Vedagiriswarar Temple: A Unique Marvel

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Vedagiriswarar Temple: A Unique Marvel

A temple so unique that the entire town of Tirukalukundram is known for it! Popularly known as Kazhugu Koli (Eagle Temple), Vedagiriswarar Temple is one of the most tremendous architectural marvels of South India.

Vedagirswarar Temple | Source: Wikipedia

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Vedagiriswarar temple is located in Tirukalukundram, approximately 15 kilometres from Mahabalipuram and 70 kilometres from Chennai. The temple comprises two structures: one at the foothills dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, known as Thripurasundarai Amman, and the other atop the hill dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vedagiriswarar.

Indicating the Lord of the Vedic Mountains, a popular legend associated with the temple narrates that the four Nayanmars—Appar, Sundarar, Manickavasagar, and Thirugnanasamandhar—visited the temple, composing melodious hymns in praise of Vedagiriswarar.

The name of the town, Thirukazhukundram, is a blend of three Tamil words - "Thiru" meaning respectful, "Kazhugu" meaning eagle, and "Kundram" meaning mount.

Tirukalukundram is also known as Pakshi-theertham, while the Vedagiriswarar Temple is fondly referred to as Kazhugu Koli, owing to a captivating story. For centuries, a pair of eagles or vultures have frequented the temple. Considered highly auspicious, these birds are fed by the temple priest every morning. Their timely visits are regarded as propitious, yet their absence is believed to signal the presence of sinners in the temple premises.

The Vedagiriswarar Temple serves as a testament to unwavering faith in God. Beyond its captivating spiritual aura, it beckons visitors with its divine architecture, making it a must-visit destination.

Legend has it that eight sages (Ashtavasus), once infuriated Lord Shiva, leading to a curse. The sages were destined to live as birds until the curse was lifted, after which they could undergo penance. Lord Shiva instructed them to visit the temple in pairs in each yuga. Three pairs (six birds) completed their penance, while the remaining pair adhered to Lord Shiva's curse.

Constructed during the Pallava dynasty, the Vedagiriswarar Temple exemplifies the Dravidian style of architecture. Devotees ascend approximately 560 steps to reach the hilltop temple. The foothill temple features four intricately carved Gopurams. The temple's mandapas exhibit curved structures with tall, sturdy walls for support.

Every twelve years, a conch emerges from the depths and floats on the water surface. The temple priest preserves the conch, displaying it for public viewing.

Sangu Theertham, the primary temple tank, houses water believed to be exceptionally pure. The main Abhishekams (sacred wash) of the deity are performed using this pristine water. Devotees from across India visit the temple, seeking mental peace, as it is believed that a dip in the sacred tank can lead to complete spiritual healing.