Tharamangalam Sri Kailasanathar Temple, Salem

Address

Tharamangalam Sri Kailasanathar Temple, Tharamangalam, Salem district- 636 502

Diety

Sri Kailasanathar Amman: Sivakami

Introduction

The Kailasanathar Temple in Tharamangalam, Salem district, Tamil Nadu, is a remarkable Shiva temple known for its architectural beauty, detailed sculptures, and rich history.

• The Kailasanathar Temple is located in Tharamangalam village, which is situated about 30 kilometers west of Salem and 10 kilometers southwest of Omalur.
• The temple’s history dates back to the 10th century CE, with some parts of the structure originating from that period.
• The temple underwent reconstruction and expansion during the 17th century, thanks to the efforts of the Gatti Mudali dynasty.
• The temple is an architectural marvel, showcasing intricate sculptures and stone carvings. One of its unique features is a rotating lotus flower on the temple’s ceiling.
• Tharamangalam was part of Chera Nadu during its early history, and the temple’s architecture reflects the artistic skills of Tamil Nadu.

Puranic Significance

• The temple has an interesting legend associated with its establishment. Katti Mudali, a ruler of Amarakundhi in Tarukavana region, had a dream in which Lord Shiva revealed that a treasure was hidden beneath the earth at a specific spot where a cow poured its milk. He unearthed a Shiva Lingam and built the temple using the treasure.
• Later, Vanagamudi, the king of Makuda Chudavadi, is believed to have further developed the temple.
• The name “Tharamangalam” is derived from the legend of Vishnu giving his sister in marriage to Lord Shiva (“thaarai vaarthu koduthal”).

Special Features

• The temple is west-facing and features a massive stone wall measuring 306′ by 164′. This wall was constructed in the 13th century.
• The 5-storey entrance tower is designed as a chariot on wheels, drawn by elephants and horses. The huge entrance doors are made of Vengai wood and are adorned with non-rusting iron knobs.
• Stone carvings of fish, tortoises, and other motifs can be found on the walls, along with a striking 5-tiered gopuram at the entrance.
• The temple has a spacious inner courtyard surrounded by a pillared corridor. A traditional Nandi shrine stands before the main temple.

Notable Sculptures:

• The temple boasts a gallery of sculptures depicting various deities and scenes. A unique sculpture of the rishi Pathini (sage’s wife) captures her expressions and dilemmas beautifully.
• The temple features sculptures of Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja performing his cosmic dance and other remarkable scenes.
• Human anatomy and intricate details of the sculptures, including the nerves, have been meticulously carved, reflecting the artistic excellence of the period.

Festivals

15 day Thaipoosam float festival in January – February drawing a huge crowd of over twenty thousand; Tirukarthikai in November – December; Tiruvadhirai in December – January are the main festivals celebrated in the temple. Also, Pradosha the 13th day of new moon or full moon fortnights, new moon days, Deepavali in October – November, Makara Sankranti or Pongal falling almost January 14, Vinayaka Chathurthi in August – September, English and Tamil NewYear days are celebrated. The devotee crowd in the temple is huge these days.

Century/Period/Age

10th Century CE

Managed By

HRCE

Nearest Bus Station

Tharamangalam

Nearest Railway Station

Salem

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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