The Sculptures of Sangili Mandapam

By Indian Columbus - July 06, 2023

In the preceding sections of this series, I have presented an overview of different aspects of the Kantimati temple in Tirunelveli. Now, in this eleventh installment, I will provide a comprehensive account of the Sangili Mandapam.

The term "Sangili" in Tamil means chain. Just like a chain that connects two parts, the Sangili mandapa serves as a link between two distinct temples, namely the Kantimati temple and the Nellaiyappar temple. As a result, these temples have merged into one, known as the Kantimati sameta Nellaiyappar temple. Sangili Mandapam was constructed in 1647 CE by Vadamalaiyappa Pillai, who served as the Viceroy of Tirunelveli under the Madurai Nayakas. He was a devout follower of Lord Subramanya and made significant contributions to the Tiruchendur Murugan temple and several other Murugan shrines in Tirunelveli.

Picture Courtesy - Mr. Suresh Priyan

This extensive mandapam stretches from the south to the north, connecting the Kantimati temple in the south with the Nellaiyappar temple in the north. The hall boasts 23 pairs of colossal pillars, predominantly featuring Yazhi pillars. However, the Yazhis exhibit variations in their characteristics. Some are Gaja Yazhis (with an elephant head and a lion body) and Simha Yazhis, while others are Sarpa Yazhis (with a snake head and a lion body).

One pair of Yazhi pillars, surrounded by numerous slender pillars, faces the north direction. Another pair of pillars, in a similar style, is situated at the opposite end of the mandapa, facing south. These two pairs of pillars act as the boundary at both ends. The remaining 21 pairs of pillars are positioned between them, facing east and west directions. Majestic lions are seated atop all the pillars, supporting the ceiling. The lower portions of the pillars exhibit various sculptures on all four sides.

As mentioned in previous parts of this series, the temple features numerous representations of Gaja Lakshmi. In this mandapa, there is also a relief image of Gaja Lakshmi at its southern end.

Picture Courtesy - Mr. Suresh Priyan

Now, let me commence the description of all the 21 pairs of pillars:

The first pair of pillars consists of a Yazhi pillar facing the east direction. On the opposite side, instead of a pillar, there is the shrine of Shasta, which I have already described in a previous post.

The second set of pairs showcases intricately designed pillars. The third set comprises Yazhi pillars.

The fourth set presents an interesting depiction of a female monkey holding her infant, facing east. On the opposite side, its male counterpart is seen concealing its lower part. Behind the pillar of the female monkey, there is a shrine of a Shiva Linga with Nandi facing towards it, along with bas-relief images of Ganesha and Subramanya on the outer walls.

Following that, we encounter five pairs of Yazhi pillars. Behind these pillars, there is a shrine for Kasi Vishwanatha, with an opposing Nandi, as well as relief images of Ganesha and Subramanya. Next, there is an east-facing Maha Linga shrine, with a separate south-facing sub-shrine for Periya Nayaki, and east-facing sub-shrines for Ganesha and Subramanya-Valli-Devasena in the Ardha mandapa. Nandi is positioned facing the Maha Linga.

In front of the next intricately carved pillars, there are two male figures holding deepams (lamps). Subsequently, we see the depiction of Sugreeva and Vali, seemingly engaged in a face-off. Devotees, often unaware of their identity, mistake them for Hanuman and garland them with papers inscribed with "Rama Jayam." An image of Hanuman on the eastside pillar has evolved into a sub-shrine and draws numerous devotees.

Continuing on, there are pairs of Yazhis, ornate pillars, Gaja Yazhis, ornate pillars, and Sarpa Yazhis. The next set of pillars portrays Arjuna and Bheema. Bheema is accompanied by Purushamrigam clutching his waist from behind. Arjuna's pillar showcases carvings of Arjuna battling the hunter (Shiva), Parvati in the form of a huntress, and Arjuna performing penance.

The final set of pillars features Gaja Yazhis.

Happy travelling.