AROHARA

How Arohara came into practice?'?

'Arohara' is a shortened form of the phrase 'Ara Haro Hara'. Its meaning is:

"Oh, God Almighty Muruga, please remove our sufferings and grant us salvation".

This was first used by Saivites (followers of Saivam - worshippers of Shiva). During the time of Thirunjanasambandhar, when he was on a journey, the bearers of his 'Pallakku' and other followers used to chant (meaningless) phrases - like 'Yeieioh Yeieioh', as a form of stress relief and also to drive away harmful insects during the night.

Thirunjanasambandhar advised them to replace these meaningless words with meaningful 'Ara Haro Hara'. Over time, the use of 'Ara Haro Hara' faded away from the 'Saivaites' but was carried on by the 'Kaumaras' (Murugan Devotees). It was further shortened to the present 'Arohara'.

Whenever the devotee says 'Vetrivel Muruganukku Arohara' he/she is sending a humble message to God Almighty - Lord Murugan - the Bearer of the 'Vetrivel' (victorious spear) - to grant refuge from all unpleasantness in life.