Sri Uthirakosamangai Temple- Ramanathapurem

Address

Sri Uthirakosamangai Temple Uthirakosamangai, Ramanathapuram District.

Deity

Mangaleswarar(Shiva) Amman: Mangalambigai(Parvathi)

Introduction

• Temple Name: Uthirakosamangai Mangalanathaswamy Temple
• Location: Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu
• Significance: The temple is considered the world’s first Shiva temple, dating back over 8000 years. It is renowned for its ancient maragatha (emerald) Nataraja idol and its locust tree, which has reportedly been in bloom for over 3300 years.

Puranic Significance:

• Historical Modifications: The temple has been modified by several rulers over the centuries, including the Cholas, Pandya kings, Achutappa Nayak, and Muthuveerappar.
• Saints and Hymns: It has been glorified by hymns from 9th-century saint Manickavasagar and 15th-century saint Arunagirinathar.
• Legend of Mandodhari and Ravana:
  • Mandodhari’s Prayer: Mandodhari, the wife of Ravana, prayed to Lord Shiva to marry only a devotee of Shiva. Lord Shiva appeared as a child and later as fire to test Ravana. The fire destroyed the Agama scriptures held by sages, but sage Manickavasagar saved the scriptures.
  • Lord Shiva’s Blessing: Shiva granted Mandodhari’s wish, enabling her marriage to Ravana and bestowed Manickavasagar with His Linga form, which is still present in the temple.

Beliefs:

• Mother Mangaleswari: Assists in removing obstacles in marriage alliances.
• Worship Benefits:
  • Morning Worship: Removes sins from previous births.
  • Afternoon Worship: Removes present birth sins.
  • Evening Worship: Grants longevity, professional progress, and profitability.
• Offering Practices: Devotees offer abishek (ritual bathing) and vastras (clothing) to the deities.

Special Features:

• Emerald Nataraja Idol: Unique for having a Nataraja idol made of emerald, which is not found in other temples.
• Thazhamboo Flower: The only temple where the fragrant Thazhamboo flower is used for worship. This flower is typically banned in other Shiva temples due to its association with a mythological incident involving Brahma.
• Swayambumurthi: The temple’s Shiva Linga is a self-manifested (swayambu) Linga from the Ilandha tree, which still exists in the temple.

Festivals:

• 12-Day Wedding Festival: Celebrated in Chithirai (April-May).
• 10-Day Margazhi Tiruvadhirai: Held in December-January.

This temple stands out for its historical depth, unique rituals, and special features, making it a significant pilgrimage site in Tamil Nadu.

Century/Period/Age

3000 years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Ramanathapuram

Nearest Railway Station

Ramanathapuram

Nearest Airport

Madurai

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