Periyakothur Sundareswarar Shiva Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Periyakothur Sundareswarar Shiva Temple, Thiruvarur

Periyakothur, Mannargudi circle,

Thiruvarur District,

Tamil Nadu 610206

Moolavar

Sundareswarar Shiva

Amman

Soundaranayaki

Introduction

• Location: Periyakothur Village, Mannargudi Circle, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu
  • The village, historically known as Kotavanur, later became Kottur and is now referred to as Periyakottur (Big Kottur) to distinguish it from Small Kottur.
  • This ancient temple, believed to be 1500 years old, was originally constructed during the Chola period. It had fallen into a dilapidated state over the centuries, but through the efforts of local devotees, it has been reconstructed and revitalized.

Puranic Significance

• Historical and Architectural Features:
  • The Periyakothur Sundareswarar Temple is noted for its grand Chola-period architecture, including Arthamandapam, Mahamandapam, and a Chola-style building in front of the sanctum. The temple is set on the banks of Periyakulam, providing a scenic backdrop to the sacred space.
  • The Lord Sundareswarar is enshrined in the east-facing sanctum. The sanctum is square-shaped, with significant religious features including the Lord’s sanctum, Ambikai (Mother Goddess) sanctum, and a variety of divine idols.
• Divine Idols:
  • The temple houses several notable idols, such as Vinayak, Dakshinamurti, Lingotpavar, and ancient idols of the Lord in the sanctum. The Ambikai idol may have been newly created during the temple’s restoration.
  • The north-east corner of the temple features two Bhairavas (guardians of the temple). In addition, there are five Vinayak idols at the temple, and it is considered a sacred place for the worship of Panchavinayakar (Five Vinayaks), making it a unique site for Lord Ganesha devotees.
• Restoration and Reopening:
  • The temple, once in ruins, underwent significant reconstruction efforts by the local community. This initiative culminated in the Kumbhabhishekam (reconsecration ceremony) on June 3, 2018, marking a major milestone in the temple’s revival.
• Belief and Blessings:
  • It is widely believed that those who come to this temple, particularly to worship and anoint the Lord, will be blessed with jobs abroad. This belief has made the temple a popular destination for devotees seeking prosperity and career opportunities outside the country.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com

Century/Period

1500 Years old

Nearest Bus Station

Periyakottur

Nearest Railway Station

Mannargudi

Nearest Airport

Trichy

Location on Map

lightuptemple