Nellaiappar temple Tirunelveli history: 32 Sacred Theerthams & Musical Pillars

Explore the Divine Marvels of Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunelveli

Located in the heart of Tirunelveli, Nellaiappar Temple stands as a timeless symbol of South India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nellaiappar, and his consort Gandhimathi Amman, is one of the largest and most revered Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu.

This year, the Aani Thiruvizha (Aani Festival) began on June 30 and concludes on July 9, drawing thousands of devotees for the grand Rathotsavam (chariot festival). On July 8, the majestic temple chariot procession took place with grandeur, where devotees pulled the decorated chariot through the streets with divine fervor.

Let’s explore the exceptional features that make Nellaiappar Temple an architectural, musical, and spiritual wonder.

Key Highlights of Nellaiappar Temple:

1. Swayambhu Shiva Lingam:
The sanctum sanctorum houses a self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shiva Lingam, making it one of the holiest shrines in Tamil Nadu.

2. Dual Sanctums - A Rare Feature:
This temple is unique for having two main sanctums – one for Nellaiappar (Shiva) and another for Govindaraja Perumal (Vishnu), placed adjacent to each other. This rare co-existence of Shaivism and Vaishnavism in one temple is a remarkable spiritual fusion.

3. 32 Sacred Theerthams (Holy Water Sources):
The temple is home to 32 sacred theerthams, where pilgrims take ritual baths for spiritual purification.

4. Five Grand Temple Chariots:
Nellaiappar Temple houses five majestic wooden chariots, each dedicated to Nellaiappar, Gandhimathi Amman, Vinayaka, Subramanya, and Chandikeswarar. These chariots are central to the annual Aani festival.

5. Musical Pillars (Isai Thoon):
In the second prakaram (circumambulatory path), you’ll find musical pillars that produce all seven swaras (musical notes) when gently tapped—an architectural and acoustic marvel.

6. Copper Sabha (Tamira Sabha):
The Tamira Sabha, the temple's dance hall, is dedicated to Lord Nataraja (the dancing form of Shiva). It is one of the five sacred sabhas where Lord Shiva is believed to have performed his cosmic dance.

7. Ancient Sculptures & Yali Statues:
Marvel at the intricate carvings of mythical creatures called Yalis—a symbol of strength and protection. These can’t be found anywhere else in such detailed artistry.

8. Devotional Pathways - Three Prakarams:
The temple has three concentric corridors. The inner prakaram houses deities like Dakshinamurthy, Chandikeswarar, and Mahishasuramardhini. The second features the musical pillars, and the third connects to the Amman shrine.

9. The Veṇuvan Legend:
The temple is also known as Veṇuvanam (Bamboo Forest). Legend says that Goddess Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva here by measuring and offering rice (nel), which led to the deity being called "Nellaiappar."

10. Inscriptions and Temple History:
Built across centuries by various Pandya rulers, including Nindraseer Nedumaran, the temple is an archaeological and historical treasure, adorned with ancient inscriptions and musical stone records.

Why Visit Nellaiappar Temple?

• To witness the divine architecture of Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian temples.

• To experience the spiritual vibration of centuries-old rituals.

• To admire the musical pillars, sacred chariots, and stone inscriptions.

• To take part in grand festivals like Aani Thiruvizha and Arudra Darshan.

Whether you're a devotee, a cultural enthusiast, or a history lover, Nellaiappar Temple offers an unforgettable journey into the soul of Tamil spirituality.