Jambai Jambunatheshwarar Temple, Villupuram

Address

Jambai Jambunatheshwarar Temple, Villupuram

Jambai, Thirukoilur taluk,

Thiruvannamalai district,

Tamil Nadu 605 754

Moolavar

Jambunatheshwarar (Thanthondreeswarar)

Introduction

1. Introduction:
   • Also known as Thanthondreeswarar Temple.
   • Built by the Cholas in the 10th century.
   • Features Tamil Vattezhuttu inscriptions by the Cholas.
   • Under Rashtrakuta rule in the mid-10th century, with Rashtrakuta architectural statues of Lord Muruga, Jyestha Devi, Kalabairavar, and Durga found in the temple.
   • Due to age and damage, the temple is being reconstructed by the local people of Jambai.
2. Puranic Significance:
   • The temple is believed to have originally been a pond where the self-manifested (Svayambhu) Shiva Linga was discovered.
   • A sage, taking the form of a fish, is said to have worshipped the Linga, earning the title “Valaimamani” and giving the village the name “Valaiyur,” later becoming “Jambai” during the Chalukya Chola period.
   • The principal deity is referred to as Tantorniswarar in inscriptions, while locals call the deity Jambuskewarar (likely derived from Sambukeswarar).
3. Special Features:
   • The temple is significant for its epigraphical value, with inscriptions from various Tamil dynasties.
   • Five inscriptions from King Kopperunjingan (1253-1258 CE) record gifts and endowments to the temple.
   • Key inscriptions include:
     • A damaged record of a gift of land for worshiping Goddess Jyeshta.
     • An inscription about a Mandapa construction by Viranaraniyar, consort of Prince Gandaraditya, with an endowment for its upkeep.
     • A record of land gifted by Sri Pondaiyudaiyan for the daily temple worship.
     • A fragment recording a 50 Kalanju gold gift for perpetual lamps.
     • A record of a gift for a perpetual lamp from Sadaiyan Eluvan, likely deposited with the Nagarattar of Valaiyur.

Century/Period

10th century

Nearest Bus Station

Jambai

Nearest Railway Station

Thiruvannamalai

Nearest Airport

Puducherry

Location on Map

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