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...

In the sacred Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, the air is always alive with festivity. Every single day feels like a celebration, as this divine abode hosts an array of vibrant festivals throughout the year. Delving into the details of every single day's celebration would require an entire series of its own. For now, let me offer a high-level summary of all the festivals. Chithirai Festival As the Tamil New Year dawns in the month of Chithirai, the deities Swami Nellaiyappar and Goddess Kantimathi make their way to Kailasa Parvatha Sannidhi, where the New Year’s Panchangam (Hindu calendar) is ceremoniously recited. The full moon of Chithirai witnesses the grand Theerthavari Festival at Sindhu Poondurai Thaipoosa Mandapam, with a divine procession featuring Swami, the Goddess, and other celestial figures. The festivities continue for ten days with the enchanting Vasanta Utsavam at the Vasanta Mandapam. Vaikasi Festival On Vaikasi Visakam, the temple comes aliv...

I have been extensively documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, focusing on its intricate architecture, layout, iconography, deities, and other notable aspects. In this episode, I will provide a consolidated summary of the inscriptions found within this temple. While this is not a complete list, I have covered over 90% of the inscriptions from this inscription-rich site. The earliest inscription dates back to 962 CE during the reign of Cholan Thalai Konda Veera Pandya, and the latest is from the 1914 CE. The temple contains more than 140 inscriptions, and I have included 123 of them in this article. Some inscriptions from the later periods, which only mention the names of devotees, have been omitted. Most of the inscriptions are from the Pandya era, with a significant number from the 13th century. There are only a few inscriptions from the Chola kings. Here are a few highlights from some of the more interesting inscriptions: A 1190 CE inscription from the r...