading possible, and who was devoted to Agathiyar, took it upon himself and with some close friends and family, to raise 42 orphaned children as his own, besides his two kids. He died a tragic death in a freak accident, as a result of third degree burn wounds, some years back. I only came to know of his demise many years later.

My brother in law's sister in law was hit by a vehicle while crossing the road after halting a cab. It happened right in front of a temple. She had just worshipped there moments ago. Her husband turned an atheist that day for he could not accept that fate had a hand in it.

Soon I lost my brother in law too. He was healthy for his age. He complained of stomach pain; was operated on; went into coma and passed away, all within a day. I prayed that he should recover but my prayers were not answered, in his case.

Bala Chandran had a mishap hours after having a Nadi reading. One would wonder why Agathiyar did not caution him about fate's hidden hand in his Nadi; why he was not forewarned about the accident that was to take place soon after he left. But Agathiyar did mention in a later Nadi reading that he was on hand to save him from falling and sustaining further injury.

Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal while riding a bike, was knocked down by a bus that overtook him, just days after the Guru puja some years ago. I could not accept it and questioned Agathiyar. Tavayogi was under medical care for more than a month. After he recovered I asked him why it should happen to him, someone who has given his life in service to Agathiyar. He replied coolly that he too had to receive and go through the beatings of karma. 

It is during these moments that we tend to take hold of our thoughts and re-evaluate our stand and belief. No matter how long we ponder and think, we do not have the answers. Although we are told about karma and having to pay our dues, in actuality it is a bitter pill to swallow. The only solace is the kind words of the family and friends and their concern in these moments of sorrow. No amount of reasoning and explanation will ease the pain that the families go through right now.

We have lost many loved ones along the way; we have seen our fair share of troubles, sufferings and illness; we have stood and watched loved ones fight and combat their illness; and we have seen dear ones losing the battle too. To these souls all the doctrines and philosophical words would not matter. What matters is the problem on hand; wanting relief and a way of escape.

The Buddha made a woman who had just lost her child understand that she was not the only one who had lost a dear one, in a very subtle way. Read about it at http://theunboundedspirit.com/death-is-inevitable-a-buddhist-short-story/

Dr Krishnan had mentioned to me how the general public and the common man shunned and shivered at Saturn's or Sani's transit. He says rather than fear Saturn people must learn to see it positively since Saturn creates opportunities for one to hasten the burning of his karma and eventually make headway and speedy progress, bringing him closer to Erai.

Msgr. Charles Pope writes at http://blog.adw.org/author/cpope/,

And those who seek union with God must realize that such union, while always the gift of God, requires process, often painful, that must pave the way for that union. For, if a box is filled with sand, it cannot be filled with gold dust. The sand must be emptied, the vessel cleaned, and then there is the room for the Gold of God’s presence.

Tavayogi had already cautioned me, on several occasions, that one on the Siddha path is put through trials and tribulations; has to be prepared to face the full force of karma and that the Siddhas would test our faith and belief through these multiple tests of our perseverance and handling of the trying times and situations. The seeker after paper money, and the one seeking enlightenment - each has to go through ups and downs; bliss and sorrow; success and failures; in varying intensity according to the extent of their karma and their inherent desires and wants.

In the next stage, the illuminative way,

The mind becomes more and more enlightened (illumined) to spiritual things and the practice of virtue.

For those seeking Jnanam; wanting to end this cycle of birth and rebirth; and those identified and "claimed back" by the Siddhas, he/she has to settle his entire score of karma accumulated over the past seven births in a matter of years of their present life. One can then imagine the intensity of the sufferings and toll on his/her health and well being; beginning with the purgative stage, purging the physical body and mind of all toxins and unwanted stuff and gaining mental clarity, respectively. Then moving on to the illuminative way and finally attaining the unitive way.

This the way of those who have their minds detached from temporal things such that they enjoy great peace, and are not agitated by various desires nor moved to any great extent by sinful passion. Having been largely purged of these things, they have their minds fixed chiefly on God. It is called “unitive” since at this stage, there is a union with God by love and the actual experience and exercise of that love.

I had always wondered how it must have been for Ramalinga Adigal who went through the process of transforming his physical body into that of light body. Adigal had spoken about this transformation in his Arutpa songs. I wanted to see a living guru go through this. When I came to know Tavayogi he was already a turavi or mendicant. I told him that I would like to see him attain the body of light just like Ramalinga Adigal did. Tavayogi told me he would not attain it in this life and that he too would have to come back. Then came along a soul who having lost a dear one, turned her attention to spiritual matters to fill the emptiness in her. Keen to know about Agathiyar, she ends up at Kallar Ashram. There she has a wonderful encounter with Agathiyar who had waited for her, over the years, to turn up. Her spiritual life rocketed to unimaginable heights within a short period of time since that fated date with Agathiyar in 2011. In 2014, she was placed in isolation for the Siddhas to do their work on her. It is amazing how Agathiyar claimed her to do his work in the future. My desire to see a Jnani take shape is being fulfilled through her.

Several times I had to re-evaluate my wish to attain Jnanam; whether I really wanted it; seeing the intensity of the cleansing and moulding process done on her physical, mental and spiritual bodies, in preparation to receive Erai. I could now understand why there were long periods of disappearance in the lives of saints before they re-emerge to carry out their given mission.

Life has been a mystery and will always be. As Sanjiv said, "Guess it's a journey which the soul goes through... and we do not know even an iota of what this journey actually is."

THE SIDDHA PATH SIMPLIFIED

Agathiyar invited me to his path or Neri through a Nadi reading. I took it up. I was a newcomer, a freshie who did not know anything about Agathiyar and the Siddhas and their Puja; nor about their extensive scriptures. He then started me on this extremely fulfilling journey of prayers and rituals (puja); penance and austerity (tavam); and charity (dhanam and dharmam). With the aid of these three tools, and his continuous guidance through the Nadi readings, he took me, and bringing along many of his children together, on a wonderful journey of exploration, discovery and amazement. Agathiyar simplified the path for me and all the wonderful souls at AVM. He modified the path to suite each devotees temperament, ability and schedule. Each of us at AVM has a wonderful story to tell about how the calling came for them.

Here is my story. Just as a father holds the hands of his child and teaches him to walk, Agathiyar led me step by step on this journey. Giving me a task, and when I attended to it, he monitored my progress before giving me another. It is like having semesters, learning certain subjects and moving on to other subjects in the new semesters. It was basically chanting mantras; conducting prayers and rituals; performing certain basic yogic practises; and conducting charity. He slowly brought in new learnings, knowledge, and experiences; bringing me and the AVM family to new frontiers and territories, never for a moment leaving us to bask in the light of our achievements; hence saving us from becoming stagnant and redundant.

To start off, Agathiyar blessed me with the mantra of Vishnu Aum Namo Bhagavathe Vasudevaya, which came to me in a mysterious way, without revealing himself till much later.

Agathiyar brought me to the Nadi where he spoke to me about karma, the determining factor in each and every birth. 

To remove all obstacles he asked me to chant the moola mantra of Lord Ganesha Aum Gam Ganapathaye Namaha.

Agathiyar invited me to his path or margam, and introduced the worship of Siddhas. 

He blessed me with his yantra and mantra Aum Sing Vang Ang Ung Mang Mahathuvam Porunthiya Agathiyar Thiruvadigal Potri through a blessed soul Dr Krishnan.

He brought me to many temples in India.

He brought me to my guru Supramania Swami of Tiruvannamalai.

Supramania Swami in turn showed me his guru Yogi Ramsuratkumar.

Supramania Swami blessed me with Lord Shiva's mantra Hara Hara Siva Siva Sivasivaaya Namasivaaya Sivaya Nama Aum.

Agathiyar brought me to another guru Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal.

Tavayogi in turn showed me the Moola Guru Agathiyar, and Paramaguru Sri Jeganatha Swamigal and Chitramuthu Adigal.

Tavayogi blessed me with Agathiyar's mantra Aum Sim Vam Am Um Mum Agatheesaya Nama.

Tavayogi brought me to the Siddhas, and their abodes, caves, samadhis and temples.

Tavayogi gave me a Vasi mantra.

Tavayogi started me on conducting the Homam.

Tavayogi taught me and several others Asanas and Pranayama.

Agathiyar blessed me with his Moola mantra, and asked to share to all.

Aum Srim Aum Sarguru Pathamay,

Saaba Paaba Vimochanam,

Rowga Ahungaara Thur Vimochanam,

Sarva Deva Sagala Siddha Oli Rupam,

Sarguruway Aum Agasthiya Kirantha Karthaaya Nama

Agathiyar came into my home in the form of a bronze statue, bringing me to perform the abhisegam for him. Agathiyar encouraged us to stream the puja at AVM online.

He brought me to the worship of Jhothi and asked to chant Ramalinga Adigal's Arutperunjhoti mantra, Arutperunjhoti Arutperunjhoti Tani Perung Karunai Arutperunjhoti 

He brought me to worship Lord Muruga and chant his name Muruga that takes the meaning of Jhoti too.

He brought an expatriate, Acharya Gurudasan from Bangalore to conduct Kriya Hatha Yoga classes exclusively for AVM family.

The AVM family came together in prayers at AVM. Soon the members conducted individual prayers at their own homes. Later AVM Agathiyar accompanied by Tavayogi visited their homes where the members' families conducted the joint prayers or Kutu Prathanai.

On our return from Kallar Ashram after participating in Agathiyar's Guru Puja and Jayanthi Vizha, Agathiyar asked AVM family to include the worship of the Mother, Vaalai Thaai in our Siddha puja, another major step forward after 15 years of worship to the Siddhas.

After bringing us to the Mother, in just a couple of months, Agathiyar brought us to the worship of the Father, Lord Shiva.

It is amazing how meticulously he works on his devotees, putting together carefully a set of practises catered specifically for each of them, to work on and put into practice, before revealing the next set of lessons. He does not rush us, neither is their any element of fear instilled. He accepts all our devotion without any reservation or complaints. There is no cost involved and there is no need for a middleman. In the Siddha path it is between us and Erai. The Siddhas hold onto our hands, guide us along the way, show us the way, and step aside to rejoice in seeing their children walk on their own. The Siddhas locate, teach, lead and bring their lost children, back to the kingdom of Erai. That is the amazing work that the Siddhas do.

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!

Over the years Agathiyar called me over for more readings where he guided me further. There were several predictions that did not take place and because I was not keen, I had not put in the efforts towards making these predictions come true. I turned down the Siddhas' request to meet several other living gurus as I was not keen and had stopped my search, after holding on to Agathiyar. I did not go to several other spiritual spots too as requested for the same reason. Agathiyar respected my wish and never brought up the subject again.

Agathiyar slowly led me along on his path, never rushing me, letting me take my own pace. He gave numerous mantras. He introduced several Yoga practices through his Nadi. Through Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal he taught me and several others, various Yoga Asanas and breathing techniques, and refined the homam ritual that I was doing at AVM. Then came a cooling-off period when one day he asked that I stop all forms of Yogic practices. Later through Acharya Gurudasan he taught me and AVM family the inner essence and science of these Yogic practices.

The year 2007 was an interesting year in the sense that I was blessed to have a Nadi reading by several other Siddhas besides Agathiyar, beginning with Bhogar. Sugabrahmar, Bhrigu, Kagapusandar, and Tirumular blessed me with a reading too. These series of Nadi revelations amazed me further, as I saw the good rapport between the Siddhas and their respect for Agathiyar. Truly amazing!

It was amazing how Agathiyar slowly introduced me to various techniques and mantras over the years. It is amazing how Agathiyar held my hand and led me step by step. Throughout all these years Agathiyar keeps on asking me to continue prayers and puja.

After I returned from my maiden pilgrimage to India in 2003, I posted my experiences on my web site indianheartbeat. Agathiyar blessed me to write on 17 February 2007. With his blessings I continue to give you these posts. Agathiyar in Surendaran Selvaratnam's Nadi reading on 4 March 2017, urges me to continue writing. I am very thankful to Agathiyar for encouraging me on. I am equally thankful to all those wonderful souls out there who took a moment to read and follow my post and for their encouraging words.

It gives me great joy and strength when I realized the whole Siddha force is behind us. Let's take the hand of Erai and Agathiyar and walk this beautiful path of self realization. May the force be with you!

THE SECRET & SACRED WAYS OF THE SIDDHAS PART 3

The year was 1996. I was staying away from all forms of worship and religious and spiritual studies. This was also the period I had given up belief in astrology after those predictions did not work out as mentioned. Then a mysterious turn of events leads me to an astrologer to verify my assumption. My mother, mother-in-law, and sister kept on calling me to find out if the other had said anything to me. I assumed that they had seen an astrologer and it wasn't good. And so I stood at Dr Krishnan's doorway after fixing an appointment with him. It turned out that all was fine to the relief of my old folks. After that, I began to frequent his office either for a horoscope reading or the siddha medicine that he dispenses. On one of these visits, I asked him if there was a possibility that whatever said in the charts might not work out for an individual. The Dr. replied that if one had been cursed then the benefits that the charts say one would reap might not materialize. On asking if he could see into my chart if there were curses, Dr Krishnan explained to me that he could not read into my astrological chart to see if I was carrying a curse but told me that the Siddhas could through the Nadi reading. That was the very first time I heard about the Nadi and the Siddhas. The conversation stopped there.

A fear instilled in the hearts of my loved ones by an irresponsible astrologer had them call me up to make sure I was fine. But that act of his turned favorable to me since I returned to consult the horoscope after a long break while getting to meet a great soul like Dr Krishnan.

It was only in 2002 that my colleague Muralitharan brought up the subject of the Nadi again. He had seen his Nadi in the year 2000. I asked him to arrange an appointment for me.

Taking my thumbprint, by studying the details of the fine loops, whorls, arches and lines of my thumbprint, Nadi Nool Aasan Sentilkumar located my life's database from among the numerous bundles of leaves in his possession, that could easily amount to hundreds of individual leaves. After a question and answer session, the Nadi Nool Aasan located my particular Nadi leaf, my life's database from among a couple of bundles of leaves. Ain't that a mystery!

The Nadi Nool Aasan began reading from the Nadi. Agathiyar paid his respects to Erai. Looking back I now realize the humbleness of Agathiyar who took a moment to pay homage to Erai. Agathiyar then began the mind shaking revelation. Agathiyar addressed me through the Nadi! I was excited that Agathiyar was communicating with me. He revealed my astrological chart and horoscope in the reading and continued to relay the gochara palan or the effects of the planetary transits in my birthchart. After reading the general chapter or Podhu Kaandam where he practically scanned and saw through me, my past, present and future; he continued with another chapter, the Shanti Parikara Kaandam, listing out the reasons for me to take birth again and provided the solutions too. And finally Agathiyar went on to the Theecha Mantra Kaandam that brings divine help. As a bonus, Agathiyar threw in the Gnana Kaandam that spoke about more temple visits; introduced spiritual practices and spoke about my guru whom I would meet.

The Nadi is surely a mystery! It is indeed mind boggling to watch Agathiyar bring together the knowledge of these various sciences in deciphering one's life's purpose! 

Agathiyar's first lesson for me was on the subject of karma. He spoke about my past, present and future exhibiting his ability as a Siddha to see pass time and space. He directed me on a spiritual journey to India, providing me the itinerary too, to carry out the remedies for my past karma, promising me a better future after that. Next he gave me a simple Yogic practice to prepare my body and soul for better things to come. This was my very first Pranayama lesson from guru Agathiyar delivered through the Nadi!

He pointed me to his path and his Nadi as a guidepost. He opened my heart and my eyes to the needs of others asking me to do charity and give donations towards the building of temples. He did ask to build one for him too. He charted my spiritual journey and sent me off asking me to come back after three years, once I finished working on his commands. This was my very first upadesam from my spiritual guru Agathiyar that day on 14 December 2002, all revealed in the sukshma form through a medium known as the Nadi!

At the end of the Nadi reading, Sentilumar passed me a leaflet that carried an appeal from one Thaaiveedu Thangarasan M.A. who wanted to build a temple/ashram for Agathiyar in Kallar, India. I gave a small contribution and kept the leaflet with me. In 2005 I come across an advert in the Tamil daily that carried a similar name, Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal, who was in Malaysia to officiate an organization affiliated to his Agathiyar Gnana Peedham in Kallar. I made an appointment to see him. I showed the leaflet and asked if it was his. Hence started a wonderful relationship between a guru and a disciple. Although I only met Tavayogi then, but I had received his message much earlier in 2002. Amazing!

My next upadesam came through the Nadi Nool Aasan Sentilkumar who after reading the Kaanda Nadi, led me to perform the Siddha Puja, and Noolukku Dhaanam, that surmounts to an offering or guru dakshina, a tradition, one of acknowledgement, respect, and thanks to Agathiyar and the Siddhas. I learnt to recite the Siddha Potri or names of the Siddhas from the Nool Aasan and performed a simple puja for the Siddhas.

My search for information on the Siddhas at the numerous organizations run under the banner of Agathiyar did not bring the results I expected. When I mentioned to Dr Krishnan that Agathiyar had asked me to come to his path in the Nadi, he immediately told me that he would prepare Agathiyar's yantra that I could use in my prayers. I collected it later. He told me that he would pass me Agathiyar's Mantra later. It was an Amavasai puja that I was engaged in that day. Usually I do not have my handphone with me during prayers. But that day I had it with me and it rang in the midst of the prayers. It was Dr Krishnan on the line. I answered. He spelt out Agathiyar's mantra into my ears. I received Agathiyar's mantra upadesam from him at that auspicious moment of Amavasai Puja. Truly Amazing!

Following my visit to his temple at Agasthiyampalli with Tavayogi, Agathiyar came to my home in the sthula form that of a bronze statue, a replica of Agasthiyampalli. On 8 January 2009 Agathiyar in the Nadi, had given me certain specifications and several instructions that I had to comply in commissioning his statue.

1. The statue had to be a replica of the one in Agasthiyampalli, Vedharanyam, India,

2. He had to be made of bronze,

3. He had to be made in Swamimalai, India,

4. He was not to exceed one foot in height,

5. Work on him had to start in the Tamil month of Thai and Maasi of  2009,

6. On completion, prayers were to be conducted at the Adi Kumbheshawar Temple in Kumbakonam, and only then was he to be shipped to Malaysia,

7. On arrival in Malaysia, Nava Abhisegam was to be conducted followed by

8. Chanting his name (Aum Agathisaya Nama) 100,000 times.

The numerous questions that arose, pertaining to this set of instructions, was only answered some time back in the Nadi readings of Jnana Jhotiamma and Surendaran. Agathiyar demystified the mystery finally!

Why a replica of Agasthiyampalli?

Agathiyar says that he is seated in a meditative posture at Agasthiyampalli, engrossed in watching and admiring the beauty of the occasion of the marriage or the Tiru Kalyana Kolam of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi taking place in Kailash. Dr VM Jayapalan while in meditation was given the story of the origin of this temple, that happens to be the very first temple for Agathiyar in this Kali Yuga.

Why was his murthy to be made in Swamimalai?

Rightmantra Sundar in his blog explains why Swamimalai comes to mind when one needs a bronze statue. Sundar says that at Swamimalai these bronze statues are made using age old traditional methods and according to the agamas, hence Swamimalai is preferred for making temple Urchava Murthis. Statues made at Swamimalai are renowned worldwide. The lost wax method of casting these statues are a specialty here. Clay or mud from the riverbanks of Kaveri used by bronze statue creators at Swamimalai is most suitable for making the molds as it captures even the most minute details, revealing even thumbprints! 

Some time back, Agathiyar explained why he wanted his image made in Swamimalai through Jnana Jyothiamma's Jeeva Nadi reading. He enlightens us on the significance of Swamimalai and the Kaveri River and the reason for Agathiyar to be made in in Swamimalai. Agathiyar revealed that it was the wish of Lord Muruga, Lobha Ma and himself that he should be made at Swamimalai. Agathiyar explains that it is Lobha Ma's wish that his statues made on the banks of Kaveri (Swamimalai in Tanjai) and blessed by Swamimalai Muruga, should reach places all over the world. Agathiyar says that although his image has been depicted in many variations over time, the image of Agathiyar from Swamimalai will eventually be his identity and worshiped the world over. "Lord Muruga himself has conceived this image and blessed each statue made here", says Agathiyar.

Agathiyar revealed that many miracles will be shown through these statues of Agathiyar. These statues will become "alive". All these will take place with Lord Muruga's blessings. Then Agathiyar mentioned the miracle that took place in Jnana Jyothiamma's presence at AVM on October of 2013. We had held prayers and during the libation or abhisegam, Agathiyar opened his eyes to bless all those present!

Over the years, Agathiyar rejoiced in seeing me perform the Siddha Puja with my family, friends and devotees of his. Agathiyar continued to guide me through the Nadi some 55 times to date. Agathiyar brought many good souls over to my home and we soon became to be known as Agathiyar Vanam Malaysia (AVM). Agathiyar still continues to guide us. Lately his messages were for the AVM family rather than an individual. There were times when he gave messages for us at AVM in the readings of other AVM family members too. Agathiyar has brought us a long way, something that we never dreamt about. We at AVM are truly grateful to him.

THE SECRET & SACRED WAYS OF THE SIDDHAS PART 2

Before I came to Agathiyar, I had stayed away from worship for 13 years, having an issue with Erai over unanswered questions and doubts. Then Agathiyar through my nephew passes me Lord Vishnu's mantra. This episode itself was shrouded in mystery!

It was 4 pm on a Saturday afternoon on the 6th of October 2001 when my nephew, Thayalan came over to my house and told me he had to deliver something to me. He asked me over to my prayer room. I did not question him. He sat down, legs folded on the parquet floor of the first floor of my home. I sat opposite him. Again he said that he had been instructed to give me something that was long overdue, as he could not find time to come over. He asked me not to question the source. He shut his eyes, and went into a meditative state. His body shook and he spoke, asking me to repeat a Vishnu mantra thrice. He asked me to get a rosary and start chanting the mantra immediately. He also told me not to reveal to anyone what had just taken place then.

I started chanting the mantra that same evening without any reservation.

Wanting to know more about the mantra, I went through my collection of books. R Venu Gopalan in his, THE HIDDEN MYSTERIES OF KUNDALINI wrote that this mantra is recited for balancing the Vishnu Granti. He mentions this as the maha mantra of Lord Krishna and states the benefits derived from chanting it.

The nadis of the heart chakra is cleansed. It balances the heart chakra. Continuous practice of meditation on this mantra helps purify the thinking process. It also helps in dissolving all the past karmic deeds for a better future. The Vishnu Granti adds obstructions for the sadhaka keeping one under the wraps of attachment and bondage leading to the process of selfishness and supra ego.

In another book on Saint Dhruva, it is mentioned that this mantra was given to Dhruva by Saint Naradar who initiated Dhruva into the mysteries of yoga and meditation leading to samadhi. 

Naradar taught Dhruva the practice of pranayama by inhaling, exhaling, and holding the breath. He taught Dhruva to overcome thought fluctuations with the help of breath control. Naradar also taught Dhruva to meditate on Vishnu in the sanctuary of his heart repeating the Lord’s name mentally and offer prayers and worship. 

This mantra was mentioned in an extract from the English translation of the book KRIYA YOGA VIJNAN - THE SCIENCE OF KRIYA YOGA, the original by Saint Lahari Mahasaya. 

Lahari Mahasaya has named this sadhana, omkar kriya. This is essentially a pranayama and the basis is the Vasudeva mantra. The sastras have propounded that the Vasudeva mantra is an omniscient mantra. When a sadhaka starts comprehending his awareness as one with the mantra then he becomes omniscient himself. Then his attainment shall be - I am this omniscient Vasudeva. In the Gita it is stated in the very last of all births, the man of wisdom worships me, realizing that all is Vasudeva. Rare indeed is the soul. Then do namaskar to thyself.

Wikipedia mentions the following,

‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’ is a mantra of Vishnu and Krishna both. It has two traditions - Tantric and Puranic. In Tantrik Tradition, the Rishi of the Mantra is Prajapati, in Puranic Tradition the Rishi is Narada. Both, however, say it is the Supreme Vishnu Mantra. Sharada Tilak Tantram (Sarada-Tilaka Tantram) for example, says "Dvadasharno mahamantrah pradhano Vaishnavagame" - the twelve lettered mantra is the chief among vaishnava mantras. Similarly, this is the ultimate mantra in Shrimad Bhagavatam, whose 12 Chapters are taken as extensions of the 12 Letters of this Mantra. This twelve syllable mantra is known as a Mukti (liberation) mantra and a spiritual formula for attaining freedom. This is the principal mantra of the Vedic scripture Srimad Bhagavatam. This can be chanted like Gayatri Mantra. This mantra can also be found in Vishnu Purana.

Yogi Professor Ramdas Prabhuji is of the same opinion with R Venu Gopalan, writes at https://lahirimahasayakriyayoga.org/om-namo-bhagavate-vasudevaya/

The purpose of the Second and Third Kriya is to break the heart granthi in order to get the fourth state, Turiya, or Samadhi. The heart knot is the Vishnu-Granthi. Therefore, the supreme Vishnu mantra (mahamantra) – om namo bhagavate vasudevaya – is used for this purpose. In the light of Kriya Yoga, the fourth state of Turiya, or Vasudeva, is a synonym for Kevala Kumbhaka.

The Vasudeva-mantra of 12 syllables – Om namo bhagavate vasudevaya – is known as a Mukti Mantra because it grants release from Samsara for the one who recites it with devotion and faith.

From Awakening State at http://www.awakeningstate.com/spiritual-awakening/om-namo-bhagavate-vasudevaya/ we learn that,

This Sanskrit mantra can be practiced to attain freedom (moksha) from Samsara – the “Karmic Wheel” that keeps us bound to cycle after cycle of incarnations. This liberation mantra is a karmic eraser. Chanting this mantra with a sincere heart frees your mind and spirit from negative patterns in this life and helps us realize ourselves as a manifestation of transcendent divinity. 

I continued to chant the mantra. I only came to know it was Agathiyar who wanted me to be initiated into the Vishnu mantra, a couple of years later. Agathiyar's desire was conveyed through Thayalan's Paramaguru who had come into a devotee.

A few days later Thayalan came over again to hand me a painting of Lord Dakshinamurthy and told me that I needed to worship Lord Dakshinamurthy in preparation to meet my guru. I was told my longing for a guru was to be realized. I did as told. Agathiyar came as Lord Dakshinamurthy ahead of my meeting my stula gurus.

Next Agathiyar drew me to read the Nadi, the following year. The Nadi too is shrouded in mystery!

THE SECRET & SACRED WAYS OF THE SIDDHAS PART 1

Scene 1

Desperately seeking a solution and a way out of the blunder and mess that he had brought upon himself, one comes to a Nadi reader with doubts and questions as to the authenticity of the Nadi and its reader, and capability of the Siddhas in solving his problems. He goes through the process of answering the questions put to him with hesitation and doubts if the Nadi reader was getting information from him before commencing the reading. He withholds some things, negates the others and falsely agrees on others. The reading goes haywire. He is not satisfied. He spreads the news that the Nadi is a hoax.

Scene 2

Having heard about the wonders of the Siddhas and their revelations through the Nadi, one comes to a Nadi reader with devotion praying that the Siddhas could help in solving his problems. He goes through the process of answering the questions put to him, cooperating with the Nadi reader giving him the required information so that he could locate the relevant Nadi before commencing the reading. He withholds nothing, negates if it is not true, and agrees if it is. The reading goes well. He is satisfied. He spreads the news that the Nadi is a miracle.

When I went for my very first reading I sat through the whole process in awe and wonder. When my personal and intimate details were mentioned I was amazed that the Siddhas knew everything about me. How was it possible I asked with wonder. When they listed what I had done in the past life that led to this birth, although I felt sad for the things I did, but I was thrilled that I got to know my past and was even more glad that they gave a solution too to find remorse. That was in 14 December 2002.

Meanwhile on 10 December 2003, Agathiyar brings me to my very first guru Supramania Swami of Thiruvannamalai. Hence begins a wonderful Guru Disciple relationship. I had never dreamt that I would be blessed to meet a Guru in my life. Supramania Swami ignited the fire of devotion in me.

Following the dictates of Agathiyar, as a sacred word, I came to him again on 15 August 2005, at the age of 45 for another reading, after three years as requested. He took me in as a disciple. He began to reveal my future. Agathiyar revealed the fact that I had made blunders in my life. Hence the reason to take birth again. But the most compassionate father was prepared to forgive me. Next he said that it was all his doing too. Finally he added that it had to take place for I needed the experiences too. He solaced me, playing down my karma. His kind words were uplifting and brought courage and strength in me. He gave me a directive to meet Tavayogi Thangarasan Adigal who was in Malaysia, the same night for a Theecha. I took up the option without question although my wife and I were among the many to receive a mass Teecha from him given to devotees in Malaysia earlier. Although it was late at night I followed Agathiyar's dictates. My life's prediction changed. The Nadi reading and the predictions of Agathiyar were mysteriously erased and a new reading and prediction provided in its place on 18 August 2005, three days later. 

Agathiyar sends me to Kallar Ashram to meet Tavayogi again. We travel together on a pilgrimage of Siddha samadhis, shrines, temples and caves. I had never dreamt that I would be blessed to receive another Guru in my life. If Supramania Swami ignited the fire of devotion in me, Tavayogi nurtured it. 

Agathiyar gave assurance that he and the other Siddhas were with my family and me. I did not deserve his compassion and grace but yet he kept his word, when literally he came into our family in the form of a bronze statue on 2 January 2010. I had never dreamt that I would be blessed to receive Agathiyar, the Supreme Guru in my life and my home. If Supramania Swami ignited the fire of devotion in me, Tavayogi nurtured it, then it is Agathiyar who has to take it from there. 

Along the way Agathiyar showed many miracles, and showed his presence to all at AVM and me.  He guided us with the rituals and prayers. He led us to do charity work and give donations to the needy and unfortunate. He asked that we balance the act of doing charity and doing tapas for this two acts were equally important and akin to the two eyes that is needed to see the path clearly and reach the final destination of ending the cycle of birth and death and attaining immortality. 

Agathiyar brought many genuine seekers and good and divine souls to AVM from where he took them in under his wings, taking it from there. Similarly he brought me to many more genuine devotees of his whom I met at Kallar Ashram, hence bridging the gap beyond continents and countries. With the many modern technology available and the social medias Agathiyar has roped in all of us as a family, creating a wonderful network of disciples to carry out his mission. 

P. Karthigayan in his "History of Medical & Spiritual Sciences of Siddhas of Tamil Nadu, Notion Press, Chennai, 2016" defines the Siddhas mission.

"Siddhas believed that human beings are created for excelling in knowledge, understanding the nature, and helping their fellow man to form a divine civilization on earth. They needed to live longer and even become immortal, to achieve this goal".

When I asked Tavayogi for direction on what to do next lately in June of last year, Tavayogi passed the buck to Agathiyar, saying, "What am I to direct you my son? Agathiyar is already directing you", passing the sole responsibility to Agathiyar. I was amazed at how Tavayogi handled his disciple. The very first time he set foot in my home, he dampened my joy in receiving him at my home by telling me that he was a nobody, and not to be deceived by his attire, the kavi, and that he had nothing hidden within it, and he had nothing to offer. He pointed me to Agathiyar. That was on 31 July 2005. After 12 years again he took no credit for nurturing me and all in the AVM family but directed us straight to Agathiyar. Indeed Tavayogi is a true guru as Agathiyar had mentioned several times.