Koolipatti Murugan Temple
Koolipatti Murugan Temple
Koolipatti Murugan Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the Namakkal district in Tamilnadu.This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, the Hindu god of war and victory.
The 300-year-old Kandhagiri Palani Aandavar Temple is similar to the one in Palani, here too, Lord Murugan is worshipped in the form of a young ascetic, and hence he is called “Palani Aandavar.”
The speciality of Koolipatti Murugan Temple lies in its historical significance, beauty and its architecture. The interior of the temple displays beautiful paintings and sculptures depicting various myths and legends.
It is said that a Siddhar named Verigovindar resided on this hill and consecrated Lord Murugan here. It is also believed that he created a secret path to have darshan of Lord Murugan and attained immortality in the cave on this hill.The temple is also believed to be the place where Thiruvalluvar composed his famous work Thirukkural, a classical Tamil poem that is still revered and studied today.
As devotees begins climbing the steps of the hill, after a few steps to the south, devotees can see Lord Shiva with his matted hair and a snake around his neck. Upon entering and starting the ascent, there are also scenes depicting the event where Lord Murugan, upset over the dispute caused by the sacred fruit, leaves Mount Kailash and is later pacified, with Murugan teaching his father (Lord Shiva).
At the top of the hill, there is also a shrine for Idumban and a Vinayaka temple. It is believed that praying to Idumban helps rid oneself of negative qualities such as anger, deceit, and malice.
Near the temple tower at the summit, in a small pavilion on the Shani corner, the Navagrahas (nine planetary deities) are present. Special abhishekams and rituals are conducted for Lord Murugan on new moon and full moon days every month. Festivals such as Karthigai pooja, Sashti pooja, Panguni Uthiram, and Soorasamharam are also celebrated with great devotion here.
Devotees believe that worshipping Palani Aandavar at this temple will lead to a quick marriage, and praying to Lord Murugan with a Sashti pooja and sincere devotion will bless couples with children.