Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple
The Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Punnainallur, near Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Built between 1739 and 1763 CE, it is part of the Thanjavur Palace Devasthanam, which encompasses 88 temples managed by the Tamil Nadu government's Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department.
Key Facts
- ›The temple was constructed between 1739 and 1763 CE.
- ›It houses sculptures made of Shaligram, gifted by a Nepalese king to the king of Thanjavur.
- ›Key deities in the sanctum sanctorum include Kothandaramar, Sita, and Lakshmana, depicted in a standing posture.
- ›The temple's structure includes a rajagopura, balipeetam, Dhwaja Stambha, prakara, front mandapa, sanctum sanctorum, and vimana.
- ›Shrines dedicated to Sakkarattalvar, Alvar, and Anjaneya are located within the prakara.
- ›Paintings depicting episodes from the Ramayana adorn the temple walls.
Kothandaramar, Sita, Lakshmana, Rama
Part of the Thanjavur Palace Devasthanam, Houses Sculptures Gifted By A Nepalese King, Features Paintings of Ramayana Episodes
Thanjavur Kingdom
Shaligram
King of Thanjavur
- Kothandaramar, Sita, and Lakshmana Sculptures Made of Shaligram
- Paintings of Episodes From the Ramayana
About Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple
The Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple is a significant Hindu religious site located in Punnainallur, near the city of Thanjavur in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Constructed between 1739 and 1763 CE, this temple is one of 88 temples that collectively form the Thanjavur Palace Devasthanam. The administration and maintenance of these temples fall under the purview of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Historical and Artistic Significance
A notable feature of the Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple is the presence of sculptures crafted from Shaligram stone. These sacred carvings, depicting Kothandaramar, Sita, and Lakshmana in standing postures, were a gift from a Nepalese king to the then-reigning king of Thanjavur. The temple's architecture is characteristic of South Indian temple design, featuring a rajagopura (main tower), balipeetam (altar), Dhwaja Stambha (flagstaff), prakara (circumambulatory path), front mandapa (hall), sanctum sanctorum, and vimana (tower over the sanctum). Within the prakara, dedicated shrines to Sakkarattalvar, Alvar, and Anjaneya are situated. Further enhancing its artistic appeal, the temple walls are adorned with paintings that vividly narrate episodes from the epic Ramayana.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple built?
The Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple was built during the period of 1739–1763 CE. This construction falls within the mid-18th century.
What significant sculptures are found in the temple?
The sanctum sanctorum features sculptures made of Shaligram. These include depictions of Kothandaramar, Sita, and Lakshmana, all in a standing posture, which were gifted by a Nepalese king to the king of Thanjavur.
What are the main structural components of the Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple?
The temple's architecture includes a rajagopura, balipeetam, Dhwaja Stambha, prakara, front mandapa, sanctum sanctorum, and vimana. Within the prakara, there are also separate shrines.
Which deities are worshipped in the Punnainallur Kothandaramar Temple?
The primary deity is Kothandaramar, a form of Rama. The sanctum also houses sculptures of Sita and Lakshmana. Additionally, there are shrines within the prakara dedicated to Sakkarattalvar, Alvar, and Anjaneya.
What artistic elements are present in the temple?
The temple walls are decorated with paintings that illustrate various episodes from the epic Ramayana. These murals add to the temple's visual and narrative richness.
Related Temples (Hindu)
Taraknath Temple
The Taraknath Temple, located in Tarakeswar, West Bengal, India, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshiped here as Tarakanatha. Constructed in 1729, it features a distinct Bengal architectural style with an 'atchala' structure and an adjacent 'natmandir'. The temple is renowned for its belief that a dip in the nearby Dudhpukur tank fulfills prayers and is considered one of the 64 Jyotirlingas.
Ugratara Devalaya
Ugratara Devalaya is a significant Shakti shrine located in Guwahati, Assam, India, dedicated to the goddess Ugratara. Legend connects the temple to the navel of Sati, and it is noted for its unique representation of the deity as a water-filled pit rather than an idol.
Tara Devi Temple
Tara Devi Temple is a prominent Hindu religious site located at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level near Shimla, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara Devi and is believed to grant blessings and fulfill the wishes of devotees who visit with unwavering faith. It is a popular destination, drawing thousands of visitors, especially on weekends.