Monday, June 26, 2017

Vekkali Amman Temple, Woraiyur, Trichy

Vekkali Amman Temple, Woraiyur, Trichy
Vekkali Amman Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vekkali, a form of Hindu deity Parvathi. It is located in Woraiyur, a suburb in Tiruchirappalli, TamilnaduIndia. The central shrine of the temple houses the image of Vekkali Amman and the major feature of the temple is the absence of roof over the sanctum. The temple is known from the period of early Cholas, but there are no historical records. The people of Woraiyur see Vekkali Amman as their guardian deity. The temple has six daily rituals in its calendar and celebrates six annual festivals. The north facing of the idols present in this temple is also one noticeable feature. Special days of this temple are Tuesdays and Fridays.






The temple chariot is made of gold and was launched during 2010. Woraiyur also has other names as Vasapuri, Kozhiyur and Mukkeeswaram.  The place was developed by Sooravaditya Chola. It was the Capital city of ancient Chola Empire. One of the Azhwars called "Tirupanazhwar" was also born here. Two Chola Kings, Pugazh Chola Nayanar and Kochengata Cholan were born here. Vekkali Amman Temple is located at 10°49'47.9"N 78°40'13.1"E or 10.829961, 78.670295. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamilnadu.





Legends
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The Temple
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Temple Opening Time
The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Pooja Timings
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Festivals
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Religious Significance
The roof over the sanctum was constructed during different times, but is believed to be burnt by the power of Vekkali Amman. The position of the leg of Vekkali Amman is different from other Shakti temples without roof where the right leg is placed over demon. As per Hindu legend, the position requires lot of energy and while Nataraja, during his dance switched his legs, Vekkali Amman remained in the position to show her energy levels. The posture is also believed to signify kindness, love, affection and compassion to her devotees. Historically, temples facing north are considered to provide victories on endeavors. The Cholas worshipped the deity before proceeding to military campaign. The people of Woraiyur see Vekkali Amman as the savior deity during difficult times.
Religious Practices
The temple priests perform the puja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. The temple rituals are performed seven times a day; Viswarupa at 5:15 a.m., morning abishekam at 5:30 a.m., Deepa dharisanam at 6:15 a.m., Uchikalam at 12:00 p.m., Uchikala Deepa at 1:00 p.m, Maazhai Tharisanam at 7:00 p.m. and Ardha Jamam at 9:00 p.m. Each ritual comprises three steps: Alankaram (decoration), neivethanam (food offering) and Deepa aradanai (waving of lamps) for Vekkali Amman. The worship is held amidst music with nagaswaram (pipe instrument) and tavil (percussion instrument), religious instructions in the Vedas (sacred text) read by priests and prostration by worshippers in front of the temple mast. There are weekly, monthly and fortnightly rituals.
Prayers
People worship here in a unique way. They write their requests and needs on a piece of paper and then put them at the feet of Sri Vekkali Amman and then hang them on trisulam. Devotees also believe that the evil effects of planets do not harm them once they worship here. People use to submit their problems in writing and tie it in the trident. They believe that Amman will go through their petitions and redress their grievances. They light lamps in her shrine for removal of obstacles in marriage talks and also solve the adverse aspects on their children. Devotees perform abishek to Amman with vastras.
Contact
Arulmigu Vekkaliamman Temple
Woraiyur, Trichy District
Phone: +91 431 2761869 / 2767110
Mobile: +91 9994706452
Connectivity
Woraiyur is located at about 7 Kms from Trichy Center, 3 kms from Trichy Railway junction, 2 Kms from Chathram Bus Stand, 5 Kms from Trichy Central Bus Stand and 10 Kms from Trichy Airport. Plenty of town buses are available from Chathram bus stand or the central bus stand. Auto rickshaws charge around Rs 50 to Rs 100 (max). If you drive your car, it is easily accessible. Nearest Railway Station and Airport are located at Trichy.