Discovering Mystical Meenakshi
Renowned for its historic significance and religious fervour Madurai is a city of pilgrims
. As one of South Indias most ancient cities, Madurai was famed throughout the land as a premier centre for learning and a pilgrim hotspot. It is believed that it was in Madurai that Mahatma Ghandi first announced in 1921 that he was going to wear the modest Khadi for which he garnered world attention in the years to come.Set along the picturesque banks of Vaigai River, this temple city is the second biggest municipality in Tamil Nadu. A leading exporter of jasmine this modern day metropolis is home to a number of vibrant attractions such as the Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Thirupparankundram, Tirumalai Nayak Palace and the illustrious Ghandi museum.
But Madurais most prominent landmark is undoubtedly the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Located in the centre of the ancient town is a stunning example of classic Dravidian architecture. With mythical creatures, gods, divinities and animal motifs in multi-shaded hues, this temple also houses a colorful facade that surpasses any other in Southern India. With up to ten thousand visitors a day it is also one of the countrys most visited religious sites, a must-see for pilgrims and tourists from far and wide.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Meenakshi also known as Goddess Shakti, stately gopurams (large entrances) and mandapams (halls with several decorative pillars) are what first meets the eye as one enters this holy venue. The structure also includes a hall with a whopping 985 breathtaking pillars sculpted to perfection while the temple itself features a shrine for Shiva in the heart of the location as well as a towering stone statue of Lord Ganesh next to the Mukuruny Vinayakar (Ganesh Temple). The Meenakshi Shrine can be found to the left of the Shiva temple.
The Shiva Temple also houses a rare sculpture of the Hindu deity Nataraja in which his foot placement is changed from the traditional stance featured in popular figurines, artifacts and paintings. Enshrined in a magnificent silver alter this giant Nataraja sculpture is also called Velli Ambalam (Silver dwelling). A feast for the eyes, the Thousand Pillar hall in the Meenakshi Amman Temple was constructed with Nellaiappar Temple in Tirunleveli in mind. The captivating site of 985 pillars is a construct of Mudaliyar Ariyanatha created in 1569 A.D. still stands tall today, completely intact, in all its glory and wonder. The Music Pillars are also a not-to be missed point of interest within the temple grounds as varied musical noted are produced when each pillar is slapped by the hand. Potramaraikulam or the temple tank is another popular site for devotees as taking a bath on the holy water of the reservoir is considered a blessing.
A Temple Art Museum with drawings, photographs, icons with details of the venues 1200 year legacy is also on-site for those who wish to better understand the Dravidian art form. Playing host to many religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, the most anticipated festival at the temple is the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam, which takes place in April each year. Other red letter festival days include the Ther Thiruvizhah (festival of the Chariot), Navrathri, Shivrathri and Theppa Thiruvizhah (the Float Festival).
The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai is ideally located close to the temple grounds and serves as a comfortable Madurai hotel near the locale. As one of the citys premier Madurai hotels this charming rest is perfect for local and foreign holidaymakers.
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