15th Century AD Pandya
Period temple in Madurai where Lord Rama is seen in a Yoga Posture
An early
15th Century AD Rama temple on the outskirts of Madurai is in a
dilapidated state. The idols were donated by Rudravathi Ammal in 1416AD with
the temple built during the Pandya period.
Lord
Rama is seen in a Yoga Sitting Posture with Sita to his right (while in a
Pattabhisheka posture, she is seen to his left) Lakshmana is seen a standing
posture to his left.
Anjaneya
and Garuda are seen protecting the Lord with their presence at the entrance as
dwarapalakas.
The
temple was last renovated 110years ago in 1903.
While the
outer walls are in a terrible state, the base structure of the Sanctum and inner
prakara around the Sanctum looks solid with the strong Granite Structure dating
back several centuries.
The
Gopuram has been refurbished and has a new fresh look. Efforts are on to bring
the temple back to its historical shape.
Currently
there is no bhattar to perform the daily poojas. There are no festivals at the
temple.
The
street leading to the temple may have been a traditional agrahara with a Saivite
temple (which has been recently renovated) to the east of the Rama temple.
Moolavar
: Rama in a Yogic Sitting Posture with Sita and Lakshmana
Speciality
: Anjaneya and Garuda as Dwarapalakas
History : Built in the 15th Century AD
during the Pandya Period
Inscription:
1903 inscription of a renovation done that year with public support
Contact:
97888 54854
How to reach
Vilacheri
is about 8kms from Madurai Junction off the Tiruparankunram Highway. Take
Periyar- Thirumangalam bus and get down at Moolakarai bus stop. An Auto from
Moolakarai to the temple ( 2kms) will cost Rs. 30/-.
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