Thillaivilagam Sri Kothandarama Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Thillaivilagam Sri Kothandarama Temple, Thillaivilagam, Thiruthuraipoondi Taluk Thiruvarur District Phone: +91 4369 245725 Mobile: +91 80568 56894 / 97868 77654

Deity

Sri Kothandarama Amman: Sita

Introduction

Location: Thillaivilagam, Thiruthuraipoondi Taluk, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu.
Significance: Known as a temple for both Rama and Shiva (Nataraja).
History: Approximately 1000 years old; known for the inscription ‘Rama Saram’ on Rama’s arrow.

Puranic Significance

Rama’s Stay: Lord Rama stayed at Bharadhwaja Rishi’s ashram after defeating Ravana on his way back to Ayodhya.
Anjaneya’s Message: Anjaneya reminded Rama of his promise to Baratha, carrying curd rice to him as a message.
Rama Saram: The unique arrow held by Rama signifies his philosophy of life:
- Oru Sol (keeping his word)
- Only one wife (loyalty)
- Oru Vil (the special bow).
Arrow Usage:
- First used against Kakasuran (the crow).
- Second against Vaali in Kishkinda.
- Third against Ravana in Lanka.
Pancha Rama Temples: Similarities in the majestic posture of Kothandarama to temples in Mudikondan, Sri Vanjiyam, Madurantakam, and Punnai Nallur.

Beliefs

Devotee Practices: Offering curd rice to Anjaneya is believed to liberate devotees from marriage-related problems and Navagraha Dosham.

Special Features

Presiding Deity: Veera Kothandarama depicted in a standing posture, alongside Sita, Lakshmana, and Dasa Anjaneya.
Moolavar: No Moolavar; only Urchavars are worshipped.
Unique Attributes:
- 5 feet tall with a smiling countenance.
- Holding the arrow inscribed with ‘Rama Saram.’
- Detailed craftsmanship showcasing human-like features (sharp nails, distinctive fingers).
- Anjaneya whispering to Sita in a Kalyana Kolam (wedding posture).
Adjacent Temple: Chidambareswarar Umayambigai temple dedicated to Shiva, believed to pre-date the Chidambaram temple.

Festivals

Sacred Days: Aadi Ammavasai and Thai Ammavasai for couples seeking children.
Rama Navami Utsavam:
- 11-day festival in Panguni with daily vahana processions.
- Garuda Sevai on the 4th day.
- Rama Pattabhishekam (coronation) on the 10th day.
- Vidayatri festival with the unique ‘Deer Vahana’ procession on the 11th day.