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Meenakshi Temple, Mudari |
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The Meenakshi Temple in the ancient city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is one of the largest, oldest and most sacred temple sites in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and His consort Parvati or Meenakshi, this awe inspiring temple architecture presents a rich tapestry of artistic works, profusely revealed in its many high ornate pillars, painted ceilings and exquisite sculptures. The walls and towers of the temple stand high and tall against the bustling streets of the city center. Apart from the architectural brilliance, the temple also represents the rich culture and civilization of ancient India from since 2000 years back.
Though built by Kulasekara Pandya, it was during the reign of the Nayaks (16 th to the 18 th century) the temple acquired its splendid shape. The origin of the temple goes back beyond the recorded history when once Indra (the ruler of heaven) discovered a Siva Linga in the forest of Madurai and built a small temple around it, known as Indra Vimana or Madurai Temple. Later when Madurai was under the rule of the Pandyas, a king name Malayadwaja Pandya, who was childless for many years performed Yagnas (sacrifices before sacred fire) to fulfill his wish. On one such Yagna, the king's wish fructified in the form of a 3-year old girl who came out of the fire. The girl had three breasts but was assured that the third breast would disappear the moment when she met her consort. With time the girl grew into a brave and beautiful princess and won many battles. Eventually the time came and she found her third breast gone after recognizing her divine consort Lord Shiva. Finally the couple got settled in the Madurai Temple as Meenakshi and Sundereswarar.
Enclosed within a vast expanse of area (6 hectares), the temple presents a group of twelve impressive gopurams or gateways, ranging from 45 to 50 meters in height. Of all the 12 gateways the tallest one is located at the southern end and is made of nine stories. Like all the other gateways it is also covered with images of gods, goddesses, gargoyles and gryphons. The historic Golden Lily Tank inside the temple complex is an important attraction and it is from where the best photographic views of the temple are taken. Also along with the Thousand-Pillared Hall with elaborately carved images and the innumerable mandapas there are a lot to discover at Meenakshi Temple.
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