Veedur Sri Adhinathar Temple, Villupuram

Address

Veedur Sri Adhinathar Temple, Veedur, Villupuram Tamil Nadu 605652

Deity

Adhinathar

Introduction

• Location: The Jain temple is situated approximately 3 kilometers from Veedur Dam, adjacent to the Tindivanam-Villupuram Highways. Although built in the 10th century, the temple has undergone frequent renovations, resulting in the absence of inscription stones or other historical records.
• Architecture: The temple follows the traditional Dravidian style of Jain architecture. It comprises an Entry Tower, Manasthampam, Altar, Maha Mandapam, Artha Mandapam, and Sanctum Sanctorum. The temple’s recent renovations have maintained its beauty and neatness.

Puranic Significance:

• Main Features: The temple includes several notable sections:
  • Bakthamara Mandapam: Located to the left of the main entrance, this Mandapam features statues of Lord Rishabha and Saint Manadungacharior, along with Navagraha Thirthankars (9 statues with inscriptions).
  • Separate Shrine Room: To the right in the corridor, there is a shrine dedicated to Shri Shreyamsanathar and Shri Parswanathar, with a Vimanam (tower over the shrine).
  • Five Shrines Structure: Includes statues of Shri Saraswathi, Shri Brahmadevar, Shri Jwalamalini, Shri Padmavathi, and the Navagrahas (Nine Planets).
  • Shri Kshetrabalagar: Situated in a separate room opposite the five shrines structure.
  • Mahamandapam: Features the main deity, Shri Adhinathar, in a granite statue. On either side of the entry to the Sanctum Sanctorum are marble statues of Shri Komuga Yakshan and Shri Chakreshwari Yakshi.
  • Metal Statues and Carvings: The temple houses metal statues of various Lords, demi-gods, Yaksha, Yakshis, and patterns from non-built temples such as Nandeeswaram, Mahameru, and Sruthaskandam. Additionally, there is a stone-carved representation of the 24 Thirthankars (spiritual teachers in Jainism).

Festivals:

• Daily Poojas: Conducted twice daily.
• Nandeeswara Pooja: Held once every four months.
• Navarathri Pooja: Celebrated regularly.
• Annual Festivals: Includes the Urchavam (annual festival) which is celebrated with grandeur.

Century/Period/Age

1000- Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Veedur

Nearest Railway Station

Villupuram

Nearest Airport

Chennai

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