Lord Shiva is also known as Maha Dev, the greatest God, and Bholenath, one of the kindest Gods in Hinduism. In fact, the architecture of many of the temples dedicated to Bhagwan Neelakanta in South India reflects this majestic and divine nature of the deity. A number of dynasties such as Pallavas, Cholas, Chalukyas and so forth had ruled certain parts of South in the past. Therefore, throughout these regions, we will be able to see ancient and very sacred temples dedicated to the Lord. In this article, we will explore 4 of the very powerful and must-visit Lord Shiva temples in South India.
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameswaram
Considered as one of the most important temples in India, Ramanathswamy Mandir is the sacred spot that we cannot miss as a Lord Shiva devotee. Are you planning to engage in Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage throughout India? This temple is included in the list. 12 Jyotirlinga temples? Ramanathaswamy is one of them. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Ramanathaswamy.
Ramayana says that Bhagwan Rama worshipped Neelakanta at this temple so as to attain blessings and forgiveness after killing the demon king Ravana. In fact, among the two lingas that we can find in this temple, one was believed to be made by Lord Rama using sand. Second is said to be brought by Hanuman Jhi from Mount Kailash.
2. Brihadeswarar Temple at Thanjavur
Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Brihadeswarar Temple is a superlative achievement of temple architecture and stands tall amongst all the temples that were ever built for Lord Bholenath. The temple was constructed thousands of years ago i.e., in 1003 AD by the Chola king Rajaraja. This temple is revered by devotees all over India as ‘Mount Meru of South’ or Dakshina Meru. By visiting this place, we can purify our hearts by praying to Nataraja, the dancing representation of Maha Dev.
3. Thillai Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram
Also known as Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, this shrine is another religious spot that is famous throughout South India. Here, we can find the Nataraja idol of Lord Shiva that is studded with jewel. That is, the Lord is worshipped as the Cosmic Dancer representing the endless cycle of creation, preservation and destruction.
Constructed in 10th century, this temple is another great example of the majestic architectural excellence of Chola dynasty. Throughout the temple walls, you will be able to see depictions of dance postures from Bharatnatyam, Natya Shastra and so forth. Thus, if you are an artist who is engaged in the journey of perfecting your craft, Thillai Nataraja Temple is the spiritual place that you should visit. With Lord Nataraja's blessings, innumerable artists have achieved legendary status throughout generations.
4. Vadakkunnathan Temple at Thrissur
Traditional faith points out that Vadaunnathan Temple was the first amongst the 108 Shiva shrines that Lord Parashurama created. It is said that Adi Shankara achieved liberation from videha Mukti or embodiment while meditating at Vadakkunnathan Temple. Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the temple was constructed thousands of years ago. Three main deities that you will be able to worship here are Bhagwan Vadakkunnathan (Lord Shiva), Shankaranarayana and Lord Rama.
A key speciality of this shrine is the fact that the Shivling is not visible. Instead, we can see a 16-foot high mound of ghee that has gold above it. Three serpents can be seen guarding it as well. A matter of great wonder is that the ghee in this temple is hundreds of years old. But devotees experience no foul smell when they go near it. Thrissur Pooram is one of the greatest festival not just in this temple, but all over Kerala. Also known as the “mother of all temple festivals” in the state, you would to see 30+ elephants coming together and absolutely intense, traditional and competitive drumming known as Pandimelam during this period.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Which is the most powerful Shiva temple in India?
Kedarnath Temple at Uttarakhand is often cited as one of the most powerful Shiva temples in India.
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Which temple changes destiny?
The Brahmapureeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu is widely revered as the temple that changes destiny.
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Which temple fulfills all wishes?
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple at Andhra Pradesh and Kamakhya Temple at Assam are often considered as two important temples that fulfils wishes of sincere devotees.
