Sri Kokilambigai Vudanurai Sri Thirukameswarar Temple — Attraction in Puducherry

Kokilamba-Kameeswarar Temple, Villianur Temple, Puducherry. Kameeswarar Temple (also called Kokilamba - Kameeswarar temple or Villianur Temple) is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Shiva, located in Villianur, a town in the South Indian Union territory of Puducherry. Shiva is worshiped as Kameeswarar, and is represented by the lingam. His consort Parvati is depicted as Kokilamba Amman.

The temple complex covers an area of two acres and all its shrines are enclosed with concentric rectangular walls. The temple has a number of shrines, with those of Kameeswarar, his consort Kokilamba Amman and Ranganathar being the most prominent.

The temple has six daily rituals at various times from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and many yearly festivals on its calendar. Brahmotsavam, the prime festival during the Tamil month of Aadi (July - August) is the most prominent festival celebrated in the temple.

The original complex is believed to have been built by Cholas, with later additions from different ruling dynasties. In modern times, the temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Puducherry.

Legend and History

As per Hindu legend, while Vishnu and Brahma contested for superiority, Shiva appeared as a flame, and challenged them to find his source. Brahma took the form of a swan, and flew to the sky to see the top of the flame, while Vishnu became the boar Varaha, and sought its base. The scene is called lingothbava, and is represented in the western wall at the sanctum of most Shiva temples. Neither Brahma nor Vishnu could find the source, and while Vishnu conceded his defeat, Brahma lied and said he had found the pinnacle. In punishment, Shiva ordained that Brahma would never have temples on earth in his worship. He also asked Brahma to build a temple on the banks of Mutharu River in Thondaimandalam. Brahma built the temple and got relieved of the curse.

The original structure is believed to have been constructed during 12th century, while the later additions are believed to have been built by Medieval Cholas and Vijayanagar Empire, while the present masonry structure was built during the 16th century. There are inscriptions from Raja Narayana Sambuvarayar (1339–63), who is believed to have donated around 850 acres (340 ha) to the temple and it was irrigated by Ossudu Lake.

Architecture

Kameeswarar temple is located in Villianur, a village on Puducherry - Villupuram main road. The temple has a flat entrance tower facing South, and all the shrines of the temple are enclosed in concentric rectangular granite walls. The central shrine is approached through pillared halls. The central shrine facing East houses the image of Kameeswarar in the form of Lingam (an iconic form of Shiva). The shrine of KokilambaAmman, facing South, is located in separate shrine around the first precinct. The central shrine is approached through a Mahamandapam and Arthamandapam. As in other Shiva temples in South India, the shrines of Vinayaka, Murugan, Navagraha, Chandekeswara and Durga are located around the precinct of the main shrine. The second precinct has the temple tank and a garden around the periphery of the compound wall.

Religious Importance and Festivals

The temple priests perform the puja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. The temple rituals are performed three times a day; Kalasanthi at 8:00 a.m., Uchikalam at 12:00 a.m. and Sayarakshai at 6:00 p.m. Each ritual comprises four steps: abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), naivethanam (food offering) and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps) for Kameeswarar and Gnanambigai. Unlike other shiva temples, anointing with oil is not performed in the temple. There are weekly rituals like somavaram (Monday) and sukravaram (Friday), fortnightly rituals like pradosham, and monthly festivals like amavasai (new moon day), kiruthigai, pournami (full moon day) and sathurthi. Brahmotsavam, the prime festival during the Tamil month of Aadi (July - August) is the most prominent...

Kokilamba-Kameeswarar Temple, Villianur Temple, Puducherry. Kameeswarar Temple (also called Kokilamba - Kameeswarar temple or Villianur Temple) is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Shiva, located in Villianur, a town in the South Indian Union territory of Puducherry. Shiva is worshiped as Kameeswarar, and is represented by the lingam. His consort Parvati is depicted as Kokilamba Amman. The temple complex covers an area of two acres and all its shrines are enclosed with concentric rectangular walls. The temple has a number of shrines, with those of KRameeswarar, his consort Kokilamba Amman and Ranganathar being the most prominent. The temple has six daily rituals at various times from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and many yearly festivals on its calendar. Brahmotsavam, the prime festival during the Tamil month of Aadi (July - August) is the most prominent festival celebrated in the temple. The original complex is believed to have been built by Cholas, with later additions from different ruling dynasties. In modern times, the temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Puducherry. Legend and History As per Hindu legend, while Vishnu and Brahma contested for superiority, Shiva appeared as a flame, and challenged them to find his source. Brahma took the form of a swan, and flew to the sky to see the top of the flame, while Vishnu became the boar Varaha, and sought its base. The scene is called lingothbava, and is represented in the western wall at the sanctum of most Shiva temples. Neither Brahma nor Vishnu could find the source, and while Vishnu conceded his defeat, Brahma lied and said he had found the pinnacle. In punishment, Shiva ordained that Brahma would never have temples on earth in his worship. He also asked Brahma to build a temple on the banks of Mutharu River in Thondaimandalam. Brahma built the temple and got relieved of the curse. The original structure is believed to have been constructed during 12th century, while the later additions are believed to have been built by Medieval Cholas and Vijayanagar Empire, while the present masonry structure was built during the 16th century. There are inscriptions from Raja Narayana Sambuvarayar (1339-63), who is believed to have donated around 850 acres (340 ha) to the temple and it was irrigated by Ossudu Lake. Architecture Kameeswarar temple is located in Villianur, a village on Puducherry - Villupuram main road. The temple has a flat entrance tower facing South, and all the shrines of the temple are enclosed in concentric rectangular granite walls. The central shrine is approached through pillared halls. The central shrine facing East houses the image of Kameeswarar in the form of Lingam (an iconic form of Shiva). The shrine of KokilambaAmman, facing South, is located in separate shrine around the first precinct. The central shrine is approached through a Mahamandapam and Arthamandapam. As in other Shiva temples in South India, the shrines of Vinayaka, Murugan, Navagraha, Chandekeswara and Durga are located around the precinct of the main shrine. The second precinct has the temple tank and a garden around the periphery of the compound wall. Religious Importance and Festivals The temple priests perform the puja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. The temple rituals are performed three times a day; Kalasanthi at 8:00 a.m., Uchikalam at 12:00 a.m. and Sayarakshai at 6:00 p.m. Each ritual comprises four steps: abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), naivethanam (food offering) and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps) for Kameeswarar and Gnanambigai. Unlike other shiva temples, anointing with oil is not performed in the temple. There are weekly rituals like somavaram (Monday) and sukravaram (Friday), fortnightly rituals like pradosham, and monthly festivals like amavasai (new moon day), kiruthigai, pournami (full moon day) and sathurthi. Brahmotsavam, the prime festival during the Tamil month of Aadi (July - August) is the most prominent...

The Kameeswarar Temple, located in Villianur near Puducherry, is a historic and spiritual destination that attracts numerous devotees and visitors. Here is a detailed review of the temple:

Overview The Kameeswarar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds significant religious importance and is a prime example of Dravidian architecture.

Architecture and Ambiance Architecture: The temple exhibits traditional Dravidian architectural elements, including intricate carvings, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and beautifully adorned pillars. Ambiance: The atmosphere is serene and tranquil, providing a peaceful setting for prayer and meditation. The temple's well-maintained premises and the sacred tank enhance its spiritual appeal.

Religious Significance Deity: The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Kameeswarar. The temple is believed to be a site where devotees' prayers and wishes are fulfilled. Festivals: The temple celebrates various Hindu festivals with great fervor. Major festivals include Maha Shivaratri and Navaratri, which attract large crowds.

Visitor Experience Accessibility: The temple is easily accessible from Puducherry, making it a convenient pilgrimage spot for both locals and tourists. Facilities: Basic amenities such as restrooms and drinking water are available. There are also facilities for performing rituals and ceremonies. Cleanliness: The temple is well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant visit for all.

Cultural Importance Local Customs: The temple plays a vital role in the local culture and traditions. It is a center for religious activities and cultural gatherings. Community Engagement: The temple is not only a place of worship but also a hub for community events and social functions.

Tips for Visitors Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended to respect the religious sentiments. Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late evenings are ideal times to visit for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds. Guided Tours: While not always available, guided tours can provide deeper insights into the temple's history and significance.

Overall Impression The Kameeswarar Temple in Villianur is a must-visit for those interested in exploring religious and historical sites in Puducherry. Its rich heritage, spiritual ambiance, and cultural significance make it a rewarding experience for devotees and...