Sri Pushpavaneswarar temple

ORIGIN/HISTORY:

1. It is a popular story that Indira was cursed by Rishi Gautama to have 1000 ugly signs on his body for his immoral desires. While he was passing through many Shiva shrines to remedy the curse, he came here, worshipped Lord Shiva with flowers and got total relief. 
2. As Indira worshipped the Lord with fragrant flowers, the place was so named, according to another story. 
3. That Lord Vishnu and Sri Mahalakshmi worshipped here is evidenced by the sculptures in the Tower built during the rule of Naickers.
4. Other stories relating to the name of Poonthuruthi is that Poomagal worshipped here, Nandideva supplied Flowers (Poo) for Lord’s wedding and that many places in the Chola region were covered with dense flower gardens.
5. This was later translated as Pushpavanam (Pushpa – poo, vanam – dense gardens).
6. The temple is believed to have been established during the reign of the Chola dynasty, one of the most prominent and powerful dynasties in South Indian history.

Chola Dynasty (9th - 13th century CE):

1. The temple was likely constructed during the peak of the Chola dynasty, which ruled over Tamil Nadu and surrounding regions from the 9th to the 13th century.
2. The Cholas were great temple builders, and their contributions to South Indian architecture are well-documented.
3. The architectural style of the Sri Pushpavaneswarar Temple, characterised by intricate carvings, majestic gopurams (towers), and expansive courtyards, is indicative of Chola craftsmanship.

Nayak Period (16th - 18th century CE):



1. The temple saw significant renovations and additions during the Nayak period, which followed the decline of the Chola dynasty. The Nayaks were known for their continued patronage of temples and their efforts to preserve and enhance the architectural heritage left by their predecessors.
2. During this period, additional structures and shrines were built within the temple complex, and many existing structures were renovated.