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.