We live in times that are changing fast.
It is believed that difficult times require desperate new measures. Not us,
as we want you to see symbols that have endured the test of time.
Meenakshi Temples are enormous examples of stability through the troubled
times. These temples are situated in Madurai which is one of the oldest
cities in Tamil Nadu. Nothing here is small in measure or in spirit. This
temple complex is a city temple and it belongs to the category of largest
and the most ancient structures. It is said that Madurai is that very site
where Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi wedded each other. The Dravidian
architecture is clearly in evidence in the Meenakshi Temples of Madurai. The
Meenakshi Amman Temple and the city of Madurai came up together. The temple
complex itself takes up an area of about 6 hectare and the structures here
go as far back as 12 th to 18 th century.
Those
who have a vision for modern times build on the foundation provided by
erstwhile generations. Our forefathers wanted us to find faith and live in
harmony with the needs of the future. The soaring and delicately carved
towers in the temple inspire us to stand like them through troubled times.
Temple Architecture
High walls surround the temple from all sides whereas the sanctums for
Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwara are situated right in the centre.
There are a number of smaller shrines and grand pillared halls around them.
The towers are divided into the following:
- East Tower
- West Tower
- South Tower
- North Tower
Each of the towers are nine storeyed. There are elaborate carvings on
the imposing towers depicting Gods and Goddesses, mythological figures and
legendary stories.
Attractions
Gopura
These pyramidal gates are more than 50 meters in height. The Gopuras that
are lower in height lead us to the main sanctums of the presiding deities of
the temple.
Ashta Shakti Mandapam
This is a hall situated where the eastern Gopuram begins and was built by
the wives of Thirumalai Naikar.
Meenakshi Nayakar Mandapam
As
the name suggests, this one is also a spacious hall which is used for stores
and shops. There are 110 pillars in the hall, decorated with the figure of a
peculiar animal, as well as a lamp holder which can hold 1,008 lamps and is
lit on festivals.
Golden Lotus Tank
The devotees take bath in this ancient tank and it is said that it was in
the area around the tank where the Tamil Poets met for the Tamil Sangam. The
tank has a pillared corridor around it whereas the steps lead us to the tank
itself.
Temple Festival
Meenakshi Kalayanam
In this festival, the marriage of Lord Sundareshwar and Goddess Meenakshi
is celebrated every year in the month of April-May.
Other Attractions around the Temple
Mariamman Teppakulam
This is a tank located 5 km away from the Meenakshi temple. You can also
have a darshan of Lord Vigneshwara which stands on a platform in the centre.
Tirumalai Nayak Mahal
This palace is about 1 km away from the temple and is built in
architectural styles of the Nayaks.
