BOGAR SIDDHAR AND THE SIDDHA TRADITION
Compiled by: Mrs. Sowmya Nikhil Research Support: Mrs. Rani Pandian, Mr. Sekar Mookkiah, Mr. Ram Arjun and Mrs. Surekha Prem Anand The term ‘Siddha’ comes from the word ‘Siddhi’ which means the experience of Shiva. ‘Shiva’ indicates ‘Thatness’, ‘All-that-is’, and the Absolute. The one who has gone beyond the confines of religion or scriptures and has had the experience of being one with Shiva alone is a true Siddha. Karai Siddhar who lived in the last century distinguishes between a Siddha and a NonSiddha thus: “Siddha is one who directs others in the path of experience whereas a NonSiddha is one who points others to the path of scriptures”. The Siddhas are not bound by any religion, conventions or rules made by society; rather their lives have been guided by the direct experiences of the Divine. The Siddhas are classified into three Margas: Kailaya-Marga, Mula-Marga and Bala-Marga. The Kailaya-Marga is led by Agasthiyar, MulaMarga by Thirumoolar Siddhar and Bala-Marga by Lord Muruga.