A Hidden Gem in Chennai’s Hinterland
Masilamaniswara Mandir
Uncover the Serenity and Rich Heritage of Thirumullaivoyal’s Spiritual Haven
Introduction :
The Masilamaniswara Temple, situated in Thirumullaivoyal, Chennai-Avadi road, India, is a profound Hindu place of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred site holds great significance due to its association with ancient religious hymns, its architectural beauty, and a compelling legend that narrates its historical origins. This article aims to delve deep into the history, architecture, religious importance, and worship practices of the Masilamaniswara Temple in Thirumullaivoyal, uncovering the rich tapestry of spiritual and cultural heritage that this temple represents.
Historical Significance :
The Masilamaniswara Temple dates back to the 9th century CE and carries the architectural imprints of the Chola dynasty. Over time, it received significant additions from later Chola kings and other ruling empires. The presence of inscriptions from Chola, Pandya, and Vijayanagara dynasties attests to the historical importance of this temple. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the temple’s patrons and benefactors, including Sembiyan Mahadevi, the mother of Uttama Chola, who donated land for the temple’s construction.
Legend of the Temple :
The temple’s history is intertwined with a captivating legend. In ancient times, the surrounding forest was inhabited by two troublesome tribesmen, Vaanan and Onan. King Thondaiman, the local ruler, endeavored to put an end to their menace. After failed attempts, the king set out for war with his forces. En route, they encountered a dense growth of Mullai plants, and the elephant carrying the king became entangled in the foliage. In their efforts to free the elephant, they noticed blood gushing out from the leaves, revealing a ‘lingam’ (a symbol of Lord Shiva). Distraught, the king prayed to Lord Shiva for forgiveness and mercy. In response, Shiva and Parvathi appeared before the king and instructed him to build a temple at this very spot. Shiva vowed to reside there as Masilamaniswara, a name that signifies His purity and absence of blemish caused by the bleeding. It is believed that Shiva also promised to support the king in defeating the Kurumbars, sending his holy steed, the Nandi bull. This temple’s Nandi statue is unique as it faces outwards, symbolizing its readiness for battle. This legend illustrates the divine intervention and support the king received in his quest for righteousness.
Architectural Marvels :
The Masilamaniswara Temple exhibits impressive architectural features. Notably, the vimana (roof) of the sanctum sanctorum is designed in a distinctive Pallava style known as Gaja Prishtam, resembling the rear of an elephant. The goddess, Kodiyidai Nayagi, is associated with various blessings, particularly for newlyweds and young girls seeking speedy marriages and a harmonious married life. The temple also houses a scarred lingam, adorned with sandalwood paste, and a smaller mercury linga used for ablutions. The temple’s tank is situated outside the premises. A significant peculiarity is the direction in which the Nandi Bull faces; it points outward, ready to depart for battle at Shiva’s command, in contrast to most other Shiva temples where the Nandi faces inwards.
Religious Significance :
The Masilamaniswara Temple, being revered in Tevaram and classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, is one of the 275 temples mentioned in the Saiva canon. The temple is associated with Sundarar, an 8th-century Tamil Saivite poet who composed ten verses in Tevaram in honor of Masilamaniswarar. Additionally, the temple is part of the Sakthi triad in the Tondaimandalam region, along with the Vadivudai Amman Temple at Tiruvottiyur and the Thiruvudai Amman Temple at Minjur.
Worship Practices :
The temple rituals are conducted four times a day, beginning with Ushathkalam at 6:30 a.m. and concluding with Ardha Jamam at 8:00 p.m. These rituals include sacred baths (abhisheka), decoration (alangaram), food offerings (naivethanam), and lamp waving (deepa aradanai) for both Masilamaniswarar and Kodiyidai Nayagi. Worshipers are treated to melodious music played on the nagaswaram and tavil instruments, the reading of sacred texts from the Vedas by priests, and the opportunity for personal prostration before the temple mast. Additionally, weekly and fortnightly rituals, as well as monthly festivals, are observed with great devotion. Major celebrations at the temple include Mahashivaratri during February-March and Thiruvadihari in December.
Every year, during the Chittirai month (Mar-Apr), on Sadaya nakshatra, the Santhana kappu is rejuvenated with Veru kappu. This ritual is believed to symbolize the treatment for the blood that oozed out of the deity during the king’s attack, commemorating the victory over the Kurumbars and the divine support of Lord Shiva.
Conclusion :
The Masilamaniswara Temple in Thirumullaivoyal stands as a living testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of India. Its historical significance, stunning architecture, captivating legend, and religious importance continue to attract devotees and tourists alike. This temple exemplifies the profound devotion of the people and the enduring legacy of Hindu spirituality in the region. Its rituals and festivals provide a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions and vibrant spiritual life of those who visit and worship at this sacred place.
Editor – Kaalchakra Team
[ Note – Before Concluding anything as a Finale, Please Go through Original Scriptures of Vaidik Literature Written in Sanskrit and Also with Meaning of That time of Language. Because English is a Limited language to Explaining the Deeper Knowledge of Vaidik Kaal. ]