Continuing from my previous posts, about the trip to Delhi, I start another series of posts – Temple Tales. Right now, i’m based at Mayiladuthurai, a vibrant town in the heart of Tamil Nadu. Mayiladuthurai is a temple town, with many temples, big and small abounding the neighborhood. It is also the base for visiting the various other popular temples, temple-circuit of Tamil Nadu.
Mayiladuthurai
Mayiladuthurai, which was earlier known as Mayavaram, Mayuram, is a vibrant town, situated on the banks of the river Kaveri. The place derives its name from Mayuranathar Temple, which is the largest of the many temples in Mayavaram.
Mayuranathar Temple Gopuram (Entrance Tower) flanked by the moon!
Mayuranathar Temple is an ancient one, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Legend has it that, Parvathi in the form of a Peahen, worshiped Shiva. Hence, the Lord gets the name Mayura – Nathar (Peafowl – Lord). Historically it also mentioned that Mayavaram was abounded by peafowls.
Historically, the huge temple complex was built, re-built by the Chozha kings. And currently, it is administered by Dharumapura Adheenam, a Saivite monastic institution. The temple is situated about a kilometer to the south of the river Kaveri.
River Kaveri!
The temple is surrounded by North Madavilagam, South Madavilagam, Mela Veedhi (West Street) and Keela Veedhi (East Street), on the four sides, on each direction, as indicated by the names. The names of the streets, were found quite captivating. Usually temples have mada veedhis around them, as I had known, and these names were new to me!
The pond, within the temple premises.
Another enchanting view of Mayuranathar Temple!
Majestic Kolu on display, in Mayuranathar Temple, during Navaratri 2018
A painting on the roof of the Temple
The temple elephant
The temple elephant, bathing joyfully in the Kaveri!
Mayiladuthurai is also a bustling trade hub. There are several shops selling a variety of products. Owning to the temple circuit, there is huge inflow of pilgrims, and other tourists to this place, throughout the year.
A crowded street of Mayiladuthurai, on the eve of Deepavali
The tales of this beautiful town, is to be continued, in the next post too.
Cheers. God Bless.
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