Natham Adimoolanatha Perumal Temple

Natham, also referred to as Nandam, is a quaint village situated near Lalgudi town within the Tamil Nadu state of India. This village is positioned approximately 17 kilometers away from Lalgudi. Nestled amidst fertile lands, Natham boasts a distinctive temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The village is cocooned by expansive paddy fields in every direction, exuding a tranquil and serene ambiance. Within this temple, Lord Vishnu is venerated as Adimoolanatha Perumal. Let's delve into the exploration of this temple in the ensuing article.

Legend:

Much akin to numerous temples in Tamil Nadu, this temple aligns itself with the renowned legend of Gajendra Moksha. The tale narrates how the elephant Gajendra found itself ensnared by a crocodile's grip. In dire agony, Gajendra implored Lord Vishnu for deliverance. Responding to this plea, Lord Vishnu descended to Earth, vanquishing the crocodile and setting the elephant free. It is believed that this momentous event unfolded in the sacred confines of Natham.

History:

Historical accounts assert that Rajaraja Chola I originally erected this temple during the 10th century CE, and the prakara was subsequently constructed by Kulotunga Chola III.

Temple Layout:

Facing the eastward direction, the temple boasts an ornate five-tiered tower adorned with vibrant stucco images. One notable depiction within is a replica of the Gajendra Moksham scene in the sanctum. Just before the temple's entrance lies a sacred tank, albeit currently bereft of water.

The temple's design is elegantly simplistic, housing solely the sanctum and an additional shrine with no sub-shrines. A solitary prakara encircles the sanctum.

The eastward-facing sanctum enshrines the principal deity, Adimoolanatha Perumal, portrayed in a reclining posture. He has two arms, devoid of weaponry, and his consorts are not represented. This rendition of Vishnu is referred to as Yoga Shayana. Notably, Perumal's right arm gently touches the elephant's head, symbolizing its liberation. Meanwhile, the crocodile tugs at the elephant's leg. The depiction of the Gajendra Moksha scene within the temple's main shrine is a rare and exceptional sight.

Within the prakara, one encounters the shrine dedicated to Goddess Adi Lakshmi.

Within the sanctum, the utsava murtis of Adimoolanatha accompanied by his consorts and Adi Lakshmi are enshrined. The Ardha Mandapa houses exquisite bronze images of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. In the Maha Mandapa, images of revered Vaishnavite sages such as Ramanuja, Manavala Mamuni, Periyalvar, and Vedanta Desikar are found.

Beyond the temple precincts, a sub-shrine dedicated to Garuda faces the towering entrance.

This meticulously tended temple, nestled in a serene expanse, boasts distinctive features that ought not to be missed.

Happy travelling!