Ambasamudram Tirukkoshtiyappar Temple, Thirunelveli

Address

Ambasamudram, Thirunelveli District

Tamil Nadu 627401

Moolavar

Tirukkoshtiyappar

Amman

Ulagammai

Introduction

Tirukkoshtiyappar Temple is an ancient and revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Ambasamudram, Thirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu. Known as one of the oldest temples in the region, the presiding deity is called Tirukkoshtiyappar, and the Goddess is Ulagammai. The temple is believed to date back to the 7th century CE, originally built by the Pandya King Jatavaraman Pandya and later contributed to by the Chera and Chola kings. The main deity, a Shiva Linga made of sand, is permanently covered by a copper shield, adding to its uniqueness.

Puranic Significance

Origin of the Name “Tirukkoshtiyappar”:
According to legend, a sage passing through the area crafted a Shiva Linga out of sand on the banks of the Tamirabarani River. When the waters threatened to wash it away, the sage humorously referred to the deity as “Kotti,” meaning mad in Tamil. Another legend recounts that devas and sages visited the site in groups (“Koshti” in Tamil), hence the name Tirukkoshtiyappar.
Pandya Legacy and Contributions:
Inscriptions from the Pandya reign, particularly from the periods of Sadaiyavarman Kulasekharan and Maravarman Sundara Pandyan, highlight the temple’s historical significance. The structure was reconstructed during the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandyan I by Arikara Devar of Chera country.

Special Features

Architectural Highlights:
The temple showcases a unique mix of Pandya and Chera architectural styles. The sanctum features a steep, pointed roof similar to the Kerala style, but constructed in stone instead of the usual wood.
The east-facing sanctum houses the sand-made Shiva Linga covered with a copper shield for preservation. The Goddess Ulagammai’s shrine, crafted with sand from Chidambaram, is situated in a mandapa outside the sanctum.
Unique Idols and Features:
- Kala Swarna Bhairava: Stands on a lotus petal with a lion as his mount, instead of the usual dog.
- Saneeswara: Holds a lotus flower in his left arm, differing from the common depiction of holding a crow.
- Subramanya Shrine: Reflects the artistry of sculptors associated with the famous Tiruchendur idol.
Nearby Structures:
A shrine for Chokkanathar and Meenakshi is located near the temple tank. Interestingly, the Chokkanathar idol is missing, and a statue near the tank depicts a unique blend of male and female figures, symbolizing a mythological story involving Agastya.
Prakara Idols:
The prakara houses numerous deities and sub-shrines, including:
- 63 Nayanmars
- Sapta Matas
- Adhikara Nandi
- Sub-shrines for Ganesha, Chandikeswara, and Navagrahas