Sri Brahmanandeesvarar Temple, Thirumetrali

Address

Sri Brahmanandeesvarar Temple, Thirumetrali, Patteeswaram, Kumbakonam taluk , Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu 612703

Diety

Brahmanandeesvarar , Amman: Brahmambika

Introduction

Brahmanandeesvarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Shiva, located at Patteeswaram in the Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India.This temple is located near Patteeswaram, at a distance of 500 m. from Thirumalairajan Riverrom the north street of Thenupuriswarar Temple this temple can be reached, through west. The entrance having an arch is found there. This temple is made of brickshe presiding deity in the garbhagriha, represented by the lingam, is known as Brahmanandeesvarar and the goddess is known as Brahmambikai.After crossing the dilapidated walls a big front mandapa. Next to the mandapa in the garbhagriha, the presiding deity is found in 4′ x 4′ size. This is the biggest lingam found in this area, which is very beautiful to look at. The goddess if acing south.

Puranic Significance

While going around the temple sculptures belonging to 10th century CE and 11th century CE could be found. Among others they include Dakshinamurthy, Lingodbhava, Durga and Brahma. Brahma and Nāga kanni worshipped the presiding deity of the temple. Those who are affected by the curse of Naga are doing parikara here. Dakshinamurthy is facing south. The front mandapa is found with dwitala garbhagriha. After stepping some steps the garhagriha could be reached.[2] Naga kanni is found, in the kosta, in sitting posture. This is one of the beautiful sculptures of the temple

Special Features

The temple belonged to 8th century CE. This temple, was offered with many grants by Alisi Kattatigal, the wife of the Chola king Aditya I. When the glory of Chola kings started to decline, Vijayalaya Chola took the rein and upheld the prestige. After his rule, Aditya came to the throne. Like Vijayala Chola he contributed much. He worshipped the presiding deity of the temple. From the inscriptions found in the temple it is learnt that he donated for lighting the lamps temple. From the existing structure it is surmised that there should have been a three tier raja gopura in this temple.