The handsome Bronze Idol of Rama dates
back to the Pallava Period
Exquisite 6 feet tall Dasavaratha
idols are a special feature
Located in
the heart of Ariyalur 1km west of the bus stand is the Kothandarama Temple,
where the bronze idol of the handsome South Facing Rama is believed to date
back over 1000years to the Pallava period with later renovation during the
Chozha rule. The East facing Venkatesa Perumal, a later creation, is now the
main Moolavar deity at this temple.
However,
to this day, the temple continues to be known after the original deity as the
Kothandarama Temple of Ariyalur. Rama is seen along with Sita and Lakshmana in
a single peedam.
An
interesting feature at the temple is the exquisite over 6 feet tall Dasavaratha
idols on either side of the Dasavathara Mandapa, one that was constructed by
Vijaya Oppila Mazhava Raya. In recognition of this, one finds his idol at the
entrance of the mandapa.
North
Facing Lord Narasimha is seen in four forms inside the Dasavathara Mandapa-
Lakshmi Narasimha, Yoga Narasimha, Hiranyavatha Narasimha and Prahalada
Narasimha. One finds Lord Narasimha with sharp finger nails that tore apart the
Asura, while his foot is placed on the slain Asura King Hiranyakashipu whose
son Prahalada is seen in a calm, devoted standing posture.
The Name
Ariyalur
also bears its name from the presence of Lord Vishnu here. ‘Hari Iruntha Oor’,
the place where Lord Vishnu resides, in course of time became ‘Ari’ yalur.
Festivals
Vaikunta
Ekadesi with Swarga Vaasal opening
Rama
Navami
Garuda
Sevai Procession on Vaikasi Visakam day is a big highlight at the temple
Plans
are to revive the Brahmotsavam and Theppotsavam
Chariot
Festival on Shravanam Vaikasi
Quick Facts
Moolavar:
Venkatesa Perumal East Facing Standing Posture
Thaayar : Alarmel Mangai Thaayar (Separate Sannidhi)
Time : 730am-1030am and 5pm-830pm
Contact : Krishna
Kumar Bhattar @ 97501 31328
How to reach Ariyalur
Ariyalur
is on the Chennai- Tiruchirapalli rail route. Auto from Ariyalur Railway
Station to the temple will cost Rs. 40/-.
When
here, also visit Kaliyuga Varadaraja Perumal temple at Kallankurichi, 6kms East
of this temple.
http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2013/10/kallankuruchi-kaliyuga-varadaraja.html
http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2013/10/kallankuruchi-kaliyuga-varadaraja.html
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