Rama manifested as Vishnu - Ettezhuthu Perumal

Arugan Kulam, a serene village nestled on the banks of the Tamraparani River, carries a name whose origins remain mysterious, particularly its connection to Arugan (Jainism). Despite this, the village boasts numerous Hindu temples, with one such hidden gem being the Ettezhuthu Perumal Temple, translating to the Lord with eight syllables. (According to local belief, the village is named Arungankulam because the land around the village tank is rich in Arugampul (scutch grass).)

Notably, Arugan Kulam was the birthplace of Mayandi Siddhar in 1891, who received a divine vision of Lord Rama in his dreams. Rama instructed Siddhar to build a temple on the spot where he rested after performing the last rites for Jatayu. Thus, the Ettezhuthu Perumal Temple was erected, with Rama manifesting in the form of Vishnu. Despite the presiding deity being named Dharmapati, locals affectionately refer to the deity as Ettezhuthu Perumal, derived from the Ashtachara chant "Om Namo Narayanaya."

Within the sanctum, the four-armed Perumal stands, a remarkably beautiful representation. Additionally, a metal counterpart shares the sacred space, while the ardha mandapa showcases a rare depiction of Rama standing alone, with Sita on the other side. Generally Rama and Sita are found together. Uncommonly, the entrance of the ardha mandapa features Dwara Ganapati and Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, typically found in Shiva temples. Hanuman resides in a circular shrine facing the sanctum.

In the temple's backyard, Bhadrakali and representations of Madaswami and other Grama Devatas are seen. The Maha mandapa hosts Karuppaswami, an unusual inclusion of many Grama Devatas in a Vishnu temple.

Adjacent to the temple, a Gosala housing around 300 cows stands out. Though it is common to find Gosala within a temple complex, it is unusual to find a temple within a Gosala. This Gosala is unique for having its own temple, featuring a striking black marble Krishna playing the flute (called Venu Gopala), with a white cow depicted behind him. Small metal images of Radha and Krishna grace the same shrine.

On the top floor, a captivating Spatika Linga captures attention in the sanctum. Five sub-shrines house exquisite metal icons of Rama-Sita-Lakshmana, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, Ganesha, Hanuman, and Adi Shankara.

An annual grand celebration of Krishna Jayanti takes place in the Gosala, growing from its initiation in 2004 with 25 pots to dedicating prasada to Krishna in 11,008 beautifully adorned pots. The images depicting various postures of Krishna are drawn on these pots. 

Don't miss the chance to explore this best-kept secret of Tirunelveli district, where Siddhar's samadhi is also peacefully situated within the temple.

Happy travelling.