Maruthwamala, a place abundant with rocky formations, lies seven miles from Nagercoil on the route to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. Blessed with inexhaustible springs nestled in its rock crevices and refreshed by cool sea breezes, it’s a natural sanctuary and an ideal haven for truth-seekers seeking solitude for penance. This serene location was where Narayana Guru chose to pursue his self-realization. He undertook his penance in 'Pillathadam', the most prominent cave at the summit of Maruthwamala. Over time, word of the meditating monk spread among the people living at the foothills, and those who ascended the hill for hunting or other purposes would visit him. Encountering the calm and radiant Guru, they sensed something divine in his presence.
His ascetic life in Maruthwamala marked a pivotal turning point for Guru, where he established the profound spiritual unity between nature and humanity. His heart's desire was to alleviate human suffering and guide people towards mental peace.
At that time in Travancore, caste discrimination and untouchability were widespread. Guru resolved to find ways to liberate people from these dehumanizing perversions. After leaving Maruthwamala, he embarked on travels throughout South India, gathering diverse experiences from places like Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Madurai, Kanchipuram, and Pondicherry. During his journey, he offered solace and succor to many suffering individuals he encountered. He brought relief to those afflicted by diseases using traditional remedies. As people observed his ability to even cure mental illnesses such as madness and epilepsy, they began to revere him as a holy man.
Meanwhile, the cruelties inflicted by upper castes upon backward communities within the Hindu religion were escalating daily. A deep desire emerged within Guru to work for the upliftment of all communities. He identified Aruvippuram, unique in its pristine natural beauty, as the most suitable place to commence his work. He chose the caves along the riverbank there as his refuge. For approximately three years, Guru meditated on the Aruvippuram hills. During this period, a young cattle herder, who had become lost, stumbled upon him. Guru affectionately inquired about his well-being. That boy, Ayyappan Pillai, became Guru's first disciple and was later known as Sivalinga Swami.
