An overview of Nagarathar heritage and temples
This special feature provides an overview of of Nagarathar heritage and explores the evolution of temples in the Chettinadu region… Read More An overview of Nagarathar heritage and temples
Tag: Silappatikaram
Ramaswami, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur
This Nayak period temple was built at the start of the decline of the Vijayanagara dynasty. The irony of this is that worship of Rama gained popularity only during the Vijayanagara dynasty’s rule! The entire temple and its extensive and detailed architecture celebrates only one thing – the Ramayanam. The temple is also one of the five Perumal temples associated with the Mahamaham festival. But what is so interesting and absorbing about the depiction of deities in the garbhagriham?… Read More Ramaswami, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur
Adipureeswarar, Tiruvottriyur, Chennai
More popular as the Thyagarajar temple, this temple for Siva as Adi Pureeswarar has several puranams associated with it. Siva came to Brahma’s aid to keep the pralayam waters away, during the creation of the earth. Vattaparai Amman’s shrine here is connected to Kannagi from the Silappathikaram. The temple is also famously associated with Sundarar’s marriage to Sangili Nachiyar. But what are the various dualities at this temple, and the multiple connections it has with the Thyagarajar temple at Tiruvarur?… Read More Adipureeswarar, Tiruvottriyur, Chennai
Rakkaayi Amman, Alagar Koil, Madurai
Regarded as the daughter of Sage Angirasa, Rakkayi Amman is a form of Parvati and the guardian of all water bodies at Alagar Koil hills near Madurai. But how is She connected in a deeper way, to the Kallazhagar / Sundararaja Perumal at the base of the hills? … Read More Rakkaayi Amman, Alagar Koil, Madurai
Noopura Gangai, Alagar Koil, Madurai
Noopura Gangai is a perennial stream, also called the Silambaru (which originated from an anklet / Silambu of Vishnu). She flows under the Rakkaayi Amman shrine, and is believed to have redeemed Sage Sutapa from a curse by Sage Durvasa. But how is She connected in a deeper way, to the Kallazhagar / Sundararaja Perumal at the base of the hills? … Read More Noopura Gangai, Alagar Koil, Madurai
TN Temples Project 