Madurai Meenakshi Temple is a prestigious temple and an iconic symbol of Dravidian architecture and sculptures. It represents the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi and has now become one of the top tourist spots in India.
There lies a special story and history behind the formation of this temple and how it got its most attractive and special features. Let’s understand the complete story of Madurai Meenakshi Temple in brief in the article below.
History Behind the Formation of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple
The history of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple goes back over 2000 years. At the time, the Pandya Dynasty was active and spread its wings throughout India. Although the construction of the temple has its roots in this dynasty, its evolution and further expansion took place in the Nayak Dynasty.
The Nayak Dynasty ran under the ruler Thirumalai Nayak and this was the time of the 17th century. Before its expansion in the 17th century, it was invaded and destroyed by the Muslims in the 14th century.
The Madurai Meenakshi Temple History has not only seen the Pandya and Nayak Dynasty but has also crossed paths with the Vijayanagara Empire. It was the Vijayanagara Empire that initiated its reconstruction and expansion in the 14th century, after getting totally exploited by the Muslims (specifically the Delhi Sultanate).
Special Features of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple
Following are some special features of the Madurai Meenakshi temple which visitors can notice and explore deeply after visiting the temple –
Grand Gesture of the Festivals:
At Meenakshi temple, festivals are celebrated with grandness and full excitement. The main festival of this temple is Chithirai Thiruvizha. This festival is celebrated to commemorate the auspicious marriage of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
Thousands of devotees visit the temple during the time of this festival and take blessings from God and the Goddess. Apart from marriage, even Navratri and Float festivals are celebrated with a huge celebration here every year. So, it can be said that the best time to visit meenakshi temple is undoubtedly during this festival period.
Architectural Superpower
The Madurai Meenakshi Temple is one of a kind when it comes to the iconic Ayiramkaal Mandapam (hall with 1000 pillars) that also produces beautiful musical notes when people tap on it. This masterpiece and unique thought process definitely demonstrates the incredible architectural skills of the craftsmen.
Temple that Houses Two (Twin) Sanctuaries Single-Handedly
There are two sanctuaries located in the Madurai Meenakshi temple. Both of these are dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and her husband Lord Sundareswarar (who is considered to be the form of Lord Shiva).
The main representation of the twin sanctuaries is to make people aware of the harmony and equality of both male and female power & position. Spreading equality through the example of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva is the sole principle of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple.
Representation of the Power of Goddess Meenakshi
It is well-known that the Madurai Meenakshi temple is dedicated to the divineness and power of Goddess Meenakshi. She is represented as an Avatar of Goddess Parvati.
Goddess Meenakshi is considered as the sole deity and ruler of Madurai. She has proved her prominence in Madurai with her power and superior existence. That is why tourists from all over the world visit the temple to explore its beauty.
Unique and Extremely Sacred Pottramarai Kulam (Golden Lotus Pond)
The Golden Lotus Pond of this temple is one of its own kind and has become the topmost identifying architecture here. There are corridors surrounded throughout the pond and these corridors are fully pillared.
Also, throughout the pillars, the miraculous achievements of Lord Shiva are reflected. Viewing these stories with the naked eye is surely everyone’s dream come true.
Due to the presence of these incredible features at the Madurai Meenakshi temple, visitors from all over the world come to explore it. Undoubtedly, this temple has gained its popularity from the love and respect of the previous visitors and the enthusiasm of the future visitors altogether.
Conclusion
Madurai Meenakshi temple is a very well-known and recognized tourist spot which holds immense power and spiritual essence in itself. That is why visitors and explorers from all over the world get immense positivity from this temple for sure.
Therefore, make sure to plan your next trip to Madurai and visit the Meenakshi temple to experience the spiritual power and positivity to the fullest. Also, take away immense positivity, peace of mind, and motivation with you which will stay for much longer and keep giving you strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the topmost special features of the Madurai Meenakshi temple?
Some of the topmost special features of the Madurai Meenakshi temple are: its sacred golden lotus pond, architectural masterpieces including a 1000-pillar hall, twin sanctuaries, and so on.
- What should be the best time to visit and explore the Madurai Meenakshi temple?
The best time to visit meenakshi temple is from October to March when there is a peak winter season. Winter season is the best for visiting the temple because the scenery and the surrounding views are mesmerizing and worth a watch during this season.
Also, starting your tour early morning in the winter season will help you witness some beautiful views that you would miss in the later hours of the day.
- Are there any entrance fees for the Madurai Meenakshi Temple?
To visit the Madurai Meenakshi temple, there doesn’t exist any entrance fees at all. Visitors can freely come and visit this temple according to the visiting hours of the temple and take away great enthusiasm and positivity with them for sure.
- Is it allowed for pets to enter the Madurai Meenakshi Temple?
No, pets are not allowed to enter the Madurai Meenakshi temple. The temple has some rules and etiquette that the visitors need to follow strictly. Among these rules, pets entering the temple premises are strictly prohibited.
- Are there some rules for carrying any belongings inside the Madurai Meenakshi Temple?
Yes, one of the most important rules of the Meenakshi temple is the prohibition of handbags. Handbags, along with all the things it contains are prohibited from being carried in the temple premises. So, women have to make sure that they leave their handbags, along with their mobile phones, water bottles, or any other belongings outside before entering the temple premises.
