Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple, Annur
The Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple in Annur, Tamil Nadu, is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its architecture reflects the Chola style, and it is notable for its numerous inscriptions dating back to various South Indian dynasties.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Manneaswarar.
- ›It exhibits architectural expertise from the Chola period, a significant part of Tamil architecture.
- ›Forty-one inscriptions found within the temple provide historical records from the 11th to 15th centuries.
- ›Key deities worshipped include Shiva (Manneaswarar), his consort Arundavaselvi (a form of Parvati), Murugan, Maanikavasakar, Thirugnyanasambandar, and Anjanaeya.
- ›The temple celebrates its car festival in the month of Margazhi and Maha Shivaratri in Maasi.
Shiva, Parvati
- Historical Inscriptions Dating From the 11th To 15th Centuries
- Example of Chola Architectural Style
Chola, Hoysala
Car Festival, Maha Shivaratri
Seven-Headed Snake Statue
About Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple, Annur
The Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple situated in Annur, within the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Manneaswarar.
Etymology
Two legends are associated with the temple's name. One theory suggests the presiding deity is known as "Anneaswarar" after Lord Shiva blessed a local tribal leader named Annie, leading to the derivation of the town's name, Annur. An alternative legend states that the deity is called "Manneaswarar" because Lord Shiva forgave the tribal leader Annie.
Architecture and Deities
The temple's architecture is a notable example of the Chola style, a significant component of Tamil architecture. The main deity, Manneaswarar, faces west. His consort, Arundavaselvi, a representation of Parvati, is enshrined in the Amman Sannithi. The complex also houses shrines for other deities, including Murugan, Maanikavasakar, Thirugnyanasambandar, and Anjanaeya, along with a unique statue of a seven-headed snake.
Inscriptions and Historical Significance
Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple is distinguished by the presence of 41 inscriptions found within its premises. These inscriptions offer valuable historical insights, dating from the 11th century AD to the 15th century AD. They record patronage and events related to rulers and dynasties such as Kokalimoo rka Vikrama Chozhan, Kulothunga Chozha I, II, and III, Virarajendra Chozha, Vikrama Chozha II & III, and the Hoysala King Vira Vallalan.
Festivals
Major festivals celebrated at the temple include its car festival, which takes place in the month of Margazhi, and Maha Shivaratri, observed annually in the month of Maasi.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the name Annur and the deity Manneaswarar?
According to legend, one theory suggests the presiding deity is known as 'Anneaswarar' after Lord Shiva blessed a local tribal leader named Annie, from whom the town's name is derived. Another theory posits that the deity is known as 'Manneaswarar' because Lord Shiva forgave the tribal leader named Annie.
Who are the main deities worshipped at Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple?
The chief deity is Lord Shiva, referred to as Manneaswarar, who faces west. His consort, Arundavaselvi, a form of Parvati, is housed in the Amman Sannithi. The temple also features shrines for other deities such as Murugan, Maanikavasakar, Thirugnyanasambandar, and Anjanaeya, as well as a statue of a seven-headed snake.
What historical periods do the inscriptions in the temple represent?
The 41 inscriptions found in the temple date from the 11th to the 15th century AD. They belong to rulers and dynasties including Kokalimoo rka Vikrama Chozhan, Kulothunga Chozha I, II, and III, Virarajendra Chozha, Vikrama Chozha II and III, and Hoysala King Vira Vallalan.
What architectural style is prominent at Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple?
The temple is noted for its architecture, which is an expertise of the Chola style and a significant part of Tamil architecture.
When are the major festivals celebrated at this temple?
The car festival of Arulmigu Manneaswarar Temple is celebrated during the month of Margazhi. Maha Shivaratri is another significant festival observed in the month of Maasi.
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