Thindal Murugan Temple

Introduction to the Thindal Murugan Temple

Tamilnadu is a hotspot for temple tourism as it has many ancient and famous Hindu temples. Murugan is an important deity among Hindus, especially in Tamil Nadu, and there are many temples dedicated to him across Tamilnadu.

Arulmigu Velayudhaswamy Thirukovil, or Thindal Murugan Temple, is one of the Murugan temples on Thindal Malai near Erode, Tamilnadu. Sri Velayudhaswamy (Murugan) is the presiding deity of Thindal Murugan Temple. The temple is exactly between Erode-Perundurai Road. Thindalpalayam, Thindalmangalam, Thindalgiri, Thindalpudur, Melaithindal, Keelaithindal are the other names of Thindal. The temple is under the administration of the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department.

Legend of the Thindal Murugan Temple

Thindal was one of the twenty-four countries in ancient Kongunadu. Sage Arunagiri Nathar praised the Thindal Murugan Temple in his Tiruppugazh hymns.

According to the legend, a severe drought affected Poondurai, Erode. Farmers offered sincere prayers to Idumban to get them the grace of Murugan. Following their prayers, there was heavy rainfall, and their place became fertile. This traditional ritual of praying to Idumban for fertility continues.

The Architecture of the Thindal Murugan Temple

The temple features the Dravidian architectural style of construction. It is believed to have been built in the 9th century by the Cholas. The Thindal Murugan Temple is on Thindal Malai, spread over a six-acre area. The temple has two divisions. The Melaithindal or Thindalmedu is above the rock, and Keelaithindal is on the eastern side of the hillock.

The gateway arch of the Thindal Murugan Temple is on the main road. The intricately designed entrance arch includes excellent carvings of Ganesha, Murugan, Valli, Devayanai, Murugan's Vahana Peacock, Shiva, Parvati, Saraswati, and Lakshmi.

On passing the archway, people can find the first shrine dedicated to Ganesha, who graces in the name of Arasamarathu Vinayagar. The next shrine is also dedicated to Ganesha in the name of Siddhi Vinayagar. Thindal Malai is 60 meters above the sea level. Stairs lead to the hillock and the Thindal Murugan Temple from the Siddhi Vinayagar shrine. On climbing a few steps, devotees can see the Idumban shrine. Visitors have to climb 150 steps to reach the hilltop.

The first shrine on the hillock is dedicated to Ganesha, who is the Sthala Vinayagar. Next is the main shrine (sanctum) of Sri Velayudhaswamy. There is a separate shrine for the Urchava Moorthy (festival deity) on the left of the sanctum. He offers his blessings along with Valli and Devayanai. Thannasi Siddhar cave is on the north-western side of the sanctum, where special Poojas are done during the Karthigai festival.

Theertha Sunai, a sweet spring, is on the northeastern side of the hillock. Its water is used to perform Abishekam for Murugan and quench the thirst of devotees.

The Thindal Murugan Temple houses a golden chariot used to carry idols of deities in ceremonial processions.

Festivals in the Thindal Murugan Temple

Some major festivals celebrated at the Thindal Murugan Temple are Panguni Uthiram, Thai Poosam, Kandha Shasti, and Thiru Karthigai Deepam. Chaitra Purnima, Aadi Perukku, Margazhi Pooja, and Vaikasi Visakam are other festivals celebrated with great pomp here.

Benefits of Worshipping at Thindal Murugan Temple

People strongly believe there is an abundance of prosperity in the Erode district as Thindal Murugan is facing towards Erode.

The famous Pooja of the Thindal Murugan Temple is Thirisadai Archanai. It is mainly conducted for marriage, progeny, job, prosperity, and protection from enemies. People believe performing 'Thirisadai Archanai' to the main deity can grant their wishes and solve problems.

It is performed at 10.30 am, 12.30 pm, 5.30 pm, and 7.30 pm every Tuesday.