Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Namakkal

Address

Arulmigu Narasimha Swamy Temple, Namakkal – 637001, Tamilnadu, India Phone: 04286 – 233999 Mobile: +91 – 97500 42615 / 97867 98837

Deity

Narasimha Swamy AMMAN: Lakshmi

Introduction

• Location: The Narasimhaswamy Temple is situated in Namakkal, a prominent town in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is conveniently located along the Salam – Namakkal – Trichy Road, making it accessible to devotees and visitors.
• Architectural Style: The temple exhibits a unique blend of Dravidian and rock-cut architectural styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Its historical significance and intricate designs draw many visitors.

Puranic Significance

• Legend of Lord Narasimha: The temple’s legend revolves around the fierce avatar of Lord Vishnu, known as Narasimha.
  • Hiranyakasipu’s Boon: The demon king Hiranyakasipu wreaked havoc across the universe, becoming invulnerable due to a boon granted by Lord Brahma. This boon rendered him immune to death under specific conditions: he could not be killed during the day or night, on land, in water, or in the air.
  • Prahlada’s Devotion: Despite his father’s tyranny, Prahlada, Hiranyakasipu’s son, remained a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, which infuriated the demon king further. Hiranyakasipu made multiple attempts to harm Prahlada, but each time, Prahlada was miraculously saved by Vishnu’s divine grace.
  • The Avatar’s Manifestation: During a confrontation, Hiranyakasipu challenged the omnipresence of Vishnu and struck a pillar in anger. In response, Lord Vishnu emerged as Narasimha, a half-man, half-lion form, slaying Hiranyakasipu at dusk in a manner that circumvented the conditions of the boon—neither on land nor in the air.

Beliefs

• Devotees’ Prayers: The temple attracts devotees seeking blessings for:
  • Successful marriage negotiations.
  • Boons for children.
  • Academic achievements.
• Special Abisheks: Devotees often perform special abisheks (ritual bathing) with new vastras (clothes) for the deity, expressing their reverence and devotion.

Special Features

• Historical Construction: Believed to have been constructed in the 8th century by the Pandya kings, the temple holds historical significance in the region.
• Architectural Comparison: The temple’s rock-cut architecture has been compared to the Badami Caves, which date back to the 6th century, indicating possible architectural influences on its design.
• Palaeographic Evidence: Historians have determined the temple’s age based on palaeographic studies and architectural style, affirming its importance as a cultural and religious landmark.

Festivals

• Panguni Uthiram Festival: The temple’s most prominent festival is the fifteen-day Panguni Uthiram, celebrated during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April). The presiding deities are paraded through the streets on a chariot during this vibrant celebration.
• Other Celebrations: Additional festivals celebrated at the temple include:
  • Chittirai (Tamil New Year)
  • Vaigasi Visagam
  • Telugu New Year
  • Avani Pavitrotsavam
  • Narasimhar Jayanthi
  • Vaikunta Ekadasi
  • Thai Pongal

Century/Period/Age

8th century

Managed By

HRCE

Nearest Bus Station

Namakkal

Nearest Railway Station

Salem

Nearest Airport

Coimbatore

lightuptemple