59

CHAPTER- II

TEMPLES OF TIRUCHIRAPPALLI DISTRICT

Tiruchirappalli District, covers a total area of 11,127.82 sq.k.ms and has

a population of 41, 38,048 as per the census of 1991.1

Around 72% of the

people are educated.2

The Uchchi Pillaiyar temple situated, at the top of the hill of 273 feet, in

the heart of the city and it has a legendary origin. This Vinayaka received

Ranga Vimana from Vibishana and installed it at Srirangam. Then he came and

stayed there at the top of the hill.

Tiruchirappalli was popular under Cholas while Uraiyur

was a Chola capital. Subsequently, it attained fame and name during Nayak

period. Trichirappalli District is popular even today due to the presence of a

number of significant temples. The city Trichirappalli too is known for its

temples. An attempt is made in this Chapter, to highlight the significant shrines

in the town.

Uchchi Pillaiyar Temple (Rock Fort Temple), Tiruchi

3

1 . Velmani, K., (ed.), Tiruchirappalli District Gazetteer, Vol.I, Chenni, 1998, pp.3-4.

2.Gopalan, M., TiruchirappalIi Mavatta Alayangal Oru Kayyedu,(Tamil ) Narmadha

Pullicaiton, Chennal, 2006, p.7.

3. Tiruchirappalli Sthalapuranam, Tiruchirappalli, n.y., p.494

Before reaching the shrine at the top , there

is a the Manicka Vinayagar temple at the bottom of the hill and on the way in

the mddle there is the Thayumanavar Swami Temple which is a rock cut cave

temple. Thayumanavar is shown with Mattuvar Kulali Amman. The Uchchi

Pillaiyar temple was not at all affected the onslaught of the British, French and

60

Nawab of Arcot.4

The Jalakandeswarai and Ahilandeswari Amman Temple at

Thiruvanaikkaval which is treated as one of the places of five elements i.e.,

water. This is one of Sakthi peedam of Parvathi, This is located at eight kms

away from Tiruchirappalli Rai1way station. This was also known as

Jambukeswaram. The Tamil poet Kalamegam of the Sixteenth Century had

sung about this temple. Adipuram, Adi velli, Tai Tepporcharam, Purattu

Navarathiri, Masi Magam, Maha Sivarathiri , Panguni Car Festival,

Vaikasi Varantha Vila are all celebrated in this temple in a grand manner.

Every day rituals are conducted a Kalasanthi, Uchchikalam , Sayarakshi

and Palliyarai.

The Sevvanthi Puranam written by Saiva Ellappa Navalar

offers a vivid account about this temple. This temple has six rituals in a day. In

the month of Panguni and Chithirai festivals are conducted for 10 and 14 days

respectively Vinavaga Chathurthi is a commonly celebrated annual festival

arranged in this tem ple regularly.

Jalakandeswarai and Ahilandeswari Amman Temple, Thiruvanaikkaval

5This temple is unique due to its height and is believed that it

is the earliest temple built by Kochuyat Chola, a Sangam Chola Ruler. The

people used to say that the fifth prakara known as Vibhuori curru was

constructed by Lord Siva himself.6

4 Personal Visit to the Uchchi Pillaiyar Temple (Rock Fort Temple), Tiruchi, 20 April 2013.

5. Thiruvanaikkaval Temple History, Temple Administration, Trichy, 1996, pp-l-6

6.Interview with Sivanesa Bhattar, Temple Priest of Jalakandeswarai and Ahilandeswari

Amman Temple, Thiruvanaikkaval on 10 April 2013.

This is one among the renowned Siva

temples of South India associated with Adhi Sankara who made arrangements

61

for two studs in the ears of Ahilandeswari, the goddess of the temple and those

studs are known Siva Chakra and Sri Chakra.7

Tamil Country is also known for treating goddesses as relievers of

distresses of devotees. Hence they give importance to Kali and Mariamman.

The Samayapuram Mariamman temple is a popular one in this regard.

‘Samayapuram was once the capital of the Hoysalas and it was known as

Kannanur. The remnant of the Hoysolaeswara Temple, known for Hoysala

Architecture, is left in a dilapidated condition even today.

Mariamman Temple, Samayapuram

8The Sthalapuranam

of Samayapuram informs that the presiding deity was taken out from

Srirangam and installed at Samayapuram. The Tamils who worship deities with

belief that this deity will offer child if the parents carry a sugarcane. The

primary deity was installed during the time of Chokkanatha Nayaka (l706-

1732) .9

The temple conducts rituals for five times in a day regularly The

Puchoridal festival conducted during the last Sunday of the Tamil month Masi

is a significant one. A thirteen days festival is arranged from the first day

chithrai. The Pancha Prakara Tiravila is conducted for 14 days from the

first day of Vaikari. Th Taipusam festival is conducted for 14 days during the

Tamil month Tai. During the Adipusam festival the Amman of this temple

7. Gopalan, M., op.cit., p.24

8. Personal visit to the Maraiamman Temple, Samayapuram on 11 April 2013.

9. Samayapuram Mariamman Temple Talavanralaru, Temple publication,

Samayapuram, 1982, p.21

62

receives gifts from the Srirangam temple.10

These facts stand to prove the

cultural elements of the Tamil Country. To promote spiritualism, a school

known as Tirumurai Training School is functioning where the teachers teach

Devaram, Tiruvasagam and Nalairaya Divya Prabandam to the students. .11

The Kamatchiamman Temple is at Srirangam near the Railway station

and is worshipped by the people with some belief. For instance the devotees

offer garland of lime fruit and Arali flowers between 3 00 p.m. and 4 30 p.m.

on all Tuesdays to gain her grace. Those who desire to enhance their wisdom

and knowledge offer garlands of Konda Kadalai and Sevvanthi flowers

Kamatchiamman Temple, Srirangam

12

Every month they arrange for the study of Abhirami Andhadi. The unique

feature is that for every song they offer plantain, betel and arecanut to the deity.

The Lalitha Sahasranamam is sung during every full l moon day.13

10. Ibid., p.29 .

11. Personal Visit to the Tirumurai Training School, Samayapuram, 11 April 2013.

12. Interview with A Mangammal, a devotee of Kamatchiamman Temple, Srirangam,

13 April 2013

13. Personal visit to the Kamatchiamman Temple, Srirangam,17 January 2013. .

Such facts

reveal that the Tamil worship deities with all faiths and beliefs to gain their

grace. Sri Rangam, the chief among the 108 Divya Desam of Vaishnavites is

hailed as Earthly Paradise (Poologa Vaikuntam) . It is located five kms from

Trichirappalli. All the Alwars had sung about this place. Ranganatha is the

primary deity and Renga Nayaki is the primary goddess. Vaikasi Vasantha

63

Utsdavam, Ani Tirumanjanam, Adi Pathinettu, Navarathri, Margazhi,

Vaikunta Ekadasi etc are the important festivals arranged in this temple .14

Uraiyur Tantoniswarar Temple was built by Suradhitha Chola during the

7th Century A D.

Tantoniswarar Temple, Uraiyur

15Kungumavalli is the goddess of this temple. This Siva

temple is kept opened on all days between 7 00 a m and 800 p m. In this

temple the Navagrahas are installed along with their consorts. The Siva in the

form of Linga with Avudayar is 7 feet in height .16

The Kannanur Bojiswara temple is located at two kms away from

Samayapuram Mariamman temple . This temple was constructed by Narasimha

II, the Hoysala Ruler in 1253 A D .

Bojiswara Temple, Kannanur

17This temple is kept opened between 6 a m

to 12 noon and 5 p m to 8 p m This temple has no Rajagopura and the entire

edifice of the temple is built with the use of black stone. The Kalasanthi,

Uchchikalam and Arorjanam are the three rituals conducted in the temple.18

During the Tamil month Aippasi on the full moon day Annabhishekam is done

to the presiding deity in a grand manner .19

The Palaivanatha Swamy temple of Thiruppalaidurai is located in

between Tiruchirappalli and Papanasam . A granary of 30’x80’ available in this

Palaivanatha Swamy Temple, Thiruppalaidurai

14. Ranganathawamy Temple Notice Board, Srirangam, 19 January 2013.

15. Gopalan, M., op cit., p.51.

16. Personal visit to the Tantoniswarar Temple, Uraiyur, 13 April 2013.

17. The inscription available in the southern wall of the sanctum sanctorum of

Bojiswara Temple., Kannanur.

18. Personal visit to the Bojiswara Temple, Kannanur, 14 April 2013.

19. Interview with Nataraja Bhattar, Priest of the Bojiswara Temple, Kannanur, 14 April

2013.

64

temple was constructed by Ragunatha Nayak around 1400 A D and a quantity

of 3000 kalam paddy could be preserved in it. This temple was called as

Sorubootta Aalayam. As it provided rice food to the public it obtained that

name.20

Madura Kaliamman Temple is located 48 Kms from Tiruchirappalli in

the Chennai National High ways at Siruvachur . This temple was constructed

by a devotee called Sadasiva Brahmmnendirar. The Rajagopura of this temple

is known for its architectural value. This shrine is kept opened during Monday

to Friday. Adipperukku and Navarathiri are the other festivals of this temple.

It is believed that Adhisankara constructed a tank in front of this temple.

Now this temple is maintained by the Department of Archaeology,

Government of Tamil Nadu.

Madura Kaliamman Temple, Siruvachur

21

Vira Kandiyamman Temple of Virappur, located just fourteen kms west

of Mannapparai is another significant temple in the Tiruchirappalli District.

This was an important temple associated with Ponnar and Sankar, the Rulers of

Pornnalanadu.

The

devotees of this area call her Ten Madurai Kali, i.e, the Kali of Southern

Madurai

Vira Kandiyamman Temple, Virappur

22The ten days Masi festival is significant one. Rituals are

carried out twice every day.23

20. Tiruppalaidurai Sthalapuranam,Tiruppalaidurai, n.y. p. 29 .

21. Interview with R Ganesa Muruthi, the Priest of the Madura Kaliamman Temple,

Siruvachur 10 May 2013

22. Personal visit to the Vira Kandiyamman Temple, Virappur, 11 May 2013.

23. Vira Kandiyamman Temple Notice Board, Virappur, 15 May 2013.

65

Uyyakkondan Thirumalai Temple, Karkudi

Uyyakkondan Thirumalai temple located at Karkudi is a Siva temple

This is located three kms away from the Tiruchi town The God is called

Ujjiwanathar. The people of this area believe that they could find solutions to

alltheir problems approaching this deity. The goddess is called Anjanatchi

Ammai. Balambigai is another Goddess. Separate rituals are arranged for each

and every deity. This temple is located in a small hill of 50 feet height.24

Satya Vaheerar Temple was constructed during the period of Parantaka I

(907-954) at Anbil which is located twenty two kms away from Lalgudi. The

name of the Goddess of this place was Soundara Valli Nayagi. Only two times

rituals are carried out even to-day in this temple. Sivarathiri and monthly

Pradosams are celebrated in this temple. Sivarathiri and Pradosam are the

two days in which special rituals are performed.

Satya Vaheerar Temple, Anbil

25

Another temple for Goddess Sri Seethala Devi is located at Anbil

popularly called Anbilandurai.. The people of this area believe that a worship

in this temple will relieve those who were affected by small box. The people

also inform that image of the deity was taken from Kaveri by fishermen and

installed in the present shrine.

Sri Seethala Devi Temple, Anbil

26

24. Interview with G. Natarajan, Priest of the Uyyakkondan Thirumalai Temple,

Karkudi, 10 January 2013.

25. Personal Visit to the Satya Vaheerar Temple, Anbil, 19 May 2013

26. Interview with R.Nagarajan, Teacher, Anbil, 19, May 2013.

During the Tamil month Panguni on the last

Sunday a significant festival is arranged for ten days. The Puchoridal festival

66

is a captivating one. Daily the presiding deity is taken out as procession in

various mounts.27

In the same Anbil, which is also known as Brahmapuri, which is also

one among the 108 Divva Desam of the Vaishnavites, there is a Vishnu temple.

The deity Sundaraja Perumal is sung by Thirumalisai Alwar, a contemporary of

Mahendra Varman I (618-648 A.D)

Vadivalagiya Nambi Temple, Anbil

28. The deity is also known as

Vadivalagiya Nambi. The Goddess is called Sundara Valli, Alaaiva Valli,

Nachchiyar. During the Masi Magam festival the deity is taken to River

Kollidam, to offer grace to the devotees. The Anbil copper plates of Sundara

Chola (957-973) calls this place as Brahmograharam. This temple is not only

significant for its architecture but also known for its inscriptions which are

recorded by the central and state departments of Archaeology. Among the five

forms called Vasudeva, Sankarshanan, Pradyunan, Anirudoran and

Purushothaman. The primary deity of Anbil is in the form of Anirudoran.29

Due to devotion and faith during the recent past the devotees have

constructed the Sri Saradambal Temple in Tiruchirappalli in the Tennur road.

Hence it is evident that Anbil is a renowned devotional centre in the

Tiruchirappalli District. Thirumalisai Alwar has sung the Pasuram an hour for

this deity.

Sri Saradambal Temple, Tiruchirappalli

27. Sri Seethala Devi Temple Notice Board, Anbil, 20 May 2013.

28. Vasantha, V.A., Nalayira Divya Prabandathil Samuga, Arasiyal Nerigal, (Tamil),

N.S.Publications, Madurai, 1990, pp.26 and 42.

29. Interview with Ramanatha Bhattar, Gurukkal of Vadivalagiya Nambi Temple, Anbil, 20

May 2013 .

67

This deity Saradambal is more or less equal to that of the Sri Saradambal of

Sringeri.30

The deity is in standing posture facing east. Special rituals are

arranged during Fridays and Sundays. There are separate shrines for Siva,

Anjaneya, Saniswara, Dakshinamurthy, Navagraha etc. A separate statue of

Penuban Kumaraguru desa Swamigal is in the Murugan shrine.31

Every month

Sangadakara Chathurthi, Karthigai, Shasti, and Pradhosam are celebrated

regularly. In addition, Chitra Paurnami, Vinayaga Chathurthi, Savada

Navarathri, Vijaya Dhasami, Mahalaya Amavasai and Deepavali are the

annual festivals arranged.32

In all these occasions, women are given priority.33

A renowned Siva temple is located in the Ivarmalai also known as Iyer

Malai, Wat Pokki, Ratnagiri etc. The hill has a cave where the Jains had

lived.

Siva Temple, Ivarmalai

34The rock cut beds in the cave are called Panchavar Padukkai. It is

noteworthy to note that rock cut beds are available in different parts of Tamil

Nadu such as Anaimalai, Aritta Patti, Muthuppathi, Karumgalakkudi,

Nagamalai Kongarpaliyam, Enn etc. All of them contain early Tamil Brahmi

Inscriptions datable to 2nd Century BC to 3 Century A.D.35

30. Interview with S.Rajendran, Executive Committee of Sri Saradambal Temple,

Tiruchirappalli, 10 March 2013.

31. Personal visit to the Sri Saradambal Temple, Tiruchirappalli, 10 March 2013

32. Sri Saradambal Temple Notice Board, Tiruchirappalli 2013.

33. Interview with A. Kasiammal, House wife , Tennur, 10 March 2013

34. Personal visit to the Siva Temple, Ivarmalai , 9 January 2013

35. Mahalingam, T.V.,Early South Indian Paleography, University of Madras,

Madras, 1967, pp.201-290.

They testify to the

ancient nature of the hill. The primary deity of this place is also called Mudi

Thalumbar because there cut in the head. The deity is also called

Ratnagiriswarar. As the temple is at the top of a hillock, one can reach the

68

temple after climbing 1017 steps carved in the rock. The deity is being done

milk abhishegam every day. A cup of milk collected of that Abhishegam and

converted itself into curd in the next day without adopting the technique of

Pausterisation. Such miracles captivate a number of deities. The curd is offered

to the devotees as prasadam.36

At Lalgudi of Tiruchirappalli District, there is the Sapthagirisivara

Temple and the goddess is known as Sri Pravriddha Srimathi otherwise called

Perumathi Piratti. The unique feature of this temple is that the primary goddess

is shown in saree dressed in the form of a madisar. Daily three rituals are

arranged.

Sapthagirisivara Temple, Lalgudi

37

Though there are temples for Siva, Vishnu and other female goddesses,

there is an important temple for Murugan at Vayalur. St. Arunagiri had sung

fourteen songs on Viralimalai Murugan.

Murugan Temple, Vayalur

38Though Murugan is hailed as the

god of Kurinji region, here in this temple Murugan is aboded in the Marudam

region.39

36. Personal visit to the Siva Temple, Ivarmalai, 11 March 2013.

37. Personal visit to the Sapthagirisivara Temple, Lalgudi, 12 March 2013.

38. Kunlanandavari, (ed.),Tiruppugal, Tirunelveli, 1961, Songs. 900-927.

39. Tolkappiyam, Porul, 53.

Deity Murugan is facing east. Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam,

Sayaraksahi, Arorajanam is the four rituals performed in this temple. There

are many inscriptions which expose the various activities undertaken during

different periods. The Tamizh New Year, Tai Ammavasai, Masi, Krithigai,

Panguni Uddiram, Vaikasi Peruvila, Arudra Dharisanam, Sivarathiri,

69

Navarathiri, Kanda Shasti, and Vinavaga Chatturthi are the festivals arranged

in thisthis temple.40

Just 20 kms away from Tiruchirappalli to Lagudi, at Puvalur, Mulanatha

Temple is situated. This place is a renowned centre and the devotees mention

that it is equal to Gaya.

These festivals indicate that the Tamil deity Murugan is

venerated by the devotees. This was the place from where Tiruppugal of

Arunagirinathar was written.

Mulantha Temple, Puvalur

41The self emerged Linga of this place is called

Mulanatha and the goddess is called Srikurguna Soundarya Ammai. Saint

Arunagiri has sung one song about this place.42

The dual Vinayaga is said to

grace with a child by constant worship.43

The Kulumayi Amman temple is a renowned temple in the

Tiruchirappalli District on the banks of river Uyyakkondan near Mayanur. The

unique feature of this temple is that one could see the primary deity by looking

below, because the garbhagraha is arranged below the ground level. All the

offerings to the deity are provided on a black stone platform and not in plantain

leaves.

Kulumayi Amman Temple, Mayanur

44

40. Vayalur Sthalavaralaru, Temple Publication, Vayalur, 1973, p.19.

41. Interview with K.Raja Ram, Teacher, Puvalur, 9 January 2012.

42. Tiruppugal Song of Arunagirinathar, No. 930

43. Gopalan, M., op.cit., p.113

44. Personal visit to the Kulumayi Amman Temple, Mayanur, 12 December 2013

Another unique feature is that there is no processional deity for this

Goddess. So at the instance of the festival of the full moon day of the Tamil

month masi, the devotees use the Palmyra leaf figure as the processional deity.

This festival which takes place at Puthur Manorai is called Kudi Thiruvila. At

70

the time of the festival, a lot of goats are sacrificed and the devotees along with

the priest drink the blood. So the festival got that name. This is a common

festival for Kulumayi Amman and Gadikkaruppna Samy.45

At Nedunkalam, another Siva temple sung by Arunagirinathar,

Sundareswarar Temple, Nedunkalam

46is 20

kms away from Trichirappalli near Dhunakkudi. The primary duty is called

Sundareswarar alias Nedungalasnathar and the Goddess is called

Mangalambigai alias Oppila Nayagi. Gnanasambandar has sung eleven songs

about the deity of the place.47

This temple has two prakaras. This temple also

known as ‘Dakshina Kayilayam’. The sanctum sanctorum is hexagonal in

shape and it is unique to note that the rays fall directly on the image of the

primary deity during the Tamil month Adi. Though this is a Siva temple sung

by Thirugnanasambandar, no images of the Siva devotees are installed in this

temple. The primary deity is in the form of a Linga. The Goddess, Oppila

Nayagi, facing south is shown with four hands.48

Arrangements are made for

the conduct of rituals for five times in a day regularly. They are Udhaya

Marthandam, Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam, Sayarakshai and Palliyarai. The

visakam festival is celebrated in a grand manner in this temple.49

The Sapta Rishiswar Temple at Lalgudi is a significant Siva temple.

This temple has gaps at the head portion of the Linga. The Linga is a self

Sapta Rishiswarar Temple, Lalgudi

45. Interview with A. Muthupandi, Mayanur 12 December 2013

46 .Tiruppugal Song of Arunagirinathar, No. 902

47. Gnanasambandar’s Devaram, Kasi Mutt, Thiruppanandal, 1971, 1:1-11.

48. Personal Visit to the Sundareswarar Temple, Nedunkalam, 15 August 2013.

49. Sundareswarar Rishiswar Temple Notice Board, Nedunkualam, 20 August 2013.

71

emerged one and the goddess is called Sivakama Sundari. Since Siva protected

the seven rishis named Aorhiri, Bisuhu, Pulastya, Vashista, Gautama, Angirasa

and Marisi, the primary deity is called Sapta Rishiswarar50

Rituals are

conducted thrice in a day. Sivarathiri and Prodosams are popular in this

temple.51

Uthamar Temple located at the 6 kms distance of Tiruchirappalli in the

north. It is another significant temple, because Siva, Brahma and Vishnu are

installed in th temple. Since Thirumal helped Kadamba Munivar here this place

was called Thirukadambanur, or Kadamba Kshetram. As Siva is depicted as

Pitchadana murthi in this temple this place is called Pitchandar Koil or

Pitchyur. As Thirumal possesses Brahma in his navel, this place is also called

Adhimapuram or Brahmmapuram.

Uthamar Temple, Thirukadambanur

52

The Peruma1 in the from of Talasayanam is called Purushothaman and

the Goddess is called Purvadevii or Purnavalli. Thirumangai Alwar has sung

one in his Periya Tirumoli (song No 1399) which is included in the Nalayira

Diva Prabandam.53

The Siva of this place is called Pitchadavar and his consort is called

Vivudai Nayagi or Soundara Nayagi Ambal. Brahma is depicted as guru and

installed in a separate shrine facing south every day in the morning the day’s

ritual commences with Viswarupam. It is succeeded by Kalasanthi,

50. Personal Visit to the Sapta Rishiswarar Temple, Lalgudi, 17 August 2013.

51. Interview with Nataraja Bhattar, Priest of the Sapta Rishiswar Temple, Lalgudi 17

August 2013.

52. Uthamar Temple Sthalavaralaru, Temple Publication, Tiruchi, 1996, pp.14-15.

53. Nalayira Divya Prabandam, Chennai, 1984, pp. 536- 537.

72

Uchchikalam, Sayarakshai, Arohajanam etc on all Thursdays special rituals

are arranged for Brahma, who is believed to be the reliever of the distresses of

his devotees It is also unique to note that Brahma is with his consort Saraswathi

in this temple.54

The Naganatha Swamy temple is another important temple located in

Tiruchirappalli town itself. Since Siva has snakes as ornaments, he was

worshipped by maidens of snakes and was called Naganathar. The Goddess is

called Ambigai or Soundarya Nallai Nayagi. As the main shrine is facing east

and the shrine of the goddess is facing south, it is easy to worship both

simultaneously. The idols of Gnanasambandar, Appar, Sundarar and

Manickavasagar are installed along the 63 Saiva Nayanmars. Usharkalam,

Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam, Sayarakshai Ardhajaman are the five rituals

performed regularly every day. The monthly Pradhosam is conducted

effectively The Masi Magam Festival is celebrated in a girand manner.

Vasantha Urchavam, is celebrated for ten days in the Tamil month.

Vaikasi. Purattasi Naavarathiri, Aippasi Kandasashti, Karthigai Deepam, Tai

Pusam etc also arranged in a grand manner. Another unique feature is that this

This is an unique temple and in no similar in this country.

Such a combined installation could be seen. Further it is significant to note that

this temple stands as a means for religious toleration.

Naganatha Swamy Temple, Tiruchirappalli

54. Personal Visit the Uthamar Temple, Thirukadambanur on 10 January 2013.

73

temple has a separate processional deity for Sani Baghavan.55

The Lakshmi Narayana Perumal temple is situated at Valadi, a small

village. The Ulaga Nayagi Amman is the goddess The Panguni festival in this

temple commences during the second week of that month. The people from the

nearly villages also attend the festival and drag the temple car on the last day

of the festival A special prayer is conducted in this temple for those who died

as sumangali .Hence the pooja is also called Sumangali Pooja .

Lakshmi Narayana Perumal Temple, Valadi

56

Gunaseelam or Gunasekaram located 24 Kms from Trichy is a

renowned Vishnu temple. The deity Pesanna Vengadapathy is in standing

posture facing east. This place is called Ten or Southern Tiruppathi. Those

who are suffering from mental illness are cured worshipping in this temple. In

this temple there is no separate shrine for the goddess. This temple is known

for its numerous paintings. The Palliyarai (the bed chamber) has a door of

excellent workmanship.

This is an

unique feature which is unheared from any other temple. The Sumangali

women are offered turmeric, dress etc. Further after the pooja, the men are

given food only after all the women are fed.

Vishnu Temple, Gunaseelam

57

55. Personal visit to the Naganatha Swamy Temple, Tiruchi 12 January 2013.

56. Personal visit to the Lakshmi Narayana Perumal Temple, Valadi, 10 March 2013.

57. Personal visit to the Vishnu Temple, Gunaseelam, 20 March 2013.

The people are given Tirutulai (i.e) the tulasi water.

It is sprinkled in the faces of the devotees. Every day the rituals are conducted

for five times. They are Ushatkalam, Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam, Savarakshi

74

and Ardhajamam. The Purathasi, Thiruvonam, and Chitra Paurnami are the

important festivals of this temple. The devotes believe that if the insane

persons if stay and worship in this place they would be cured.

Siva Temple, Thiruvasi

Thiruvasi located at 10 kms away from Trichirappalli in the

Trichirappalli -Salem main road is known for the Siva Temple. The primary

deity is in the form of Linga. The temple pillars are wonderful pieces of art.

The Paranthaka Chola mandapa and Uthama Chola mandapa are used as

places to place the deities at times of festivals. It is believed that the worship in

the temple would relieve diseases such as epilepsy. Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam,

Sayarakshai and Palliyarai are the four time rituals arranged in this temple.

Karthigai Deepam, Arudra dharisanam, Tai poosam, and Vaikasi Paurnami

are the important festivals celebrated in this temple. The Amamam Prigai of

this place is treated as a sacred one to relieve the sins of the devotees.58

The Maha Kaliswari Temple at Kuthaippar village near Thiruvermbur is

a significant temple. The Kali image of this place is 54 ¼ feet in height and it is

the tallest kali image in the world. This village is called Pavala Ambalam. This

is a recent temple constructed in 1999 and sanctified on 12th

July 2000.

Maha Kaliswari Temple, Kuthaippar

59

The deity is called Mukthi Dhandavi, Sri Kali, Sri Karthiyayini Kali, Sri

Santha Kali, Sri Samunda Kali, Sri Mundamarthini Kali, Sri Bhatrakali, Sri

Dwaridha Kali, Sri Vaishnavi Mahali are the eight kali images installed on the

58. Thiruvasi Temple Sthalavaralaru , Temple Publication, Trichirappalli,

1982,pp.4-6.

59. The Inscription available in the Maha Kaliswari Temple Premises, Kuthaippar

75

Peedam of Kali facing all the eight directions. The chitra festival is the

significant festival of this place. Ladies flock in large numbers during Tuesdays

and Fridays. The entire figure of the presiding image is in stucco form. To get

relief from the distresses given by others, the devotees visit this temple.60

Thiru Malabedi, located 42 kms away from Tiruchi has Siva Temple

called Vajjiranadha Temple. As Siva danced by carrying the weapon Malu for

relieving the distresses of Markandeya, this place was called Malabadi. This

big temple is an agamic temple. The celebration of the marriage of Nandhi is a

popular festival of this Place. It is unique to note that they print massage

invitations and invite all the devotees.

Vajjiranadha Temple, Thiru Malabedi

61The temple has three prakaras. The

primary deity is in the form of a Linga the goddess is called by the name

Sundaramabigai and she has a separate shrine in the left side of the main shrine

the marriage of the Nandhi takes place on the asterism punarpusam of the

Tamil month Panguni. The people believe that by witnessing the marriage of

Nandhi, their sons and daughters will get married soon .This temple has no

Navagrahas. Only three pits are treated Navagrahas. When there was flood in

River Kollidam, the water entered in this temple upto knee level. With the

reduction in the water level at River Kollidam, the water in the temple receded.

Rituals are executed for four times in a day i.e., Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam,

Savarakshai and Palliyarai62

60. Personal Visit to the Maha Kaliswari Temple, Kuthaippar 12 April 2013.

61. The invitation available in the Vajjiranadha Temple Office File , Thiru Malabedi :

62. Interview with A.Ganesa Bhattar, Priest of the Vajjiranadha Temple, Thiru

Malabedi, 12, April 2012.

76

Viswanatha Temple, Polur

Polur is a place located by five kms on the route to Karur from

Tiruchirappalli. Sri Viswanatha is the primary deity of this temple. The unique

features of this temple is the installation of Navagrahas. They are seated on a

platform having the figures of twelve Rasis. All the Navagrahas has their

consorts by their side. They are in the following order.

1. Suiya — Usha and Pratyusha (horse mount)

2. Chandra — Rohini (horse mount)

3. Angarahan — Skathi (goat mount)

4. Budhan — Gnanadvi (Sirumam mount)

5. Guru — Dhanadevi (horse mount)

6. Saveeswaran — Niladevi (Crow mount)

7. Rahu — Chimhi (Sirumam mount)

8. Kedu — Chitraleha (Dove mount)

9. Sani — Saya (Crow mount)

All the Navagrahas are looking at the same direction Thrice in a week

special abisheka is arranged for them.63

This Navaraha Mandapa was

completed as per the instructions of Karnchi Kamakodi Pidadhipathi

Chandrasekara Saraswathi in 1932.64

63. Personal Visit to the Viswanatha Temple, Polur, 7 June 2013.

64. The Inscription available in the Mandapa of the Viswanatha Temple, Polur

This temple is now maintained by the

Hindu Religious Charitable Endowment Board.

77

Simmapuriswarar and Kundalambal Shrine, Karuppathur

At Karuppathur in between Tiruchi and Kulithalai there is the

Simmapuriswarar and Kundalambal Shrine. The devotees apply turmeric in the

feet of the goddess Sugantha Kundalambal to gain her grace. The deity

Simmapuriswarar is in huge form of Linga. The Nandhi of this temple has a

huge ear which is worth seeing.65

The devotees throng on a Pradhosam day.

On the day of Ashtami, special rituals are arranged for the Ashta Bhairavar.66

Appar and Sundarar had sung songs about the Gnilivamaswarar —

Vishalakshi temple, situated at Thiruppaiginli, which is 20 is kms away from

Tiruchi on the way to Duraiyur. This temple is also called Vimalaranyam and

Swedagiri. The primary deity is in the form of Linga. Sambandar called this

temple Melai — Chidambaram. Six times rituals are conducted in this temple.

No navagraha is installed in this temple. Three pits are treated navagrahas.

Majority of the Pallava and Chola inscriptions of this place reveal the donations

rendered by different rulers of those dynasties. It is unique to note that regular

rituals are arranged for the banana trees grown inside the temple.

Gnilivamaswarar — Vishalakshi Temple, Thiruppaiginli

67

Nachchiyar Temple situated at Uraiyur is an important Vaishnava

Centre. This temple is called Thirukkoil. Alagiya Manavala Perumal is the

Nachchiyar Temple, Uraiyur

65. Personal Visit to the Simmapuriswarar and Kundalambal Shrine, Karuppathur, 13

January 2013.

66. Interview with Kausalya, Teacher, Karuppathur, 13 January 2013.

67. Personal Visit to the Gnilivamaswarar — Vishalakshi Temple, Thiruppaiginli, 19

January 2013

78

primary deity and he is in standing posture. The God is facing north without

any separate shrine. Kamala Valli Nachchiyar also known as Varalakshmi and

Uraiyur Valli is shown in sitting posture. Thirumangi Alvar in his Periya

Tirumoli (Song No. 1762) and Kulasekara Alwar, in his Perumal Tirumoli

(Song No.667) have sung about this temple. Thiruppan Alwar and Namm

Alwar also sung songs about this temple. Thiruppan Alwar and Namm Alwar

have separate shrines. Ushatkalam, Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam, Sayarakshai

and Palliyarai are the five rituals conducted regularly.68

On the Panguni

Uddiram day Manavalan, the processional deity of Srirangam visits this

temple. Karthigai festival is arranged for ten days.69

Uraiyur also known as Varapuri, Koliyur and Mukthiswaram has a

popular Vekkaliamman temple. The primary deity is in sitting posture in yoga

facing north. In four hands she carries Trisul, Udukkai, Pasam and Akshaya

Patram. The main shine has no roof.

Vekkaliamman Temple, Uraiyur

70The maha sarava sandi Homam is

conducted in this temple during the Tamil month Avani. This practice is carried

out for twenty three years. It is believed that a constant worship of this deity

will offer all the things required the devotees.71

At Uraiyur there is another temple called Panchavarueswarar temple

alias Adi mudi Kana Ayvamanathar temple. This Linga is called

Panchavarueswarar Temple, Uraiyur

68. Personal visit to the Nachchiyar Temple , Uraiyur, 10 February 2013

69. Festival Invitations available in the Nachchiyar Temple Office File, Uraiyur.

70. Personal Visit to the Vekkaliamman Temple, Uraiyur, 13 January, 2013

71. Personal Visit to the Vekkaliamman Temple, Homam Day ,Uraiyur, 19 August , 2013.

79

Panchavarsueswar because he shows five types during the worship of different

times as given below.

Morning - Ratna Linga

Noon - Spakida Linga

Evening - Pon Linga

Mudal Jamam - Vaira Linga

Ardha Jamam - Chittera Linga 72

Chithira Paurnami, Ani Tirumanjanam, Avani Mulam, Purattasi,

Navarathiri, Aippasi Annabhishekam festival, Karthigai Lamp festival,

Margali Tiruppalli Eluchchi, and Taipoosam are regularly celebrated in this

temple without any interruption and deviation. The Panguni Uddiram and

Vaikasi Peruvila are celebrated for ten days each. The Pancha Prakara Villa

is celebrated on the Adi Paurnami day. On the day of Adi Amavasai , the

Kaveri Thirtha Vila is arranged Daily four rituals are conducted as

Kalasandhi, Uchchikalam, Sayarakshai, and Ardhajamam.73

Tiruvellarai Pundarikashan Vishnu temple is a significant one. This

temple is located 20 kms from Tiruchi, at Duraiyur. Pundarikashan, the

primary deity is in standing posture The Goddess is known as Shenbagavalli

This Siva

temple is quite a popular one even today.

Tiruvellarai Pundarikashan Vishnu Temple, Duraiyur

72. Aalaya Varalaru, Temple Authority, Tiruchirappalli, 1980, pp.8-10.

73. Panchavarueswarar Temple Notice Board , Uraiyur

80

alias Bankaja Selvi.Vedanta Desigar and Manavala Mamunigal have hailed this

place.74

Periya Alwar in his Tirumoli has sung about this place in eleven songs

(No 71 and 192 to 201) Thirumangai Alwar in this Periya Tirumoli have sung

thirteen songs (No.1368 — 77, 1851, 2673 and 2674) about Tiruvellarai.

From the Tamil months Thai to Aani the Uddharayana Vasal is used and from

Aani to Margazhi the Dakshinayana Vasal is used to enter into this temple.

This restriction is made on the basis of the movement of sun.75

The entire temple stands on rock beds. In the south west at the back of

the temple there is a well in Siastik form. The Notice Board maintained by the

Department of Archaeology indicates the relationship of this temple with

Nandhi Varman (731 - 796 A.D). As this is a Vaishnava temple, separate

shrines are assigned to Periyalavar and Andal. Ushatkalam, Kalasanthi,

Uchchikalam, Sayarakshai, palliyarai and Ardhajamam are the six regular

rituals are performed in a day.

Periya Alwar in

his eleven songs have glorified this deity as Kannan.

76

The Kottai Thiruvila in the month Chittirai, the Unjal festival in the

month of Aippasi. the temple car festival in the month Panguni are the

important festivals celebrated in this temple. Beyond that during every month

the new moon and full moon days are also celebrated with special rituals.77

74. Nalayira Divya Prabandam, Tiruchi, 2000, pp. 1398-1399.

75. Ibid., p.1398.

76. Personal Visit to the Tiruvellarai Pundarikashan Vishnu Temple, Duraiyur, 11

July 2013.

77. Personal Visit to the Tiruvellarai Pundarikashan Vishnu Temple, Duraiyur, 15 July 2013.

81

Pasupatheeswarar Temple, Uppiliyapuram

At Uppiliyapuram, Pasupatheeswarar along with his consort Nidhya

Kalyani are aboded in a separate temple. This temple is located 17 kms away

from Duraiyur in the northwest. Only twice the rituals are conducted. On

Fridays woman throng in large numbers to this temple to worship Goddess,

Nidhya Kalyani.78

Tirupathur, also known as Brahmapuram has a temple where Siva,

Vishnu and Brahma have their shrines. This is more or less akin to that of the

temple at Uttamar Temple. The Siva who is in the form of Linga is called

Brahmmapuriswarar. As he was worshipped by Brahma he obtained that name.

The pillars in this temple are known for their artistic value. Fourteen Lingas are

installed each in a separate shrine in this temple. This is a unique feature of this

temple. Brahma is installed in a separate shrine in a sitting posture. Thirumal is

in the side of Lingotbhava. Daily four rituals are performed.

Brahmmapuriswarar Temple, Tirupathur

79

The Bhuvanesswari Temple is in Trichirappalli and the deity is shown in

sitting pasture with four hands. The back two hands are carrying Pasam and

Angusam The front hands are in abhaya and varodha murdras . Navagrahas

are installed in the north

Bhuvanesswari Temple, Tiruchirappalli

80

During the month Chithrai a ten day festival is arranged. In the same

month on the day of the asterism, Uddhiradam, the birthday of the Goddess a

78. Personal Visit to the Pasupatheeswarar Temple , Uppiliyapuram, 15 July 2013.

79. Personal Visit to the Brahmmapuriswarar Temple, Tirupathur, 17 July 2013

80. Personal Visit to the Bhuvanesswari Temple, Tiruchirappalli, 19 July 2013.

82

sandi hornam is arranged . On all the Fridays in Tamil month of Aadi special

rituals are executed. In the month of Karthigai on all Mondays 108 Conch

abhishegam is done to the goddess. Further on the next day of Deepavali,

Kedharagowri Pooja is arranged. All the ladies who attend it are given yellow

thread. Daily Poojas are conducted thrice. The Tuesdays and Fridays are

significant in this temple.81

The Kallukuli Anjaneya Temple of Trichirappalli is a prominent deity. It

is believed that event the British did not disturb the temple while they made

arrangements for laying the railway line. This shrine through a small one

captivates the attention of all the devotees, with the belief that this Anjaneya

will relieve the distresses of his devotees within a period of 48 days.

Kallukuli Anjaneya Temple, Tiruchirappalli

82

81. Interview with K Ganesa Bhattar of the Bhuvanesswari Temple, Tiruchirappalli, 20 July

2013.

82. Interview with A Raman , a devotee of Kallukuli Anjaneya Temple, Tiruchirappalli, 25

December 2013

Thus the Tiruchirappalli District is famous for many temples of different

deities. They stand for religious unity and promoting, devotion among the

people Almost all the temples are administered in its own way. The Trustees,

the Hindu Religious Charitable Endowment Board, the Department of

Archaeology and the people of that area are all carrying out the administration

and maintain their values and significance.