This temple is located along the banks of the Kudamurutti River and was historically known as Pulla Mangai. The temple itself came to be referred to as Alandurai, a name derived from its association with the sacred banyan tree, known as the 'sthala vruksham,' and its proximity to the riverbank. The esteemed poet Sambandar frequently alludes to Pulla Mangai in his devotional hymns, emphasizing the significance of the deity worshipped at Alandurai. Historical inscriptions have identified this site as "Alandurai Mahadeva Koil," underscoring its long-standing religious importance. In recent years, however, the temple has been renamed Pasupathi Koil, reflecting a shift in its contemporary identity while still honoring its rich historical and cultural heritage.
This temple is recognized as the fifth of the Saptha Sthanas, with the renowned Tiruchchakrapalli situated in close proximity as the first of the seven 'mangai' temples. This 'Saptha Sthana' temple comprises seven sacred temples: Chakrapalli, Ariyamangai, Soolamangai, Nandhimangai, Pasumangai, Thazhamangai, and Pullamangai, all of which were revered by the Saptha Mathas and the Saptha Rishis. Notably, this temple holds a unique significance as it is believed to be the site where not only the seven divine maidens, known as the Saptha Kannyars worshipped, but also the celestial cow Kamadhenu, daily offered milk to the deity, thus earning Him the title of Pasupathiswarar. Furthermore, this location is historically significant as it is where Lord Shiva consumed the first poison, Alakala, which emerged during the churning of the ocean of milk by the gods and demons. This act of bravery, where Shiva held the poison in His throat to protect the universe, has led to the temple being referred to as Alanthurai, and the deity is also known as Alanthurainathar.
The Mahishasuramardini representation of Durga, located in the northern courtyard of this temple, holds a unique significance. This striking image portrays the goddess standing triumphantly on the head of a buffalo, sheltered beneath a black stone umbrella. In her hands, she wields a conch shell alongside an array of formidable weapons, including a sword, bow, mace, trident, shield, and 'angusam'. Flanking her are a deer and a lion, symbolizing her dominion over both the gentle and the fierce aspects of nature. The scene is further intensified by the dramatic depiction of two warriors attempting to sever their head and tear away their thigh with a knife. Notably, the Durga statues found in the temples of Thirunageswaram, Patteeswaram, and Thiruppullamangai are attributed to the same sculptor, and all three are revered for their powerful presence and spiritual significance, reflecting a shared artistic vision that resonates deeply within the cultural and religious landscape of the region.
The temple's sculptures, dating back to the Chola period, are truly remarkable and deserve admiration. Notably, the Artha Mandapa features numerous intricate sculptures adorning its pillars, showcasing the artistic prowess of that era.
Among the notable figures of the Chola dynasty is King Kochengat Chola, remembering his previous birth, commissioned the construction of temples, which are characterized by their unique architectural feature that prevents elephants from ascending; these structures are referred to as Madakoils. A prime example of such a temple is the Tiruppullamangai Pasupathiswarar Temple, which boasts a modest three-tiered Rajagopuram facing east. Upon entering through the Gopuram gate, visitors are greeted by a spacious front enclosure, with the Goddess's sannidhi located on the north side, oriented southward. The outer courtyard is home to sannidhis dedicated to Vinayaka and Subramania, while the main sanctum is encircled by a moat. Within this sanctum, one can find Vinayaka and Dakshinamurthy as the Goshta Murthy, alongside Mahavishnu, Brahma, and Durga positioned to the right and rear. Additionally, the temple features the sannidhi for the primary four Nayanmars and Navagraha Sannidhi, further enriching its spiritual significance. Both the Thirupullamangai Alanthurai Nathar Temple and the Pasupathikovil Pasupatheeswarar Temple are esteemed as 'Paadal Petra Shivasthalam', with the hymn composed by Sambandar in honor of the deity enshrined here being included in the first Thirumurai.
Navagraha
Goddess Sannidi
Sanctum Vimana
Vinayaka
Sculptures
Lingothbhava
MahaVishnu
Vimana