Arulmigu Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple
Thiruppukkozhiyur, also known as the Karunaiyaaththaal Temple, Avinasilingeswarar Temple, and Avainasiappar Temple, is a sacred Hindu shrine devoted to Lord Shiva. It is situated in Avinasi, a panchayat town nestled within the Tiruppur district of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
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History of Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple:
The Arulmigu Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple, has a rich history dating back several centuries. While the temple’s exact origin and history may have variations in different accounts, it is a significant religious and cultural site in South India.
Chola Period: The temple has historical inscriptions that suggest it was patronized and developed during the Chola dynasty, which ruled over parts of South India from the 9th to the 13th century. These inscriptions provide insights into the contributions made by Chola kings to the temple’s growth.
Vijayanagara Empire: During the Vijayanagara Empire’s rule in the region, the temple underwent renovations and enhancements, reflecting the architectural styles of that era. Many of the temple’s architectural features and sculptures may have been added or modified during this time.
Architecture of Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple:
The temple complex is typically entered through ornate gopurams, which are towering gateways adorned with sculpted figures and intricate artwork.The central sanctum, where the main deity’s shrine is located, is crowned by a vimana or shikhara. This vimana is a pyramidal tower that rises above the sanctum and is often adorned with multiple tiers of sculptures and reliefs depicting various mythological and religious themes.
The temple complex typically includes various halls or mandapams, which are used for various rituals and ceremonies. Many Dravidian temples have a dedicated Kalyana Mandapam (marriage hall), where the celestial wedding of the temple deities is celebrated. These halls are adorned with grand sculptures and paintings depicting the divine wedding.
Deities of Avinash Lingeshwarar Temple:
Lord Shiva (Avinashi Lingeshwarar): The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Shiva, is worshipped in the form of a Lingam. Devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva.
Goddess Parvati (Periyanayaki Amman): In many Shiva temples, Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva, has her sanctum. She is revered as Periyanayaki Amman in this temple.
Navagrahas: The nine celestial bodies or Navagrahas, representing the planets in Hindu astrology, are commonly worshipped in many temples. They are usually housed in a separate shrine to mitigate the effects of planetary influences on individuals.
Sapta Matrukas: The seven divine mothers, or Sapta Matrukas, are often revered in Shiva temples. They are considered protectors and are associated with various forms of Shakti (divine feminine energy).
Dakshinamurthy: Lord Dakshinamurthy, a form of Lord Shiva as the divine guru or teacher, is often depicted in a seated posture under a banyan tree. Devotees seek wisdom and spiritual guidance from Dakshinamurthy.
Visiting Hours and Pooja timings of the Temple:
The temple is open to visitors during the following hours:
- From 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- From 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Six poojas are performed in the temple as follows:
- Kalasanthi at 6:00 a.m.
- Irandam Kalm at 9:00 a.m.
- Uchikalam at 12:00 p.m.
- Sayarakshai at 6:00 p.m.
- Irandam Kalm at 7:30 p.m.
- Arthajamam at 9:00 p.m.
Festivals of Avianshi Lingeshwarar Temple:
Maha Shivaratri is among the most important festivals observed at the Avinashi Temple, marking the grand night dedicated to Lord Shiva. On this auspicious occasion, devotees flock to the temple to offer fervent prayers and seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple adorns itself with exquisite decorations, and a series of sacred rituals are meticulously conducted throughout the night.
Arudra Darshanam, celebrated during the Arudra Nakshatra in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January), is a special festival. Devotees engage in special prayers and perform the sacred abhishekam (ritual bathing) to honor the deity during this significant event.
Navaratri, Thirukarthikai, Chitra pournami, Pournami girivalam are some of the festivals celebrated in this temple.
How to reach Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple:
By Air: The closest major airport is Coimbatore International Airport, offering connections to various cities across India. Upon arrival at the airport, you can opt for a taxi or explore alternative transport methods to cover the approximately 35-kilometer journey to Avinashi.
By Train: Although Avinashi lacks its own railway station, you can reach the nearby Coimbatore Junction, a significant rail hub in the region with excellent connections to multiple Indian cities. Once at Coimbatore Junction, you have the choice of hiring a taxi, boarding a train, or taking a bus to reach Avinashi, which is roughly 35 kilometers away.
By Road: Avinashi is conveniently accessible via road, with a well-developed network of highways. You can reach Avinashi by using a private vehicle, hiring a taxi, or opting for bus transportation. The town is situated along National Highway 544, providing easy access from nearby urban centers such as Coimbatore, Tirupur, and Erode. To give you an idea of distances:
- Coimbatore to Avinashi: Approximately 35 kilometers (a roughly 45-minute drive).
- Tirupur to Avinashi: Approximately 30 kilometers (a roughly 40-minute drive).
- Erode to Avinashi: Approximately 90 kilometers (a roughly 2-hour drive).