Nayanars,
the 63 Saivite saints on their pilgrimage worshipped in Many Siva
temples and sang hymns in praise of the Lord. These shrines are
considered exalted because of the visits by these "revered men".
There are countless abodes of Siva all over India. But here I dwell
on some important ones in Tamizhagam (Southern state of the country Bharadham) rendered holy by these men of
God.
There are many Siva Temples
in India and also in some other parts of the world. Siva temples in Tamizhagam have special significance. These Siva Temples eulogized in
Tamil hymns and sacred texts are referred to as "Paadal Petra
Siva Kshetrams". These Siva Temples have been in existence from
ancient times for more than 1000 years. These temples are mentioned
in Hymns which were composed and authored by the 4 Nayanar. They are
Thirunavukarasar, Sambandar Sundarar and Manikkavasagar who lived
between 7th and 9th century A.D. These hymns throw more light on Tamizhagam Temples, its art treasures culture, civilization etc.
Some of these Siva Temples,
glorified and referred as 'Paadal Petra Siva Kshetrams' are among the
greatest in the world and include temples carved in solid rock, huge
temples with elaborately sculptured towers, all ornamented with
delicate decorative work. Most of these temples are built of stone,
though a few are of brick. Artists carved the exterior and sometimes
the interior with hundreds of figures of Gods, people, animals and
plants. Most temples have one or several pillared halls called
mandapam. Worshippers pass through the halls to the sanctum sanctorum
where the idol of the temple's main deity (God or Goddess) is housed.
These temples are the
torch-bearers of the glorious heritage of Tamizhagam and stand out as
architectural marvels. The majestic, ornate and soaring towers
(Gopurams) are typical of Tamil Nadu Temple architecture. Temples have
always been a central aspect of the social and cultural life of the
people of Tamizhagam Southern state of the country Bharadham Apart from that, these Siva Temples came to be
associated with legends and beliefs that have over the years became a
part of its historical culture.
Saroja Mani
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