Kazhugumalai is Tamil Nadu’s serene landscape. It has a rich history and culture. Kazhugumalai is the abode to an incomplete rock-cut temple – Vettuvan Koil/Koyil. For this reason, it is known as the Ellora of South India. This rock-cut temple is a testament of Tamil’s architecture and devotion.
Kazhugumalai Vettuvan Koyil/Koil, the incomplete temple, draws visitors towards its intricate carvings and rich history. In this post, learn about the history and significance of this temple. Further, know whether it is a living temple or a non-living monument.
Kazhugumalai – The Historical Background
Kazhugumalai is a small village and means the Hill of the Vultures. This village lies in Tamil Nadu’s Ramanathapuram district. Its history dates back to the 8th century CE.
Under the Pandya dynasty, this village got prominence due to its patronage of art, architecture, and religion. According to local beliefs, the Pandya kings, particularly Jatila Paranthaka Nedunjadaiyan, commissioned the construction of the Vettuvan Koil Temple.
The region is surrounded by Jain and Hindu monuments that showcase a harmonious coexistence of different religious traditions. The most notable of these monuments is the Vettuvan Koil, a remarkable example of rock-cut architecture that draws comparisons to the famous Ellora caves in Maharashtra.
The Name and Significance of Vettuvan Koil
The name Vettuvan Koil or Vettuvan Koyil is fascinating and reflects its link to sculptors. The word Vettuvan is the interpretation of sculptors or hunters. It leads to different interpretations of the temple’s significance. Some believe the temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as a hunter, while others view it as a tribute to the artisans who crafted it.
In addition to its religious significance, the temple is known for its rich historical and cultural importance. This temple symbolises the Pandya Dynasty’s artistic achievements. Further, it reminds the region’s rich heritage.
It also reflects the religious diversity of the time, as the nearby Jain monuments suggest a thriving community of Jain monks and followers who coexisted peacefully with the Hindu population.
Vettuvan Koyil – The Incomplete Masterpiece
Vettuvan Koil means the Temple of the Sculptor. It is the crown jewel of Kazhugumalai and is carved from a single granite rock. The temple was intended to be a magnificent structure. However, for reasons lost to history, the temple remains incomplete, adding to its mystique.
The temple’s incomplete state has led to various theories and speculations. Some people believe that King’s sudden death halted its construction. On the other hand, some suggest that the workers left their construction work due to unknown reasons. The temple is unfinished. However, Vettuvan Koil stands as a testament of the skills and dedication of the artisans who worked on it.
Vittuvan Koyil Temple – The Architectural Importance
Vettuvan Koil’s architectural significance lies in its craftsmanship and design. The decoration of the temple’s exterior includes mythical creatures, detailed sculptures of deities, and the floral motifs ornament. The most striking feature is the elaborately carved tower (vimana) above the temple’s sanctum. This tower is adorned with stunning reliefs depicting Lord Shiva in various forms, along with his consort Parvati.
Vettuvan Koil’s most remarkable aspect is that it was carved from the top down. Carving from top down is a technique known as monolithic rock-cut architecture. This method requires immense precision, as any mistake made during the carving process could be irreparable. The fact that such detailed work was achieved without modern tools or technology speaks volumes about the skill and expertise of the ancient Tamil sculptors.
Is Vettuvan Koil a Living Temple?
One of the most intriguing questions surrounding Vettuvan Koil is whether it is a living temple or a non-living monument. In Hindu tradition, a “living temple” is one where regular rituals and worship are conducted, and the presence of a deity is believed to be active. On the other hand, a “non-living temple” or monument is one in which worship has ceased, and the site is preserved primarily for its historical and architectural value.
Vettuvan Koil falls into the latter category. As per the intention, it was to be a vast temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. However, the current incomplete structure states that it was never consecrated or used for regular worship. As a result, Vettuvan Koil is considered a non-living temple, preserved today as an important archaeological site. It is a testament to the region’s rich artistic heritage.
The Legacy of Kazhugumalai and Vettuvan Koyil
Vettuvan Koil and Kazhugumalai are more than their historical and architectural significance. These cities provide a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s religious and cultural practices. The intricate carvings and unfinished nature of Vettuvan Koil evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in preserving and promoting Kazhugumalai as a tourist destination. Efforts are made to protect the site and raise awareness of its historical importance. As more people discover the beauty and significance of Kazhugumalai, it is hoped that this hidden gem will receive the recognition it deserves.
The Jain Abode at Kazhugumalai
The Jain temple at Kazhugumalai was a prominent centre for Jainism from the 6th to 13th centuries CE. The southern part of the mountain is adorned with 156 bas-relief sculptures of Tirthankaras, including Parshvanatha and Mahavira, dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries CE. The site is believed to have spiritual energy.
It is a site of great historical and religious significance, particularly known for its rich Jain heritage. During the early medieval period, Kazhugumalai was a prominent centre of Jainism, as evidenced by numerous ancient Jain monuments, inscriptions, and rock-cut sculptures.
One of the most notable Jain sites in Kazhugumalai is the Jain Beds (also known as “Samanar Padukkai”), which are rock-cut cave shelters used by Jain monks for meditation and religious practices. These caves feature intricately carved bas-reliefs depicting Tirthankaras, the revered spiritual teachers in Jainism. The most famous among these is the image of Bhagwan Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara, depicted with a multi-headed serpent canopy.
Due to the presence of both Hindu and Jain monuments, Kazhugumalai shows the region’s history of religious harmony. The region also offers a peaceful home to several distinguished religious communities, each with its own cultural heritage. It offers a distinguished perspective on South India’s religious landscape.
Today, Kazhugumalai’s Jain monuments are not only a place of pilgrimage for followers of Jainism but also an important site for historians and tourists seeking to explore the region’s ancient religious traditions.
How to Visit Kazhugumalai
When visiting Kazhugumalai, it’s essential to plan your trip wisely. The best time to visit is 8 to 11 am or 4 to 5:30 pm. It will help you avoid the midday heat. Here are a few tips to make your visit comfortable:
- Put on a lightweight cotton dress.
- Carry essential gear like a hat, a water bottle, tissues, sunglasses, and healthy drinks.
How to Reach Vettuvan Koil at Kazhugumalai:
Vettuvan Koil lies in Kazhugumalai, which is a panchayat town in the Kovilpatti taluk of Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu. Take a bus or private taxi from nearby cities to reach this historic place.
Kazhugumalai is 125 km away from Madurai. You can reach this historical place via Kovilpatti or Sankarankovil. Kovilpatti is roughly 21 kilometres from Kazhugumalai. It is a convenient route.
Alternatively, Kazhugumalai is around 56 kilometres away from Tirunelveli. From both cities, you can easily access this site by private taxi or public transportation, such as a bus. In addition to the taxi or bus ride, you need to take a short trek to reach this historic site.
Conclusion
Acknowledged as the Ellora of South India, Kazhugumalai is a historic site and represents Tamil Nadu’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. The serene Jain sculptures, the ancient rock-cut temples, and the rich cultural history offer a glimpse of a time when art, spirituality, and learning were at their best.
Kazhumalai leaves a positive impression of artistry and faith, whether you explore the ancient Jain home or the majestic Vettuvan Koil (Vettuvan Koyil). It is a hidden gem for those willing to gain depth of knowledge of Tamil Nadu’s religious and cultural roots. Visiting the city offers an inspiring and enlightening experience. Ensure to explore Kazhumalai in your trip to Tamil Nadu.
FAQs
- Why is Kazhugumalai known as the “Ellora of South India”?
Kazhugumalai is often referred to as the “Ellora of South India” for its impressive rock-cut architecture. The architecture draws comparisons to the famous Ellora Caves in Maharashtra. The Vettuvan Koil, in particular, showcases intricate carvings and architectural brilliance similar to that of the Ellora temples.
- What is the significance of the name – Vettuvan Koil?
The term Vettuvan Koil/Koyil means the “Temple of the Hunter” or the “Temple of the Sculptor”. It reflects its association with sculptures and the deity, Lord Shiva. Here, Lord Shiva is depicted as a hunter.
- Is Vettuvan Koil a living temple?
No, Vettuvan Koil is considered a non-living temple. The temple was never consecrated or used for regular worship because of its incomplete state, and it is now preserved as an important historical and archaeological site.
- What is the architectural style of Vettuvan Koil?
Vettuvan Koil is a monolithic rock-cut temple, meaning it was carved out of a single granite rock. The temple features intricate carvings, including a richly decorated tower (vimana) with depictions of deities and mythical creatures.
- What efforts are being made to preserve Vettuvan Koil and Kazhugumalai?
To preserve these two cultural heritage sites, Vettuvan Koil and Kazhugumalai, authorities are making the required efforts. These include promoting them as tourist destinations, raising awareness of their historical significance, and ensuring their preservation for future generations.
