Selvam Speaks

My recent visit to Parvathamalai stirred a deep reflection on how profoundly social media can reshape our world—sometimes for the better, but often at a cost. I first set foot on this sacred hill in 2016. Almost a decade later, in February 2025, I returned, only to find a place transformed almost beyond recognition. Back then, the quaint village of Thenmathimangalam—nestled at the base of the hill—had just a handful of shops. It exuded a rustic charm, untouched and serene. I still remember sipping a cup of tea made with rich, creamy milk. As someone who rarely drinks tea or coffee, I surprised myself by having a second cup. The memories from that first visit remain vivid and dear. (You can still read my 2016 blog post on Parvathamalai for a glimpse of that time.) The Winds of Change Change, as we know, is inevitable. But some changes leave a sense of loss that’s hard to reconcile with. My recent trip to Parvathamalai was one such experience. Thenmathimangalam is now dotted with numero...

An arduous climb at Paravathamalai Hills Every one of my trips is always filled with elements of surprise and excitement, and this one is too. Climbing up the mountain of 3500 feet along different tough terrains, including mounting an iron ladder placed vertically upon a huge rock, was a spine-chilling experience. Parvathamalai, the abode of Lord Shiva, is located in Tiruvannamalai district at 15km distance from Polur, the nearest town. It was an early morning as we alighted at Thenmathimangalam, a village, from where we commence our journey on foot. The dawn filled with cool breeze, women dutifully cleaning up their courtyard before the sun breaks up, men indulging in a casual chat at tea shops before embarking on their routine job, the roosters loudly announcing the new day, are the vivid memories as we set foot at the village. Exhilarating countryside along the way Geographical map of the hillock and the distance to be covered in different terrains A kilometer wa...