02nd June
2019.
Utilizing the opportunity
of the 66th Ahimsa walk organized by the Tamil Jains at Aragalur, Mr. Mahatma Selvapandiyan took us to the Ambaayiramman Temple where the Hero stones, Navakanda Nadukarkal, and
memorial stones are erected. This Nadukarkal belongs to the 13th to 16th
Century.
In the 13th
Century a regional King Vanakovayarai, under the Chozha King Kulothunga-III ( 1178 – 1218 CE),
ruled this area around Aragalur and called himself a King of the Magatha Dynasty. (History says that Vanakovaraiyan was also responsible for the downfall of the Chozha Dynasty ). During his rule, he established his capital similar to
Chozha’s capital. He encouraged religious activity which includes Buddhism
and Jainism.
Temples, Buddha
Vihars, and Jinalayas were built around the Capital City of Aragalur. He worshiped
Kali and Nisumbasuthani, like Chozhas. Before starting any war he used to
sacrifice buffalos to Nisumbasuthani of
this Ambaayiramman Temple. Even soldiers also offer themselves in the form of
Navakandam. The culture of erecting Nadukarkal, Hero stones, and Navakanda Statues is
also followed. In addition, this temple has Memorial stones for those who
died in the process of some heroic actions.
LOCATION OF THE HERO STONE: CLICK HERE
We also happened to
see a Navakanda Nadukal near the Sri Kamanatha Eswarar Shiva Temple of Aragalur.
LOCATION OF THE HERO STONE: CLICK HERE
---OM SHIVAYA NAMA---
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