Nellaiappar Temple : One of the largest & most revered temples in Tamil Nadu

Описание: Nellaiappar Temple (Tirunelveli Nellaiappar Kovil) is one of the largest and most revered temples in Tamil Nadu. It is located in Tirunelveli and dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Nellaiappar, and his consort Parvati, worshipped as Kanthimathi Amman.

Historical Background:

1. Ancient Origins:

The temple dates back to at least the 7th century CE.

It is mentioned in the Tevaram hymns by the Saivite saints Appar, Sundarar, and Sambandar, marking it as a Paadal Petra Sthalam — one of the 275 sacred Shiva temples.

The original temple was likely built by the Pandyas, with later additions by Cholas, Vijayanagar rulers, and Nayaks of Madurai.



2. Name and Significance:

"Nellai" is derived from the Tamil word for paddy (nel), as the legend says the temple was protected by a fence made of paddy stalks during a flood.

The temple is known for its strong association with agriculture and fertility.



3. Architectural Grandeur:

The temple complex spans over 14 acres.

It features tall gopurams (gateway towers), long corridors, and a musical pillar hall (Mani Mandapam) with 161 musical pillars.

The Sangili Mandapam is a unique chain-like corridor connecting the shrines of Nellaiappar and Kanthimathi Amman.



4. Temple Legends:

It is believed that Lord Vishnu in the form of Vishnu Durga guards the temple.

The temple has been a center for Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy and Tamil devotional literature for centuries.



5. Cultural Importance:

The Arudra Darshan and Thirukalyanam festival (divine wedding of Nellaiappar and Kanthimathi) are major events drawing thousands of devotees.

It is also linked to Tamil musical traditions through the Yaazhi (ancient harp) motifs and pillars that produce musical notes.



I am Sonal Kellogg, journalist with 25 years of experience in print media and online news platforms. I have worked in Indian Express, The Asian Age and DNA News and have also been published in many online news portals. I have been writing on politics, social issues, sexual abuse and violence, gender issues and development stories.

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