Thirumangalam Bhoologanathar/ / Vikrama Chozheeswarar Temple, Mayiladuthurai

Address

Thirumangalam Bhoologanathar/ / Vikrama Chozheeswarar Temple, Thirumangalam, Mayiladuthurai- 609811.

Deity

Bhoologanathar/ Vikrama Chozheeswarar Amman: Bhoologanayagi

Introduction

Location:

• Situated in Thirumanagalam Village, near Thirumanancheri, in Mayiladuthurai Taluk, Mayiladuthurai District, Tamil Nadu.
• Located on the northern banks of the Vikraman River.

Deities:

• Presiding Deity: Bhoologanathar (also known as Vikrama Chozheeswarar).
• Consort: Bhoologanayagi.

Historical Background:

• Built in 1128 CE by Vikrama Chola.
• Originally known as Rajaraja Thirumangalam and Vikrama Chozha Thirumangalam.
• The temple was referred to as Vikrama Chozheeswaram in inscriptions.

Puranic Significance:

• Earthly Wedding: Lord Shiva and Parvathi performed a symbolic Saptapathi (seven steps) ritual in Thirumanagalam for the benefit of human beings who were unable to witness their celestial wedding in Thirumanancheri.
• Kala Samhara Moorthy: During a Mrityunjaya Homa performed by Sage Vasishta and Arundhathi, Lord Shiva appeared in the sacrificial fire as Kala Samhara Moorthy. An idol of Kala Samhara Moorthy is enshrined in the temple to commemorate this event.
• Ponnur: Maha Lakshmi provided gold to Kubera for making the Mangal Sutra (Thirumangalyam) for the divine marriage, which was reportedly crafted in the nearby village of Ponnur.

Beliefs:

• Considered a Parihara Sthalam (temple for remedial prayers) for:
  • Removing marriage obstacles.
  • Longevity of life.
  • Excellence in education and knowledge.

Special Features:

• The temple faces east with an entrance arch featuring stucco images of Rishabaroodar flanked by Vinayaga and Murugan.
• Nandi and Balipeedam are positioned facing the sanctum; Nandi has a unique posture with his front right leg slightly advanced, as if preparing to rise.
• The temple includes two prakarams (enclosures):
  • One around the sanctum.
  • One around the Parvathy shrine.
• A south-facing Nataraja Sabha is present in the mukha mandapam (front hall).

Century/Period/Age

1000- Years old

Nearest Bus Station

Thirumangalam

Nearest Railway Station

Mayiladuthurai..

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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