Kannampalayam Dandayuthapani Swami Temple, Coimbatore

Address

Kannampalayam village,

Coimbatore District

Tamilnadu – 641402

Moolavar

Dandayuthapani (Palaniyandavar)

Introduction

The Kannampalayam Dandayuthapani Swami Temple, dedicated to Lord Muruga, is a historic shrine located in Kannampalayam village in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. Dating back over 150 years, the temple, initially a humble abode housing the idol of Dandayuthapani, has grown into a revered spiritual destination. Kannampalayam lies just 3 kilometers from Papampatti on the Coimbatore-Trichy Highway, making it accessible for devotees and travelers alike.

Puranic Significance

The temple’s origins are deeply rooted in the devotion of the local community.

Establishment of the Vel:
Devotees from Kannampalayam who faced challenges in traveling to Palani to worship Lord Muruga decided to prepare a Vel (divine spear) and offered it at Lord Muruga’s feet in Palani. They later consecrated it alongside the Dandayuthapani idol in their village temple, bringing the blessings of Palani Muruga closer to their homes.
Contribution of Marappa Gounder:
Marappa Gounder, a devout monk from the village, spent years serving at the Palani Swami Temple and was granted the privilege to perform the Maha Abhishekam annually. His unwavering devotion laid the foundation for the temple’s spiritual prominence.
Transformation of the Temple:
A devotee who undertook a padayatra (pilgrimage on foot) to Palani for 37 consecutive years envisioned constructing a temple in Kannampalayam that mirrored Palani. After community consultations, the east-facing temple was transformed into a west-facing structure, symbolizing Palani’s spiritual essence. The temple took eight years to rebuild, culminating in a grand Kumbabhishekam (consecration ceremony) on May 14, 2021.

Beliefs and Benefits

Performing abhishekam on Tuesdays is believed to lift marriage-related obstacles.
Childless couples worshiping on Tuesday evenings are believed to be blessed with progeny.
Couples who marry in Swami Sannathi and receive the blessings of Lord Arumugam are believed to enjoy a harmonious and prosperous life.

Special Features

Rajagopuram and 27 Steps:
The temple’s grand entrance features a dress code for devotees and 27 symbolic steps, representing the 27 stars (nakshatras) in Hindu astrology.
Flagpole and Mahamandapam:
A towering 33-foot flagpole greets visitors. The spacious Mahamandapam, supported by eight intricately carved pillars, features sculptures of Lord Palani and Arunagirinathar.
Unique Iconography:
The upper canopy of the Mahamandapam showcases Ashtalakshmi swastikas akin to those in Palani. A stream structure, typically seen above Shivalingams in Shiva temples, is uniquely set above Lord Muruga here, adding to the temple’s distinctive features.