Thirukadalmalai Temple (Mahabalipuram): The Reclining Lord of the Seashore

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• November 28, 2025
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Location and Historic Names
• Location: Tamil Nadu, situated approximately 40 km from Chennai. It is about 7 miles from the Tiruvidanthai Divya Desam.
• Artistic Heritage: The site is globally famous for its magnificent stone carved statues, rock-cut caves, and monolithic monuments created by the Pallava kings.
• Name Origin:
o Mahabalipuram: Named after the Asura King Mahabali, who received a boon (varam) from Lord Vamana.
o Mamallapuram: Named after the Pallava King Narasima Varma Pallavan (son of Mahendravarman), who was popularly known as “Mamallan” (Great Wrestler) due to his monumental artistic contributions here.
• Spiritual Name: Also referred to as “Artha Sethu.”
🎨 Architectural Marvels (SEO Focus)
The area is an open-air museum showcasing ancient Hindu artistry:
• Krishna Mandapam: Features an 8-foot statue of Krishnar and the famous Gopalan (Krishna) receiving milk from a cow.
• Arjuna’s Penance: A magnificent relief sculpture illustrating Arjunan’s Tapas, featuring intricate carvings of Devas, Munis, cats, elephants, and Lord Shiva granting the Pasupatha Asthram.
• Monolithic Structures: The Panja Pandava Mandapam, Govardhana Mandapam, and the famous Panja Pandavas Rathas (chariots) are all carved from a single rock.
🌟 Key Deities and Unique Posture
Aspect Description
Moolavar (Presiding Deity) Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal (The Reclining Lord of the Place).
Moolavar Posture Reclining (Kidantha Kolam) in Bhujanga Sayanam (on the serpent couch).
Direction Facing His Thirumugham (holy face) towards the East direction, along the sea.
Spiritual Mark: On His right side, near His heart, a mark signifying “Gnana Tamiz Purintha Naan” (The Lord who understood the Gnana-rich Tamil hymns) is found, related to a spiritual teaching.
Specialty This is the Avathara Sthalam (Birthplace) of Bhoodathalwar (one of the first three Alwars).
Plan Your Coastal Pilgrimage to Thirukadalmalai
Ready to witness the unique reclining posture of Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal and explore the magnificent stone carvings that immortalize the devotion of the Pallava kings?
For comprehensive tours covering the artistic, historical, and spiritual aspects of Mahabalipuram, and seamless coastal travel arrangements, contact our expert pilgrimage specialists:044 – 28339999
Contact Method Details
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