What is the secret of Meenakshi Temple?

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What is the secret of Meenakshi Temple?

 

Meenakshi Temple is one of the most famous and beautiful temples in the world. It is located on the banks of the Vaigai River in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. People often call it the “Kashi of the South” or “Mathura of the South.” Today, let’s take a simple virtual tour of this stunning temple.

About the Temple

The Meenakshi Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, who is worshipped here as Meenakshi. Lord Shiva, her consort, is worshipped as Sundareswarar. This temple is believed to be more than 2500 years old and is the centre of Madurai’s culture and tradition.

History of the Temple

According to Tamil scriptures, the temple was first built between the 1st and 4th centuries AD. The famous poet-saint Sambandar mentioned the temple in his works in the 7th century.

In the 14th century, the temple was damaged during Malik Kafur’s invasion. Many precious stones and treasures were taken away.

Later, in the 16th and early 17th centuries, King Viswanatha Nayakar rebuilt the temple. Over a period of 800 years, the Pandya, Chola, and Nayaka dynasties all contributed to making the temple what it is today.

Architectural Marvels

Meenakshi Temple is so grand that it can be seen from many parts of the city. The temple has a rectangular complex with 24 gopurams (tower gateways). These tall towers are decorated with thousands of colourful sculptures of gods, goddesses, animals, and mythological figures.

The temple shows the best example of Dravidian architecture. The south tower, the tallest, is about 170 feet high.

Inside the temple, there are many small shrines, each filled with detailed carvings. More than 980 pillars stand inside the temple complex, and each pillar has a different design. Some pillars even make musical sounds when tapped gently.

The temple also has the Potramarai Kulam, a sacred tank where devotees purify themselves before worship.

There are many mandapams (halls) inside, such as: Shivaganga Mandapam, The Meenakshi sanctum, which is said to be carved from emerald stone

All these structures show the great skill and creativity of Indian craftsmen.

Why Meenakshi Devi Is Green

Goddess Meenakshi is shown with a green complexion. Green represents: Nature, Life, Growth, Prosperity

She is believed to be an incarnation of the Earth, the giver of food and nourishment. Her green colour symbolizes her role in supporting and sustaining life.

The Story of King Malayadhwaja

King Malayadhwaja and his wife Kanchanamala had no children. The queen prayed to Lord Shiva, who blessed her with a baby girl carrying the divine energy of Goddess Parvati. Because the child had eyes shaped like a fish, she was named Meenakshi.

Later, Lord Shiva himself fell in love with Meenakshi’s beauty and strength. After some hesitation, the king agreed, and they were married. Their union is believed to have brought peace and prosperity to Madurai.

The Chithirai Festival

One of the most famous festivals of the temple is the Chithirai Festival, also known as Meenakshi Thirukalyanam (the divine marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar). It takes place in the Tamil month of Chaitra and lasts for almost one month.

The festival includes:

  • The reenactment of the divine wedding

  • Ther Thiruvizha (chariot festival)

  • Theppa Thiruvizha (float festival)

  • Navaratri celebrations

  • Shivaratri rituals

During this time, the whole city of Madurai becomes lively and colourful.

A Symbol of India’s Great Architecture

Meenakshi Temple is not just a place of worship—it is a symbol of India’s artistic brilliance. Its detailed sculptures, tall gopurams, and rich history make it one of the world’s true wonders.

Even if you have not visited the temple in person, this simple virtual tour helps you feel the beauty, history, and devotion it represents.

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