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136. Tiruchuzhial

திருச்சுழியல் 

Location: Tiruchuzhial near Manamadurai.
(Pandya Naadu)
Shiva: Tirumeni Nathar, Bhoominathar
Ambal: Tunaimaalainayaki, Sakayavalli
Vriksham: Punnai
Theertham: Kauvaikkadal
Patikam : Sundarar
Travel Base: Madurai
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Description: This is one of the revered Shivastalams in Pandya Naadu, and it has acquired a greater degree of significance in that it is the birthplace of Ramana Maharishi.  This shrine  is regarded as the 12th of the Tevara Stalams in the Pandya region of Tamilnadu.

Legends: Parvati is said to have meditated upon Shiva, seeking his hand in marriage & this event is commemorated in the Amman Tapas Utsavam in the month of Aadi for 10 days each year. Sundaramoorthy Nayanar is believed to have visited this temple with the Chera King Cheramaan Perumal.

The Temple: The Ramanathapuram rulers have traditionally maintained this temple, which spans an area of about 45000 square feet. There are several shrines and theerthams within this temple complex and around it. Of the Ashtalingams, Velliambalanathar & Somasekharar were worshipped by the Pandya Kings & the Dinakareswara Lingam was worshipped by the Sun, according to the legends associated with this temple.

The Kauvaikkadal tank within the temple, with a central mandapam is a beautiful one. The Shiva and Ambal shrines both face the East. Mention must be made of the Pralaya Vitankar and the Palani Andavar shrines in this temple.

Festivals: Six worship services are offered each day.  Of the festivals celebrated here ention must be made of the Palani Andavar festival in Thai and the grand Bhrammotsavam in Panguni. The Amman Tapas festival is celebrated in the month of Aadi.

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