Perur Pateeswarar Temple, Coimbatore
The Perur Pateeswarar Temple, located in Perur near Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Originally built by the Chola emperor Karikala in the 2nd century CE, it has seen further contributions from the Imperial Cholas. The temple is renowned for its intricate architecture, including the Kanaka Sabha with its golden Nataraja statue, and its cultural significance, hosting a classical dance week and celebrating festivals like Panguni Uthiram.
Key Facts
- ›Dedicated to Lord Shiva, with Patteeswarar as the presiding deity.
- ›Originally constructed by Chola Emperor Karikala in the 2nd century CE.
- ›Features the Kanaka Sabha, which houses a golden statue of Nataraja.
- ›The temple is situated on the banks of the Noyyal River.
- ›Celebrates a classical dance week annually, often featuring Bharata Natyam.
- ›Believed to be a site where Shiva performed the Ananda Thandavam.
Shiva, Parvati
- Historical Construction By Chola Dynasty
- Architectural Features Including Kanaka Sabha and Stone Chains
- Cultural Hub For Classical Dance
- Believed Site of Shiva's Ananda Thandavam
Chola Dynasty, Imperial Cholas
Panguni Uthiram, Seedling Planting Festival, Indra Festival
Karikala Chola, Arunagirinathar, Kachiappa Munivar
Golden Statue of Nataraja, Carvings of Shiva In His Different Forms
Noyyal River
About Perur Pateeswarar Temple, Coimbatore
The Perur Pateeswarar Temple is a significant Hindu temple located in Perur, in the western part of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is historically notable for its construction by the Chola emperor Karikala in the 2nd century CE, with further enhancements by the Imperial Cholas in later centuries. It is situated on the banks of the Noyyal River and has been a patron of poets such as Arunagirinathar and Kachiappa Munivar.
Architecture and Features
The temple boasts several gopurams and halls, with the Kanaka Sabha being particularly prominent. This hall houses a golden statue of Nataraja, and its ceiling is intricately covered with a network of stone chains. The pillars are adorned with detailed carvings depicting Lord Shiva in his various manifestations. The main deity is worshipped as Patteeswarar, a Swayambu Lingam, alongside his consort Pachainayaki (Parvati).
Cultural and Religious Significance
Perur Pateeswarar Temple holds considerable cultural and religious importance. It is believed to be one of the sacred sites where Lord Shiva performed the Ananda Thandavam. Annually, the temple celebrates a classical dance week, predominantly featuring Bharata Natyam. Major festivals include the temple chariot festival during Panguni Uthiram in the month of Panguni and a seedling planting festival in Aani, which has roots mentioned in the 'Perur Puranam'.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built the Perur Pateeswarar Temple?
The temple was initially built by the Chola emperor Karikala in the 2nd century CE. Later contributions were made by the Imperial Cholas during the late 10th and early 11th centuries.
What is the main deity worshipped at Perur Pateeswarar Temple?
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, known as Patteeswarar. His consort, Pachainayaki (Parvati), is also worshipped. The main deity is a Swayambu Lingam.
What are some notable architectural features of the temple?
The temple features several gopurams and halls, most notably the Kanaka Sabha, which contains a golden statue of Nataraja. The ceiling is adorned with a network of stone chains, and the pillars are decorated with carvings of Shiva in various forms.
What festivals are celebrated at Perur Pateeswarar Temple?
Key festivals include the temple chariot festival during Panguni Uthiram in the month of Panguni, where a chariot is paraded through the neighborhood. Additionally, a seedling planting festival is celebrated in the month of Aani, which has references in the 'Perur Puranam'.
Is Perur Pateeswarar Temple an active place of worship?
Yes, it is an active Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with ongoing worship and festivals.
What is the cultural significance of Perur Pateeswarar Temple?
The temple is culturally significant for hosting an annual classical dance week, typically featuring Bharata Natyam. It is also believed to be a location where Lord Shiva performed the Ananda Thandavam.
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