Introduction
Perur Temple is also known as Perur Patteeswarar Temple. It is one of the ancient and spiritually significant temples located in the southern part of India. It is situated in Perur, Coimbatore. Lord Shiva is the primary deity worshipped as Patteeswarar in this temple, along with Panchainayagi (Parvati). According to some sources, it was built by the ruler of the Chola dynasty more than 1500 years ago. It is also known as the spiritual heart of Western Tamil Nadu. It is also famous for its architecture, culture, tradition, and rituals. It is one of the most visited places in Tamil Nadu.
★ History of the temple According to some sources, the temple was built by Karikala Chola in the 2nd century AD, who was a powerful Chola king. According to tradition, the main lingam (Shiva symbol) is swayambu; according to local people, it was formed naturally. Over time, many dynasties have helped in the growth of the temple, like the Chola dynasty, Pandya dynasty, and Vijayanagar dynasty. One of the most important architectures, Kanaka Sabha, was built in the Nayak period. Even the rulers of Mysore, Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali, stated their respect for the temple.
★ Mythology and Legends About the Temple The divine cow, Kamdhenu, used to offer milk to the Shiva lingam (the symbol of Lord Shiva), which was hidden under an anthill. One day, Patti (the calf of the divine cow, Kamdhenu) was playing, and by mistake, he struck the anthill with his horn and the lingam was injured. Blood started coming out of the anthill. People noticed it and started digging there, and they found out that the lingam was Swayambhu (self-manifested). Lord Shiva was impressed by the act and innocence of Patti, appeared there, and blessed Kamdhenu and Patti with moksh (salvation).
According to some legends, Lord Shiva performed his Ananda Tandav (Cosmic Dance). He performed his dance in front of the supreme gods like Vishnu, Brahma, Goddess Kali, and his devotee Nandi. Lord Shiva shows his divine power and cosmic role in this dance.
There are two mythologically important trees in the temple's area: Irava Panai (Palm tree) and Pirava Puli (Tamarind tree). The Pirava Puli is called the birthless tamarind because some legends say that it will not grow if the seed is germinated anywhere else. The Irava Panai (Palm tree) is called the deathless tree, which is said to never fall.
★ Architectural Highlights The Perur Temple was built by the Chola Empire and later renovated by the Nayaks in their building styles. It has tall gateway towers called gopurams whose height is more than 60 feet. The special chamber called Kanaka Sabha, also known as the Golden Hall, has 56 beautifully carved pillars. These pillars represent the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, with pictures of dancers, musicians, and gods from stories on each one. It is like a true artist spent their whole life creating this masterpiece. The outside walls of the temple are covered in stone carvings of elephants, lions, and gods, which look like they are still alive, as if moving. Deep inside, the Shiva lingam was formed without any human activity, and you can say it is a miracle by Lord Shiva himself. The lingam is stored in a room that is covered with silver. Bright brass lamps surround it and glow softly during evening prayers.
★ Festivals related to the temple Panguni Uthiram is the temple's major annual festival. It is celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (in March to April). During this festival, temple deities are paraded through the local area, drawing thousands of devotees.
As it is the temple of Lord Shiva, Mahashivratri is celebrated here with joy and on a large scale, with the whole night worship and Rudra Abhishek (special bath of Lord Shiva with milk).
★ Travel Guidance The temple is located on the banks of the Noyyal River in Perur, Coimbatore. It is about 8 kilometres away from the centre of Coimbatore city. The temple is open from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm and again from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm. There is no fee for entrance to the temple, but you can donate in the name of God if you want. Some rituals and poojas may incur extra charges. Before entering the temple, do not forget to remove your footwear. The best time to visit is early in the morning because there will be no crowds and cool temperatures.
★ Nearby Attractions and Tips The Noyyal River has steps (ghats) for a refreshing bath which are located near the river. During your trip, try to stop and visit beautiful places like Singanallur Lake or the Perur market to buy fresh local mangoes. You can take photos outside the main shrines, but during prayers (poojas) it is prohibited to take pictures. Enjoy free pure vegetarian meals at the temple's annadanam kitchen. You will also hear stories about the divine cow Kamdhenu.
FAQs
1. Who is worshipped in the Perur Temple?Ans: The main god who is worshipped in the temple is Lord Shiva, who is known as Patteeswarar in this temple. Alongside Parvati, who is also worshipped as Pachainayagi.
