Mahimaliswarar Temple – Erode
Mahimaliswarar Temple is located at 2 kilometres from the central bus stand of Erode town. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped as Mahimaliswarar and is revered for its great historical importance.
The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century during the reigning period of Narasimha Pallava King.
Mahimaliswarar Temple
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. The shrine of Goddess Parvathi worshipped as Mangalambigai adds to the divinity of the temple. The other shrines found in the temple are that of Lord Ganesh and Lord Brahma. The shrines of 63 Nyanmars (celebrated devotees of Lord Shiva) and 16 Shivalingas have been installed adding significance to the temple.
The Rajagopuram (temple tower) stands majestically at 35 feet high.
History of Mahimaliswarar Temple
One of the stories associated with the history of temple is that of Mali, Sumali and Mahimali who belonged to the Lanka Dynasty and were ardent devotees of Lord Shiva. On the way back to their homeland after seeking blessings of Lord Shiva, they stopped over to perform evening prayers on the banks of River Cauvery. They completed their ritual by creating a six feet tall Shiva Lingam. It is this Shiva Lingam that was installed in the temple and having been worshipped by Mahimali, the Lord was named as Mahimaliswarar.
Another story from the history states that a part of Kongu region was ruled by Mahimali during the 10th century who built this temple, and hence the place was named Mahimaliswaram.
Temple Timings in Mahimaliswarar Temple
The temple is open on all days from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Temple Festivals of Mahimaliswarar Temple
Chithirai Sadhya Ther Thiruvizha (Chariot Festival) is celebrated with great pomp in the month of Chithirai (April-May). The wedding festival of Lord Mahimaleeswarar and Goddess Mangalambigai is also celebrated in a grand manner.
How to reach Mahimaliswarar Temple
The temple is located at about 2 kilometres from Erode bus stand. Erode Railway Station is the nearest railway station and the nearest airport is at Coimbatore.