Nagar Apradeeswarar Temple

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Nagar isn't just a Nagar (city); it's a quaint village that bears the same name. :-) This lesser-known village, situated approximately 7 kilometers away from Lalgudi town in Tamil Nadu, India, holds historical significance. Nestled within its boundaries is an ancient temple dating back to the Chola period, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known as Apradeeswarar. Unfortunately, despite its beauty and historical value, this temple remains relatively obscure. In this article, we'll delve into the details of this remarkable temple.
Highlights:

  • God - Apradeeswarar
  • Goddess - Atula Sundari a.k.a. Oppilla Mani Amman
  • Teerth (Holy water) - Panguni river
  • Sthala Vruksha (Holy tree) - Bilva


Regrettably, I couldn't gather information about the temple's associated legend. My apologies for the subpar quality of the photographs; they were taken during my evening visit to the temple.

Based on its architectural style and stone inscriptions, this temple can be dated back to the 11th century CE, attributed to the Chola dynasty.

Facing east, the temple lacks a traditional tower. Instead, an arch adorned with stucco images graces the expansive front mandap. Ganesha icons flank both sides of the entrance. Outside the temple complex, the bali peetha (offering platform) and Nandi  stand facing the temple.

Within the east-facing sanctum, an exquisitely crafted Vimana shelters the grand Shiv Linga, Apradeeswarar. Upon entering the Moolasthana (sanctum), a Ganesh image welcomes visitors.

In the Maha Mandapa, a single sub-shrine houses various bronze images of deities like Nataraja, Sivakami, two sets of Uma-Chandrashekhara, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, Ganesha, and more.

Within the courtyard, the shrine of Goddess Atula Sundari is positioned, facing north.

Koshta deities encircle the sanctum and include Nardana Ganapati, Dakshinamurti, Vishnu, Brahma, and Durga.

The prakara (outer courtyard) hosts several sub-shrines, featuring deities such as Ganesha, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, Gaja Lakshmi, Chandikeshwara, Navagraha, Nagareshwarar (Shiva Linga), Vada Kailasanathar Linga, and Then Kailasanatha Lingam. Additionally, images of Surya and Bhairava find their place in the prakara.


Happy travelling.



Location: main road near kathir house, Nagar, Tamil Nadu 621703, India

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