Page 33 - 19BAR0036

4.5. Cultural significance of the temple

4.5.1. History

The Azhagar temple is dedicated to Lord Paramasamy, with the processional idol being Lord

Azhagar, brother of Goddess Meenakshi. The temple also houses a shrine for Kalyana
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
Sundaravalli, consort of Lord Alagar, and separate shrines for Andal, Sudarshana, and Yoga
Narasimha. The temple's glory is mentioned in 123 hymns in Hindu scriptures, including the epic

Silappathikaram. Alvars like Thirumangai Alvar, Peri Alvar, Nammalvar, Bhoothathalvar,
Peyalwar, and Andal also mention its glorious history in their songs. The Alagar Hills, a significant

site in Hindu religion, is linked to Jainism and has historical significance. It was once a residence
for Jain monks in 1 B.C., and some caves contain Brahmin script inscriptions, indicating their

presence during ancient times. This temple, a significant location during the Pandyan reign, is

believed to have been the site of the Lord's revelation for King Malayadwaja Pandyan and Dharma
Devashai, as well as inscriptions dating back to King Ashoka rule, and is said to have housed great

Jain monk Ajjanandi and his disciples.
4.5.2. Architecture

Alagar Kovil Temple was built in the Dravidian architectural style. The first King to take care of

this temple was said to be King Malayadwaja Pandya of the Pandyan era. The architectural
development of this temple is reported to have been greatly influenced by the Pandyan kingdom.

For example, the vimana of the temple's sanctum sanctorum was embellished with gold plates
during the reign of King Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan (1251-1270 A.D.). The enormous tower

seen at the temple's entrance was also built during the rule of the Pandyan Empire. There is

beautiful sculpting depicting stories from numerous epics. There are five tiers in the gopuram
(gateway tower) of about two acres (0.81 hectares) of Kallazhagar Temple. The temple is

surrounded by massive granite walls in a rectangular courtyard. The temple's kalyan mandapam
showcases Nayaka art. The temple's idols are likewise outstanding examples of craftsmanship. The

temple houses several rare Vijayanagara sculptures similar to those found in Thadikombu

Soundararaja Perumal Temple, Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple, Srivilliputhur Divya
Desam, and Vellore Jalakandeswarar Temple.

33