Ramaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is considered to be one of the most important shrines dedicated to Lord Rama in South India.
History of Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
Ramaswamy Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in the town of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is believed to have been built during the 16th century by the Nayak rulers of Madurai and was later renovated by the Maratha kings in the 18th century.
The temple’s construction was initiated by Achuthappa Nayak, a king of the Nayak dynasty who ruled over the region of Madurai. He was a great devotee of Lord Rama and wanted to build a temple dedicated to him in Kumbakonam. The temple was later renovated by the Maratha king Serfoji II in the 18th century. The renovation work included the addition of new structures, such as the mandapams and the gopurams, and the refurbishment of the existing ones.
Legends of Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
According to legend, Lord Rama is believed to have stayed in Kumbakonam during his exile period along with his consort, Goddess Sita, and his brother, Lord Lakshmana. It is said that they lived near the temple’s location and Lord Rama used to perform daily poojas (rituals) at the spot where the temple now stands.
Another legend associated with the temple is that Lord Rama is said to have performed a Yagna after his victory over the demon king Ravana. The Yagna is believed to have been performed in the vicinity of the temple.
Architecture of Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
The temple’s architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles, with intricately carved pillars, sculptures, and mandapams. The temple has a large gopuram (tower) at its entrance, which is decorated with sculptures of various gods and goddesses.
The inner sanctum of the temple houses the main deity of Lord Rama, who is depicted with his consort, Goddess Sita, and his brother, Lord Lakshmana. The idol of Lord Rama is made of black granite and is adorned with jewels and silk garments during special occasions and festivals.
One of the most significant features of the temple is its 12 feet tall idol of Lord Rama, which is believed to be one of the largest idols of Lord Rama in South India. The idol is carved from a single stone and is said to have been brought from a nearby quarry.
Festivals celebrated at Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Rama Navami, which marks the birth of Lord Rama, and Vaikunta Ekadasi, which is believed to be an auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu. During these festivals, the temple is decorated with colourful lights and flowers, and devotees offer special prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings of the deities.
Other festivals celebrated at the temple include Brahmotsavam, a 10-day festival held in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), and Thirukalyanam, which marks the celestial marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
Temple timings Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
The temple is open for devotees from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM every day. The temple sees a large number of devotees during the festival season.
How to reach Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
Ramaswamy Temple is located in the town of Kumbakonam, which is well-connected to the rest of Tamil Nadu by road, rail, and air.
By Air: The nearest airport to Kumbakonam is the Tiruchirapalli International Airport, which is located about 90 km away from the town. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumbakonam.
By Train: Kumbakonam has a railway station that is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and other parts of the country. Trains from Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Bangalore halt at Kumbakonam railway station.
By Road: Kumbakonam is well-connected to other cities in Tamil Nadu by road. There are several bus services from Chennai, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, and other cities to Kumbakonam.
Once you reach Kumbakonam, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Ramaswamy Temple, which is located in the heart of the town. The temple is easily accessible by road and is located near the Kumbakonam bus stand.
