Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Vilacheri Rama Temple


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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