About Sri Nallur kandaswamy Devasthanam
Origins and Sacred Legacy
The Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in Jaffna stands as a living beacon of Tamil Saivaite tradition. Its present form was established in 1734 by Raghunatha Maapaanar I, who consecrated a Vel (divine spear) at the site now hosting Nallai Aatheenam. That Vel still remains enshrined in the moolasthanam (sanctum) as the revered form of Nallur Kandaswamy.
The Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in Jaffna stands as a living beacon of Tamil Saivaite tradition. Its present form was established in 1734 by Raghunatha Maapaanar I, who consecrated a Vel (divine sThe temple is legally registered under the name Kandaswamy (Ambalavanar Subramanian). All temple properties—movable and immovable—have been preserved under this divine title. The trusteeship has remained with the hereditary lineage of the Maapaanar family, ensuring continuity in spiritual stewardship.pear) at the site now hosting Nallai Aatheenam. That Vel still remains enshrined in the moolasthanam (sanctum) as the revered form of Nallur Kandaswamy.
Foundational Developments
During the time of the first Aarumuga Maapaanar, shrines for Pillaiyar and Vairavar were established. Later, under Raghunatha Maapaanar III, the temple grounds were enclosed with a fence and the first annual festival was instituted—marking the start of a grand tradition that would evolve over centuries.
Architectural Flourishing and Ritual Precision
Under Aarumuga Maapaanar II, the temple saw key structural and spiritual developments:
– The revered Shanmugar murti was sculpted
– For the first time, Shanmugar was elevated onto the chariot during the Ther festival
– The Manikkoottu Gopuram (bell tower) was constructed
– The Velli Peedam (silver sanctified throne) for Aarumuga Swamy was established, used to carry the deity during grand processions
Under Raghunatha Maapaanar IV, time-bound rituals were formalized:
– The Archanai Cheetu (offering ticket), priced at one rupee, became a symbol of punctual devotion and remains unchanged to this day
It was also during his time that:
– The majestic Raja Gopuram and Shanmukha Gopuram were initiated and later completed under Shanmugadas Maapaana Mudaliyar
During the Stewardship of Shanmugadas Maapaana Mudaliyar
– A mandapam (pillared corridor) was constructed around the Shanmukha Pushkarani Theertham, enriching the sacred water space and facilitating rituals
– The Palliyarai (divine resting chamber), within which Vallikanthar Murthy is enshrined, was established
– A Pancha Moorthi Pavani procession was introduced on the day of the Theertham (holy immersion ceremony), where the five principal deities are carried in ritual procession
– The temple’s annual festival became the first known temple festival in the world to be broadcast live on radio, marking a pioneering moment in devotional outreach through technology
Legacy into the Modern Era
Following Shanmugadas Maapaana Mudaliyar, the temple entered a renewed phase of sacred development under Kumaradas Maapaana Mudaliyar, who upheld tradition while responding to the evolving needs of the growing devotee community.
Kumaradas Maapaana Mudaliyar recognized the need for expanding the temple’s physical structure to accommodate the increasing number of devotees. Guided by this vision, he oversaw a significant enlargement of the temple complex. These structural enhancements were thoughtfully complemented by architectural detailing that preserved the temple’s sacred character and aesthetic harmony.
– The Kili Gopuram, along with the Arunagirinathar Sannidhi facing Shanmugar, was consecrated in 2011
– The Kubera Gopuram, facing the north, was consecrated in 2016
– A complete renovation of the corridor surrounding the Shanmukha Pushkarani Theertham was carried out
– The Shanmuga Sabhai was renovated and enhanced with a golden roof, enriching the divine presence of Aarumuga Swamy
– Sacred caskets were also prepared for Aarumuga Swamy, further elevating the sanctity of festival rituals
Today, this enduring tradition continues under the guidance of his successor, Kumaresha Shayanthana Kumaradasa Maapaana Mudaliyar, whose stewardship reflects both spiritual continuity and modern devotion.
Recently, the Kumara Gopuram was completed and its Kumbabhishekam performed in 2023, further elevating the architectural and spiritual grandeur of the temple.
Ritual Life and Festivals
Following Shanmugadas Maapaana Mudaliyar, the temple entered a renewed phase of sacred development under Kumaradas Maapaana Mudaliyar, who upheld tradition while responding to the evolving needs of the growing devotee community.
Kumaradas Maapaana Mudaliyar recognized the need for expanding the temple’s physical structure to accommodate the increasing number of devotees. Guided by this vision, he oversaw a significant enlargement of the temple complex. These structural enhancements were thoughtfully complemented by architectural detailing that preserved the temple’s sacred character and aesthetic harmony.
Daily Worship (Poosai)
The temple follows a meticulously observed daily poosai schedule, beginning before sunrise and continuing into the evening. The timing precision reflects the temple’s commitment to ritual discipline and spiritual order.
The Grand Annual Festival (Mahotsavam)
The 25-day Mahotsavam, beginning on the sixth day after Aadi Amavasai (Shashti Tithi), is the temple’s most important and vibrant celebration. Highlights include:
– The flag hoisting (Kodiyetram)
– Daily processions and abhishekams
– The Grand Chapparam Festival – a monumental float, nearly 50 feet tall, pulled by devotees within the temple premises
– The awe-inspiring Chariot Festival (Ther Thiruvizha)
– The sacred Theertham (holy immersion ceremony)
– The Manampoo Thiruvizha is the Thirukalyanam (divine wedding) of Muthukumarar during the final stages of the festival
Beyond the Mahotsavam, the temple observes several other sacred festivals:
– Kanda Sashti – commemorates Murugan’s victory over Sooran, culminating in the Sooran Por and followed by a Thirukalyanam
– Vaikasi Visakam Mahabhishekam – ceremonial abhishekam for Aarumuga Swamy
– Thirukarthigai – the festival of divine light
– Sahasra Sangabhishekam – sacred ablution with 1,008 conch shells
– Navaratri – nine days of devotion and classical celebration
– Thaipoosam and Thiruvathirai – observing penance and cosmic order
A Living Heritage
The Nallur Kandaswamy Temple is more than an ancient shrine—it is a living embodiment of Tamil Saivaite faith, a pillar of heritage, and a spiritual home for Tamils worldwide.
As it continues to inspire future generations, the temple invites all who seek divine grace, cultural identity, and spiritual continuity.