Somur Someswarar Temple, Karur

Address

Somur Someswarar Temple, Karur

Somur, Manmangalam Taluk,

Karur District,

Tamil Nadu 639114

Moolavar

Someswarar

Amman

Manonmani Ambal

Introduction

Somur Someswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a historical and sacred site located in the village of Somur, Manmangalam taluk, Karur district, Tamil Nadu.

Location: Somur is a small village situated approximately 13 km from Karur. The temple is strategically located between the Cauvery and Amaravati rivers to the west.
Unique Sanctum Design: Unlike many other temples where the sanctum sanctorum is a smaller structure, in the Somur Someswarar Temple, the sanctum sanctorum is a larger edifice, while the artha mandapam (the front hall) is relatively smaller.
Renovation Efforts: In 2010, there were efforts to renovate the temple and improve its infrastructure. These included the construction of separate shrines for deities like Ganesha, Murugan, Nalvar, Ambal, and the Navagrahas (nine planetary deities). While 90 percent of the renovation work was completed, they were unable to finish the project and perform the Kumbabhishekam (consecration ceremony).
Challenges Due to Trees: A royal tree has grown on the top floor of the temple, and its roots are causing damage to the Artha Mandapam (front hall).
Architectural Significance: The temple is believed to be over 1500 years old. Its architecture follows the tula linga structure, similar to the construction style of the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur (Tanjore). The temple’s vimana (tower) was originally built with bricks, but over time, it got damaged and was later restored.
Deities: An interesting feature of this temple is that instead of separate Ganesha and Murugar (Murugan) idols, there is a single large Ganesha idol placed beside the main deity, Someswarar. Manonmani Ambal, a form of the Divine Mother, resides in the Artha Mandapam.
Nandi Statues: The temple’s Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, is arranged in a unique way, with a large Nandi leaning to the right side, as if in a posture of worship to Someswarar. To the west of the temple, there is an older Nandi statue, although it is damaged.
Idols Surrounding the Sanctum: In the vicinity of the sanctum sanctorum, you can find large idols of Dakshina Murthy on the south side, Murugan on the east side, and Brahma on the north side.