Date:03/12/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/fr/2004/12/03/stories/2004120302680600.htm

Shrine for Kadambar

The temple that speaks of Kadambar's glory...

KADAMBAR TEMPLE, Kulitalai is one of the several temples of Lord Siva celebrated in `Thevaram.' Situated midway between Karur and Tiruchi on the southern bank of the Cauvery, this hoary temple has legendary associations. The Kandapuranam speaks of the glory of Kadambanathar in its `Utharbhaga.' Brahma, the Lord of Creation, the seven celestial damsels, Sage Agasthiar, Lord Vishnu, Lord Subramanya and a host of Gods are said to have worshipped the deity and been blessed by the Lord's grace.

The temple is built facing the north and has two prakaras. The vahanas are rare, like `Bhoothavahanam,' `Ravana Vahanam' and `Kamadhenu Vahanam.'

There are niches for Lord Nataraja, Navagraha, Chadikeswara, Jyeshta Devi, Vinayaka, Subramanya, Somaskanda, Dakshinamoorthy and Lingodbhava.

In the sanctum sanctorum, behind the image of Kadamba Lingam, are carved the figures of the seven celestial maids. Saint Arunagiri Nathar has extolled Lord Subramanya of this shrine and his idol is also installed here.

Of the several festivals celebrated here, the one that occurs on the day of `Thai Poosam' has great significance.

K. VENKATACHARI