Sri Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Rameswaram

Address

Sri Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi Rd, Rameswaram- 623 526, Ramanathapuram district, Phone: +91-4573 – 221 223 Mobile: 97912 45363.

Deity

Kothandaramaswamy

Introduction

• Location: The Kothandaramaswamy Temple is situated in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, approximately 13 kilometers (8.1 miles) from the town. It is positioned at the southernmost tip of the island, surrounded by the shimmering waters of the Bay of Bengal on one side and the majestic Gulf of Munnar on the other.
• Historical Significance: The temple is notable for being the only historical structure that survived the devastating 1964 cyclone, which completely washed away the nearby town of Dhanushkodi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and also houses deities of Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, and Vibhishana. It is a popular pilgrimage destination and is historically significant for having been visited by the revered saint Swami Vivekananda before his journey to Chicago.

Puranic Significance

• Mythological Context: The temple holds a significant place in Hindu mythology, particularly in the Ramayana. It is said that Vibhishana, the younger brother of Ravana, sought to persuade Ravana to return Goddess Sita to Lord Rama after her abduction. When Ravana refused to heed Vibhishana’s counsel, he left Lanka and crossed the sea to join Lord Rama’s army.
• Acceptance of Vibhishana: Despite initial skepticism from other leaders about Vibhishana’s loyalty, Lord Hanuman advocated for him, stating, “Vibhishana is an honest man; we can trust him.” This acceptance is celebrated within the temple, which features beautiful paintings that depict these historical narratives.
• Temples and Shrines: The temple also houses shrines for Garuda Bhagwan and Sri Ramanuja, alongside its primary deities. The Vibishana Pattabishekam, the coronation celebration of Vibhishana, is an important annual festival held during the Tamil month of Aani (June-July). Additionally, the temple has a sacred tank named after Sage Bhringi and features the Athi-Maram, one of the oldest trees in the area.
• Historical Resilience: Remarkably, the temple was the only structure left standing when Dhanushkodi was devastated by the cyclone, symbolizing hope and resilience. There is also a site nearby called Nandavanam, believed to be where Lord Rama stayed with Sage Bhringi for a few days.

Beliefs

• Devotional Practices: It is believed that those seeking righteousness, promotions in their careers, or wanting to distance themselves from negativity should pray at this temple. Devotees often offer Tulsi garlands to Lord Rama as a gesture of respect and devotion.

Special Features

• Main Deity: The primary idol of Lord Rama in the temple is depicted holding a bow and arrow (Kothandam), giving the temple its name, Kothandaramaswamy. The temple is unique in that it represents the divine presence of Lord Rama alongside Goddess Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and Vibhishana, symbolizing unity and divine protection.

Festivals

• Special Pujas: The temple observes special rituals and pujas on the last Purattasi Saturday during September-October, with the Vibishana Pattabishekam (coronation) celebrated in the month of Aani (June-July), drawing many devotees to partake in the festivities.

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 Years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious Endowment Board. (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Kodandam

Nearest Railway Station

Rameshwaram

Nearest Airport

Tuticorin (TCR)

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