Manoor Periyavudaiyar Temple – A Sacred Spiritual Abode
The Periyavudaiyar Temple in Manoor, located near Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, is a centuries-old Shiva temple, believed to be around 500 years old. Renowned as a place that absolves sins and grants divine blessings, this temple holds immense spiritual and historical significance.
Legend of the Temple (Thala Purana)
The temple’s legend intertwines with the divine tales of Lord Murugan. According to the Thala Purana, the disagreement caused by Sage Narada’s “Gnana Pazham” (fruit of knowledge) led Lord Murugan to leave Mount Kailash and settle in Palani. This created immense sorrow for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who came to Earth searching for their son. They stayed briefly in Manoor before Parvati was permitted to proceed to Palani.
Why No Shrine for Goddess Parvati?
As Goddess Parvati left to meet Lord Murugan in Palani, the temple at Manoor does not have a separate sanctum for her. This is symbolic of the unity of Shiva and Shakti, signifying that worshiping Lord Shiva here bestows the grace of both deities.
Architectural and Spiritual Highlights
Unique Orientation
- The temple faces west, a rare feature in Shiva temples, adding to its spiritual significance.
- Lord Shiva is enshrined in a square pedestal, a unique architectural feature of the temple.
Holy Water (Theertham)
- The Shanmuga River, flowing near the temple, is regarded as sacred. Bathing in this river and offering prayers to Lord Shiva is believed to cleanse the sins of seven births.
- During the Aadi Perukku festival, devotees perform special rituals in this river.
Special Deities
- Pradosha Nayagar: The depiction of Pradosha Nayagar here is distinct, showing him in a dancing posture with one leg raised and holding a drum (damaru).
- Nataraja: The Nataraja idol in the temple is extraordinary, carved in black stone with a white face, representing a unique artistic marvel.
Worship and Celebrations
Pradosha Pooja
The Pradosha Pooja is a prominent ritual at the temple, attracting large numbers of devotees seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Major Festivals
- Aadi 18 (Aadi Perukku): Celebrated with great fervor, Goddess Periyanayaki is believed to unite with Lord Shiva on this day.
- Maha Shivaratri: A night-long celebration with special prayers and offerings.
- Aippasi Annabhishekam: The Shiva Lingam is anointed with cooked rice, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
- Karthigai Deepam: Devotees light lamps, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness.
Significance of the Temple
Benefits of Worship
Devotees believe that offering prayers at the Periyavudaiyar Temple grants numerous blessings, including:
- Removal of obstacles in marriage.
- Blessings for childbearing.
- Relief from health issues.
- Resolution of financial and personal problems.
- Increased self-confidence and mental clarity.
The temple is also known for special rituals like Ayushya Homam and Mrityunjaya Homam, which are performed to ensure longevity, good health, and relief from ancestral curses (Pitru dosha).
Accessibility
- By Bus: The temple is just 6 km from Palani. Devotees can take a bus from Palani to Manoor and walk to the temple.
- By Private Vehicle: Easy access is available from Dindigul and surrounding towns.
Conclusion
The Periyavudaiyar Temple stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and divine blessings. Its serene location, unique features, and deep-rooted traditions make it a must-visit for devotees seeking liberation from sins and fulfillment in life. Worshiping here is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and a harmonious life.
