Kothandaramar Temple,
Paruthicheri, Thanjavur
Kothandaramar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Paruthicheri Village in Kumbakonam Taluk in Thanjavur District of Tamil Nadu. The Temple is believed to be around 200 years old. The Temple is situated on the banks of Mudikondan River.
Legends
Raksha
in the left leg of Lord Rama:
As per legend, Once, Lord Rama along with his wife Sita
and his brother Lakshmana visited Dandakaranya forest. Sages in the forest tied
a Raksha to his left leg for safety. Though, he is Avathar of Lord Vishnu, he
gracefully accepted the devotees wish. The Raksha tied to his left leg can be
seen in the idol of the presiding deity.
Saranatha
Perumal, Son in law of Paruthicheri:
It is said that Lord Saranatha Perumal of Thirucherai
married Sara Nayagi of Paruthicheri. Hence, Lord Saranatha Perumal is
considered son in law of Paruthicheri. Lord Saranatha Perumal along with
consort used to visit Paruthicheri in palanquin on Thaipoosam day in the
evening. Kothanda Ramar would receive them on the banks of Mudikondan River.
Both Lord and Mother stay in Paruthicheri for night and return back to
Thirucherai in horse vehicle after having Thirumanjanam in Paruthicheri. This
practice is thing of the past now.
The Temple
This Temple is facing towards east with an entrance
arch. The entrance arch has stucco images of Lord Rama with his consort Sita,
his brother Lakshmana and his ardent devotee Anjaneya in worshipping posture
flanked by Garuda. The Sanctum houses idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. There
is a Raksha (Thandai) on the left leg of Lord Rama. It is unique feature
nowhere to be seen. Utsava idols of this temple are kept Thirucherai Saranatha
Perumal Temple for safekeeping. Utsava Idol has Sita Devi carved on Lord Rama’s
Chest. There is a shrine for Anjaneya in the temple premises.
Festivals
Rama Navami is the famous festival celebrated here.
Special Thirumanjanam is performed during Rama Navami.
Contact
Kothandaramar Temple,
Paruthicheri, Kumbakonam Taluk,
Thanjavur District – 612 605
Mobile: +91 90030 13434
Connectivity
The Temple is located at about 4 Kms from Thirucherai, 4
Kms from Kudavasal, 4 Kms from Kudavasal Bus Stand, 7 Kms from Nachiyar Koil, 16
Kms from Kumbakonam Railway Station, 17 Kms from Kumbakonam, 17 Kms from
Kumbakonam Bus Stand, 50 Kms from Thanjavur and 110 Kms from Trichy Airport.
Devotees need to travel in Kumbakonam to Thiruvarur Route and get down at
Thirucherai Bus Stop. The temple is located at about 4 Kms from Thirucherai.
Autos are available to reach this temple from Thirucherai.