Nedungundram Sri Ramachandra Perumal Temple - Tiruvannamalai

Address

Nedungundram Sri Ramachandra Perumal Temple – Tiruvannamalai

Nedungundram, Tiruvannamalai District,

Tamil Nadu 606807

Moolavar

Sri Ramachandra Perumal

Amman

Sengamalavalli

Introduction

The Ramachandra Perumal Temple, located in Nedungundram, is dedicated to Lord Ramachandra (Sri Rama). Built by the great Vijayanagara king, Krishnadeva Raya, this sprawling temple stands on 8 acres of land and is the largest temple dedicated to Lord Rama in Tamil Nadu. The temple holds a significant historical and spiritual value, as it is believed that Lord Rama, on his way back to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, passed through this region and met the sage Sukabrahma Rishi. The temple is also associated with the Muktikopanishad and features a unique sanctum sanctorum, where Lord Rama is depicted without his bow and arrow, as he was returning in peace.

Thala Virutcham: Vilwa
Theertham: Shivatheertham

Puranic Significance
The temple’s history dates back to an event in the Ramayana, when Sri Rama, after defeating Ravana, passed through Nedungundram and met the sage Sukabrahma Rishi, who was performing penance on a hill. The sage, overjoyed with the visit of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, gifted Rama some rare scriptures written on palm leaves. Rama, with humility, received the palm leaves and sat with Sita on his left and Lakshmana on his right. Hanuman, seated in Padmasana, read the scriptures, and the Muktikopanishad was imparted to him by the sage in this very place.

The most unique aspect of this temple is the portrayal of Lord Rama. Unlike most temples where he is depicted with his bow and arrow, here Sri Rama is seated calmly with his right hand placed on his chest, symbolizing peace. His left hand is held in a gesture that conveys to devotees that their fate rests safely at His feet. Sita is seen holding a lotus in her right hand and pointing with her left hand to the feet of Rama, symbolizing surrender. Lakshmana stands by Rama’s side, while Hanuman is shown in the sanctum, seated and reading the scriptures from the palm leaf book. This is the only temple where Hanuman is given such a prominent position in the sanctum sanctorum.

The temple also holds the tale of the “Dividing Line in the Plantain Leaf,” which is associated with an event when Rama, in a state of dilemma, used a plantain leaf for dining with Hanuman. He drew a line on the leaf to make it easier to divide the food, and this line became a permanent mark, which is believed to be present on the plantain leaf in this temple.

Beliefs
Devotees believe that praying at this temple ensures peace of mind, prosperity in family life, and success in business and career. It is also said that devotees who worship at this temple are blessed with a happy and harmonious marriage. Special prayers and offerings like milk, curd, turmeric powder, honey, sandalwood paste, garlands, and money are made to Lord Rama. Many devotees also undertake the practice of feeding the poor as an act of devotion.

Special Features

Sri Rama’s Form: Unlike most depictions of Rama, here He is seated calmly without His bow and arrow, symbolizing His peaceful return from battle.
Hanuman in the Sanctum: Hanuman, who usually occupies a separate shrine, is seated in the sanctum itself, reading the palm leaves.
Inner Passage to Sanctum: The temple has a unique inner passage leading to the sanctum sanctorum, resembling a cave.
Size: This is the largest temple dedicated to Lord Rama in Tamil Nadu, built on a vast 8-acre plot.

Festivals
The Ramachandra Perumal Temple celebrates several grand festivals, including:

Panguni Brahmotsavam (March-April): A 10-day festival with a car procession and the grand Indravimana festival on the 10th day.
Sri Ramanavami: The celebration of Lord Rama’s birthday.
Pongal: A special procession on the second day of Pongal (Kanum Pongal), where Sri Ramachandra is taken in procession around the hill, visiting several villages and towns.
Vaikasi Visakam: Celebrated with devotion in May-June, it is an important festival in the temple.
Karudasevai and Sri Krishna Jayanthi: Celebrated with grand processions and rituals.
Other Celebrations: Tamil and English New Year, Deepavali, and other major festivals are also observed with great devotion.