Panangadi Sri Vitiruindha Perumal Temple, Madurai

Address

Panangadi Sri Vitiruindha Perumal Temple, Madurai

Panangadi,

Madurai District.

Tamil Nadu – 625106.

Moolavar

Sri Vitiruindha perumal

Amman

Sridevi and Bhudevi

Introduction

The Panangadi Sri Vitiruindha Perumal Temple, located in Panangadi village in Madurai District, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is of historical and religious significance.

Location: Panangadi, also known as Panangulam, is situated 32 kilometers from Madurai city in Tamil Nadu, India.

Deities: The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features the deities of Lord Vishnu, along with his consorts Sri Devi (Goddess of Wealth) and Bhoo Devi (Goddess of Earth), on the right and the left side of the sanctum sanctorum.

Historical Significance: The Sri Vitiruindha Perumal Temple dates back to the early Chola period in the 10th century AD. It was later renovated during the Pandya period. The temple features a grand Chola-style Moolavar Vimanam (main tower). The temple’s inscriptions provide details about various dharmas (virtuous practices) and grants made by historical figures, including Sadyavarman Kulasekara Pandian I and Maravarman Sundarapandian I.

Architecture: The temple is constructed in a single-storied structure, and it includes a sanctum sanctorum, artha mandap (half hall), and maha mandap (main hall). The Vimana (tower) of the temple is described as a Dravida vimana with eight faces, and it is decorated with stucco work.

Special Features: An interesting feature of this temple is the presence of Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman) on the Shivalinga peedam (pedestal) of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is said to have taken the form of Hanuman as his 12th avatar, known as Rudra Avatar, to assist Lord Vishnu, who incarnated as Lord Rama. Lord Hanuman is also known here as Anima Sakthi Anjaneyar, Astama Siddhi Anjaneyar, and Siranjeevi Anjaneyar.

Festivals: The temple celebrates various festivals, including the Purattasi Brahmotsavam, Panguni Uthiram, Masi Makam, Vaikasi Visakam, Thiru Karthikai, Vaikunda Ekadashi, and Sravana Deepam. These festivals are occasions for special pujas, processions, and festivities.

Despite its historical and religious importance, the Panangadi Sri Vitiruindha Perumal Temple has faced challenges, including neglect and natural wear and tear. Efforts to preserve and restore this ancient temple are crucial to safeguard its heritage and significance for future generations.