Uthanda Velayudhaswamy Temple

The Arulmigu Uthanda Velayudhaswamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple on the Uthiyur Hills near Uthiyur in Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu, India. This 9th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Velayudhasamy, a form of the god Murugan (Kartikeya), revered with his consorts Valli and Deivanai.

Key Features and Architecture

• Location: Situated on the hilltop of Uthiyur Hills at an elevation of approximately 314 meters (1,030 feet), the temple is accessible by climbing around 100 steps.
• Architecture: Built in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple follows Karana Agama rituals in alignment with Saiva Siddhanta philosophy. The entrance is located on the south side, with a majestic Rajagopuram (main entrance tower) in the east.
• Sanctum Sanctorum: The main deity, Uthanda Velayudha Swami, stands five feet tall, facing east, while his gaze aligns westward toward Palani, another significant Murugan temple. Nearby shrines include those of Lord Ganesha and Bhairava.

Uthanda Velayudhaswamy Temple History

The temple is celebrated as a place of worship for Murugan devotees, especially during Thaipoosam, Panguni Uthiram, and Karthikai Deepam festivals. The temple’s annual festival in the Tamil month of Panguni attracts pilgrims and is a significant event, marked by vibrant rituals and celebrations. The temple is also an important stop for devotees embarking on the Palani Pada Yatra (pilgrimage) to the famous Palani Murugan temple.

Patronage by Siddhars: The temple is associated with Kongana Siddhar, a sage from the Kongu Velalar Gounder community, who is credited with establishing and patronizing the temple. The Uthiyur Hills are referred to as Uthimalai in Thiruppugal, the devotional hymns composed by the poet-saint Arunagirinathar.

Inscriptions: The temple houses Tamil inscriptions dating back to the 9th century, providing insights into the temple’s ancient history and significance.

Temple Administration

The temple falls under the governance of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department and is categorized as a Principal Temple. Managed by a non-hereditary trustee system, it holds approximately 1500 acres of land, supporting its upkeep and the conduct of daily and annual rituals.