Krishnapuram Jayaveera Abhayahastha Anjaneya Temple - Thirunelveli

Address

Krishnapuram Jayaveera Abhayahastha Anjaneya Temple – Thirunelveli

Krishnapuram, Kadayanallur,

Thirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu – 627 759 Phone: +91 46333 245250

Moolavar

Jayaveera Abhayahastha Anjaneya

Introduction

The Jayaveera Abhayahastha Anjaneya Temple, located in Krishnapuram near Kadayanallur in Thirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu, holds immense religious and historical significance. Rooted in the events of the Ramayana, this temple is dedicated to Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman), revered for his valor, strength, and unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. The temple is set amidst lush green paddy fields, offering a serene and picturesque ambiance.

Presiding Deity: Jayaveera Abhayahastha Anjaneya (Hanuman)
Location: Krishnapuram, formerly Kishkinda Puram, referenced in the Ramayana
Historical Age: Over 1500 years old

Puranic Significance

The temple and its location have deep connections to the Kishkinda Kandam of the Ramayana.

After Sita was abducted by Ravana, Sri Rama sought the help of Sugreeva, king of Kishkinda. Anjaneya led a team southward in search of Sita, with a ring from Sri Rama as proof of identity.
During their search, the team, parched and hungry, discovered a cave with the guidance of birds. Inside, they met Swayamprabha, a meditating sage.
The cave, said to be created by the architect Mayan, was sanctified by Lord Indra after Mayan’s demise. Swayamprabha offered the team food and water and narrated the cave’s history.
Anjaneya convinced Swayamprabha to remain in the cave until he returned after rescuing Sita. Later, the cave and its surroundings were handed over to Anjaneya by Swayamprabha. The place, once known as Kishkinda Puram, evolved into Krishnapuram over time.

Special Features

Temple Complex and Architecture:
- The temple, built more than 1500 years ago, is simple yet spiritually vibrant.
- Two mouths of the ancient cave are visible in the temple tank. One is inactive, while the other is said to lead to the temple’s sanctum sanctorum, believed to be the site where Sri Rama and Sri Anjaneya performed a yagna.
- The soil around the sanctum is said to contain yagna ashes, offered as prasad to devotees.
Main Deity:
- The majestic Jayaveera Abhayahastha Anjaneya stands about six feet tall, with a rock base extending deep into the ground.
- He is depicted with his:
  - Right hand in Abhaya Mudra, offering protection and blessings.
  - Left hand resting on his thigh, symbolizing strength and stability.
  - Raised tail adorned with a small bell at the tip.
Other Shrines and Features:
- Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Anjaneya Sannidhi: Located west of the main Anjaneya shrine.
- Meditation Hall: Features Lord Anjaneya in a serene Yoga Mudra, ideal for devotees seeking peace.
- Samadhis of Sadhus: Marked by Tulsi and Vilva plants, these symbolize the temple’s spiritual heritage.
Tank and Rituals:
- The temple tank is believed to relieve devotees of Brahma Hatya Dosham (sin of killing a Brahmin) upon bathing.
- The cave system and the temple tank add a unique historical dimension to the temple.
Divine Characteristics:
- Lord Anjaneya’s glowing eyes exude compassion and grace, instilling confidence and devotion in worshippers.
- Devotees believe that Lord Anjaneya fulfills wishes within five weeks of sincere prayer at this temple.

Festivals

The temple celebrates various festivals with devotion and grandeur:

Hanuman Jayanthi – Highlighted by the grand Laksha Archanai (one lakh chants).
Puratasi Saturday Specials – A time of fervent devotion to Lord Vishnu and his avatars.
Rama Navami Utsavam – Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama with rituals and festivities.