Sri Thirukutralanathar Temple, Kuttralam

Sri Kutralanathar temple, located adjacent to Coutrallam Main Falls is one of the prominent temples in Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thirukutralam or Trikootachalam represents one of the five Pancha Sabhas of Lord Nataraja. The temple is located 7 kilometers from Thenkasi in Tirunelveli district.

The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

Kutralanathar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped as Sri Kutralanathar and his consort Goddess Parvathi worshipped as Kuzhalvoimozhi Amman. It is believed that the worship of Kutralanathar has been in practice since the Sanga period.

Legend behind the temple

According to the legend, the temple was originally a Vaishnava temple. At Lord Shiva’s request, Sage Agastyar went southward to balance the instability caused by the multitude of crowd present at the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in the Himalayas. Sage Agastyar is believed to have converted the Vishnu shrine into a Shiva Lingam.

This temple is one of the Pancha Sabha Kshetram of Lord Shiva (in the form of Lord Nataraja) known as Chitra Sabha. The other four dance halls are found in Chidambaram, Madurai, Tiruvalankau and Tirunelveli. The Chithra Sabha or the hall of pictures located in a picturesque locale, 500 metres away from the temple is decked with hundreds of murals.

The Temple Deities

Kutralanathar temple is conch shaped and is referred to as Sangakkovil. The presiding deity Lord Shiva is worshipped in the temple as Kutralanathar and his consort Goddess Parvathi as Kuzhalvoi Mozhiamman. Lord Shiva shrine in the temple is a Swayambumurthi i.e it is self-manifested. There is a separate shrine for Lord Vishnu, Kasi Viswanathar, Kasi Visalakshi, Adi Parashakti, Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar, Nellaiyappar Gandhimathi Ambal and Navagrahas. Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan also grace this holy place.

Reference to Literature

Thrikooda Rasappa Kavirayar’s well known work Kutrala Kuravanji glorifies the shrine at Thiru Kutralam. The temple has been revered in two pathigams by Saint Tirugnanasambandhar of 7th century A.D. The four great poets Appar, Sundarar, Gnanasambandhar and Manikkavasahar have sung about this holy place.

Kutralanathar Temple Timings

The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Pooja Timings of Kutralanathar

Pooja Details	Timings
Thiruvananthal	6:00 AM
Uthayamarthandam	7:00 AM
Vila Pooja	8:00 AM
Sirukala Sandhi	9:00 AM
Kala Sandhi	10:00 AM
Uchikalam	12:00 Noon
Sayaratchai	6:00 PM
Arthajamam	8:00 PM

Kutralanathar Temple Festivals

The major festivals observed in the temple are:

• Vishu Festival – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May)
• Brahmotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
• Thiruvadhirai Festival – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January)
• Navarathri Festival – 9 days festival during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)

Other festivals observed in the temple include Adi Ammavasai, Avani Moolam, Aippasi Thirukalyanam, Kandha Shasti, Karthigai Deepam, Thai Maha Theppam, Maasi Sivarathri and Panguni Uthiram.

How to reach Kutralanathar Temple

Kutralanathar temple is located at a distance of 14 kilometres from Tenkasi bus station and 65 kilometres from Tirunelveli. Tenkasi Railway Junction at a distance of around 16 kilometres connects the temple to all major cities in the State. Madurai Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 161 kilometres from the temple.

Other Tourist Attractions near Kuttralam:

• Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple
• Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple – Kuttralam

Erwadi Village in Kilakkarai Taluk of Ramanathapuram District is the location of the grave and shrine of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha, the then ruler of Madinah Al Munawwara.

The Journey of Shaheed Badusha

Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed is an 18th generation descendant of the Islamic prophet Mohammad. He was the king of Madinah when he began his journey to India in the early 12th century to spread Islam according to Muhammad’s wish. He had many followers from all over the Islamic community.

With an ultimare aim to spread Islam following the orders of his hereditary grandfather Muhammad, Shaheed Badusha started from Madina with his entire family. After encountering many difficulties while travelling by sea and through the forests on his way to India, Shaheed Badusha entered Kannanur in Kerala. Travelling via Kayalpattinam and Vaippar, he finally reached Bouthiramanickapattinam, now called Erwadi.

Shaheed Badshah, in his attempt to spread Islamic teachings, waged war against the Pandya ruler Thiru Pandian in Madurai and Vikrama Pandyan in Bouthiramanickapattinam. He won the battles, ruled the province for twelve years and spread Islam all over south Tamil Nadu.

The Erwadi Dargah

The main shrine in Ervadi is the holiest place in Tamil Nadu because it is mixed with the soil of Madinah. The graves of Emperor Sulthan Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha along with his kith and kin are found in the main Dargah campus. The Dargah premises also houses the holy graves of other important Shahudaas and in-laws of Badusha Sulthan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed. The main Dargah campus has a big mosque that can accommodate 10,000 pilgrims for every prayer-service.

The big hall of the shrine of Sulthan Syed IbrahimShaheed was constructed by Eiatibar Khan. The flag throne situated south of the main entrance of the Dargah is built surrounding the grave of Begum, wife of Eiatbar Khan. The main Dargah has three entrances.

The minaret of the mosque, around 250 feet, is a mammoth structure that adds to the impressive appearance of the Dargah. It also acts as a virtual lighthouse to the fisherman in Ervadi and the adjacent villages.

Urus Festival or Erwadi Santhanakoodu Festival

The Grand Urus Festival (Santhanakoodu Festival) of Erwadi Dargah is held every year in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Qi’Dah commemorating the shahadat anniversary of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha. The festival starts on 1st of Zul Qaida and ends on the 30th of Zul Qaida of every Hijri year.

This festival is celebrated by Hindus and Muslims as a mark of the religious harmony in Tamil Nadu. Millions of devotees throng the Dargah during the festival. It is also believed that people with satanic illness get cured after visiting the Ervadi Dargah.

How to reach Erwadi Dargah

Erwadi is well connected through road with all parts of Tamil Nadu. Frequent buses ply from Ramanathapuram to Erwadi. Ramanathapuram railway station (around 27 kilometres away) is the nearest station to Ervadi. Thoothukudi Airport (around 123 kilometres away) is the nearest airport from Ervadi Dargah.

Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple in Ramanathapuram is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be around 3000 years old. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

More about Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple

• The temple has been revered in the hymns of 9​th​ century saint Manickavasagar and by the 15​th​ century Tamil poet Arunagirinathar.
• Lord Shiva shrine in the temple in Lingam form is a Swayambumurthi i.e it is self-manifested.
• The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandya Kings Achutappa Nayak, Muthuveerappar and other kings of Ramanathapuram at various times.
• The name Uthirakosamangai is derived from the Tamil terms, ​Uthiram meaning ‘secrets’, ​Kosam ​ meaning ‘to say’ and ​Mangai ​ meaning ‘​Parvati’. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Shiva transferred the secrets of Vedas to Parvati.
• The shrines in the temple include that of Mangalanathar (Lord Shiva), Mangalambigai (Goddess Parvati) and Natarajar (Emerald statue). The idol of Natarajar is 6 feet tall and is made of Maragatha (a rare emerald).
• The deity is worshipped using ​Thazhambu ​ or Screw pine flower.

Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple Timings

The temple is open from ​6:00 AM to 11:00 AM​ and from ​4:00 PM to 8:00 PM​.

How to reach Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple

Uthirakosamangalam Temple is at a distance of 17 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. The nearest railway station is at Ramanathapuram. Madurai Airport, at a distance of 110 kilometres from the temple, is the nearest airport.

Other Popular Tourist Attractions in Ramanathapuram

• Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
• Agni Theertham, Rameswaram
• Pamban Bridge, Rameswaram
• Dhanushkode, Rameswaram

• Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial, Rameswaram
• Devipattinam, Navashabashanam
• Aadhi Jaganatha Perumal Temple – Thiruppullani (about 10 kilometres from Ramanathapuram)
• Erwadi Dargah, Kilakkarai

• Kunthukal Beach
• Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary
• Karangadu Mangrove Forest and Boating

Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple located in Thiruppullani is one of the 108 ​ ​Divyadesams ​ dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is maintained and administered by the Ramanathapuram Samasthan Devasthanam and the accounts are audited by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

The chief deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu worshipped as Adi Jagannatha in a reclining posture and his consort Lakshmi as Padmasini.

Legend and History of the Temple

According to the Indian epic Ramayana, Lord Rama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) while lying in Dharba grass, is believed to have prayed to the God of Ocean (​Samudraraja), to help in seeking a way to reach Lanka. Thus the place got the name ​Dharbasayanam.

Yet another legend of the temple connected with the epic Ramayana states that King Dasaratha had apparently come here with his queens to worship the deity. This is where he was given ​Payasam ​ (sweet pudding) and was asked to give it to his wives to beget a progeny.

The initiation of the temple structure is believed to have taken place during the Chola period. Later contributions to the development of the temple were made by the Pandya Kings and also by their friends and rulers of Ramanathapuram, the Jaffna Kings. The temple has also received contributions from the Vijayanagar period.

Architecture of Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple

Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple captivates the visitors by its architectural beauty and historical significance. The temple located in the village of Thiruppullani has been constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has a five-tiered Rajag​opuram ​ facing east. The
temple houses the shrines of Adi Jagannatha, Bhudevi and Sri Devi in sitting posture. Padmasini, the consort of Adi Jagannatha is worshipped as a separate shrine. One can also find in the temple, the shrine of Dharbasayana Ramar in reclining posture and a metal image of Lord Krishna belonging to the 13​th​ century Pandya period.

Reference to Literature

The temple is revered in the Tamil epic ​Kamba Ramayanam ​ and in 20 verses of ​Thirumangai Azhwar ​ in his ​Periya Thirumozhi in ​Nalayira Divya Prabandham ​

Temple Timings – Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple

The temple remains open from ​7:00 AM to 12:30 PM​ and from ​3:30 PM to 8:30 PM​.
The temple rituals performed during the day are:

Pooja Name	Timings
Usha kalam	7:00 AM
Kalasanthi	8:00 AM
Uchikalam	12:00 Noon
Sayaratchai	6:00 PM
Irandan Kalam	7:00 PM
Arthajamam	10:00 PM

The temple also performs weekly, monthly and fortnightly rituals.

Thiruppullani Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple Festivals

The major festivals celebrated in the temple are the Panguni Brahmotsavam in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April) and Rama Navami Utsavam during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April-May). Other major festivals include Vaikunta Ekadasi, Krishna Jayanti, Pongal and Diwali.

How to reach Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple

The temple is located at a distance of 66 kilometres from Rameshwaram and 15 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. Nearest railway station to the temple is located at Ramanathapuram. Madurai Airport is the nearest terminal, around 125 kilometres from the temple.

Navabashanam (​Nava ​ meaning nine and ​Bashanam ​ meaning stones) is a Hindu temple located in Devipattinam. Devipattinam is an ancient coastal town and port located in Ramanathapuram district.

The temple is dedicated to the nine planetary deities known as ​Navagrahas followed in Hinduism. The temple was originally maintained and administered by the Sivaganga Devasthanam till 2012, until it was taken up by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Navagraha Temple Location

Navagraha Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage centre located in the Bay of Bengal. The image of the Navagrahas is located in a matrix arrangement in the waters. There is an entrance arch in the shores and a pathway of around 100 yards (91 metres) leading to the sanctum. A pathway and four stepways lead to the waters in four cardinal directions. The nine stones representing the nine planetary deities can be viewed depending on the water levels.

The place also has a temple dedicated to Devi, who is said to have killed the demon Mahishasura at this place.

Legend & History of Navagraha Temple

According to the legend associated with the temple, it is believed that Lord Rama (an incarnation of Maha Vishnu) performed the Hindu ritual of worshipping Navagrahas at Navabashanam, before taking a march to Lanka to rescue Sita from the demon King Ravana. Lord Rama is said to have made the Navagrahas out of clay and installed it at Navabashanam.

Timings & Festivals of Navagraha Temple

The temple is open on all days from ​4:30 AM to 6:30 PM​. The major festivals observed in the temple are Aadi Amavasai (July-August), Pournami day in the month of Aadi (July-August) and Thai Amavasai (January-February). Devotees throng the temple during these days.

This place is commonly visited by devotees who perform religious rites for their ancestors. It is also a practice to offer different types of grains specific to each of the nine planets. The temple allows the devotees to offer and do their own worship on the images of Navagrahas.

How to reach Devipattinam Navabashanam

Navabashanam is a popular sacred destination in Devipattinam which is located 66 kilometres on the East Coast Road and at a distance of 14 kilometres from the district head quarter Ramanathapuram.

Ramanathapuram is well connected by road and rail to all major cities of the state. Madurai Airport is the nearest terminal, around 120 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. Tuticorin Airport is located around 125 kilometres from Ramanathapuram.

Nearby Attractions to Navabashanam Temple

Devipattinam, a serene coastal town, is a popular pilgrimage destination with the Navabashanam Temple as its centerpiece. Beyond the temple, visitors can explore nearby attractions like the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, the historic Dhanushkodi, and the scenic Pamban Bridge. Other notable sites include the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial and the holy Agniteertham. These attractions offer a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty, making Devipattinam a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking a meaningful experience.

Agni Theertham Beach: A Sacred Pilgrimage Site

There are sixty-four ​Theerthams ​ (holy water bodies) in and around Rameswaram. Twenty-two of the ​Teerthams ​ are within the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Bathing in these Teerthams is considered equivalent to penance and forms a major aspect of the pilgrimage to Rameswaram. Each of the ​Theerthams ​ has its own significance.

The eastern sea shore opposite to the Ramanathaswamy Temple is Agni Theertham. Agni Theertham is​ ​considered to be the primary sea shore associated with the temple.

Discover the Spiritual Significance of Agni Theertham

As per the legend associated with the ​Theertham, Goddess Sita had to go through ​Agni Pariksha (ordeal in fire) to prove her chastity to Lord Rama. But being pure, sinless and chaste, the fire could not harm Goddess Sita. In order to wash his sin, having touched Goddess Sita, Lord Agni offered prayers to Lord Shiva and took a dip in the sea. This place has come to be known as Agni Theertham.

The Rituals and Beliefs Associated with Agni Theertham

• The word ​Agni ​ means fire in Sanskrit and ​Theertham ​ means holy water. Agni Theertham is regarded as a sacred pilgrimage centre among the Hindus.
• Devotees visiting the Theertham offer their prayers to the deity and take a dip in the holy waters for atonement of their sins.
• Sacred rituals that include rituals for the ancestors (​Tharpanam) are performed by the devotees in Agni Theertham.
• Bathing in the holy water on full moon and new moon days is considered most auspicious.
• Agni Theertham is the only Theertham of the ramanathaswamy Temple which is located outside the temple complex.

How to reach Agni Theertham

Rameswaram bus stand is just 3 kilometres away from Agni Theertham. You could take a bus or even hire an auto rickshaw to reach there. The nearest railhead is at Rameswaram, 3 kilometres away.

Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The 2.3 kilometres long Indira Gandhi Road Bridge (popularly called Pamban Bridge) connects Mandapam (a place on Indian mainland) with Pamban (fisherman town in Rameswaram). The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.

Near by Tourist Attractions to Agni Theertham Beach:

• Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
• Dhanushkodi
• Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial – Rameswaram
• Kunthukal Beach
• Pamban Bridge

Overview of Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram

Ramanathaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on Rameswaram Island in Ramanathapuram district. The temple has been built in Dravidian style of architecture.

Ramanathaswamy Temple forms a prominent pilgrimage centre for followers of Hinduism.

The Legend behind Ramanathaswamy Temple

The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Shiva venerated as Ramanathaswamy in ​Lingam ​form, is believed to have installed and worshipped by Lord Rama.

According to the Indian epic Ramayana, Lord Rama (the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu) prayed to Lord Shiva for the absolution of his sins committed during his war against the demon king Ravana of Sri Lanka. Lord Rama directed his devotee Hanuman to bring a ​lingam from Himalayas. When Hanuman delayed in bringing the ​lingam, a small lingam was made out of sand by Sita, the consort of Lord Rama on the shores of Rameswaram. This is believed to be the lingam in the sanctum.

The Architecture of Ramanathaswamy Temple

The establishment of the temple from a thatched shed to the present structure is mainly attributed to the ​Setupatis ​of Ramanathapuram.

The sanctum of the temple has two lingams – ​Ramalingam ​ that was built by Sita from sand, resides as the main deity and ​Vishwalingam ​ brought by Hanuman from Kailash.

The temple has high compound walls on all four sides with huge towers to the east and west and finished gate towers to the north and south. The temple interior has striking long corridors. The outer set of corridors is regarded to be the longest in the world having 1212 pillars. The Rajagopuram ​ (temple tower) is 53 metres tall. The temple consists of various halls namely Anuppu Mandapam, Sukravara Mandapam, Setupati Mandapam, Kalyana Mandapam and Nandi Mandapam.

The temple houses separate shrines for Ramanathaswamy and his consort Goddess Parvathavardhini separated by a corridor. Shrines of Goddess Vishalakshi, Parvathavardhini, Subramanya, Nataraja, Hanuman, Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha can also be found inside the temple.

Interesting Facts about Rameswaram Ramanthaswamy Temple

• Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the twelve ​Jyothirlinga ​ temples and one of the 274 ​Paadal Petra Sthalams. Three of the most revered ​Nayanars ​ (Saivite saints) – Appar, Sundarar and Tirugnana Sambandar have glorified the temple with their songs. The temple is one of the holy ​Char Dham ​ (four divine sites), the other three being Badrinath, Puri and Dwaraka.
• The temple boasts of its corridor with a 197-metre span from East to West and a 133-metre span from South to North, making it the longest one in Asia.
• As was instructed by Lord Rama, ​Vishwalingam ​ (brought by Hanuman from Kailash) is worshipped first even today.
• The Maratha kings who had ruled Thanjavur established rest houses throughout Rameswaram and Mayiladuthurai and donated them to the temple.
• It is believed that no Hindu devotee’s journey is complete without a pilgrimage to Varanasi and Rameswaram as a step towards attainment of salvation.

The Sacred 22 Holy Theerthams

There are sixty-four ​Theerthams (holy water bodies) in and around Rameswaram; ​Agni Theertham ​ considered to be the primary seashore associated with the temple. Twenty-two (22) of the ​Teerthams ​ are within the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Bathing in these Theerthams is considered equivalent to penance and forms a major aspect of the pilgrimage to Rameswaram. Each of the ​Theerthams ​ has its own significance. Temple Timings The temple is open in the morning from ​5:00 AM to 1:00 PM​ and in the evening from ​3:00 PM to 9:00 PM​.

The Rituals and Pujas at Rameshwaram Temple

Pooja details of Rameshwaram Temple	Timings
Palliyarai Deepa Aradhana	5:00 AM
Spadigalinga Deepa Aradhana	5:10 AM
Thiruvananthal Deepa Aradhana	5:45 AM
Vila Pooja	7:00 AM
Kalasanthi Pooja	10:00 AM
Uchikala Pooja	12 Noon
Sayaratchai Pooja	6:00 PM
Arthajama Pooja	8:30 PM
Pilliyarai Pooja	8:45 PM

Ramanathaswamy Temple Festivals

The prominent festivals observed in the temple are:

• Maha Sivarathri – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Maasi (February-March)
• Vasanthotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June)
• Ramalinga Prathishtai – 3 days festival during the Tamil month of Aani (June-July)
• Thirukalyanam – 17 days festival during the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August)
• Navarathri – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)
• Kantha Sashti – 6 days festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
• Aarudhra Darshanam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January)

How to reach Rameswaram

Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The 2.3 kilometres long Indira Gandhi Road Bridge (popularly called Pamban Bridge) connects Mandapam (a place on Indian mainland) with Pamban (fisherman town in Rameswaram). The city bus stand is at a distance of around 2 kilometres from Ramanathaswamy Temple. Rameswaram has a railway station, about 1.3 kilometres from the temple. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.

Epilogue

Ramanathaswamy Temple is a holy paradise for devotees and an ideal delight for tourists. With its architectural grandeur, imposing temple tower, magnificent long corridors, aesthetically carved pillars and holy water bodies purifying mind and soul, the temple attracts millions of pilgrims every year.

Tips for Visiting Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple

Temple Rituals:

• Holy Bath: Take a dip in the sacred waters of the 22 holy theerthams, believed to purify the soul.
• Main Darshan: Seek the blessings of Lord Ramanatha Swamy at the main shrine.
• Pujas and Offerings: Participate in various pujas and offer prayers.

Temple Etiquette:

• Respectful Behavior: Maintain silence and a respectful demeanor within the temple premises.
• Photography Restrictions: Mobile phone is strictly not allowed inside the temple.
• Queue Discipline: Follow the queue system and wait patiently for your turn.

Exploring the Complex:

• Holy Wells: Visit the 22 holy wells, each with its own significance.
• Ramanathaswamy Temple: Admire the magnificent architecture and intricate carvings.
• Other Temples: Explore nearby temples like the Hanuman Temple and the Kothandarama Swamy Temple.

Local Cuisine:

• Vegetarian Options: Enjoy vegetarian dishes influenced by South Indian cuisine.
• Seafood Delights: Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your pilgrimage to Ramanathaswamy Temple and immerse yourself in its spiritual significance.

Tourist Attractions near Rameswaram:

• Agni Theertham Beach
• Dhanushkodi
• APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial – Rameswaram
• Kunthukal Beach
• Pamban Bridge

The Velankanni Church also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is located in the town of Velankanni. Velankanni Church, situated around the Coromandel Coast around 12 kilometres south of Nagapattinam, is considered one of the most prominent Christian pilgrimage centres in India.

More about Velankanni Church

Officially spelt as ‘Vailankanni’, this church is revered for its Roman Catholic shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health. The Shrine of Our Lady of Velankanni is also known as “​the Lourdes of the East”.

The Velankanni church is dedicated to ​Virgin Mary and the ​Heavenly Mother. It is believed ​Virgin Mary appeared at this place along with Infant Jesus around the end of 16​th​ and the beginning of the 17th century. After this, Velankanni is said to have become a revered site for the followers of Christianity.

The first apparition of ​Mother Mary was at Matha Kulam (or Our Lady’s Tank) to a milk vendor boy. The second apparition is believed to be at Naduthittu to a lame boy. Our Lady is also said to have miraculously saved Portugese sailors from violent sea at Velankanni.

There are no written records or attested statements that support the various apparitions attached to the shrine. The ​Holy See (jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome) has not approved the alleged apparitions or phenomena, yet the cult of the Lady of Velankanni persists.

Architecture of the Velankanni Church

The Velankanni Church is an imposing structure with three chapels within its confines. The church was extended on the southern side in the year 1928 while the northern side underwent extension in the year 1933. However, an extension was made to the Basilica in the year 1974-75 keeping in mind the design of the Basilica in Lourdes in France.

Within the premises of the church is found the Shrine Basilica Main Church, Our Lady’s Tank, Lower Basilica, Upper Basilica Morning Star Church and Naduthittu Church.

Velankanni Church Opening Timings

The church is open on all days from ​5:00 AM to 9:00 PM​. Daily service at Church includes masses given in Tamil, Malayalam and English. Devotees can also attend Novena Prayers, Rosary and Evening prayers.

Velankanni Church Mass Timings

​Shrine Basilica Main Church

• 5:40 AM – Morning Prayer
• 6:00 AM – Mass in Tamil
• 6:45 AM – Matha Blessing (Every Saturday)
• 3:00 PM – Eucharistic Adoration Daily

​Our Lady’s Tank

• 7:00 AM – Mass in Tamil (Every Saturday)
• 6:30 PM – Mass in Tamil (Lent Season only)

Lower Basilica

• 7:00 AM – Mass in Tamil
• 7:30 AM – Mass in Tamil (Sunday only)
• 10:00 AM – Mass in English
• 12:00 Noon – Mass in Tamil
• 4:00 PM – Mass in Konkani (Every Tuesday)
• 5:00 PM – Mass in Tamil (Sunday Parishners Mass)

Upper Basilica

• 8:00 AM – Mass in Telugu
• 11:00 AM – Mass in Hindi
• 4:00 PM – Mass in Malayalam (Every Sunday)

​

Morning Star Church

• 9:00 AM – Mass in Malayalam
• 4:00 PM – Mass in Tamil (Monday to Saturday)
• 8:00 PM – Mass in Konkani

Naduthittu Church

• 7:00 AM – Mass in Tamil (Last Saturday of the month)

How to reach Velankanni Church

Velankanni Church is located at a distance of 12 kilometres from Nagapattinam and 350 kilometres south of Chennai. Local transportation such as buses and taxis can be easily accessed to reach the church. The nearest railway station to Velankanni Church is at Nagapattinam. Trichy Airport (160 kilometres away) and Chennai International Airport (350 kilometres away) are the nearest terminals to the church.

Epilogue

Velankanni Church has been declared as a holy city by Pope and attracts devotees in large numbers from across the world. The church is revered by people of different nationalities irrespective of their caste, creed and religion.

Located in the coastal town Nagore in Nagapattinam district is the Dargah built over the tomb of Sufi saint Shahul Hameed. Nagore Dargah is known by different names – Nagoor Dargah, Syed Shahul Hameed Dargah or Nagore Andavar Dargah.

There are three Nagore shrines that are situated at Nagore, Vanjur and Silladi, Nagore being the prime shrine.

Image Attribution  : Sundaramrajaraman

About Saint Syed Shahul Hameed

Nagore Miran, the 16​th​ century Muslim Sufi saint was born as Shahul Hameed in Manikhpur in North India. He took to spiritualism early in his life and travelled through West Asia to Mecca, to Burma and on to China before he reached Ceylon and the South Indian coast.

Saint Shahul Hameed was venerated locally as ​Nagore Andavar (meaning the ‘God of Nagore’). He is believed to have performed many miracles in Nagore and cured a 16​th​ century Hindu ruler of Thanjavur, King Achutappa Nayak, of his physical ailment due to sorcery or black magic. Local lore has it that Shahul Hameed believed that a needled pigeon in the palace was the cause of the king’s misery and so removed the pins from the pigeon. This resulted in the king’s improvement in health conditions. In remembrance of this event, the custom of setting pigeons free is still continued in the dargah.

The mysticism of the saint touched the lives of people across faiths, from the rulers to commoners.

History of Nagore Dargah

Once King Achutappa Nayak was cured of his affliction, he donated 200 acres of land to the followers of the Saint. The Dargah was built on a part of the land so donated.

Shahul Hameed is believed to have predicted his death and advised his adopted son Yusuf about his burial location. A mausoleum was built over his grave. The Dargah was built by ardent devotees of Shahul Hameed, with a major contributions from Hindus.

Architecture

Nagore Dargah covers an area of 5 acres enclosed by a compound wall. The main complex has four entrances, one in each direction. The Dargah has five minarets in different heights. The tallest one has a height of 131 ft. The other four minarets are Sahib Minara (77 ft), Thalaimattu Minara (93.5 ft), Muthubaq Minara (93.25 ft) and Ottu Minara (80 ft). The central part of the tomb houses the tomb of Saint Shahul Hameed. The tomb can be approached through seven thresholds, three of which are made of gold and the remaining four of silver. The dargah houses the tombs of Shahul, his son Yusuf and his daughter-in-law Saeeda Sultana Biwi.

Nagore Dargah Timings & Festivals

The outer doors of the dargah are always kept open, while the inner doors are open from ​4:30 AM to 7:00 AM​ and from ​6:25 PM to 9:30 PM​. The inner doors are open additionally from ​12 Noon to 2:30 PM​ on Fridays alone.

‘Kanduri Urs’ festival is celebrated in commemoration of the anniversary of the saint’s death. It is a 14-day event observed once in a year that includes saffron flag-carrying ceremony, procession in streets, recitation of ​Quaranic verses and observance of ​Fatiha.

How to reach Nagore Dargah

There are regular buses to Nagore from Nagapattinam (4 kilometres away), Karaikkal (12 kilometres away), Thanjavur (78 kilometres away) and Chennai (90 kilometres away). The nearest railway station is at Nagapattinam. The nearest airport is at Trichy, around 150 kilometres from Nagore.

Epilogue

Nagore Dargah marks a prominent and common place of worship for devotees of varying religions who flock to the dargah where the Sufi mystic lies buried. It is believed by Hindu fishermen that Nagore Andavan rescues them whenever there is turbulence in the sea and their life is at risk. It’s a noteworthy fact that fishermen living around 300 kilometres north of Nagore still name their boats after their patron saint of the seas. Considered as the ‘​Ajmer of South India​’, the shrine of Nagore attracts many devotees from different religions and communities, throughout the year.

Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is located at Ettukudi in Nagapattinam district. The chief deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in Lingam form as Soundara Nayakar.

More about Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple

According to popular folklore, the idol of Lord Murugan has been sculpted by the same person who carved the sculpture at Sikkal and Engan Murugan Temple.

Ettukudi Murugan temple gained popularity through reverence in songs, including the hymns by Saint Arunagirinathar (14​th​ century Tamil poet).
What stands out about the temple is the position of the peacock, the mount of Lord Murugan. The head of the peacock in all Murugan temples is seen facing the right, however in Ettukudi it is seen facing the left.

Dating back to around the 14​th​ century, the temple is in the architectural style of the Chola period. The monolithic sculpture is Lord Murugan with 3 faces and 12 arms is seated on a peacock facing north.

Legend behind the Temple

There are many variants to the story behind the temple that are more or less very similar. In a village by name Porulvaithaseri, there once lived a sculptor who was an ardent devotee of Lord Murugan. He incessantly chanted the glory of Lord Murugan through the mantra ‘Om Saravana Bhava’.

He sculpted an idol of the Lord with six faces. Such was the beauty of the idol that an envious Chola king cut off the thumb of the sculptor so that such beauty cannot be resculpted. The sculptor still continued to make idols enduring all the pain. The first idol was installed at Sikkal, the second at Ettukudi and the third idol at Enkan.

Lord Murugan in the temple appears in different forms (as a child, an adolescent or an elderly person) to the eyes of the devotees based on their imaginations about the Lord.

Temple Timings of Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple

The temple remains open from 4:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple Festivals

Chithirai Pournami is a 10 day festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May). Devotees throng in thousands during this festival. Other noted festivals religiously celebrated are ​Skanda Sashti, a six day festival observed during the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November) and ​Vaikasi Vishakam during the Tamil month of Vishakam (May-June).

How to reach Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple

The temple is located 30 kilometres from Nagapattinam on the Thiruthuraipoondi Road and 28 kilometres from Thiruvarur on Thiruvarur- Thiruthuraipoondi National Highway. Buses are an easy way of access to Ettukudi. The nearest railway station is at Nagapattinam (around 30 kilometres away) and the nearest airport is at Trichy (around 134 kilometres away).