Thillaivilagam Sri Kothandarama Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Thillaivilagam Sri Kothandarama Temple, Thillaivilagam, Thiruthuraipoondi Taluk Thiruvarur District Phone: +91 4369 245725 Mobile: +91 80568 56894 / 97868 77654

Deity

Sri Kothandarama Amman: Sita

Introduction

• Location: Thillaivilagam, Thiruthuraipoondi Taluk, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu.
• Significance: Known as a temple for both Rama and Shiva (Nataraja).
• History: Approximately 1000 years old; known for the inscription ‘Rama Saram’ on Rama’s arrow.

Puranic Significance

• Rama’s Stay: Lord Rama stayed at Bharadhwaja Rishi’s ashram after defeating Ravana on his way back to Ayodhya.
• Anjaneya’s Message: Anjaneya reminded Rama of his promise to Baratha, carrying curd rice to him as a message.
• Rama Saram: The unique arrow held by Rama signifies his philosophy of life:
  • Oru Sol (keeping his word)
  • Only one wife (loyalty)
  • Oru Vil (the special bow).
• Arrow Usage:
  • First used against Kakasuran (the crow).
  • Second against Vaali in Kishkinda.
  • Third against Ravana in Lanka.
• Pancha Rama Temples: Similarities in the majestic posture of Kothandarama to temples in Mudikondan, Sri Vanjiyam, Madurantakam, and Punnai Nallur.

Beliefs

• Devotee Practices: Offering curd rice to Anjaneya is believed to liberate devotees from marriage-related problems and Navagraha Dosham.

Special Features

• Presiding Deity: Veera Kothandarama depicted in a standing posture, alongside Sita, Lakshmana, and Dasa Anjaneya.
• Moolavar: No Moolavar; only Urchavars are worshipped.
• Unique Attributes:
  • 5 feet tall with a smiling countenance.
  • Holding the arrow inscribed with ‘Rama Saram.’
  • Detailed craftsmanship showcasing human-like features (sharp nails, distinctive fingers).
  • Anjaneya whispering to Sita in a Kalyana Kolam (wedding posture).
• Adjacent Temple: Chidambareswarar Umayambigai temple dedicated to Shiva, believed to pre-date the Chidambaram temple.

Festivals

• Sacred Days: Aadi Ammavasai and Thai Ammavasai for couples seeking children.
• Rama Navami Utsavam:
  • 11-day festival in Panguni with daily vahana processions.
  • Garuda Sevai on the 4th day.
  • Rama Pattabhishekam (coronation) on the 10th day.
  • Vidayatri festival with the unique ‘Deer Vahana’ procession on the 11th day.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Thillaivilagam

Nearest Railway Station

Thiruthuraipoondi

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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