THAKKOLAM TEMPLE: HISTORY

THAKKOLAM TEMPLE: HISTORY

NEWS: Thakkolam temple, a treasure trove of Tamil history, needs restoration

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

The Jalanatheswarar Temple in Thakkolam, a historical monument from the Pallava and Chola periods, is in urgent need of restoration due to severe structural deterioration. The temple, dedicated to Shiva, holds significant historical value with inscriptions dating back to key events during the Chola reign.

Jalanatheswarar Temple:

  • Location: Thakkolam, Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu.
  • Deity: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped as Jalanatheeswarar. His consort, Goddess Parvathi, is called Giriraja Kannikambal.
  • Historical Significance:
  • The temple has deep roots in Tamil history, dating back to the Pallava and Chola periods.
  • It was constructed by the Pallavas in the 6th century and has been an important historical monument, particularly during the Chola era.
  • The temple is rich in inscriptions, with 51 found within its premises, including references to various rulers such as Pallava King Aparajita and the Chola dynasty.

Current Condition of the Temple:

  • The temple has suffered severe deterioration over time, particularly the northern outer wall, which has collapsed.
  • The collapse of the wall is attributed to rainfall, and the temple tank is now in a derelict state, surrounded by overgrown vegetation and debris.
  • The last consecration (kumbabishekam) of the temple took place over 15 years ago, highlighting the need for restoration.

History of Thakkolam:

  • The original name of Thakkolam was Thiruvural, as mentioned in hymns from Saivite Minstrels, who spread Shaivism.
  • The town has seen several name changes over the centuries:
  • The name evolved from Thiruvural to Thakkolamana Thiruvuralpuram during the reign of Chalukya King Vimaladitya, who married Kundavai, daughter of Rajaraja Chola.
  • Another ancient name of the town, Aparajita-Chaturvedimangalam, was used during the reign of Pallava King Aparajitavaraman.
  • The town was recently in the news when the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) renamed its Recruits Training Centre (RTC) in Arakkonam to Rajaditya Chola RTC in honor of Rajaditya Chola, a Chola prince who died in a battle against the Rashtrakutas in 949 CE.

Historical Importance:

  • The Thakkolam inscriptions provide key historical data for dating important events during the Chola dynasty.
  • The 24th year of Rajakesari, mentioned in the inscriptions, refers to Aditya I, and records a solar eclipse in 894-895, helping estimate the reign of Aditya I from around A.D. 870-871. His reign lasted approximately 36 years until A.D. 907.
  • These inscriptions also assist in estimating the reign of Vijayalaya Chola, likely starting around D. 850.
  • Rajaditya Chola, the son of Parantaka Chola, was killed during a battle in Thakkolam when an arrow struck him in the chest. His death marks an important event in the region's history.

Restoration Urgency:

  • The Jalanatheswarar Temple is in urgent need of restoration due to the deterioration of its structure, including the collapse of its outer walls and the neglect of its temple tank.
  • The condition of the temple highlights the need for attention and restoration to preserve this significant historical and cultural site.

 

Source:  https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/ranipet-6th-century-thakkolam-temple-the-treasure-trove-of-tamil-history-in-derelict/article69309488.ece