Indian Columbus

I have been extensively documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, delving into its remarkable architecture, layout, iconography, deities, inscriptions, festivals, waterbodies, and other notable aspects. In this concluding episode, I will outline key construction milestones and significant additions to the temple over the centuries. Photo Courtesy - Vijay Bhat The temple, believed to have originated in the early Pandya period, has evolved through contributions from various dynasties, patrons, and devotees. Below is a chronological list of notable structures and features, supported by historical records where available: The original temple is believed to have been constructed in the 6th century CE or earlier. Mukkurini Vinayaka near the southern Dwarapala in the Maha Mandapa of the Nellaiyappar shrine dates to the Chola period (11th century CE). Nellai Govindan, as per some records, belongs to the Rajendra Chola period (11th century CE), though this date is deb...

Keezhakkalloor, a secluded village near Tirunelveli, holds a hidden gem that once supplied vital offerings to prominent temples in the region. Let's delve into the intriguing history of Puraveli Nathar temple. Known for yielding the high-quality Kodakan Samba rice, Keezhakkalloor and its neighboring villages caught the attention of Rajaraja Chola I. Impressed by the rice's longevity and taste, he decreed that one-sixth of their cultivation be offered as tax, known as Puravu vari, to the Dhenupureeswarar temple in the village. This rice was then distributed to revered temples such as Sankaran Kovil, Sri Vaikuntham, Papanasam, and Brahmadesam. As Lord Shiva of this temple assumed the role of a revenue officer, locals began referring to him as Puravu Vari Nathar, eventually evolving into Puraveli Nathar. Legend has it that a miraculous cow would regularly milk at a specific spot. When its owner aimed a stone at the cow, it accidentally struck a bleeding stone. Upon investigation, ...

Tirunelveli boasts the magnificent Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar temple, a true source of pride for Nellai. But does Palayankottai, the sister town of Tirunelveli, have something equally captivating to offer? Indeed, it does. The Azhagiya Mannaar Rajagopala Swami temple is a sight to behold, and words alone cannot capture the sheer beauty of this exquisite temple. If it had been constructed centuries ago, there is no doubt that the revered Alwars would have celebrated this temple with their divine hymns. This temple is a vibrant, awe-inspiring, colossal, historically rich, and culturally significant marvel in the Nellai region.  Apsaras, renowned for their enchanting beauty, grace the sanctum with their presence. Two of these elegant Apsaras stand on either side of the Devis, waving chamaras. However, the Devis themselves outshine even the Apsaras with their divine allure. Vedadavalli, who cradles a lotus in her left arm, and Kumudavalli, gently holding a lily with her right, both ...

Noombal, a relatively lesser-known locality, may not be familiar even to the residents of Chennai. It has transformed from a residential area into a hub of factories and warehouses. Amidst this industrial setting stands a small yet ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Agasteeswara. According to legend, the sage Agastya installed 108 Shiva Lingas in the Tondai region, all bearing the name Agasteeswara. The temple at Noombal is one of these sacred Lingas. Lord Shiva is enshrined on a square base (aavudai) facing the east, while the sanctum itself follows the apsidal (Gajaprshtha) architectural style.  The temple's origin likely dates back to the Pallava era, but the Cholas later converted it into a stone temple. Over time, various additions have been made to the temple, except for the Gajaprshtha vimana and the main deity, which remain unchanged. Interestingly, the apsidal base rests on a rectangular platform (upapeetham), a rare feature in Tamil Nadu temples. Within the ...

Sembian Mahadevi, a revered figure from the Chola dynasty, dedicated herself to the construction and renovation of numerous temples over a span of sixty years. She generously bestowed magnificent gifts, including bronzes and jewelry, upon many temples, making her one of the most esteemed contributors to the Chola empire. Surprisingly, the ancient temple in Chennai that bears her name remains relatively unknown. Located in Korattur, the temple is presently known as Jambukeshwarar. It is believed to have been built in the 10th century CE, possibly by Rajaraja Chola I, and displays an apsidal (Gajaprshtha) architectural style. The temple walls feature two inscriptions attributed to Rajaraja Chola I. Korattur was originally called Parantaka Chaturvedi Mangalam, also known as Kurattur, and it formed part of Puzhal Kottam, which was itself a part of Ambattur Nadu. The deity worshipped in this temple was known as Sembian Maadevi Pothalvar, and the temple itself was called Sembian Maadevi Ishw...