Tamil Nadu’s temples have an ancient connection with music, and Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple is a prime example. The spirit of the Meenakshi Amman Temple reverberates through the pilgrim city of Madurai. But this is not your average temple. It is one of the most revered houses of God in the country, the home of the warrior Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and her consort, Lord Shiva. Life in Madurai has always revolved around the grand temple. Jasmine garlands, Thali threads, Kumkum and Diyas, define ‘Thoonga Nagaram’ (the city which never sleeps). How will you stay away?

Holy hub

Interestingly, the ancient city of Madurai was planned with the Meenakshi Temple as its physical and spiritual epicentre. Streets radiated out from the temple like the petals of a lotus, connecting concentric squares of the city. The streets were named after Tamil months. Each month, the idol of the Goddess used to be carried through the street named after its respective month. Centuries have slipped by, and Madurai has evolved into a Smart City. Flyovers, malls and modern structures have altered the cityscape. But its religious heart, with the divine abode of Meenakshi, continues to retain its stature.

Gateways to God

With a closer look, architecture buffs will realise that the exquisite Meenakshi Amman Temple has been designed according to ancient Indian building philosophy principles, the Shilpa Shastra. The characteristic elements of Dravidian architecture are in clear view for the discerning eye. Think covered porches, pillared halls, and a water tank for ritual bathing. The most recognisable feature of the fourteen-acre complex is a collection of twelve multi-tiered towers or Gopuras. The tallest of these, which rises to a staggering 170 feet, is a vibrant kaleidoscope of over 1500 divine and demonic figures. Figures of gods and goddesses are repeated repeatedly to symbolise reincarnation and a rise towards the heavens. Inside, one is greeted by a profusion of shrines, sculptures, and paintings. The drama never ceases.

Symphony in stone

Undeniably, the most impressive part of the Meenakshi Temple is the Thousand Pillared Hall. The eye stays hooked to the elaborate sculpture-laden ensemble of pillars, including the image of Rati Devi, Lord Karthikeya, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Shiva. Each sculpture tells a different story with unique expressions and poses. But the most arresting feature of the Thousand Pillared Hall is the cluster of musical pillars, each comprising slimmer pillars, which emit musical notes like musical instruments when they are tapped or struck with stones. Once, this would have been a space for religious dances and musical performances to praise the Gods. Imagine the aura of the Hall, resounding with rhythm, flickering with the glow of thousands of oil lamps, and seeped in the faith of ardent devotees. Today, the Thousand Pillar Hall is a museum displaying bronze sculptures, paintings, and temple memorabilia.
Salute the vision of King Thirumalai Nayak as you wander through the rest of the temple complex and let the 16th-century architectural prowess strike a chord. The ‘sweetness’ of Madurai would have enveloped you by now. Dip into the glory of the past with a trail uncovering the Dynasties & Divinity in Madurai.

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