Thirumuruganathaswamy Temple, Thirumuruganpoondi –
History
This temple might have been in existence from 6th
century CE as it find mentions in the Devaram hymns. The original temple might
have been built by the Cheras during Sangam period. This temple is believed to have
been completely reconstructed by Kongu Chola King Kalimurkka Vikrama Chola
(1004 – 1047 CE). The temple was
extensively renovated during the reigns of Kongu Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagara
Kingdom and Nayaks.
Inscriptions dating back to the reigns of Kongu Chola
Kings Kalimurkka Vikrama Chola (1004 – 1047 CE), Kulothunga Chola I (1149 –
1183), Veera Chola (1183 – 1196 CE ), Veera Rajendra ( 1207 – 1256 CE),
Vikrama Chola III (1274 – 1304 CE), Maravarman Sundara Pandyan II (1238–1251 CE),
Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan I (1251–1268 CE) and Jatavarman Veera Pandyan I are found
on the sanctum walls.
Two copper plates inscriptions dated to King
Thirumalai Nayak of Madurai Nayak dynasty were found in this village. This
place was called as Vada Parisara Nadu and Lord Shiva was called as Thirumuruganpoondi
Nayanar as per the inscriptions in the temple. Most of these inscriptions
records the endowments made to the temple for burning perpetual lamps and
conducting pooja rituals & festivals. The temple is now maintained by the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).