Vikracholamangalam Marudothaiya Ishwaramudayar Temple, Madurai

Address

Vikracholamangalam Marudothaiya Ishwaramudayar Temple, Madurai

Vikracholamangalam,

Madurai District,

Tamil Nadu 625607

Moolavar

Marudothaya Ishwaramudayar

Amman

Sivanesavalli Ambal

Introduction

Vikracholamangalam Ishwaramudayar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a hidden gem located in Vikracholamangalam town, Madurai district, Tamil Nadu.

Location: The temple is situated on the south bank of the Vaigai River. During the reign of the Pandya kings, Saivism and Vaishnavism flourished along this route, which served as a significant highway.
Historical Significance: This temple is believed to be more than 1500 years old, steeped in history and tradition.
Architectural Beauty: The temple is constructed with beautiful stone architecture and faces the east. A remarkable feature of the temple complex is the presence of a huge Theppakulam (temple tank) in front of the temple, adding to its aesthetic charm.
Deities: The presiding deity of the temple is known as Marudothaya Ishwaramudayar, and the Mother Goddess is called Sivanesavalli Ambal. To the right of the main deity is Lord Ganesha, and to the left is Lord Murugan.
Unique Lingam: The temple houses a round Shiva Lingam, which is placed within a square robe, making it a highlight of this sacred place.
Separate Sanctum for Sivanesavalli Mother: South of the main temple, a separate sanctum has been established for Sivanesavalli, the divine Mother.
Historical Challenges: The temple faced destruction during a foreign invasion in the 14th century. Today, only its foundation remains as a testament to its storied past.
Additional Deities: Other deities in the temple complex include Lingotpavar, Brahma, Dakshina murti, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Muruga. Each deity holds its own significance in the Hindu pantheon.
Medicinal Beliefs: It is believed that the ghee (clarified butter) applied to the deity in this temple possesses medicinal properties and can aid in the treatment of diseases like heart attacks.