Tamraparani Devi and the Unique Polla Pillaiyar Shrine
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 metal icons of the revered 63 Nayanmars and Togaiyadiyargal. Notably, an often overlooked female metal icon resides here – that of the holy river Tamraparani. While people seek purification in the Ganga, Yamuna, or Saraswati, these rivers are believed to visit Tamraparani to cleanse themselves. In the form of a Goddess, the holiest of rivers finds representation here.
In another shrine, Agastya takes center stage, adorned with a distinctive headdress and accompanied by nine Rishis.
A significant presence is that of Suradeva, a unique manifestation of Shiva featuring three heads, three arms, and three legs.
Stepping into the next shrine, one is greeted by splendid and sizable stone images of the Sapta Matas. These maternal deities are accompanied by Ganesha, Veerabhadra, and two Shiva Lingas.
The subsequent shrine pays homage to the Nayanmars, with stone representations capturing their devotion.
An east-facing shrine with a mukha mandapa shelters a prominent Shiva Linga named Teyu Linga.
An essential highlight is the eastern-facing shrine that enshrines an ancient self-manifested stone image of Ganesha, known as Polla Pillaiyar. The mukha mandapa of this shrine features a window punctuated by nine significant holes. According to tradition, childless couples who manage to pass through one of these holes are believed to be blessed with a child.
With this, my exploration of the east and south prakaras comes to an end. In my subsequent post, I'll continue unraveling the mysteries of the west prakara, offering insights into the captivating stories and features that grace this remarkable temple complex.
Happy travelling.
Happy travelling.
This article is Part 21 of the series of articles I write about Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple.
The other parts of the series can be accessed through the below-listed links.
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