Ethirkottai Venugopalan Swamy Temple, Virudhunagar

Address

Ethirkottai Venugopalan Swamy Temple, Virudhunagar

Ethirkottai village, Sattur Circle,

Virudhunagar District

Tamilnadu – 626131.

Moolavar

Sri Venugopalan Swami

Amman

Sri Sathyabhama-Sri Rukmani

Introduction

Location:

• Situated in Ethirkottai village, Sattur circle, Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu.
• Located on the eastern bank of the Kayal River.

Deity:

• The presiding deity is Sri Venugopala Swami, a form of Lord Krishna, accompanied by his consorts Sri Sathyabhama and Sri Rukmini.
• The temple is named after its location, derived from the Tamil words for “opposite fort” (Ethir-kottai), referencing the two villages on either side of the river.

Historical Significance:

• Built approximately 300 years ago by Chiratsar Govindappa Nayakkar, who ruled the region and contributed to the construction of the fort, town, and temple.
• Settlers were brought from Kanchi and Tiruvallur Divya Desams, and the temple became a hub for Vedic scripture learning.

Puranic Legend:

• The temple’s founding is linked to Manduka Maharishi, who played a role in its establishment.
• Veeraragavaiyangar, a prominent leader, defended the town using divine intervention by invoking the Sudarsana Chakra through the chanting of the Mahamantra. It is said this act created a fort that the enemy could not penetrate.
• Statues of Govindappa Nayaka and Veeraragavaiyangar are preserved in the temple’s Mahamandapam as a tribute to their contributions.

Challenges and Revival:

• Over time, due to famine and migration, the local Anthanas (Brahmin scholars) relocated, and the temple’s lands were encroached upon.
• With declining support, the temple faced interruptions in regular pujas.
• The establishment of the Satyabhama Sametha Srivenugopala Swami Bhakta Sabha marked the revival efforts, leading to significant renovations.

Renovation and Rituals:

• Key renovations include the construction of a circular wall, restoration of the Mahamandapam, and the sanctum sanctorum.
• A Yagasala was established, and the Kumbabhishekam (consecration ceremony) was performed, ensuring the temple’s religious activities resumed.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance:

• The temple stands as a symbol of devotion and resilience, maintaining its heritage and religious significance through community efforts.
• It continues to serve as a spiritual center for devotees of Lord Krishna in the region.

Century/Period

1000 Years Old

Nearest Bus Station

Ethirkottai

Nearest Railway Station

Virudhunagar station

Nearest Airport

Madurai

Location on Map

lightuptemple