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Maruntheesar Temple

The Marundeeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in T. Edaiyar, a village in the Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu, South India. Lord Shiva is worshiped here as Marundeeswarar, represented by a lingam, while his consort, Goddess Parvati, is venerated as Balambigai. The temple is situated on the southern banks of the Thenpennai River, along the Thirukoilur–Thiruvennainallur road. This sacred site holds historical and spiritual significance as it is one of the Paadal Petra Sthalams, celebrated in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, composed by the saint poets known as the Nayanmars. The temple complex spans an area of approximately one acre and features a traditional layout, with all its shrines enclosed within concentric rectangular walls. Among its many shrines, those dedicated to Marundeeswarar and Gnanambigai are the most prominent, drawing devotees for worship and spiritual solace.

Timings

The temple is open from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the morning and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the evening.

Entry Fee

Free of charge

According to legend, while Lord Shiva was teaching the Shiva Rahasya to Goddess Parvati on Mount Kailash, Sage Sukhabrahma overheard the sacred lessons. Discovering this, Lord Shiva cursed the sage to be born on Earth. When Sukhabrahma begged for forgiveness, Lord Shiva instructed him to take birth as the son of Sage Veda Vyasa, reside at Tirumarudanthurai-Idayaaru, worship Him, and ultimately attain liberation. This story emphasizes the sanctity of divine teachings and the consequences of overstepping boundaries, even for enlightened beings.


Administration History :



The administration history of the temple traces back to its reconstruction by various dynasties such as the Chozhas, Pandyas, Vijayanagaras, and Chalukyas, who contributed to the temple’s development and upkeep. The temple was initially part of Rajararaja Valanattu, Thirumunaipadi, and later Idayatru Nattu Idayaru under the rule of Chozha kings, where Lord Shiva was known as Thirumaruthanthurai Udaya Nayanar.

Throughout the centuries, inscriptions from the Chozha, Pandya, Vijayanagara, and Chalukya kings document their contributions and involvement in the temple's administration, such as donations for rituals, worship, and water resources. The temple faced destruction in 1461 CE by the Orissa king Gajapathy, and it was subsequently rebuilt by the representative of Chaluva King Narasimha Maharayar.

Currently, the temple is maintained under the administration of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department of the Tamil Nadu Government. The HR&CE oversees the day-to-day operations, including rituals, festivals, and maintenance of the temple's infrastructure.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Respect Sacred Spaces: Always maintain reverence and decorum when inside the temple. Speak in hushed tones and avoid any actions that may disturb the sanctity of the place.
  2. Follow Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Traditional attire, such as sarees for women and dhotis or trousers for men, is encouraged to maintain respect for the sacred environment.
  3. Offer Prayers Respectfully: Perform rituals and prayers with sincere devotion. Follow the prescribed procedures for offering prayers and participating in ceremonies.
  4. Maintain Cleanliness: Keep the temple premises clean by disposing of trash responsibly and avoiding littering. This helps maintain the sanctity and beauty of the temple.
  5. Support the Temple's Preservation: Contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the temple through donations or participation in temple activities. Supporting its upkeep ensures its longevity for future generations.
  1. Avoid Loud Conversations or Noise: Refrain from speaking loudly or making disruptive noises that can disturb the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
  2. Don't Touch Sacred Objects: Avoid touching idols, deities, or any sacred objects in the temple without proper guidance or permission from the temple authorities.
  3. Don't Take Photos Without Permission: Many temples have restrictions on photography. Always check for any signage or seek permission before taking photographs inside the temple.
  4. Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food: It is customary to refrain from bringing non-vegetarian food items into the temple premises. Follow temple guidelines regarding food offerings and consumption.
  5. Don't Disturb the Rituals: Respect the ongoing rituals and ceremonies by not interrupting or interfering with the temple priests during their work.

Dress Code

For Men: Men should wear traditional attire such as a dhoti, lungi, or long trousers. Shirts should be respectful, avoiding sleeveless or revealing clothing.

For Women: Women are encouraged to wear sarees or salwar kameez. Modest clothing should be worn, avoiding short dresses or revealing outfits.

How to reach

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By Road: The temple is located on the Thirukkovilur - Thiruvennainallur - Arasur Road and can be easily accessed from Villupuram. Town buses from Villupuram to Thirukkovilur pass through Thiruvennainallur and Idayaru. The temple is situated on the roadside, and devotees can get down at the "Edayar Pillayar Stop" to reach it easily.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Villupuram, located about 27.9 km from the temple.

By Air: The nearest airports are in Chennai, Puducherry, and Trichy.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Pennai River (Virudhapinakini): The temple is closely associated with this river, which is an important water source and is mentioned in temple inscriptions. It is believed that the water from this river holds spiritual significance and is used in various rituals and ceremonies at the temple.


Cities:

  1. Thiruvidaimarudur: A town near the temple, known for its historical temples and proximity to the temple of Marundeeswarar. It serves as a hub for pilgrims traveling to the temple.
  2. Kumbakonam: A major town in the Thanjavur district, located a short distance from the temple. It is well-known for its historical temples, and Kumbakonam is often visited by devotees traveling to the temple.
  3. Tiruvarur: A nearby town that is famous for several significant Shiva temples and is in close proximity to this temple. It serves as a spiritual center for many pilgrims and is connected to the temple through historical and religious contexts.