Thoppalakkarai Uyyavandha Perumal Temple, Virudhunagar

Address

Thoppalakkarai Uyyavandha Perumal Temple, Virudhunagar

Thoppalakkarai Village,

Virudhunagar District

Tamilnadu – 626114.

Moolavar

Uyyavandha Perumal

Introduction

The Thoppalakkari Uyyavandha Perumal Temple, located in Thoppalakkarai village in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, is a significant shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Location: The temple is situated in Thoppalakkarai village, known as Kulathur during the later Pandya rule, in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, India.

Deity: The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, who is revered as Uyyavandha Perumal. The primary deity is depicted in a standing posture within the sanctum sanctorum. It is said that originally there were deities on both sides of Perumal, but currently, only one deity of Upaya Nachiyar can be seen. There is a belief that the original idols were damaged during an invasion.

Historical Significance: The temple was constructed by Maravarman Sundarapandi I in the year 1299 AD. The architectural style of the sanctum sanctorum follows the Pandyan period design.

Special Features: The temple complex features several unique elements, including a traditional well, a lighthouse with art on a high pedestal, sculptures of Anjaneyar, and an altar with intricate artwork. A lion vehicle is also located nearby. The temple is in a state of disrepair, which makes it difficult to recognize its original grandeur.

Inscriptions: An inscription on the south side of the Ardha Mandapa (half hall) mentions that donations were made to the Uyyavandha Vinnagara Perumal Temple and a Jain school in Thirukkattupalli during the reign of Maravarman Gunasekara I.

Festivals: The temple is a focal point for various festivals. Special celebrations occur during Chitra Pournami, Krishna Jayanti, Sri Ramanavami, Anjaneyar Jayanti, Purattasi Saturday, and Perumal Jayanti. These occasions bring together devotees from many nearby towns to worship the tribal deities.

Despite the temple’s historical significance, it has faced challenges, including neglect and disrepair. Efforts to preserve and restore this ancient shrine are crucial to maintain its heritage and religious significance for future generations.