the Ultimate Web on Indian Gods & Temples

 by Padmani,

Koyilnet

Abodes of Lord Muruga

  

49. Sri Kazhugaachala Murthy Temple, Kazhugu Malai

 

 
Mulavar Valli Deivayanai samedha Kazhugaachala Murty
Facing Murthy Facing West, Valli Facing South and Deivayani facing North.
 

 

 

 

Location

Kazhugu Malai is village near Sankaran Koil. Buses from Kovilpatti, Sivakasi and Tirunelveli to Sankaran koil goes via Kazhugu Malai. No much facilities available at Kazhugu Malai.

Architecture & History

It is a cave temple. The legend here is Lord Muruga before proceeding to Tiruchendur for Soorasamharam rested here and washed off the sin of Sage Sambaadhi (Brother of Jadaayu) for not doing the last rites for Jadaayu. Since Lord Muruga gave moksha to an Eagle person this place was called as Kazhugu Malai and Lord was called as Kazhugaachala Murthy. It is believed that Sage Sambadhi showed the place of Demon Soorapadman from here. The special feature of this temple is Lord Muruga sitting on peacock with his right leg lifted, with one head and six arms. Since the peacock is Indra Devan, the head of peacock is at the left side on Lord Muruga. During Soorasamharam the head of the peacock will be closed and will be opened after the soorasamharam. Arunagirinadhar, Pampan Swamigal and Muthuswamy Deekshidar have song on this Lord.