Indian Columbus

You may find yourself as a casual observer, perhaps not inclined to delve into the intricacies of sculptures. Alternatively, you might be accompanied by your playful child, whose attention might not be drawn to the temple's details. However, in both cases, what I'm about to describe demands attention. It's a spectacle of magnificence, an embodiment of grandeur that cannot be overlooked. Resuming my narrative within the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar temple in Tirunelveli, I now transition from the southern second prakara to the western second prakara, encircling the revered Nellaiyappar sanctum. Directing my gaze to the southwest, a location known as Kanni Moolai, I anticipate encountering the familiar Kanni Moola Ganapati shrine. Yet, this time, the norm is broken. What captures my attention is a striking statue of Ravana. Ravana, depicted here, commands attention with his imposing presence – large, substantial, and profound. His figure embodies both ferocity and complexity...

In the region of Kantimati - Tirunelveli, an ancient temple of Kamakshi resides, though it remains relatively lesser known. This temple, seemingly standing for several centuries, houses a splendid image of Kamakshi as its primary deity. She is depicted in her customary posture, seated gracefully. Positioned to her right, a little beyond direct view, is Ekambareswara embodied in the form of a small Shiva Linga. Within the Ardha Mandapa, the icons of Ganesha and Subramanya are enshrined. Additionally, the metallic representations of Nataraja and Sivakami can be observed. An inscription on the lintel of the Mukha Mandapa commemorates the names of select individuals from the Achari community. These individuals contributed a sum of Rupees Five Hundred towards the construction of the mandapa during the Bhava Tamil Year, corresponding to the period of 1934-35. Happy travelling.

Continuing with my exploration of the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar temple in Tirunelveli, let's delve into the details of the second outer prakara surrounding the Nellaiyappar sanctum. In my previous post, I had covered the first prakara. Moving to the eastern prakara, one encounters two impressive ancient sculptures. Positioned in the southeast and northeast directions, facing the main Nellaiyappar shrine, are the grand figures of Surya and Chandra, symbolizing the Sun and Moon respectively. As we venture to the southern prakara, a broader shrine comes into view, its entrance facing east. This shrine, has a mukha mandapa, known as the Anavarada Dana Natha Mandapa, . Inside, a treasure awaits – two sets of exquisite bronze images depicting Somaskanda, and an additional set showcasing Uma Chandrasekhara. Continuing our journey, we find a series of north-facing shrines. Among these, the first shrine houses four prominent metal icons of Nalvar. The second shrine is dedicated to the m...

The Draupadi Dharmaraja temple, situated in the Town locality, stands as a renowned religious site in Tirunelveli. Within its sanctum, one can witness the revered figures of Dharmaraja and Draupadi, both seated, with Bheema, Nakula, and Sahadeva on the left of Dharmaraja, while Arjuna stands to the right of Draupadi. Completing this divine assembly, Krishna is positioned behind them, accompanied by Rukmini and Bhama on either side. The Ardha mandapa of the temple showcases metallic representations of Krishna with his consorts, as well as Arjuna and Draupadi, all standing gracefully. A remarkable feature of the temple is the grand severed head of Aravan. Among the temple's recent additions, there are representations of village deities, Hanuman, and Lakshmi Hayagreeva. An important annual event at the temple is the festival of walking on fire, which draws thousands of devotees to come together in celebration. Happy travelling.

Continuing my exploration of Tirunelveli's Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple, I've previously delved into intricate details about the Kantimati temple itself, as well as the towering structure, several outer mandapas, the central shrines of Nellaiyappar and Nellai Govindan, and the adjoining mandapas. Now, I shift my focus to the shrines and sculptures gracing the first prakara that surrounds Nellaiyappar. Upon the southern prakara, a significant sculpture of Dakshinamurti stands as the prominent Koshta deity. In the realm of the Pandya land, Koshta murtis are a rarity. Nevertheless, a few temples make an exception, placing Dakshinamurti alone within the southern niche. Nestled at the southwest corner, known as Kanni Moolai, resides the Kanni Moola Ganapati shrine. Transitioning to the western prakara, one encounters three sub-shrines containing exquisite metal icons of Gnana Sambandhar, Ganesha, and the Somaskanda Murti. Towards the northwest corner, a sub-shrine presents S...

For ages, the junction that links West Car Street and South Car Street has stood as a beloved landmark in Tirunelveli. In Tamil, the word junction is referred to as "Sandi." Hence, the Ganesha temple located here is called Sandi Vinayaka. While the temple's frontal pillar design suggests a heritage from the 1800s, the entire structure has undergone significant renovation. Legend holds that Sage Agastya, during his journey to Tirunelveli to witness the divine union of Shiva and Uma, offered worship to this Vinayaka deity. Moreover, it is acclaimed as the most ancient Ganesha shrine in all of Tirunelveli. Although lacking a towering entrance gopuram, the temple emanates modest charm with stucco depictions of Ganesha and his entourage adorning its entrance. Inside the main sanctum, Pillaiyar (Vinayaka) resides, depicted with his trunk curving to the right. Within the ardha mandapa, one can find small stone representations of Nellaiyappar (Linga), Kantimati, Jaynatinatha, and...

Continuing my series centered around Tirunelveli's Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple, I've previously delved into the Nellaiyappar and Govindan sanctuaries in my preceding two articles. Now, in this piece, I'll be focusing on the remaining architectural components situated at the forefront of the sanctum. As previously discussed, there are two primary sanctums (moolasthanams) dedicated to Nellaiyappar and Nellai Govindan. Both of these sanctums share the same antarala (inner sanctum) as well as a wide Ardha mandapa (half pavilion). The entrance to the Ardha mandapa is adorned with two imposing stone Dwarapalas on either side. The Dwarapala on the southern side presents a menacing left hand in the Taranjai mudra (gesture of threat), while the other Dwarapala displays a left arm expressing surprise or wonder (vismaya mudra). This distinct style of Dwarapalas is a common feature in many Shiva temples across the Tirunelveli region. Additionally, near the southern Dwarapala, ...

Standing at a towering six feet with eight formidable arms, she embodies ferocity and commands awe – the Ugra Devi. The mere sight of her within the confines of her temple sends shivers down our spines. Known as Pittarapuraththi Amman, she is the guardian of Tirunelveli city's northern flank. While once thought to reside within the Nellaiyappar temple complex, she has found her abode in a distinct temple for countless centuries. This sacred site rests approximately one kilometer to the northwest of the Nellaiyappar temple. Referred to as Puttaththi Amman as well, she is seated upon a pedestal, with her right leg elegantly placed while her left leg dangles freely. Adorning her head are representations of the Sun and Moon. Among her three right arms, she holds a serpent, Vedalam (a Betal or genie), and a dagger. Her uppermost right arm brandishes a trishula, which pierces the body of an Asura sprawled beneath her feet. In her left arms, she wields fire (Agni), a bell (ghanta), a shie...

Continuing with my series about Tirunelveli's Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple, let's delve further into its intriguing aspects. In my preceding article, I provided an elaborate account of Nellaiyappar, the principal deity of this sacred temple. The temple boasts a distinctive attribute. Adjacent to the northern side of Nellaiyappar's sanctum, there stands another shrine dedicated to Vishnu. Facing eastward, this sanctuary houses Vishnu in the form of the reclining Sayana murti. He is reclining on a gigantic five hooded Adi Sesha. Referred to as Nellai Govindan, his head lies to the west, while his feet extend towards the east. With two arms, his right hand is extended toward a small Shiva Linga, as if engaged in offering floral archana to the Linga. The monumental stone image of Vishnu stands out as a prominent highlight within the temple premises. Notably, both the sanctums of Shiva and Vishnu are situated upon the same platform, sharing a common antaralam. Furthermor...

Is this a slightly larger roadside temple? It seems to be quite popular among the locals, given the consistent crowd. Is there any particular significance to it? The architecture appears contemporary. Numerous sub-shrines and icons are clustered throughout the temple complex, indicating a more recent addition. Surprisingly, it turns out that it was composed by Appar over 1300 years ago? Let's delve into the details of this historically lesser-known yet popular small temple situated in Tirunelveli Junction. In the heart of Tirunelveli, within the realm of Kantimati, stands a temple. Here, Kantimati has kindly embraced her counterpart from Madurai, none other than Meenakshi. This temple resides in Sindhupoonthurai, a quaint enclave nestled within Tirunelveli Junction, dedicated to venerating Meenakshi and Chokkanatha, the revered deities of Madurai. The riverbank of Tamraparani, called Sindhupoonthurai, carries a fascinating legend. The revered sage Agastya once bathed in these water...

In the unfolding chapters of our exploration into the captivating temple of Tirunelveli, the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple, we've traversed the intricate corridors of history, delving into the grandeur of Kantimati's sanctuary, the welcoming facades of Nellaiyappar's towering gopurams. Now, it's time to lead you through the temple's heart - the sanctum sanctorum. Here, in the presence of the city's Lord, the Supreme Deity, Nellaiyappar, the soul encounters a profound purification. Words falter to capture the divinity of this rendezvous, an experience beyond compare. Behold Nellaiyappar, once hailed as Venuvana Nathar, now revered as the God who bears a mark - Vettuppatta Iraivan. Yes, a distinctive cut adorns the top right of Shiva Linga (Nellaiyappar). A riveting legend unfurls, illuminating the origin of this enigmatic feature. In a bygone era, Rama Pandian reigned over this realm. Manavai, on the eastern banks of the Tamraparani River, stood as his cap...

Facing the east direction, the Supreme God Narasimha bestows his grace upon us, while his consort Lakshmi rests on his left lap, her gaze unwaveringly fixed on her beloved Lord. This exquisite portrayal of Lakshmi Narasimha, the presiding deity, can be discovered within a diminutive yet highly esteemed temple in Tirunelveli. This sacred place is nestled along Mela Mada Veedi, a narrow thoroughfare, with the impressive entrance and towering edifice of Nellaiyappar temple standing in contrast on the opposite end. Among the temple's occupants are Sri Devi, Bhoo Devi, Santana Krishna, Ramanuja, Vishwaksena, and Garuda, each lending their divine presence. Despite its modest size, this temple perpetually draws a throng of devotees. The sanctum's exterior walls bear inscriptions, although these are relatively recent, not exceeding a century in age. Whether they be devoted followers, regular visitors, or local inhabitants, few are aware that the temple once bore an inscription from the...

This article marks the 16th installment of my series on the fascinating Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple. As previously mentioned, the temple complex comprises two distinct structures dedicated to Kantimati and Nellaiyappar. In an earlier article, I provided a detailed account of the impressive six-tiered Rajagopuram of Kantimati. Now, let's delve into the enchanting towers of the Nellaiyappar temple. At the main east-facing entrance, you will find the Raja Gopuram, a majestic six-tiered tower that captures one's imagination. Adorned with vibrant stucco images depicting Shiva and various Shaivite deities and saints, this grand structure was constructed in 1606, two decades before the Amman tower came into existence. Towards the southern entrance lies another tower connecting the southern prakara with the Sangili mandapa. This tower may not be easily noticeable at first glance, often overlooked by visitors. A beautiful shrine dedicated to Dakshinamurti, adorned with a mandap...

Familiar to the people of Tirunelveli is the renowned landmark, Vagaiyadi Mukku (Mukku meaning "corner"). This corner forms the junction between East Car Street and South Car Street, housing the quaint Vagaiyadi Amman temple. While the temple holds significance, not many have ventured to explore its premises. Surprisingly, even among those who visit, knowledge about its history remains limited. Little do they know that this temple was erected in the 1700s by Puli Devan, also known as Pulithevan, a valiant Polygar (Palayakkarar) who valiantly battled against the East India Company, becoming one of the earliest generals to resist the British. Unlike grand temples, Vagaiyadi Amman temple lacks a towering structure and a vimana over the sanctum. Instead, its ceiling resembles that of an old house, showcasing the typical architectural style of small temples in Tirunelveli. The presiding deity, Vagaiyadi Amman, is a village Goddess depicted with four arms in a seated posture. Her u...

In Chennai, the renowned Nanganallur Hanuman temple is widely known among the locals. However, tucked away discreetly behind this popular temple lies a small, yet enchanting and serene temple dedicated to Ayyappa. This temple adheres to the traditional architectural style found in Kerala, featuring an elegant conical roof. Within the sanctum, a precious metal icon of Ayyappan is enshrined, drawing devotees to seek his blessings. The temple's prakara houses additional shrines devoted to Maha Ganapati, Nagaraja, Maaligapurath Amman, Kochu Kaduththa Swami, and Valia Kaduththa Swami. Stepping inside, visitors will come across sub-shrines of Karuppa Swami, Karuppayi, and Valia Kaduththa Swami at the temple entrance, further adding to the spiritual aura of this hidden gem. Happy travelling