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Muktheeswarar Temple

Muktheeswarar Temple, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Sethalapathy within the Thiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is known by several names, including Mathi Muktheeswarar, Thilathaimathimukthar, Mutheesar, and Mandara Vaneswarar, while the goddess consort is worshipped as Porkodinayaki, Suvarnnavalli, or Maragathavalli. The temple is notable for its sacred tree, the Mandaram, and is associated with several holy water bodies, including Brahma Theertham, Arasalaru, and Chandra Theertham. In India, seven places are considered significant for performing last rites: Kasi, Rameswaram, Gaya, Thiriveni Sangamam, Srivanchiyam, Thiruvengadu, and Thilatharpanpuri. One of the temple's unique features is the deity “Nara Mukha Ganapathy,” situated in a separate shrine at the entrance. Unlike the typical depiction of Lord Vinayaga with an elephant head, this particular Vinayaga is represented with a human face, referred to as “Adhi Vinayagar.” As a result, the temple is often recognized by the name Nara Ganapathi, reflecting the prominence of this unique form of Vinayaga in recent times.

Timings

Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM & Evening: 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Entry Fee

Free of charge

The Muktheeswarar Temple, located in Sethalapathy, Tiruvarur District, holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is tied to the story of Ravana's abduction of Sita. When Jatayu, the mighty bird, attempted to stop Ravana, he was slain. Before dying, Jatayu informed Lord Rama about Sita’s abduction. Lord Rama, deeply moved, performed Jatayu’s last rites as he passed away in Rama's lap. After completing his 14 years of exile and returning to assume the throne, Lord Rama visited this site to pay respects to his deceased father, King Dasaratha. He bathed in the Arasalar river, conducted a Shiva Puja, and offered "Pindam" for Dasaratha, performing the ritual of "Sirartham." In honour of Jatayu’s sacrifice, Lord Rama performed "Bidur Darpanam" with sesame seeds. Thus, the temple is named after Lord Shiva as "Muktiswarar," and the place is known as "Tiladarpanapuri," with "Tila" referring to sesame.


Administration History :



The temple has a long history of administration, with significant contributions from various dynasties. Originally built before the 7th century, it was later reconstructed during the Vijayanagara period. The Nattukottai Nagarathars took responsibility for renovating and maintaining the temple. Over the years, the temple has seen Maha Kumbhabhishekams conducted on 25th August 1999 and 8th July 2012. Presently, the temple is administered under the Velakurichi Adheenam (Thirupugalur).

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Conduct Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect the temple premises for any signs of wear, damage, or decay to address issues promptly.
  2. Involve the Community: Engage local residents and devotees in preservation efforts through awareness programs and volunteer initiatives.
  3. Educate Visitors: Provide information about the temple's history and significance to visitors, fostering respect and appreciation for the site.
  4. Use Traditional Methods: When restoring or maintaining the temple, utilize traditional techniques and materials to preserve its original character.
  5. Promote Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly practices for temple activities, such as waste reduction and energy conservation.
  6. Document Changes: Keep detailed records of maintenance work, changes, and renovations for future reference and historical accuracy.
  7. Respect Rituals and Traditions: Ensure that the rituals and practices associated with the temple are respected and upheld in preservation efforts.
  8. Seek Expert Advice: Consult with conservation specialists and historians for guidance on preservation techniques and restoration projects.
  1. Avoid Neglect: Do not ignore signs of damage or decay, as neglect can lead to irreversible deterioration of the temple.
  2. Do Not Alter Original Features: Avoid making significant alterations to the temple’s original architecture or layout without proper consultation.
  3. Do Not Use Inappropriate Materials: Refrain from using modern or synthetic materials that do not match the temple's original construction.
  4. Do Not Disturb Sacred Areas: Avoid interfering with sacred spaces or practices within the temple, as this can impact its spiritual significance.
  5. Do Not Commercialise Excessively: Avoid excessive commercialization of temple activities, which can detract from its sanctity and spiritual purpose.
  6. Do Not Ignore Local Customs: Respect and incorporate local customs and traditions in temple operations and preservation efforts.
  7. Do Not Rush Restoration: Avoid rushing through restoration projects without thorough planning and consultation to ensure quality and authenticity.
  8. Do Not Disregard Legal Frameworks: Ensure that all preservation activities comply with local heritage conservation laws and regulations to protect the temple's status.

Dress Code

For Men : Men are expected to wear traditional attire, such as dhotis or kurta-pyjamas, while visiting the temple. It is advisable to avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts to maintain respect for the sacred environment.

For Women : Women should wear traditional garments, like sarees or salwar kameez, when entering the temple premises. Modest attire is encouraged, and sleeveless or revealing clothing should be avoided to honour the sanctity of the temple.

How to reach

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By Air : The nearest airport is located in Trichy, approximately 138 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your destination.

By Rail : The closest railway station is at Thiruvarur, which is located about 23.6 kilometres away.

By Road : The temple is located about 23.3 km from Thiruvarur New Bus Stand.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Vadavaaru River: Flowing nearby, this river is significant for the temple and is often mentioned in local hymns and rituals.
  2. Kollidam River: Another important river in the vicinity, providing water resources and enhancing the scenic beauty around the temple.
  3. Arasalar River: Close to the temple, this river contributes to the spiritual ambiance and local ecosystem.


Cities:

  1. Thiruvarur: The nearest major town, known for its rich cultural heritage and numerous temples, including the famous Thyagaraja Swamy Temple.
  2. Kumbakonam: Located a short distance away, this city is renowned for its temples and is often referred to as the "Temple Town" of South India.
  3. Thanjavur: Famous for its grand Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur is another significant city nearby, contributing to the cultural landscape of the region.
  4. Trichy (Tiruchirappalli): Located further away, this city is an important urban centre in TamilNadu, known for its historical temples and monuments.