Story of 2000 old Meenakshi temple of Tamilnadu, a complete master piece of Indian engineering

Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Minakshi-Sundareshwara Temple, is one of the oldest and most renowned temples in India. The temple is located in the city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. This temple makes Madurai city more attractive to tourists. It is built in an area of 45 acres, with each side having an entrance of its own. The temple has a great mythological and historical significance. The temple is dedicated to Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her consort, Shiva, here named Sundareswarar. It is believed that Lord Shiva assumed the form of Sundareswarar (the handsome one) and married Parvati (Meenakshi) at the same place where the temple is situated. This temple is presently one of the prime attractions in Madurai. 

The most prominent shrine in Madurai, ‘Meenakshi Temple’ (photo: TravelTriangle)

As per mythology, The original temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya. Several devotees visit this temple throughout the year and worship goddess Parvati and god shiva. Meenakshi Temple was nominated as one of the wonders of the world for its astonishing architecture. But could not make it into the list of ‘Seven Wonders of the World’. But the temple is still one of the ‘Wonders of India’. Over a million devotees come to worship this temple during the ‘Tirukalyanam Festival,’. Despite many people visit it every day, the temple is well-maintained and has made it into the list of ‘Best Swachh Iconic Place’.

Apart from being one of the most revered shrines in the city, it is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Goddess Paravati is known by the name of Meenakshi. You can feel the essence of godliness and tranquillity. People believe that the goddess fulfills all wishes of devotees. The temple attracts a large number of devotees. Hence Every year, a large number of people come here. The belief of this temple is that you come here with whichever wish you have, is fulfilled by the goddess. 

Writer, historian, and activist Dharam Sikarwar is a very active author The Youth. He writes on national and international issues, environment, politics. He is an avid book reader as well.