Thennangur Panduranga Temple - Thiruvannamalai

Address

Thennangur Panduranga Temple – Thiruvannamalai

Thennangur, Thiruvannamalai District,

Tamil Nadu- 604408

Phone: +91 – 4183 – 225 808

Moolavar

Panduranga

Amman

Ragumayee

Introduction

Location and Architecture
The Panduranga Temple in Thennangur, Thiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Built in a blend of northern and southern architectural styles, it resembles the Puri Jagannath Temple of Odisha and features front gopurams in Pallava style. The temple, believed to be 1000 years old, embodies both Orthodox Sampradaya (South) and Bhajan Sampradaya (North).

Puranic and Historical Significance

Meenakshi’s Avathara Sthalam: Mythology connects the temple’s location to the Pandya king finding Goddess Meenakshi as a child.
Spiritual Contributions: Shri Haridas Giri Swamigal revitalized the village as a hub for Sanathana Dharma through Namasankeerthanam. The temple’s lineage includes Gnananandagiri Swamigal, a saint renowned for his spiritual pursuits and teachings.

Temple Features and Deities

The temple houses a 12-foot Salagrama idol of Lord Panduranga in a standing posture, accompanied by Mother Raghumayee. Other deities include Achutharaya Perumal, Sri Chakra-related idols, and golden idols worshipped by Swami Haridas Giri.
Unique aspects include Panchaloka Dwarapalaka idols, Vishu Kani Utsav fruit alankara, and murals by the renowned architect Sri Natanam.

Worship Practices and Beliefs
The temple emphasizes prayer and Namasankeerthanam (devotional music) as a means to reach God. Devotees pray for blessings, including child boons, and perform special pujas with offerings.

Festivals
Key festivals include:

Vishukani Utsav: Celebrated on Tamil New Year’s Day.
Muthangi Sevai: Observed during Gokhulashtami with Lord Krishna in various forms like Rajagopala and Govinda Giridhari.

Special Attractions