- Shiva
Kudavarai Sivan Temple
- Arittapatti,Tamil Nadu
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Overview
Arittapatti, also known as Kalinjamalai and Thiruppinaiyanmalai is a hill village located at 7 kms West of Melur and 12 kms East of Azhagar hill Azhagar koil – Melur route. It is famous for an ancient Shiva cave temple. On the eastern face of the hill is a cavern with a drip-ledge cut into the outer face of the rock. On the brow of the cave is found a Bramhi inscription which has been dated to between the second and first century B.C.
About the Temple
This Siva temple is a fine example of the early Pandya rock-cut temple architecture. This simple but beautiful edifice, which belongs to the 7th – 8th century CE, has a garbhagriha and a front mandapa. Now the local people call this temple as Idaichchi mandapam. The Siva linga of this temple has been chiseled in the centre of the same rock. The bas-relief sculptures of the Vinayaka and Siva as Lagulisa adorn the two niches of the exterior wall of the front Mandapa. This is one among the rare Lagulisa sculptures found in Tamil Nadu.
Festivals
The festival celebrated in this temple are Prodosam and Shiva Rathiri.
How To Reach Kudavarai Sivan Temple
Airport
Nearest airport is Madurai airport.
Railways
Nearest Railway station is Madurai station.
Road
Nearest bus stop is Arittapatti.
Temple Address
Kudavarai Sivan Temple,
Kalinjamalai Hill,
Arittapatti, Madurai,
Tamil Nadu - 625106.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Salvation
- Wealth
- Relief from diseases
- Purchase of vehicles
- Gain Knowledge
Shlokas
Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree
Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.
Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.
Timings
The temple is open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.