» Location : Alappuzha, Kerala
» To Commemmorate : The Visit Of Jawahar Lal Nehru To This Place
» Centre of Activity : Punnamada Backwaters
» Held On : 2nd Saturday Of August, Every Year
Festivals of Kerala
» Aaranmula Boat Race
» Nehru Trophy Boat Race
» Onam
» Thrissur Pooram
more Festivals of South India
Nehru Trophy Boat Race, the annual water carnival at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha is considered as the biggest snake boat race in the world. The colourful boat pageantry, which precedes the boat race, is a marvelous treat to the onlookers. The snake boats with 100 to 120 oarsmen plough the waters to the tune of the legendary songs. Jawaharlal Nehru who was enthralled by the charm and gaiety of the water carnival instituted the Nehru Trophy. This boat race attracts a large number of tourists.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the most famous of the boat races of Kerala. This annual regatta is held on the Punnamada Backwaters of Alappuzha district on the second Saturday of August.
The event is a commemoration of the visit to this place by the late Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1952.
The spectacular races features magnificent snake boats or 'Chundans'. The boisterous and rhythmic boat songs or Vanchipattu work the spectators to a state of frenzy.
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» Location : Kerala
» Main Attractions : 100 Feet Long Boat Races
» Centre of Activity : Village Aaranmula
» Held In : August / September
Festivals of Kerala
» Aaranmula Boat Race
» Nehru Trophy Boat Race
» Onam
» Thrissur Pooram
more Festivals of South India
The Aaranmula Boat Race is staged each year in the scenic village of Aaranmula in August/ September. This river carnival is part of the Aaranmula Temple festival. Masses throng the shores of the River Pamba to watch an imposing cluster of snake boats called 'Palliyodams'.
Aranmula Uthrittathi Vallomkali is conducted in the Pamba River in front of Sri Parthasarathi Temple. Though, large snake boats take part in this festival they do not race with each other. Instead, they row in union, to the accompaniment of songs and reach their destination together because Lord Krishna is believed to be present in each boat. Since 1971 this procession has taken the present form of a race conducted by the Palliyoda Seva Sangh.
Each boat, nearly 100 feet long, is a remarkable feat of craftsmanship, with the stem curved to resemble the hood of a snake and a tampering bow. Festooned with silk and gold spangled umbrellas, the boats are manned by a crew of more than 100 men.
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» Location : 4-km From Hanumakonda Crossroad In Warangal District
» Architecture : Kakatiya Style Of Architecture
» Built By : Rudra Devi
» Dedicated To : Lord Shiva, Vishnu And Surya
Temples in Andhra Pradesh
» Tirupati Tirumala Balaji
» Saneeshwara Temple
» Sreesailam Temple
» Thousand Pillar Temple
more South India Temples
A Specimen Of Kakatiya Architecture
4-km from Hanumakonda crossroad in Warangal district is the Thousand Pillar Temple, a fine specimen of 'Kakatiya' architecture and sculpture. It is the main attraction of Hanamkonda. The temple was built by 'Rudra Devi' in 1163 AD.
The temple is in shape of a star and has three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The temple is built on a 1m high platform on the slopes of the Hanumakonda hill, and has a majestic monolithic Nandi. The black basalt Nandi, a monolith, has a lovely polished finish.
There are many small lingam shrines surrounding the gardens. The temple is famous for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture. The atmosphere is calm and serene with the sonorous ringing of the puja bells, gentle chirping of the birds and the soothing cool breeze.
Places to stay in Warangal
Accommodation is available at the hotels in Warangal.
How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Hyderabad, 157-km away.
Rail : Warangal has a railway station and is well connected by rail to important cities of India.
Road : APSTRC and Private buses connect Warangal with Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Karimnagar, Khammam and some other districts.
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» Location : Kurnool District Of Andhra Pradesh
» Presiding Deity : Sri MallikarjunaSwami And Goddess Bhramaramba
» Significance : One Of The Twelve Jyotirlingas In The Country
» Appealing Feature : In This Temple Anyone Of Any Cast And Creed, Can Touch The Deity And Worship The Lord.
Temples in Andhra Pradesh
» Tirupati Tirumala Balaji
» Saneeshwara Temple
» Sreesailam Temple
» Thousand Pillar Temple
more South India Temples
Srisailam is situated in the thick and inaccessible forests of the Nallamalai hills, in the northeastern portion of the Nandikotkur Taluk of Kurnool District. It is one of the most ancient and sacred places in South India, and this important religious shrine stands on the Rishabhagiri hill, on the southern bank of the sacred river Krishna. Srisailam is referred to as "Sri Giri", "Sriparvata", "Rudra Parvata" and "Seshachalam" in several texts and Puranas.
The presiding deity at the place is Sri MallikarjunaSwami in the form of a lingam, which is one of the twelve 'Jyotirlingams' existing in the country. Another important temple at the place is that of 'Bhramaramba', the consort of Lord 'Mallikarjunaswami'.
Historical Significance
The temple abounds in sculptural beauty and there are about 116 inscriptions in and around it. It is associated historically with such great rulers as the Chalukyan kings, Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara and Chatrapati Shivaji. Adi Shankara is also said to have worshipped the deity at the temple.
The Buddhist pilgrims, Fahiyan and Hieun t`sang have made references to the Sriparvata hill, which is in the Nagarjunakonda valley of the same river Krishna. The sanctity of this place is claimed both by the Hindus as well as by the Buddhists.
The Legend
It is said the 'Vrishabha', the sacred bull of Lord Shiva performed penance here. Lord Shiva appeared before him, with his consort Parvati in the forms of Mallikarjuna and Bharamaramba. Other shrines within the temple include the 'Sahasra Linga' 'Panchapandava Temples' and 'Vata Vriksha'.
A Unique Ritual
The most appealing feature of this temple is that anyone of any cast and creed, can touch the deity and worship here, a custom not found anywhere in Andhra Pradesh. The river Pathalaganga (In Srisailam the Krishna river is known as Pathalaganga, and is regarded as a very sacred river for pilgrims) is about two miles from the temple, with a flight of stone steps leading to it. People bathe in this river before going for the darshan of the Lord. There are several "Teppalu" (small boats in circular shape) and one can enjoy riding on the Pathalaganga.
Festivals in Sreesailam Temple
Maha Shivaratri festival, celebrated at Srisailam, is of all-India importance. This festival usually falls in the month of February-March and is a time to solemnly invoke Lord Shiva through fasts and chants. Lakhs of pilgrims throng to worship the deity and have a holy dip in the river Krishna known as the Pathala Ganga.
Goddess Bhramaramba whose festivals come a month or two after Shivarathri attracts even larger crowds consisting of 'Lingayats'. Goddess Bhramarambika is said to be one of the eighteen leading 'Shaktis' of India.
A Scenic Spot
Apart from its religious importance, Srisailam is also a place of scenic beauty and one of the most important tourist spot in the country. At 'Sikharam', the highest of the Srisailam hills, is 'Sikhareswara Swami', a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Another beautiful temple is Sri Ganapathi temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The 512m long Srisailam Dam and the Paladhara and Panchadhara waterfalls located here are surrounded by natural beauty. Srisailam wildlife sanctuary, which covers areas in five adjoining districts, has tigers, panthers, spotted deer, giant squirrels, great lizards, pangolins, crocodiles, civets and a varieties of snakes.
Conducted Tours to Sreesailam Temple
The Andhra Pradesh Travel & Tourism Development Corporation operates package tours from Hyderabad to Srisailam every week. The tour begins at 11:30 am on Saturdays and ends at 9:00 pm on Sundays.
Places to stay in Kurnool
There are excellent choultries built by the Temple Devasthanam, in which poor pilgrims can stay free of cost. Cottages and guesthouses, with all amenities are also available over here.
How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Hyderabad (232-km).
Rail : The nearest railway stations are at Kurnool and Nandyal on the Guntur-Hubli road at a distance of 158-km.
Road : Srisailam is well connected by APSRTC and Devasthanam buses with Hyderabad, Mahaboobnagar, Nalgonda, Devorkonda, Guntur, Vijayawada, Kurnool, Ongole, Mahanandi, Mantralayam, Anantapur, Tirupati and Chitradurg among other places.
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» Location : Mandapalli, East Godavari District
» Presiding Deity : Saneeshwara (Saturn)
Temples in Andhra Pradesh
» Tirupati Tirumala Balaji
» Saneeshwara Temple
» Sreesailam Temple
» Thousand Pillar Temple
more South India Temples
About 38-km from Rajamunday there is a small village called Mandapalli, where there is a famous shrine of 'Sri Mandeswara Swami Temple' is also called "Someswara temple". The presiding diety is Lord Shiva and the linga is consecrated by Someswara. The presiding deities here are Saneeswara, 'Bhrameswara' and 'Nageswara' in the form of black stone Shiva Lingas. This is a small temple attracting a large number of pilgrims.
The Legend
Another legend is sage 'Dhadchi' made a supreme sacrifice in donating his valuable spinal cord for the most powerful weapon known as the "Vajurayudha" of Lord Indra, which was employed by him to kill countless ghostly demons. The sons of demon in retaliation to the death of their father 'Kartabha' called 'Aswartha' and 'Pippala' invaded the places of Mandapalli and brought untold miseries to the people living in there. Looking at the miseries of people, all the sages lead by sage Agastya approached Saturn, the son of God Surya who was doing penance to rescue them from ruination in the hands of these two demon brothers.
Saturn refused to take up the job of killing the demons until the completion of his prayers to gain enough strength for the destruction, but yielded when the sages who approached him gave their 'Tapasshakti' to accomplish the task 'Shani'. He made up his mind and killed Aswartha and Pippala relieving the sages and other people from the tyranny of the demons engulfed from a long time.
People jubilant over the annihilation of these demons praised Saturn in many words and sage Agastya and others showered on him many boons. As a mark of his glorious victory over the demons Saturn installed a "Shiva Linga" which is known as "Sameswara" or "Mandeshwara".
Places to stay in Andhra Pradesh
Hotel accommodation is available at Rajahmundry.
How to Get There
Rail : It is about 38-km from Rajamunday Railway Station.
Road : Bus facilities are available from Rajamunday. Taxis are also available from here.
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» Location : Tirupati, 67-kms From Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh
» Presiding Deity : Lord Venkateswara Or Venkateshwara Or Venkatramana
» Said to be : World's Richest Temple
» Maintained By : Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam
Temples in Andhra Pradesh
» Tirupati Tirumala Balaji
» Saneeshwara Temple
» Sreesailam Temple
» Thousand Pillar Temple
more South India Temples
Tirupati town is 67-km from Chittoor in Chittoor district, the southern portion of Andhra Pradesh. The most important place of interest at the place is the historic shrine of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills, who is famous all over the country.
The shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala, a cluster of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam with an elevation of 853m (2,800ft.) above the sea level. Said to be the richest temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries. It attracts pilgrims from all over the country who stand in line for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds.
Tirupati - A Fine Example Of Dravidian Temple Architecture
The temple at Tirumala is believed to have existed from ancient times. The dynasties like the Pallavas of Kanchipuram, the Cholas of Tanjore, the Pandyas of Madurai and the Kings and chiefs of Vijayanagara, vied with one another in endowing the Shrine and offering worship of the presiding deity. The Tirupati temple with its 'gopuram' or tower is a fine example of Dravidian architecture.
The elaborate rituals and mode of worship in the temple were prescribed by the saint Ramanujacharya and are being followed even today. Anointing the idol with camphor, and the offering by pilgrims of the hair on their heads by getting themselves shaved by licensed barbers are the important customs in vogue at Tirupati Temple.
The 'Vimana' or Cupola over the sanctum sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The Shrine consists of three 'Prakarams' or enclosures. The outermost enclosure contains the 'Dhvajastambha' or the banner post and, among others, the statues of Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya and his consorts, and of Todarmal, the minister of Akbar. The idol of the deity, the full figure of Lord Venkateswara or 'Venkataramana' or 'Srinivasa' or 'Balaji' (as is called in various parts of the country) has the attributes of both Vishnu and Shiva, preserving and destroying aspects of the Hindu Trinity.
Festivals of Tirupati
Everyday is a day of festivity at Tirumala. The most famous is the annual festival called 'Brahmotsavam', which is celebrated on grand scale for nine days in September, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the country. The fifth and ninth days of the festival are especially significant in as much as Garudostavam and Rathotavam takes place on those days.
The Daily Routines - Tirupati Tirumala Balaji Temple
The daily program starts with 'Suprabhatam' (awakening the Lord) at three in the morning and end with the 'Ekanta Seva' (putting the Lord to sleep) at one in the night. Daily, Weekly and Periodical 'Sevas' and 'Utsavams' are performed to the Lord. Interested pilgrims can choose from the list and pay to get the Sevas or Utsavams done on their name. Devotees offer their gifts and donations in the "Hundi", which is the main source of income.
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» Location : South West Of Bangalore, Karnataka
» Consecrated In : 1268 A.D
» Built By : Somnath
» Dedicated To : Lord Keshava
Temples in Karnataka
» Badami Cave Temple
» Somnathpur Temple
more Temples in South India
"There is a stillness and everlastingness about the past, it changes not and has a touch of eternity," wrote Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru in his "Discovery of India." These words somehow hold true when one arrives at Somnathpur, a tiny village on the banks of the Kaveri, 140 kms, south-west of Bangalore. Here in this everlasting rural stillness, like a milestone to eternity, stood one of the last and the grandest of Hoysala monuments - the Kesava Temple built 740 years ago.
By the year 1268 A.D., the year in which the Kesava temple at Somnathpur was built, the Hoysala rule had completed 260 years. The riches and splendour of the Hoysala court were already evident in their grand temples at Belur and Dvarasamudra (present day, Halebid).
In the dust and turmoil of history, India was witnessing the Golden Age of the mighty Cholas, Pandyas and the Hoysalas. The last named dynasty which ruled Karnataka for nearly 350 years, was founded in 1006 A.D., soon after the collapse of the Ganga Dynasty.
Coming to the temple at Somnathpur, one need not search far for its history. An inscribed stone slab, in old Kannada, at the entrance says it all. The reigning monarch was Narasimha III (1254-91 A.D.) whose full regal title runs into a sizeable paragraph: "Sri Vishnuvaradhana, Pratapa Chakravarti, Hoysala Bhujabala, Sri Vira Narasimha, Maharajadhiraja, Raja Paramesvara, Sanivarasiddhi, Giridurgamalla etc.
The Temple
The temple, however, was not built by the king but by his celebrated army commander, Somnath. Some year ago he had founded a village on the left bank of the Kaveri River, which he named Somnathpur, after himself. Now in a bid for further immortality, Somnath petitioned the king to grand him the permission and resources for his project of setting up a grand temple to glorify Hoysala craftsmanship.
Soon work began. The best sculptors in the realm were commissioned for the task. There came sculptors whose wizardry with the hammer and chisel was almost legendary. Among them was the famous Mallitamma. Then there were sculptors: Ballayya, Chaudayya, Bharmayya, Kamayya and the Nanjayya. Of the 194 carved images on the outer walls, Mallitamma's contribution was forty. We know this because all the sculptors have signed their works - a practice unusual for its times, but also evident in Hoysala temples at Belur and Halebid.
The king not only bestowed Somnath with his largesse, but also sanctioned an annual grant of 3,000 gold coins for the temple's upkeep and maintenance. All these facts are duly mentioned on the slab and appear as though to have happened yesterday!
Interestingly, the earliest Hoysala monarchs were Jains. It was the great Vishnuvardhana (1108-42) who embraced Vaishnavism under the influence of the celebrated Vaishnava reformer Ramanuja. Later Hoysala rulers even became Saivites. But general tolerance of all faiths was typical of their rule. The Hoysala Dynasty finally came to an end around 1346 A.D. when the Vijayanagar Empire rose to power. Today Somnathpur is like any other Lackadaisical Indian village surrounded by farms of millet and sugarcane. Not as famous as Belur and Halebid, the Hoysala temple at Somnathpur, however, is truly unique in design, perfect in symmetry and the stone carvings are remarkable marvels in stone.
For the inscription on the stone slab, it becomes fairly evident that the magnificent temple was completed and consecrated in 1268 A.D. The shrine stands in the middle of a walled compound, around which runs an open verandah with 64 cells. The temple itself, stellar in shape, has three profusely carved pinnacles with a common Navranga and stands on a raised platform. The three sanctums once housed beautifully carved idols of Kesava, Janardhana and Venugopala. Today the idol of Lord Kesava is missing, but the other two still adorn the sanctums in their original form.
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» Location : Badami, Karnataka
» Depicting : Various Mythological Characters
» Known For : Cave Temples
Temples in Karnataka
» Badami Cave Temple
» Somnathpur Temple
more Temples in South India
The capital of the Early Chalukyas, Badami is picturesquely situated at the mouth of a ravine between two rocky hills, Badami is famous for its cave temples - all hewn out of sand stone on the precipice of a hill.
Badami is an interesting place to visit in Karnataka what with its artificial lake, ancient temples, Museum and Hindu and Jain caves carved in the Sandstone hills. The largest and most ornamental is the third cave temple dedicated to Vishnu.
Overlooking the cave temples is a reservoir dotted with temples dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva. Also a must are the Bhutanath temples that lend their name to the lake beneath the cave temples. The main attractions of Badami are the caves found there. The caves found here are as follows:
Cave 1 : The first cave made of red sandstone, dates back to 578 A.D. and was probably the first to be carved. One has to climb up 40 odd steps to reach the colonnaded verandah, a hall with numerous pillars and a square shaped sanctum hollowed in the control back wall.
Column shafts are masterfully crafted. On the ceiling one can see the paintings of amorous couples. Shiva and his consort Parvati, and a coiled serpent. The 18-armed lord Nataraja can be seen in 81 dancing poses.
Cave 2 : Dedicated to lord Vishnu depicted here as a dwarf or 'Trivikrama' of awesome dimensions with one foot mastering the Earth and the other the sky, the second cave is atop a sandstone hill.
Vishnu here is depicted as a dwarf or. Another form of Vishnu portrayed here is as 'Varaha' or as a boar. Then there is a frieze endearingly depicting Vishnu as Lord Krishna.
Cave 3 : Still going higher up one comes across this cave antedating 578 A.D. The facade of the cave is nearly 70 feet wide, on the plinth one can see the carvings of ganas. The sheer artistry and sculptural genius makes this cave the highlight of Deccan art.
It gives a virtual insight into the art and culture of the 6th century like costumes, jewelry hairstyle lifestyle etc. The other attractions to be looked carefully in this cave are the high relief of Vishnu with a serpent, Vishnu as Narasimha (Vishnu as Man-Lion) Varaha, Harihara (Shiva Vishnu) and Vishnu as Trivikrama.
Cave 4 : The only Jain cave, the construction of Cave four started in the 6th century and completed after nearly 100 years later then the earlier three caves.
Here one can see the carvings of the Tirthankara Parshavnatha with a serpent at his feet; Mahavira in a sitting posture also can be seen in the shrine.
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» Location : 45-km From Chennai, Tamil Nadu
» Presiding Deity : Lord Subramanya
» Significance : One of the 33 Major Temples Of Lord Muruga In Tamil Nadu
» Festivals Celebrated : Skanda Sashti In October-November, Margazhi Tiruvadirai, And Navaratri
Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India
Tirupporur (place of the sacred war) is one of the 33 major temples of Tamil Nadu dedicated to Lord Muruga, situated 25-km away from Chingleput and 45-kmfrom Chennai. Tirrupporur is an ancient temple dating back to the Pallava period.
Tirupporur is known by different names like Poriyur or Yuddhapuri or Samarapuri. It is believed that after vanquishing Soorapadman at Tiruchendur, Skanda destroyed the rest of the demons at Tirupporur.
History Of The Temple
Inscriptions dating back to the early 10th century as well as from the period of Vikrama Chola of the 12th century can bee seen in the temple. Tirupporur flourished but faded into oblivion for some time.
But Tirupporur was rediscovered and renovated by Chidambara Swamigal in the middle of the seventeenth century. Tirupporur was who is said to be a descendant of one of the poets of the "Tamil Sangam" of Madurai. Previously this place was a forest covered totally by Palmyra trees.
The image of the Lord Muruga (also spelt as Murugan) is believed to be as "Swayambhu Murti", which lay covered up by an anthill. Chidambara Swamigal is said to have discovered the image of 'Skanda' in the anthill, and then rebuilt the temple and reinstalled the image.
The temple was later on looked after by the decedents of Chidambara Swamigal and brought it to the present day fame.
The Legend
There are many legends related to Tirupporur according to one, Lord Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi were subjected to the curse of Kanva rishi. In order to liberate them from its effects Lord Shiva came to this place and relieved them from its effects.
Hence Tirupporur temple has a lot of significance where Lord Shiva and his son Muruga (also spelt as Murugan) are worshipped. The Sthalapurana also discloses that Lord Muruga with his consorts Valli and Devayanai granted protection to devas and expounded the meaning of Pranava to Agastya Muni at this place.
According to legend, Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Legend also has it that Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava Hill. Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as "Vanmeekeswara" to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman. Another legend has it that Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Lord Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava hill.
Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as Vanmeekeswara to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman.
About The Temple
This temple enshrines Skanda in several forms relating to legends from the Skanda Puranam. The foremost of these is the depiction of Skanda as a warrior, "Samhara Subramanya". He is also enshrined in the form of a child, expounding the meaning of the oneness of creation Om to his father Lord Shiva.
On the eastern side of the temple is sanctum sanctorum wherein one can see the 'Palmyra' tree and the anthill under it wherein is "Kanda Perumal" with "Valli" and "Devayanai" on a small Peetha. Chidambara Swamigal used to perform Abhishekam to these images. The image of the lord in the anthill is covered with Kavacha and other jewels but no Abhishekam (also spelt as Abhisheka) is performed for this deity.
There is a 24-pillared hall and a 30-pillared circular hall in this temple. There is a shrine to "Vembadi Vinayaka" under a Neem tree. The two sacred Teerthams (also spelt as Teerthas or Theertahs), "Saravana Poigai" and "Valliyar Odai" are on the southern side of the temple. On the eastern side of the Teerthams, there is a Mandapam of four pillars. There is also another Teertham by name "Pranavamritam".
Services And Festivities
The deity is offered four worship services each day. Skanda Sashti is celebrated in the month of Aippasi (October-November). Other festivals that are celebrated over here include "Margazhi Tiruvadirai" and "Navaratri".
Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the hotels in Chennai or at the small hotels in Chengalpattu. Being the capital city of the state, Chennai is well equipped with various kinds of accommodation options, varying from economic class to luxurious ones.
How to Get There
Air : Nearest airport is Meenambakkam in Chennai; it operates both national and international flights.
Rail : The nearest railway station is at Chennai, which is a major junction.
Road : Tourists can access Tirupporurur by road either from Chennai or Chengalpattu. Private taxis and regular buses ply from Chennai and Chengalpattu to Tirupporurur.
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Features:
Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.
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The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.
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» Location : Madurai, Tamil Nadu
» Deity Worshipped : Lord Somasundara (Lord Shiva) And Goddess Meenakshi
» Built By : The Pandyan King, Kulasekhara
» Festivals Celebrated : Meenakshi Kalyanam In April-May And The Teppam Festival
Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India
Madurai or "the city of nectar" is the oldest and second largest city of Tamil Nadu. This city is located on Vaigai River and was the capital of Pandyan rulers. The Pandyan king, Kulasekhara had built a gorgeous temple around which he created a lotus shaped city. It has been a center of learning and pilgrimage, for centuries. Legend has it, that the divine nectar falling from Lord Shiva's locks, gave the city its name - 'Madhurapuri', now known as "Madurai".
The Origin Of The Meenakshi Temple
The Sri Meenakshi Sundareswara temple and Madurai city originated together. According to tradition, Indra once committed sin when he killed a demon, who was then performing penance. He could find no relief from remorse in his own kingdom. He came down to earth. While passing through a forest of Kadamba trees in Pandya land, he felt relieved of his burden. His servitors told him that there was a Shivalinga under a Kadamba tree and beside a lake. Certain that it was the Linga that had helped him; he worshipped it and built a small temple around it. It is believed that it is this Linga, which is till under worship in the Madurai temple. The shrine is called the "Indra Vimana".
When the next Pandya, Malayadhvaja, and his queen, Kanchanamala, performed a sacrifice for a child, Lord Shiva caused Goddess Parvati Herself to step out of the fire as a little girl. She had three breasts. Lord Shiva told the couple that the third breast would disappear when she set eyes on he who was to be her husband. They were to name her "Thadathagai" and bring her up as if she were a boy.
Once Dhananjaya, a merchant of Manavur, where the Pandyas had arrived after the second deluge in Kumari Kandam, having been overtaken by nightfall in Kadamba forest, spent the night in the Indra Vimana. When next morning he woke up, he was surprised to see signs of worship. Thinking that it must be the work of the Devas, he told the Pandya, Kulasekhara, in Manavur, of this. Meanwhile Lord Shiva had instructed Pandya in a dream to build a temple and a city at the spot Dhananjaya would indicate. Kulasekhara did so. Thus originated the temple and city.
She succeeded her father to the throne at his death. She gained many military victories. Finally she marched on Kailasa itself. When she saw Lord Shiva, her third breast disappeared. The Lord told her to return to Madurai and said that He would marry her there. The divine marriage was celebrated. This is the theme much beloved of Madurai artists. There is a superb sculpture of this in the temple. The crowning of Meenakshi, for She was the same as Thadathagai, is celebrated as a festival in the temple.
The Lord performed many miracles at the wedding. These are described in a celebrated poem, the "Tiruviayadal Puranam". Under the name of "Sundara Pandya", the Lord ruled the land as a mortal. After sometime, crowning Lord Muruga, their son, who was named "Ugra Pandya", Sundara Pandya and Thadathagai went into the temple and assumed divine forms as "Lord Somasundara" and "Goddess Meenakshi" respectively.
About The Temple
While the temple originated in times to which no date can be assigned, the structures that are standing today date mostly from the twelfth to the eighteenth century. They occupy a vast space, 258 m by 241m. There are the two main shrines, no less than twelve Gopuras, a tank and innumerable Mandapas. At every turn there is superb sculpture, magnificent architecture.
Earliest References Of The Temple
Paranjothi Munivar wrote the Tiruviayadal Puranam in the sixteenth century. It is regarded as the temple's Sthalapurana. An earlier work adds a few celestial sports not included in the latter. These are, or rather were painted on the walls around the Golden Lily Tank. Some of the painted wooden panels are in the Temple Museum.
In the 14th century an invasion by Malik Kafur damaged the temple. In the same century Madurai was under Muslim rule for nearly fifty years. The temple authorities closed the sanctum, covered up the Linga, and set up another in the Ardhamandapa. When the city was liberated, the sanctum was opened, and, tradition says the flower garlands and the sandalwood paste placed on the Linga were as fresh as on the first day, and two oil lamps were still burning.
The earliest references available to any structure in this temple is a hymn of Sambhandar's, in the seventh century, which refers to the "Kapali Madil". The present inner walls of the Lords shrine bear this name today. In the early times the entire temple must have been confined to the area between these walls, and the structures must have been of brick and mortar.
Mudali Pillai Mandapa
The Mudali Pillai Mandapa follows the Chitra Gopura. Added in 1613, it is 183m long and 7.6m wide. On its wall are many puranic scenes. It used to be without any natural light, but windows were added in the last renovation.
The Golden Lily Tank
The lovely and historic Golden Lily tank then comes into view. It is from its banks that most popular photographic views of the temple are taken, showing the gigantic south outer Gopura. The northern corridor leads directly to the shrine of the Goddess. On its pillars are the images of some of the Sangam poets, of Kulasekhara Pandya, the first builder of the temple, and of Dhananjaya, who figures in the traditional story of its origin. There is no fish in the tank.
The corridors around the tank are rightly called the "Chitra Mandapa", for the walls carry paintings of the divine sports of the Lord, as narrated in the "Tiruvilayadal Puranam". They have been renewed from time to time. A short while ago there were paintings on wooden panels affixed over an older series. They have since been removed to the Temple Museum in the thousand-pillared Mandapa, leaving some dilapidated murals to view. It is impossible to ascertain the date of these.
It was in the sixteenth century that the corridors and the steps leading down to the tank were constructed; the northern corridor and steps in 1562, those on the east in 1573, and those on the south five years later.
Samagam Meenakshi Naicker Mandapa
A smaller Mandapa connects the large one with another large one with another large hall, called the "Samagam Meenakshi Naicker Mandapa", after its builder, a minister of Vijayaranga Chokkanatha (1706-32), who erected in 1707. In former times the temple's elephants camels and bulls used to be stabled here. A brass "Tiruvatchi" holding a thousand and eight lamps stands here, 7.6m high. Marudu Pandya, one of the early opponents of the growing British power, installed it.
The Meenakshi Naicker Mandapa is a huge hall, 42.9m long and 33.5m wide. It contains 110 stone columns, each 6.7m high. There are yalis in the capital and delicate reliefs below. Some of the carvings are unfinished.
The "Chitra Gopura", its name amply justified by its exquisite sculptures, 740 in number, stands over the entrance from this Mandapa into the shrine complex of the Goddess. It could have been the original entrance into the sanctum. Over seven tiers, and 35.6m high, it is the tallest of those over the shrine of the Goddess. It was built about 1570 by Kalatthi Mudaliar, a son of Aryanatha Mudaliar, who helped Vishwanatha Nayak, the founder of the Madurai Nayak dynasty, to consolidate his power. He rose from poverty and obscurity to the highest post after the Nayak. There are equestrian statues of him in two places in the temple, in the Pudumandapa and in the thousand-pillared hall. The Gopura was extensively renovated in 1960-63.
Ashta Sakthi Mandapa
It is a convention in this temple, different from that followed in others, that the devotee offers worship first to Goddess Meenakshi. Therefore, while there are four other entrances into the temple, under huge Gopuras in the four cardinal directions, it is customary to enter not through any of them but through a Mandapa, with no tower above it. This entrance leads directly to the shrine of the Goddess.
An interesting story is told of what an artist did in 1923 when adding some paintings there. In one of these depicting the coronation of Goddess Meenakshi, he included a figure of Mahatma Gandhi. The British authorities ordered that it be removed. What the artist did was to add to the lasting oil painting long locks of hair in watercolour so that a sage resulted. But shortly after, the locks disappeared and Gandhiji re-merged.
This Mandapa is an impressive structure, with a hemispherical ceiling. It is 14m long and 5.5m wide. There are bas-reliefs all over the place. Over the entrance one of them depicts the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi with Lord Somasundara. The Mandapa derives its name, the "Ashta Sakthi", from the fact it contains sculptures of the eight Sakthis (also spelt as Shakti). Those of the four principal Nyanmars were added during renovation of the temple in 1960-63.
Queen Rudrapathi Ammal and Queen Tholiammal, consorts of Tirumalai Nayak (1623-1659) erected the Mandapam. Tirumalai, the greatest of the Nayaks of Madurai, who were originally viceroys of the Vijayanagar Rayas, but who later made themselves virtually independent, was the grandest builder in the history of the temple and the city. Formerly, pilgrims used to be fed in this Mandapa.
The Unjal And Kilikatti Mandapas
Two Mandapas, the Unjal and the Kilikatti, stand on the farther way to the shrine of the Goddess. On their ceilings are more paintings. A celebrated mural, opposite to the entrance of the shrine, depicts the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi. The Kilikatti Mandapa derives its name from the fact that there are parrots in a cage here. On its walls are carvings of the divine sports. The most ornamental of the temple's Mandapas, it was built in 1623.
Near the flagstaff is a six-pillared structure, which is of historic interest. A famous poet, Kumaragurubarar, composed verses in praise of the Goddess at the request of Tirumalai Nayak. He recited the work in this part of the temple with Tirumalai present. As he was doing so, a little girl walked upto the Nayak, took a pearl necklace from his neck, gave it to the poet and disappeared. She was the Goddess Meenakshi Herself. There is a stone bell on the ceiling of the Mukhamandapa. The entire shrine measures 68.5m by 45.7m.
A Gopura of three tiers stands over the entrance from this Mandapa into the shrine of the Goddess. Built in 1227 by Vambathura Ananda Tandava Nambi, it is named the Vambuthurar Gopura after him. The shrine consists of a square sanctum, an Ardhamandapa and a Mukhamandapa. In the niches on the walls of the shrine are images of Iccasakthi in the south, Kriyasakthi in the west, and Jnanasakthi in the north. There are shrines of Vinayaka and Subramanya in the outer Prakara. They probably belong to the fifteenth century.
On the way to the Lord's shrine from here there are two Gopuras, the Nadu Kattu over the doorway leading from the Kilikatti Mandapa, and the Gopuranayaka, which rises above the actual entrance into the shrine. Each is of five storeys and perhaps belongs to the mid-sixteenth century.
Beyond the former, facing south, is a huge image of Lord Vinayaka, engagingly the "Mukkuruni Vinayaka" from the fact that a single enormous edible, the "Kozhukattai", made from 34 kg of rice, is offered to Him on Vinayaka Chaturthi Day. There is a tradition that the image was discovered when Tirumalai Nayak was digging the beautiful tank on the outskirts of the city, called the "Vandiyur Teppakulam" .
The Kambathadi Mandapa
The Kambathadi Mandapa, which contains the flagstaffs of the Lord's shrine, has, besides some of the most striking baroque sculpture in the country. It was originally built by Krishna Veerappa Nayak (1572-95) and renovated in 1877 by the Nagarattars, a class of Chettiars, who have built and renovated many a fane in Tamil Nadu.
This Mandapa encloses the Nandi shrine, two flagstaffs and the balipitha, has eight monolithic columns, which carry huge sculptures of the Lord in various forms. These includes Somasundara, the Protector of Markandeya, Nataraja, Chandrasekhara, Ardhanariswara, Dakshinamurti, Bikshatana, Somaskanda,Rudra, Ekapadamurti and Rshbaruda. There are also the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. It is here that the celebrated sculpture of Goddess Meenakshi's marriage is to be found. On either side of the entrance there are imposing monoliths of Bhadrakali, Agora Virabhadra, Agni Virabhadra and Urdhatandava. A carved ceiling made of a single stone covers the Nandi shrine.
Over the entrance into the shrine stands a Gopura of three storeys. It was originally built by a Pandya in 1168 and, therefore, is one of the oldest surviving structures in the temple. Flanking the entrance are huge dwarapalkas, each 3.6m high, made of a single stone each, and standing on a pedestal about 1.5m high.
The shrine is a square of 10.4m. Eight elephants, thirty-two lions and sixty-four sportive dwarfs support its base. On its outer walls there are prominent niches on the three sides, each projecting 1.8m. In the south there is Dakshinamurti in the west Lingodbhava, and in the north Durga. These niches are so big as to be small shrines. Stone elephants about 3m high flank each of them. There is always a concourse of worshippers in front of the Durga image. The Vimana above the sanctum is of three storeys. The Sikhara is plated with gold.
In front of the shrine there are successively an Antarala, an Ardhamandapa, a Mukhamandapa and a Mahamandapa so that this is virtually a temple by itself. The whole measures 128m by 94.5m. There are two Prakaras and five Gopuras. The outer walls are called the "Sundara Pandya Madil" and the inner ones, which measure 76.2m by 47.5m, the "Kapali Madil". The latter is referred to by Sambandar in the 7th century.
Thousand Pillared Mandapa
Among the other Mandapas in the temple is the celebrated thousand pillared one. Aryanatha Mudaliar, who bestrides a horse at the entrance, erected it in 1569. Measuring 76.2m by 73m, it contains 985 pillars. The central nave leads to a shrine of Lord Sabapati. On every pillar there are sculptures. These are varied iconographic interest. Among themselves they make a veritable pantheon. On the ceiling near the entrance there is a wheel, which gives the cycle of sixty years of Tamil calendar. Fergusson calls the Mandapa "The wonder of the place".
West of it is a small Mandapa added during the renovation of 1960-63. It commemorates Sambandar's reclamation of the Pandya to Hinduism. It contains a Linga and images of 'Sambandar', 'Mangayarkarasi', 'Kulachirayar' and 'Kun Pandya'. The second was the queen, the third the minister of the Pandya.
The Historic Shrines In The Prakaras
There are a number of historic shrines in the Prakaras. Opposite to an entrance into the first from the Mahamandapa there is one of Lord Sabhapathi. This is the famous Velliambalam where one of the Lord's divine sports took place when, at the request of the sages, Patanjali and Vyagrapadha, He danced as Lord Nataraja.
In the second Prakara a shrine, now called that of the Sangam poets, contains images of many of them. In the same Prakara there is a shrine apparently dedicated to Kariyamanikka Perumal, but now empty. Also in the same Prakara there is a row of fourteen small shrines, called the "isvarams". Many of them contain Lingas.
The Pudumandapa
Near the east outer Gopura stands the celebrated Pudumandapa. Built by Tirumalai Nayak between 1626 and 1633, it is a large hall, 100m by 32m, and contains a hundred and twenty four pillars. These magnificent columns carry bold reliefs. There are equestrians and yalis on the outer pillars, while at the centre there are portraits of ten Nayaks from Viswanatha, the first of them to Tirumalai.
There are, besides, some of the Tiruvilayadal scenes, the wedding of Goddess Meenakshi, Goddess Meenakshi as Thadathagai, and Ekapadamurti, among other themes. At the western end there is a canopied Mandapa, the Vasanta, where the images of the Lord and the Goddess are brought on certain festival occasions.
The Kalyanamandapa
The Kalyanamandapa, built by Vijayaranga Chokkanatha (who stands here in effigy) in the first decade on the eighteenth century, contains much excellent woodwork. It was originally open on all sides. In the center is a large platform, where annually the marriage of the Lord and the Goddess is celebrated. On two of the walls are two huge paintings of the "two worlds" of Hindu cosmogony, each about 1.8m in diameter.
The Gopuras Of The Temple
The Gopuras Of The Temple The four outer Gopuras in the four directions are marvellous works of art. They are of perfect proportions, though they were built at different time and though, moreover, they have been repaired and renovated from time to time. The Gopuras of Tamil Nadu, by themselves, form a chapter in the history of Indian Art. Some of the brightest pages are due to the towers of Madurai.
The West Gopura
The west Gopura was built in the fourteenth century, a troubled period in the history of the temple and the city following the Muslim invasions. It is difficult to believe that a venture of this magnitude could have been possible in that time of travail. But the sources of information are clear. They attribute the Gopura to a Parakrama Pandya. There were many kings of that name in the century. Since the famous Pandya crest of two carps appears on this Gopura, it may be accepted that the Pandyas did build it. This was their swan song in the temple, which will always be associated with their piety, munificence and glory. It is 48m high, rising on a base that is 31m by 14m. Like the three other Gopuras, it is of nine tiers.
The Southern Gopura
The most beautiful and the most artistic of the four, the southern, frequently photographed for its lovely eminence over the Golden Lily Tank, is also the tallest, 49m. Its stone base measures 32.9m by 20.4m. The tower sweeps in a graceful curve. It was built about the middle of the sixteenth century by Siramalai Sevvanthi Murti Chettiar, a scion of a family of Tiruchi, which has contributed much to the temple.
The Northern Gopura
The latest in date is the northern Gopura, which was built by Krishna Veerappa Nayak (1564-72). For some reason, it was without a Sikhara and was not plastered. Therefore, it was called the "Mottai" Gopura. The deficiencies were supplied in renovation about the end of the last century.
Such an ancient and renowned fane has attracted considerable literature and many beautiful traditions, apart from those narrated above. It is said for example Rous Peter, a Collector in the early decades of the last century, was so beloved of the people that they called him "Peter Pandya". Every day he would go round the temple on horseback. One night when he was asleep, there was heavy rain. A little girl woke him up and beckoned him outside his house. The girl then vanished. Peter, convinced that She was Goddess Meenakshi, presented valuable jewels to the temple.
Mariamman Teppakulam
Connected with the temple is the lovely tank called the "Mariamman Teppakulam", about 3 km to the east. It measures 345m by 290m, and has steps leading down to the water. In the center is a towered Mandapa, with four smaller Mandapas around it. The tank was excavated and the Mandapas built by Tirumalai Nayak. On his birthday a float festival of the images of the Lord and the Goddess is celebrated. On the other side of the road there is a famous Mariamman temple.
Other Temples In Madurai
§ Azhagar Koil
Located 21 km. northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu temple located on a picturesque wooded hill. Here Lord Vishnu presides as Meenakshi's brother 'Azhagar'. It is one of the few temples in the country built in tiers. The tower consists of 3 tiers depicting Lord Vishnu in 3 postures, sitting, standing and reclining. The shadow of the Vimanam never falls on the ground.
On entering the temple, one can see the life-size sculptures carved in the stone Mandapam built by Tirumalai Naicken. These are similar to those found in Madurai temple. The deity is known as "Kalazhagar" as he is the household deity of the Kallas, a low caste people.
Major Festivals Celebrated in Madurai
§ Meenakshi Kalyanam At Madurai
The annual solemnization of the marriage of Meenakshi with Lord Sundareshwar (Shiva) is one of the most spectacular temple festivals at Madurai's famous Meenakshi temple in Tamil Nadu. Car processions of the goddess and the god are some of the colourful features of this festival.
Meenaskhi Kalyanam, the wedding festival of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar is celebrated for twelve days from the second day of the lunar month (i.e. two days after the new moon). This is a spectacular festival celebrated in the month of Chaitra (April-May).
The festival is characterized with royal decorated umbrellas, fans and traditional instrumental music. Scenes from mythology are enacted and the deities of Lord Shiva, Goddess Shakti and Goddess Meenakshi are taken out in a colourful procession. Thousands of devotees from all over the country gather in the city of Madurai on this occasion.
Places to stay in Madurai, Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the luxurious, moderate class and small budgeted hotels, devasthanam cottages, lodges, and dharmashalas in Madurai.
How to Get There
Air : Madurai is connected by air with Mumbai and Chennai. Madurai airport is 10-km away from the city.
Rail : Madurai has direct rail connections to Bangalore, Coimbatore, Kollam, Chennai, Rameshwaram, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli, Tirupathi and Tuticorin.
Road : There are excellent roads connecting Madurai to all parts of South India. Madurai city has 5 Major Bus Stands- Periyar Bus Stand, Anna Bus Stand, Palanganatham Bus Stand, Arapalayam Bus Stand, Mattuthavani Bus Stand. From Madurai town buses, suburban buses, taxis, auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available to reach the temple.
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» Location : Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
» Presiding Deity : Lord Kumbeswara
» Presiding Goddess : Sri Mangalambigai
» Festivals Celebrated : Mahamaham Festival
Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India
This is the largest and the oldest Shiva temple located in the center of the town of Kumbakonam. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Kumbeswara and the presiding Goddess is Sri Mangalambigai. There is a shrine dedicated to Adi Vinayaka (Lord Ganesh).
The temple contains some wonderful pieces of sculpture and architecture. Its main Gopuram is 128 feet high and has many intricately carved sculptures on it. On a single block of stone in the Navarathri Mandapam all the 27 stars and 12 Rasis or Rashis (signs) have been carved out. The image of Lord Subrahmanya, enshrined in the part of the temple, is a rare specimen. It has six heads but only six hands holding different kinds of weapons. There is an excellent collection of silver vahanas (palanquins) used to carry the deities at festival times.
History Of The Temple
A Chola King built the temple and the temple building itself would seem to have been renovated by the Nayak King. Some of the old images like "Sri Ambal", "Sri Durgaiamman" and "Sri Kirathamoorti" bear the impress of the antiquity about them.
Legend Connected With The Temple
Tradition goes to say that during the 'Mahapralaya' (GreatFloods) after Dwaparayuga, a 'Kumbam' (Pot) full of amirtham and seeds for creation was set afloat by Lord Shiva. It was proclaimed by Shiva Himself that the place where the pot touched theground and had its rest would be considered as the holiest places in the world.
The nectar settled at two places one of which became the famous Mahamaham Tank. Out of the pieces of the broken pot Lord Shiva made out a ShivaLinga and entered into it. This is now enshrined in the temple, and hence the name Adi Kumbeswara, meaning - one who entered the Kumba or vessel long long ago.
Since the said Kumbam, as announced by the creator of the world, had its rest in this place, this ancient place is named as "Kumbakonam" after that Kumbam. Immediately after its rest Lord Shiva appeared in the guise of a hunter and broke thesaid Kumbam full of Amirtham with his arrow.
It is to be noted that this MahaLinga unlike other Lingas found in other temples, is not made of granite stone and as such Abishekams cannot be performed with watery substances lest it should dissolve the shape of the Linga (also spelt as lingam).
The Saivaite Saints, Appar and Sambandhar who flourished prior to the 7th century AD has sung devotional songs (Thevarams) in praise of the presiding deities of the temple.
The idol of Kirathamoorti is a special feature in the temple and it is a standing monument to commemorate the incidence that, Lord Shiva Himself has created the present MahaLinga.
Festivities
The great Mahamaham festival celebrated in honour of Lord attracts lakhs of people from far and wide and it takes place once in 12 years. It is celebrated on the conjunction of the moon with the Mahanakshatra and Jupiter crosses one Rasi or sign in about one year. It comes to Simha Rasi or Leo every 13th year and it is considered specially sacred. It is believed that on this auspicious day the tank receives supplies of water from the Ganges and eight other holy rivers and all the deities are said to remain present here on that occasion.
The Lord has a number of festivals round the year. Every year in the month of 'Maasi' (February-March) a festival is conducted and the image of Lord Kumbeswara is taken out in a procession. It is celebrated for 10 days during that period.
Others include, Theppam festival during Panguni (March - April), Sapthathanam during Chitirai month (April - May). During this festival Lord's idol will be carried in a palanquin to the nearby villages. Marriage festival for Lord Adikumbeswara and Goddess Mangalambigai is conducted in the month of 'Vaikasi' (May - June). Daily pujas are conducted six times from morning to evening.
Temple Timings
The temple is kept open from 5:30 in the morning and stays so till 12:00 in the noon. The temple usually remains closed during the noon hours, and reopens in the evening at 4:00 p.m. The temple closes in the night after the last pujas are performed by 8:00 p.m.
Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the ecomomy class hotels, lodges, and devasthanam cottages in Kumbakonam.
How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Trichy (95-km).
Rail : Kumbakonam is well connected by rail with the major towns and cities of the state.
Road : Kumbakonam is just five and a half hours drive from Chennai and two and half hours drive from Trichy.
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Features:
Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.
Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.
Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.
The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.
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» Location : About 6 Miles From Tirunelveli Town, Tamil Nadu
» Deity Worshipped : Venkatachalapati
» Known For : Sculptural Beauty
Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India
Krishnapuram is a small village in Tirunelveli district at a distance of about six miles from Tirunelveli town. In spite of the innumerable and wonderful temples in Tamil Nadu, Krishnapuram's temple holds its own, as far as sculptural splendour goes. Astonishing is the fact that 300 years later, the figures look alive and young. Interestingly, the Arulnigu Venkatachalapati temple houses statues of deities, as well as scenes from court life. Some of its pillars emanate interesting sounds, when tapped.
Veerappa Naick Mandapam
There is a Mandapam known as "Veerappa Naick Mandapam" on the northern side of the temple. There are two beautifully carved elephants adorning the entrance of this Mandapam. The six pillars at the centre of the Mandapam bear images of exquisite beauty depicting scenes from the Puranas.
Any visitor will be impressed by the dexterity with which each image in the Mandapam has been carved out. They are so life-like and their features and expressions so natural and real that a person will be under the impression that he is actually in front of living beings. Such beautiful idols can hardly be seen elsewhere. The stone for carving out the idols has been selected with such care that they produce melodious musical sounds when struck at different places. There are many good images of ingenious and rare workmanship in the Mandapam, which is just opposite the presiding deity.
Temple Of Lord Venkatachalapati
Lord Venkatachalapati has been installed here with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. Pujas and abhishekam are being conducted to the Lord daily and some important festivals are celebrated every year. There are a good number of images and idols of sculptural interest in the temple, attracting hundreds of visitors.
Representation Of A Princess And A Prince Being Abducted By A Kuravan And A Kuratti
There is another pillar containing the representation of a princess and a prince being abducted by a Kuravan and a Kuratti (gypsies) write nouns in caps, while an irate king or minister gives an angry chase and rescues them. The princess sits serene on the shoulders of the gypsy as if expecting rescue at any moment. The charger on one side of the pillar is depicted as if it would leap into life any moment under the whip of its rider. A lance has pierced the kuravan on his left flank and the blood flowing from the wound is represented in a red shade of stone.
The whole body of the man is twisted in an agony of pain. It is a marvel where the, sculptor got a model for his work. The other side of the pillar shows the princess's mother consulting a female palmist. The curves of the feminine body, its dress and ornaments have been depicted in luscious glory and with pointed attention to detail.
The same affectionate care has been bestowed upon the statue of Rati (Goddess of Love), the eternal beauty, full of an entirely human vanity, admiring herself and bearing a look of mixed self-satisfaction and serene contentment.
Representation Of The Story Of The Adventure Of Bhimasena With Purushamrigam
One of the pillars represents the story of the adventure of Bhimasena with Purushamrigam. To fulfill the ritual at an important yaga, Yudhishthira required the milk of Purushamrigam, a half-man, half-beast denizen of the forests, this creature is a devoted Shiva bhakta and Bhimasena achieved his purpose when it was in deep penance. But it's highly developed mental faculties found out the desecration committed by Bhima and it gave an angry chase.
Lord Krishna, without whom Pandavas would have been nothing, handed Bhima three stones, each of which was cast by him one after another. At each stone, a Shiva shrine sprang up and consequently Purushamrigam, being a sensitive Shiva bhakta, paused to offer worship to Lord Shiva and was consequently delayed in the pursuit of Bhima.
In spite of these efforts, the Pandava prince was captured when, with one foot already out of the forest, he was about to reach civilization again. Bhima could not escape the powerful grip of Purushamrigam and they both entered into an argument of jurisdiction and Purushamrigam, oddly enough consented to an arbitration of the dispute by Yudhishthira.
The latter took the responsibility for the whole act, granted the creature's right to act as it pleased in the forest region, and offered half his body in lieu of that part of Bhima's which was within the jungle when he was caught. Deeply touched by the devotion of Yudhishthira to Dharma, Purushamrigam freed Bhima and changed its cannibal.
Representations On Other Pillars
Karna (of Mahabharata) is shown in another pillar. A monkey is sitting on the shoulders of a beggar who is playing with it. On the other side there is a beautiful girl with a parrot in her hand.
A girl is dancing with a bouquet in her right palm and a fruit in her left palm. A knight is lying at her feet with a sword in his hand and a gypsy is sitting by her side with snakes around him. On the other side of this pillar, two lovers are found to be making gestures of love to each other.
Crowning another pillar is a remarkable carving combining an elephant and a bull. On the left is seen the tusker with its trunk raised, while on the right is the bull. The eyes are common, the lip of the elephant corresponds with the ear of the bull and the lifted trunk forms the hump of the bull. The two figures are thus interlocked in a clever composition of a tricky picture.
Representation Of Arjuna With A Flowing Beard Performing Penance With Bow And Arrow In His Hands
There is also another pillar with Arjuna with a flowing beard performing penance with bow and arrow in his hands. Though a monk, the representation impresses it with an appearance of a great and powerful knight.
the other side of the pillar, a sage is shown to be molesting a lady who, out of anger, is pulling down his beard. A lady is carrying away a handsome prince and an old lady with a sword in her hand is attacking a man who has been caught between her legs.
Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the moderate class and small budgeted hotels and lodges in Tirunelveli.
How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Madurai, at a distance of 151-km.
Rail : The nearest railway station is at Tirunelveli, which is an important railway junction on the southern railway and is well connected to all major cities within and beyond the state.
Road : A good network of roads serves Tirunelveli. From Tirunelveli, there are regular buses to the temple. Taxis are also available.
Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi
Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.
Features:
Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.
Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.
Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.
The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.
Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com
Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com
More Usefull Links Regading Hotel And Service Apartments Of Hotel Palm Greensservice apartmentsHotelservicedapartmentservices ProfileLink ExchangeEnquiry Regarding StayPal Groups Travel Board
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