Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Kolanjiappar Temple, Manavalanallur – Legends

Kolanjiappar Temple, Manavalanallur – Legends
Kolanji Appar:
As per Hindu legend, Sundarar, the famous Nayanmar saint in Saivite tradition belonging to the 8th century, came to Virudhachalam (called Tirumudukundram) during his old age. He sang praise of Lord Vriddhagiriswarar. Lord Shiva was much pleased with his rendition and wanted to have him sing a song again. He sent his son Muruga in the form of a hunter to the Kolanji forest through which Sundarar was traversing. The hunter took away the belongings of Sundarar. He demanded the hunter to return his belongings for which the hunter wanted him to be back at Virudhachalam.
Understanding that it is a divine play, Sundarar returned to Virudhachalam temple and sang praise of Shiva again. Vrida means old age and hence the place was called Virudhachalam as Sundarar came to the place during his old age. Lord Muruga subsequently set his abode in the Kolanji forest as Kolanjiappar. Lord Murugan is gracing the devotees in the shape of Peedam. This is a formless form and is unique representation of Lord Muruga.
Later, the abode got lost and hidden among the Kolanji forests. Around 200 years ago, villagers found that one of their cows pour its milk in the Kolanji forest and returns silently, every day. The villagers went to the forest and cleared the place. The villagers found a small stone altar on which Lord Skantha resolved to embody himself for the benefit of people. Then, the villagers built a temple for Lord Murugan.
Jeeva Samadhi of Siddhars:
Agappai Siddhar, guru of Pampatti Siddhar attained Samadhi in this holy place.  Also, it is considered as one of the 12 places where Korakka Siddhar attained his Samadhi.  
Manavalanallur:
The Village is called as Manavalanallur because Lord Skantha, the Manavalan (Eternal Bridegroom) has embodied himself here.