Friday 1 February 2013

Chandrachoodeshwara temple, Hosur

Local Highlight this week: 15 February 2013, Pallakki Utsavam at Chandrachoodeshwara temple at Hosur


Situated on a small hillock near Hosur City is the Maraghathambigai Chandrachoodeshwara temple (Hosur Shiva Temple) - about 39 Kms from Bangalore. It is one of the oldest and the among the famous temples of Dharmapuri district. The presiding diety is Lord Shiva with the Moon on His head (Chandra means 'Moon', chandrachoodesh is one who wears the moon) and hence the name of the temple.

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History of Hosur


Hosur was founded by King Rama Nathan during the year 1290. He belonged to the Hoysala Dynasty. Hoysala Dynasty's rule came to an end after Pallavarayar III died during the war with the Pandya king, Maravarman Sundara Pandyan. The Chandrachoodeshwara Temple was built by the Hoysala king, Thirupuvanamalla Barvatharaja Anthiyazhvar, in the year 1260. The temple was renovated by Azhakiya Perumal Aathimoolam. 'Padmagiri Mahathmiyam', a part of 'Bramanda Puranam' talks about the popularity of Hosur.

 

The Legend


Once, a Devi was hurt by an Asura (demon) and she decided to perform Tapas on the banks of Dhatchinapinakini. Pleased by her Tapas, Lord Shiva appeared before her and Devi asked for an idol of Shiva's Vahana, Nandi as a Varah (boon/gift). Lord Shiva gifted her the idol. In memory of this incident, the Devi requested Lord Shiva to build a temple permanently on a hill. Shiva obliged and the above mentioned Shiva temple was built.

Special Features of the Temple 

 

 

This hill looks like 'Nandi' (The bull) when it is seen from a distance. Hence, the temple on top of this hill is called as Virushapasalam. It is known by other names as well - Shenbagasalam, (since the area is fully covered by Shenbaga trees), Bathrasalam, Bathragiri, etc. There are 8 theerthas which add fame to this temple. They are Maraghatha (Emarald), Shambavam, Macham, Sri Rama, Pandava, Shiva Gange, Hanuman and Vishnu. Maraghatha Sarovar (literally the Green River), is named after one of 8 Theerthas, and is a river present below the hill. During Hoysala Vishwanathan period, it is said that 127 gold coins were donated to this temple. It is said that this area is called Hosur as it was once ruled by the Hoysalas.




Inside this temple, idols of Surya, Chandra, Gajalakshmi, Kashi Vishwanatha, Ganesha and Panchalinga are present as well.

In a separate shrine, Goddess Parvathi gives darshan to people as Maraghathambal. A Linga is present at the entrance of this shrine and is known by the name 'Jalakantheswara'. During the dry season, this shrine is filled with water and rituals are conducted to praise Jalakanteshwara in the hope of good rains.

The temple is now under the maintenance of the Tamil Nadu Government. Pooja is conducted thrice a day. Mondays and Fridays are considered as special days in this temple. During the Tamil Maasi month, a 13-day Rathothsava is held. Shashti, Pradhosha, Ruthrabhisheka are considered as special events in this temple.

The route


This trip would certainly be an excellent getaway from the daily hustle and bustle. The temple does not witness huge crowds except on a few festive occasions. It is well maintained and the aerial view of Hosur from here is not to be missed.

The approach road to the temple, at least upto the foot of the hill, is in excellent condition. The NH7 section between Bangalore to Attibele (33Km) and from Attibele to Hosur (16Km) is 4 laned and a pleasure to drive on!

Adding to this is the electronic city ramp - supposedly the longest elevated highway in India!


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Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hosur
http://mycountryshining.blogspot.in/2011/02/hosur-maraghathambigai.html

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