NALLUR KANDASWAMY TEMPLE
Introduction
Nallur kandaswamy temple, a Hindu temple specifically for lord Muruga, God of war, love and beauty. The temple itself a massive Dravidian architecture stands high in the northern peninsula of the island, located in the Nallur town which is the ancient capital of Jaffna kingdom.
It is easily accessible since it’s in the heart of the city, in the point-Pedro Road, 3.5km from the Jaffna central railway station and Jaffna central bus stand.
History
The temple is originally founded in 948 AD. But due to various foreign invasions, the location of temple moved around multiple times within Nallur.
Lately it was rebuilt during 13th century by Puvaneka vaahu, a minister of the Jaffna king Kalinga maha who invaded and ruled northern part of srilanka at that time.
Again, the temple was destroyed by the Portuguese during their ruling period in the island. Finally, the current temple was built in 1734 AD, with that the ‘golden era’ of the temple has been begin and holding its dignity till date.
Significance and Festivities
Nallur kandaswamy temple surrounded by 4 temples from all four directions as they are considered as four main entrances of the temple. The main entrance to be used by the devotees is lies directly before the main shrine facing the point-Pedro Road.
There are four grand Gopurams standing Infront of the temple facing all four directions and at the hall before the main entrance Tall golden pillars stands high and welcoming the visitors.
Since it is a religious significant place for Hindus, all the people from everywhere visiting the temple regardless of ethnic and religious difference.
In the temple we can see many accommodating and welcoming workers who are with red waist wear, can take the visitors around the temple and can give an explanation in English too.
Every year, the temple hosts a festival for 25 days which usually starts with flag hoisting ceremony and lasts for 25 days (mostly during the August).
Special of Nallur
Before entering the temple, all the visitors are asked to clean their feet with water and should go inside with barefoot. And gents should remove the dress above their waist and girls should wear an appropriate dress as it should cover their knee as well.
Usually, photography is not allowed in the temple. And there will be no entrance fee but, as in every temple around the world, devotees should buy ticket by paying the money for special poojas.
The significant feature which cannot be seen in any temple around the world is the ticket fee is just 1LKR to make it more affordable to all.
The Nallur temple’s history is praised in many ancient monuments around the world. Apart from everything, a visit to the temple enhances the better understanding of the glory of the Nallur temple and why it is being an eventual destination to many.
