Madurai to Various towns distances

Madurai is Known as the Athens of the East, Madurai, the second largest city in Tamil Nadu is situated on the banks of the river Vaigai. An ancient city, more than 2,500 years old, Madurai is believed to have been built by the Pandyan King Kulasekara in the 6th century BC.

During the rule of the Nayaks, the bulk of the Meenakshi temple was built, the main attraction for visitors, today. Madurai also became the cultural center of the Tamil people. Madurai passed on to the East India Company in 1781, and in 1840, the Company razed the fort which had previously surrounded the city, and filled in the moat, constructed the veli streets and expanded the city.

The below table is the approximate distances in Kilometers from Madurai to various towns or cities.

Name of the Town / City	Distance in Kilometers	Name of the Town / City	Distance in Kilometers
Bangalore	427	Palani	119
Chennai	447	Pollachi	180
Chidambaram	310	Pondichery	339
Coimbatore	227	Pudukottai	111
Dharmapuri	269	Rajapalayam	85
Dindigul	63	Ramanathapuram	121
Erode	206	Rameshwaram	167
Hosur	380	Salem	235
Kanchipuram	396	Thanjavur	168
Kanniyakumari	253	Tiruchendur	214
Karur	140	Tiruchy	128
Kodaikanal	120	Tirunelveli	151
Krishnagiri	270	Tirupati	440
Kumbakonam	197	Tiruppur	190
Mahabalipuram	459	Tuticorin	133
Nagapattinam	237	Vellore	413
Nagercoil	235	Yercaud	251
Ooty	325

 

The Navabashanam Temple – Devipattinam

The Temple In The Sea-Navagraha Worship(Nine Planets): Deities : The nine planets – Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus,Saturn, Dragon's head dragon's tail. Installation by : Sri Rama Speciality : In the midst of sea Epic : The Ramayana Holy spring : Agni theertham and Ramar theertham Place: Devipattinam Scriptural name : Devipur Other name : Devipuram District : Ramanathapuram Devipattinam (Tamil Nadu), July 21 : A large number of devotees visit Tamil Nadu's ancient Thilakeshwar Temple, popularly known as Navagraha Temple at Devipattinam, a coastal village located 70 kilometers from Rameshwaram Dhaam. Legend has it that prince Rama in-exile had prayed to Navagrahas (nine planets) at Devipattinam before embarking on his journey to Lanka (the present day Sri Lanka), the then kingdom of demon King Ravana, who had abducted Rama's wife Sita. Rama placed nine stones as symbols of Navagrahas or nine planets, at Devipattanam. Those stones can still be watched partly submerged in the water close to the beach near a bathing place (Ghat) of the Thilakeshwar Temple or the Navagraha Temple. It is said that Rama performed the ritual so that the nine planets would shed their auspicious light on him in his battle with Ravana to rescue Sita. As per Hindu mythology, the planetary conditions have a major effect on humans' lives and thus by worshipping them their impact can be reduced. "This has been constructed under the sea by Lord Rama. While Lord Rama was worshipping here, he was disturbed by waves. He prayed to Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu stopped the waves so as to help Rama perform his Puja (prayers)," said Renganathan Iyengar, a temple priest. Since that time Devipattinam drew popularity for being a place to get relief from all kinds of adverse planetary conditions by performing the suggested rituals. Devipattinam or, the place of Goddess is also described as the place where the Goddess killed the demon Mahishasura at this spot. As per Hindu mythology, nine planets control the life of human beings. People face good or bad phases in their personal lives, depending upon their Karmas or, deeds performed in their previous births. People from across the country and abroad, therefore, visit this temple devoted to the nine planets to seek divine blessings and a relief from planets' adverse impact and suffering caused by them.. Devotees at the temple offer nine varieties of grains including paddy, wheat, pulses and other things to the Gods and Goddesses. They go around the deities and worship the `Navagrahas' or, the nine planets seeking peace and prosperity in their lives and a divine blessing to relieve them of all their sufferings. "We are coming here from Singapore. It is said that if you come here and pray, it proves a blessing for the entire family. We believe in it. So we came here to worship," said Thenmozhli, a devotee from Singapore. The Thilakeshwar Temple is dedicated to Shiva and Parvathi (Durga). Shiva here is known as Thilakeswarar and the Goddess is known as Soundaryanayaki. The shrine has a beautiful image of an eight-armed Durga with weapons. Details II: For relief from the sins accompanying each man and woman from the past birth, to offer prayers for the salvation of the departed ancestors and perform Srardha for them, devotees visit this shrine from corners of the country. People also seek boons for children, marriage, education, longevity and prosperity. Prayer commitments: Devotees offer nine varieties of grains, paddy, wheat, dal varieties, pulses, Dil (Ellu) etc. They go round the deities and perform pujas to the Navagrahas – nine planets. Reputation: Humans are conducted by the nine planets and are subjected to rejoicing or sufferings based on their deeds in the previous birth. Therefore, devotees come here to worship them and get relieved of the suffering. Sri Rama and the Planets: According to the scriptures, pujas should be performed to Lord Vinayaka and the Navagrahas. Following this rule, Sri Rama, after completing the Vinayaka Puja in Uppur, wanted to perform the Navagraha puja in Devipattinam. He took handful of sand personifying them as a planet. As the tides of the sea rose high, he lifted his hand to calm them down. Sri Rama installed the Navagrahas this way in Devipattinam. The place is also known as Navabashana spot (Bashana – Stones). The nine stones represent the planets. The Navabashana Navagrahas are installed in the midst of calm sea and are noted for its divinity ensuring total bliss. The Navabashana temple has the added pride of their installation by the hands of Sri Rama and is choice holy place to perform Tarpan for the ancestors. The devotees perform the worship and pujas themselves. This is also the place where Rama Himself was relieved of Saturn effects. He was blessed by Lord Shiva and Parvathi here. The Easwara here is known as Thilakeswarar and the Goddess Soundaryanayaki. A very visit to this holy soil of Sethu would relieve the devotee from all his sins. This Navagraha temple in the midst of the sea is a divine wonder since the Puranic days. Devipattinam is 77 Kms from Rameswaram, 15 from Ramanathapuram, 115 from Madurai and 47 from Sivaganga. Lodging facilities are available in Rameswaram and Ramanathapuram. Charges in the range of Rs. 200 to Rs. 600. Considering the religious importance of Devipattinam Navagraha temple, Ramanathapuram and Rameswaram are linked by rail routes. Adequate bus facilities are available from important centres of Tamilnadu. Nearest airport is Madurai. Festivals: Adi Amavasya festival is observed for 10 days during the month of July-August when the devotee crowd would be over a lakh. So on the Thai Amavasya (January-February) too. History: Sri Rama took a march towards Lanka to free Sita from Ravana's captivity. Before undertaking the journey, as prescribed in the scriptures, he performed the Vinayaka Puja in Uppur and the Navagraha puja in Devipattinam by installing them each with a handful of sand and calmed the high tides by raising his hand. The Navagrahas installed by Sri Rama are the Nava Bashanas ((stones) gracing the devotees in Devipattinam.

Seed In Madurai

Project Description Seed believes in bringing out the potential of each child by individual care and attention. So many children from among the urban poor drop out because of lack of support at home and in school. Seed provides the critical support necessary for the children to realize their potential and succeed - compete on par with children from more advantaged classes. Seed has about 40 children supported by partners in the United States. Children who are eager to learn and have already shown the potential by working against several odds are part of this support program. The number is currently limited to enable Seed coordinators and volunteers to give individual attention to each child. Each partner financially (and with moral support) supports one or more children. Correspondence between the partner and the child is encouraged. The children typically are in the local government schools to begin with; with the support of the study center, their learning vastly improves, and depending on their interest and potential they are moved to private or govt. aided schools (which are perceived as better). In some sense the goal is to do what a middle class parent would do - send their child to the best school they can afford and which is accessible and which the child can do well in. The study centers at Karumbalai provide a place for children to come and study on evenings and weekends. Apart from the simple advantages of electric lights (not available in every home), it provides a space for volunteers (many of whom also come from disadvantaged backgrounds) to teach. In addition the study center is the is the hub of all activities Seed is involved in. It has a library, recently added some computers, and has several active clubs. The journalism club, the 'En' club (En means 'Why' in Tamil, is the name of the Science club), the drama club, the debate club all thrive with the activities of the eager children. Various workshops related to these clubs are conducted throughout the year exposing the children to whole range of activities including tasks like organizing an event. The structure and activities of Seed enables the potential of each child to be realized. Some are great organizers, some are excellent debaters, some are budding scientists. Seed celebrates local festivals in all religions and cultures (that are relevant to Karumbalai). They learn about the history and background of each festival and the reason for the celebration. Many educational tours have been conducted to nearby places - to historic temples, museums, forests which provide a source of learning not often available to children in India. One of their long tours was to Kerala. These tours really open a child's mind. The children for the most part had rarely been able to travel out of Madurai before. The study center and is activities is open to any interested child in Karumbalai (support for educational expenses like fees, uniforms and books is limited to the 40 children as mentioned above). Purpose / Goals The goal of the project is to encourage and financially support the education of children. It began in the slum of Karumbalai and might slow spread to other slums in Madurai as others are encouraged by the successes of Seed. Organization Description Seed was started in 2000 when a set of events came together. Karthik Bharathi of Karumbalai (the area where Seed works), on encouragement from Dr. Taj of nearby K.K.Nagar had been taking up some activities in the slum of Karumbalai. Dr. Ted Adams decided to move to Madurai from the US, and had come across Karthi's and Dr. Taj's work. He decided to provide the funding support (personal support and funds raised from friends and family in the US), and the coming together of Ted and Karthi formed Seed. The name "Seed" refers to their belief that every child has immense hidden potential which the child can live up to when encouraged and supported, just as a healthy plant grows when watered and nourished with care. seedplan@dataone.in Project Type: Tuition Centers (description) Primary Focus: children from slums (description) Secondary Focus: creating resources Area: Urban

10 flights to Madurai

The Madurai airport is slowly gaining in stature. The increase in number of flights to Madurai were slow and unnoticed. Still a long way to go, but now, 10 flights arrive and depart at Madurai. Of these 9 of them either goes to Chennai or fly via Chennai. On last count, the operators are… 4 flights – Paramount (3 Chennai, 1 Bangalore via Chennai) 3 flights – Air Deccan (2 Chennai & 1 Bangalore direct) 2 flights – Jet Airways (Chennai) 1 flight – Indian (Mumbai via Chennai) Get the latest flight schedules here. Srilankan airlines is said to be keen on operating a flight to Madurai. But space for immigration check etc were woefully inadequate. Madurai Chamber of Commerce campaigns to open a central institute for pilot training, touting Madurai as a 'fog free' airport. 'Fog free' is indeed a different view of this sun-drenched city.

TN Govt Promote 4 New SEZs

In an effort at equitable economic growth across the state, the Tamil Nadu government is encouraging industrial and IT investments in areas other than Chennai and its suburbs, said Finance Minister K. Anbazhagan here Thursday. Presenting the budget for 2008-09, he announced four special economic zones (SEZ) for (a) transport engineering goods at Gangaikondan, Tirunelveli district on 255-acre; (b) automobile and auto spare parts at Cheyyar, Tiruvanamalai district on 255-acre; (c) 263-acre engineering goods at Perunthurai, Erode; and (d) leather sector in 260 acres at Ranipet. According to him, so far 32 SEZs have been approved in Tamil Nadu and 29 of them have been notified by the central government. "Efforts are being taken to establish multi-product SEZs at Nanguneri in Tirunelveli district, Krishnagiri, Perambalur and Ennore," he said. Anbazhagan also declared that the state government would pay careful attention to the livelihood security of farmers when establishing the SEZs. He said the state would offer the same tax concessions enjoyed by industrial units investing Rs.3.5 billion ($86.6 million) in Chennai, Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur districts to those setting up industries in other places at an outlay of Rs.2.5 billion. The government is also promoting tier II cities as the destination of IT companies. IT parks are being set up in Coimbatore, Madurai, Trichy, Tirunelveli and Salem. Companies establishing IT parks have been allotted land and SEZ status has been obtained for them. "A new IT park will be set up in Vellore by ELCOT (Electronic Corp of Tamil Nadu) in partnership with the private sector in the coming financial year," Anbazhagan said. He added that Tamil Nadu Cements Corp would double its capacity at an outlay of Rs.820 million. Source: thaindian - a news portal for indians in thailand

Madurai - M.P. M.K.AZHAGIRI

Key economic Ministers M.K. AZHAGIRI Chemicals & Fertilisers Shortly after he was nominated as the DMKs candidate for the Madurai Lok Sabha seat, Mr M.K. Azhagiri, the partys organising secretary for the southern districts and son of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Mr M. Karunanidhi, was reported to have said he would win the election by a margin of three lakh votes. He did win, not quite by that margin but by a large margin, despite a strong opponent in Mr P. Mohan of the CPI (M) and

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Shrine - Part III

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Shrine - Part III April 08, 2009

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Shrine - Part II

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Shrine Part - II April 08,2009

Meenakshi Amman

The Madurai Meenakshi Temple is located just one kilometer from the bus stand in the city of Madurai. Meenakshi is the residing deity in the temple. Kulasekara Pandya was the king who was the one who constructed the temple. But it is said that the temple developed in the reign of the Nayaks. It was in the 16th to the 18th century when the temple was built to what is now called as the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Today the towers of the number that number to about 12 are the landmarks in the city. They are the;
1. East Tower – The east tower has height of 161'3". There are about 1011 sudhai figures in the Gopura.
2. South Tower – The south tower has height of 170'6". There are about 1511 sudhai figures in the Gopura.
3. West Tower – The west tower height is 163'3" with about 1124 sudhai figures in the Gopura.
4. North Tower – The north tower height is 160'6" with less number of sudhai figures than the other towers.


Ashta Shakthi Mandapam
When you enter the temple from the eastern gate then you will enter into a mandapam that was built by the wives of Thirumalai Nayakar namely Rudrapathi Ammal and Tholimamai. In the early days, food was distributed to devotees who traveled from a very long distance. The Thiruvilayadals of Lord Shiva is being depicted in the sculptures in the mandapam. The birth of Meeenakshi and her life as a princess is also depicted.
There is also a story behind Meenakshi who ruled as the princess over Madurai. Malayadwaja Pandya was ruling over the place in the days but he was childless. As it worried the kind and his wife, they performed yagnas and prayed to God for a child. From the fire came a little girl who had three breasts. The king was very much worried about it but he then heard a voice which said that the third breast will disappear when she meets his consort. The princess learnt all the skills and turned into a very brave princess and she was the one who stood the first in the times of war. It was in the battle field of the Kailas that the princess lost her heart to Lord Shiva. Her third breast also disappeared and their wedding took place. She then realized that she was none other than Parvati, Shiva’s wife. From then they ruled over the city of Madurai as Meenakshi and Sundareswarar. The wedding of the Lord Shiva and Meenakshi takes place every year as a very grand festival and there is the procession of the Lord and Meenakshi for 9 days and the wedding takes place on the tenth day in the month of Chithrai.

Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam
Next to the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam is situated the Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam which is famous for the pillars within. There are about 110 pillars in the mandapam in which the Yalli which has the head of the elephant and the one with the lion’s body is the most special of them.
Potramaraukulam (Golden Lotus Tank)
The tank in the Meenakshi Amman Temple is known as the Potramaraukulam meaning the Golden Lotus Tank. In the earlier days devotees took bath in the tank. The poets of the Tamil Sangam met in the place that surrounds the tank. The judgement for the work of the people in the field of literature was done here. There are steps in all the sides of the tank which takes the devotees down to the tank.
Oonjal Mandapam
On the western side of the tank are situated the Oonjal and the Killikoontu mandapam. Meenakshi and Sundareswarar idols are made to swing in the mandapam every Friday. In the mandapam are situated about 28 pillars which has the sculptures of the Hindu mythology. There are parrots in the Kilikoontu Mandapam that utter the name of the Lord in the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
Meenakshi shrine
At joining the Onjal mandapam is situated the Meenakshi Shrine where in Goddess Meenakshi is placed. There is huge crowd to worship the Goddess on Friday which is believed to be the day to worship the Goddess. During the holiday season there are people thronging in the temple from all over the country and all the year round there are tourists from the foreign countries too.
Swami Sundareswarar Shrine
Lord Sundareswarar’s shrine is situated in the Northern side of the Kilikoontu Mandapam. There is the idol of Lord Sri Ganesh called as the Mukkurini Pillaiyar. It is believed that the idol was found when the king Thirumalai Nayakar planned to built a tank about 3 kms from the temple. He found the idol and brought the same to the temple and erected it there.

The kadamba tree is present in the outer pragaram of the Lord Shiva’s shrine. There is a dancing posture of the Lord present in the Shrine called as the Velli Ambalam which is covered with Silver all over. This is the one of the idol of Nataraja which is called as the Velli Sabhai. There is many Sabhai’s present in the temples of Lord Shiva all over the state.

The Thousand Pillar Mandapam
The hall with 1000 pillars can be seen when one enters the temple from the eastern entrance. Today there are only 985 pillars in the hall. One will also be able to see the musical pillars in the temple. The tourist will able to see in front the history that covers about 1200 years in the form of icons, photographs and drawings and sculptures.
Vasanta Mandapam
Today Vasanta Mandapam is known as Pudhu Manadapam for the people in the city. There are various sculptures within that depict the wedding of the Lord and Meenakshi.

Madurai Meenaskhi Temple Shrine April 8 2009

Madurai Meenaskhi Temple Shrine April 8 2009

Temples Madurai

There are 12 massive gopurams in the temple, the four tallest gopurams at the outer walls (The tallest is the southern gopuram, measuring 49 metres). There are four entrances. The main entrance is to the Meenakshi Amman shrine.

Ashta Shakthi Mandapam is reached from the eastern gateway. It was built by Thirumalai Nayakar's wives Rudrapathi Ammal and Tholimamai. The scenes from the Thiruvilayadals of the Lord and from Meenakshi Amman's life as a princess are depicted on the pillars of this mandapam.

The golden lotus pond (Potraamarai Kulam) is located to the left of the Meenakshi shrine. The Tamil Sangam used to value the literary works by placing them in the waters of this tank. Only those works which rose back to the surface were accepted as great masterpieces. Tiruvalluvar's Tirukkural was accepted at this pond.

On the western side of this tank are the Oonjal Mandapam with the deities and the Kilikootu Mandapam (hall of parrots), with parrots chanting the name of Meenakshi. Every Friday the gold idols of the Lord & Meenakshi are placed on the Oonjal (swing ) & worshipped with hymns & offerings.

Sundareswarar gives darshan in the form of a linga, supported by 64 bhootaganas, 32 lions and 8 elephants. He is also known by other names such as Chokkanathar, Karpurachokkar. The stump of the Kadamba tree under which Indra worshipped the Lord can be seen in the outer corridor.

The Kampathadi Mandapam and Velli Ambalam are situated in the outer corridor. The scenes from the wedding cermeony of Sundareswarar & Meenakshi are depicted in the pillars of this hall. This place is one of the 5 (Pancha Sabhais) sabhas of Nataraja where Siva dances. (The other dance halls are Chidambaram, Tiruvaalankadu, Tirunelveli and Kutralam). There is a unique idol of Nataraja dancing with his right leg raised to the shoulder instead of the left. The Lord is considered to have danced thus, at the request of King Rajasekara Pandyan. Since the idol of Nataraja is covered with silver leaves, it is called Velli (silver) Ambalam.

Legends from the Tiruvilayaadal Puraanam are depicted on the walls of the temple. The idols of Saraswathi, Durgai, Siddhar, Lakshmi, Kasi Viswanathar, Lingodhbava murti, Nayanmars can be worshipped in the outer prakara. The holy Kadamba tree is also preserved & worshipped.

The thousand pillared hall is an architectural & engineering marvel, built in the 16th century. The pillars have the Yazhi figure sculpted on them. There are musical granite pillars just outside this mandapam, which when struck yield different musical notes. On the east is the Vasantha Mandapam or the Pudhu Mandapam. Scenes of the wedding & life-size figures of the Nayak rulers can be seen here.

There is a huge idol of Lord Ganesha as you move from the kilikoontu mandapam to Lord Sundareswarar's sannadhi. This Ganesha known as Mukkuruni Vinayakar was unearthed by Tirumalai nayakar while he was digging a temple tank 3 kms from the Meenakshi Amman temple.

Madurai is also known as the festival city. All the usual festivals are celebrated, yet the Chithirai festival that is held in April/May (for 3 days), is very important when the celestial marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar is celebrated, drawing a huge crowd of people from all over the state.

Legends
Goddess Parvathi was reborn as Meenakshi (eyes like a fish). Malayadhwaja Pandyan & his wife Kanchanamala performed the Puthrakameshthiyaga, praying for a child. Meenakshi was born with three breasts from the sacrificial fire. The king was upset, but was pacified by a divine voice that the third breast would vanish, when Meenakshi met the man she was to marry. They named her Thadaathakai and she grew up to be a daring queen, gaining victory in all her conquests. During her conquests, she met Lord Siva in Kailasam, and instantly her third breast vanished. Lord Siva bade her to return to Madurai, with the promise that he would marry her in 8 days. Lord Siva appeared as Sundareswarar to wed Meenakshi who was given away in marraige by her brother Lord Vishnu. This scene is seen depicted in the temple. Meenakshi & Sundareswarar ruled Madurai before returning to Kailasam.

A lotus shaped city is said to have been built by the Pandyan king Kulasekhara around the siva linga worshipped by Indra in the forest of Kadamba trees. When Lord Siva came to bless them, nectar dripped from his matted locks & hence the city was named Madhurapuri (madhu - honey), & is now known as Madurai.

Maha Kumbhishegam - Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

In view of the Maha Kumbabhishegam to be held on April 8, 2009, the sanctum sanctorum of the temple will remain closed from 2.4.2009 to 7.4.2009.

However the devotees will be allowed to worship at the yagasala located in the North Aadi street.

Archanas and special offerings will not be performed between 8th April and 10th April and only dharshan is allowed.

Temple will be closed on 11.04.2009
We would like to inform the Devotees that The Sree Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple.

Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, Madurai KUMBABHISHEGAM on 08.04.2009

Rs.30/- should be paid for taking photographs inside the Temple. Videography not allowed.

For special entry at Meenakshi Amman Shrine Rs.10/- should be paid. No special entries between 18:00 and 21:00 on Fridays.
(Top view of the Temple, click to enlarge and set as wallpaper)


Gross income of this temple is about Rs.4,25,00,000/-. There are 845 mercantile buildings are under the control of this temple in the city. There is a lodge named 'Birla Vishram', run by this temple, is located in the western side, for tourists.

According to legend, the sacred Suyambulingam discovered by the king of Gods `Indiran' at Kadambavanam, was later enshrined by him in Madurai. The fact that the Lord is seen on the vehicle of `Indira' in this temple is said to be proof for this.

Many historical evidences of the temple have been found dating back from early A.D

Thirugnanasambandar the Hindu Saint has mentioned the temple in his songs which go back to early 7th century. The lord has been described as `Aalavai Iraivan' in his songs.

The temple was almost completely destroyed in the year 1310 following the invasion of the Islamic coqueror Malikkapur. As kings who were followers of Islam were noted for their intolerance towards other religions, the invaders destroyed most of the ancient sculputures of the temple.

The temple was restored to its pristine glory in the late 14th century when the Hindu Kings came back to power in Madurai. This can also be termed as a new beginning of a new era in the history of the temple, when it was almost rebuilt.

The King Thirumalai Naicker played an important role in the construction of the new form of the temple.

Ashta Shakthi Mandapam

When you enter the temple from the eastern gate then you will enter into a mandapam that was built by the wives of Thirumalai Nayakar namely Rudrapathi Ammal and Tholimamai. In the early days, food was distributed to devotees who traveled from a very long distance. The Thiruvilayadals of Lord Shiva is being depicted in the sculptures in the mandapam. The birth of Meeenakshi and her life as a princess is also depicted.

There is also a story behind Meenakshi who ruled as the princess over Madurai. Malayadwaja Pandya was ruling over the place in the days but he was childless. As it worried the kind and his wife, they performed yagnas and prayed to God for a child. From the fire came a little girl who had three breasts. The king was very much worried about it but he then heard a voice which said that the third breast will disappear when she meets his consort. The princess learnt all the skills and turned into a very brave princess and she was the one who stood the first in the times of war. It was in the battle field of the Kailas that the princess lost her heart to Lord Shiva. Her third breast also disappeared and their wedding took place. She then realized that she was none other than Parvati, Shiva’s wife. From then they ruled over the city of Madurai as Meenakshi and Sundareswarar. The wedding of the Lord Shiva and Meenakshi takes place every year as a very grand festival and there is the procession of the Lord and Meenakshi for 9 days and the wedding takes place on the tenth day in the month of Chithrai.

Towers - Temple

Today the towers of the number that number to about 12 are the landmarks in the city. They are the;

1. East Tower – The east tower has height of 161'3". There are about 1011 sudhai figures in the Gopura.
2. South Tower – The south tower has height of 170'6". There are about 1511 sudhai figures in the Gopura.
3. West Tower – The west tower height is 163'3" with about 1124 sudhai figures in the Gopura.
4. North Tower – The north tower height is 160'6" with less number of sudhai figures than the other towers.

Sri Maha Shivaratri

Sri Maha Shivaratri - The Night of Universal Lord Shiva. Shiva means "Auspicious". This is one of the famous festival celebrated by all Hindus in honor of Lord Shiva. The festival would be on Monday, February 23, 2009. The ceremonies mainly take place at night in all shiva temples. The legend says Lord Shiva married Parvati Ma on this occasion. On the auspicious occasion, devotees observe fast and keep vigil whole night. Mahashivaratri marks the night when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava. The devotees offer fruits, flowers and bel leaves otherwise called as Vilva leaves to Lord Shiva Linga on this day. Bel leaf is the favorite of Lord Shiva.

Legend of Maha Shivaratri

A tiger was chasing a man and the man out of fear ran and ran and finally climbed a tree and sat on its branch. He did not know the tree which he climbed was the bel (Vilva) tree. The tiger was also following the man and sat just under the tree. A Shiva Linga was available under the tree. The man out of fear started plucking the leaves (bel leaves) and dropped them one by one just below the Shiva Linga the whole night. Next day morning, Lord Shiva appeared before the man and blessed him. The man attained moksha which means soul liberation. Hence the people believed that observing fast and performing abhisekams & pujas on Shiva Linga during the Shivaratri occasion will facilitate the soul liberation.

Masi Magam Festival

Masi Magam - This is the very most special and important occasion comes in the Tamil month of Masi in the star "Magam". Sometimes this day comes on the full moon day of Masi month. Twelve years once, Masi Mahamagam Festival is celebrated in the Kumbakonam. On this occasion, lots of thousands of devotees visit the Kumbakonam and participate in the Mahamagam festival and take a holy bath at Mahamagam Theertham.

Another important feature is that Lord Shiva burnt "Manmadhan (Kama)" on this day. Kama, God of Love who is represented as a winged youth bearing bow and arrows. Kama uses the cane of sugarcane as the shaft of his bow and a line of buzzing bees as his bowstring. Manmadhan disturbed the meditation of Lord Shiva, so He got angry and burnt him. In Madurai, this festival is celebrated in the name of "Kaama Thaganam". On this occasion, Lord Shiva burnt him at the four corners of Masi streets of Madurai.

Thousand Pillar hall

Thousand Pillar hall of Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple was built with the oldest Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunleveli as a model. The Aayiram Kaal Mandapam or Thousand Pillar Hall contains 985 (instead of 1000) carved pillars. It is considered culturally important and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. The Thousand Pillared Hall was built by Ariyanatha Mudaliar in 1569. He was the Prime Minister and General of Viswanatha Nayak of the first Nayaka of Madurai (1559-1600 A.D.). He was also the founder of Poligar System, the quasi-feudal organization of the country, which was divided into multiple palayams or small provinces and each palayam was ruled by a palayakkarar or a petty chief. At the entrance of the Mandapam, we can still see his statue; the majestic pose of Ariyanatha Mudaliar seated on a beautiful horse-back which flanks one side of the entrance to the temple. The statue is still periodically crowned with garlands by modern worshippers. Each pillar is carved and is a monument of the Dravidian sculpture. There is a Temple Art Museum in the hall where icons, photographs, drawings, and other exhibits of the 1200 years old history are displayed. Just outside this mandapam, towards the west, are the Musical Pillars. Each pillar, when struck, produces a different musical note. The kalyana mandapa, to the south of the pillared hall, is where the marriage of Shiva and Parvati is celebrated every year during the Chithirai Festival in mid-April.

Pincodes of Madurai

Madurai District PIN Codes and Zip Codes
Location PINCode / ZIPCode

• Ahtoor (madurai) 624701
• Alagappa Nagar 625003
• Alagarkoil 625301
• Alliagaram 626531
• Ambalakaranpatti 625123
• Ammapatti 626541
• Arasaradi H O 625016
• Arignaranna Nagar 625020
• Aundipatti 626512
• Avaniapuram (mdu) 625012
• Balarangapuram 625009
• Bangalamedu 626531
• Bodinayakkanur H O 626513
• Chatrapatti Mdu 625052
• Checkanurani 626514
• Chellanpatti 626566
• Chinnamanur 626515
• Chinnamanur Bazaar 626515
• Chinnamanur East 626515
• Chinnaovalapuram 626544
• Chinnasokkikulam 625002
• Chittampatt 625111
• Chockalinga Nagar 625016
• Chockalingapuram 625115
• Cumbum Madurai Bus Stand 626516
• Cumbum South 626516
• Cumbum West 626516
• De Nobili Press 625008
• Devadanapatti 626601
• Gandamanayakanur 626517
• Gandhi Nagar 625020
• Gandhi Nagar Cumbum 626516
• Gandhi Nagar Madurai 625020
• Gnana Olivupuram 625010
• Gudalur Madurai 626518
• Highways 626519
• Jaihindpuram 625011
• Jakkampatti 626512
• Jambropuram 625002
• Kachirayanpatti 625126
• Kallandiri 625305
• Kalligudi 626701
• Kallupatti (madurai) 626702
• Kalpalam Road 625002
• Kamachipuram 626520
• Kamarajar Chalai 625009
• Kamayagoundanpatti 626521
• Kambur 625114
• Karungalakudi 625101
• Keerathurai 625001
• Kidaripatti 625304
• Kilavalavu 625102
• Kilayur Madurai 625118
• Kodai Road R S 625206
• Kodangipattu 626547
• Kombai 626522
• Kosakulampudur 625007
• Kottagudi 625124
• Kottampatti 625103
• Kottur 626569
• Krishnapuram Colony 625014
• Lakshmipuram 625001
• Madichiyam 625020
• Madurai Agricultural College 625104
• Madurai Bazaar 625001
• Madurai Bibikulam 625002
• Madurai Central Bus Stand 625001
• Madurai City 625001
• Madurai Collectorate 625020
• Madurai Corporation Bldgs 625002
• Madurai Courts 625020
• Madurai East 625009
• Madurai Erskine Hospital 625020
• Madurai Ezhukadal 625001
• Madurai H O 625001
• Madurai North 625001
• Madurai Palace 625001
• Madurai Race Course 625002
• Madurai Railway Colony 625010
• Madurai Reserve Lines 625014
• Madurai Rly Dvl Office 625010
• Madurai Training Centre 625022
• Madurai West 625001
• Madurai West Masi Street 625001
• Mangulam 625302
• Melavaluvu 625105
• Melur Courts 625106
• Melur East 625106
• Melur H O 625106
• Melur South 625106
• Munichalai Road 625009
• Municipal Colony 625020
• Nagamalai 636815
• Narasingampatti 625112
• Narasingapuram 626579
• Narimedu 625002
• Nattam East 624401
• Nattam-madurai 624401
• Navinpatti 625113
• Odiapatti 626540
• Othakadai 625107
• Padithurai 625001
• Palanganatham 625003
• Palani R S 625602
• Palanichettipatti 626553
• Palkalainagar 625021
• Pallapatti 625117
• Pannaipuram 626524
• Panthadi Street 625001
• Paravai 625404
• Pasumalai 625004
• Pattur 625127
• Peraiyur Madurai 626703
• Periakulam 626523
• Periyakulam 626534
• Periyakulam East 626501
• Periyakulam H O 626501
• Periyakulam Public Office 626501
• Periyar Project 626525
• Perumal Teppakulam 625001
• Peryakulambazaar 626501
• Pitchaiamman 625001
• Ponnagaram 625010
• Pothumbu 625051
• Pottapatti 625125
• Pottipuram 626555
• Pudunagar 626709
• Pudupatti (cumbum) 626556
• Pudur Bazaar 625007
• Puthuthope 625010
• Royappanpatthi 626526
• Samayanallur 625402
• Samudrapatti 624402
• Saptur 626705
• Sarugu Valayapatti 625120
• Sathangudi 626719
• Sedapatti 626527
• Seelayampatti 625577
• Sellur 625002
• Sendurai (madurai) 624403
• Sengapadi 626717
• Shanti Nagar 625018
• Silaiman 625201
• Silamarathupatti 626528
• Simmakkal 625001
• Sindupatti 626529
• Sirugudi 624404
• Siukuvarpatti 624215
• Sokkikulam 625002
• Somasundaram Colony 625016
• South Gate 625001
• South Masi Street 625001
• South Veli L Street 625001
• State Bank Colony 625016
• Subbaraja Nagar C P A Co 626582
• Subramaniapuram Cbe 641040
• Subramaniapuram Madurai 641040
• Suruliar Lower Camp 626539
• T B Sanatorium 626536
• T Pudupatti 626704
• T Subbalapuram 626536
• Tallakulam H O 625002
• Tallakulam Housing Board 625020
• Tamaraikulam 626562
• Taniyamangalam 625121
• Thaigarajar Engg College 625015
• Thathaneri 625018
• Thavaram 626530
• Theni 626531
• Theni South 626531
• Thenur 625403
• Therkutheru 625122
• Thiagaraja Nagar Theni 626531
• Thiagarajar College 625009
• Thumbapatti 625108
• Tirali 626712
• Tirumangalam 626706
• Tirumangalam South 626706
• Tirumani 626706
• Tirunagar 625006
• Tiruparankundram 625005
• Town Hall Road 625001
• Tvs Nagar 625003
• U Ammapatti 626541
• Uppukottai 626571
• Uranganpatti 625119
• Uslampatti 626532
• Uslampatti Pettai 626532
• Uthamapalayam 626533
• Uthamapalayam Bazar 626533
• Uthappanayakanur 626537
• Vadagarai 626501
• Vanjnagaram 625116
• Vavimarudur 625504
• Vellalapatti 625303
• Vellayammalpuram 626565
• Venkatachalapuram 626572
• Venniar Estate 626538
• Vilakkathoon 625001
• Villapuram 625012
• Visalakshinagar 625401
• West Ponnagaram 625010
• Yanaikkal 625001
• Yelumalai 626535

Mathiyose

Thinking why not the native ideas go global, we started on Sep 15 2003, as a mailing group to share technical information. In 2004, based on intense support from the team we launched a website accumulating common and uncommon minds to make innovations work.

We started Mathiyosae as a small repository of technical and non-technical information, which can help students, technicians, thinkers and writers to understand better, their fields of interest, on time. Our practices makes it possible to give you an insight view of technology, culture, careers, entertainment, and life.We, the members, are part of corporate world, which has given us confidence and lead us to be potential enough to make Mathiyosae.com grow faster. We are also in a verge to develop a website by name (www.maduraibazaar.blogspot.com) hosting help for people, challenged for education.

ICAonline

Madurai is located on the Southern part of Tamilnadu. The major locations are Usliampatti, Tirumangalam & Melur. District is well connected by the Rail & Road Network. Tourist Places are- Tiruparangundram & Pazhanuthircholai.
To get all madurai maps from this site

Madurai Residency

Hotel Madurai Residency is perfectly located at the heart of the city very close to the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Railway Junction, Periyar Bus Stand, the Madurai Bazaar and is just 12 kms away from the Madurai Airport.
Having won the hearts of many Indian and International guests, The Madurai Residency has earned a reputation providing the finest Quality of Hospitality in this region. Building upon this goodwill, the professionally qualified staff, educated in excellent hotel management and catering institutes in India and abroad are dedicated to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Established in 1997, The Madurai Residency (formerly known as Classic Residency) attracts regular business class customers, pilgrims to the Meenakshi Amman Temple and International Tourists. The property is owned and managed by Hotel Agasthiya P Ltd., Madurai.
Hotel Madurai Residency is perfectly located at the heart of the city very close to the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Railway Junction, Periyar Bus Stand, the Madurai Bazaar and is just 12 kms away from the Madurai Airport.

Facilities:
74 Centralised A/c and Non A/c Rooms
Television with major satellite channels
Direct Dialing - STD, ISD
Running Hot & Cold Water
Round the clock Room Service
Free Safe Deposit Lockers
Laundry Service
Money Exchange
Travel Assistance
Doctor on call
Spacious Parking Area
All major Credit Cards accepted
24 HRS CHECK IN/CHECKOUT

SAHARA City

More than 6000 Houses including G+9 Apartments
Eco-Friendly 55% Land for Greeneries
Two Multiplex Cinema Theaters
A Big Shopping Mall
A higher Secondary school with 1600 Students Capacity
A Large Cricket Stadium and a Kid-Play zone
A Super-speciality Hospital
Good Road Transportation with SAHARA Luxurious A/c & Non A/c Buses plying between the SAHARA Bus-Terminus to various significant spots of Madurai.
Star Hotel with Gymnasium & Club.

Vasan Hospitals

Why an entrepreneur

He wanted to pursue further specialisation and dreamt of building a multi-specialty hospital in the town. But he became an entrepreneur because of a twist in fate. The untimely death of his father compelled him take up his family business of one pharmacy retail outlet in the town of Trichy in the name of Vasan Medical Hall (VMH).

"Within a few months of analysis, I found immense potential in retail drug sales. VMH had regular prescriptions from more than 200 loyal doctors since many years. Thus I decided to further nurture the potential in the trust capital of the business in hand," says he.

The first move

With small capital investments, Dr Arun started a slew of drug outlets in the city in strategic locations. He chose areas where large population of working middle class were based. "Every shop was lined up with a trained set of sales boys who will respond to every prescription across the counter and render quick service. No prescriptions were returned back and relationship-building strategies with referring doctors were devised," says he. His strategy clicked and initial success encouraged him to further expand his network of outlets to more densely-populated clusters in the town and also to bordering areas of the town.

Over the years

Soon, VMH attracted a footfall of more than 10,000 people a day in each outlet. Today, VMH is a chain of 27 outlets in Trichy and Madurai. Success of one concept gave rise to birth of another concept. During the process of developing the chain of pharmacy outlet, Dr Arun found that most of the referring doctors had large patient base in various specialties, practicing in attached clinic at their residences, after their work in Government hospitals or major hospitals in the town.

"Most of these practitioners had ambitions of upgrading their facilities to meet the demand of patients, but had no resources or acumen to do so. I compiled a pool of 40 doctors from various specialties, and offered them a common working place with all state-of-the-art support equipment in daycare diagnosis," says he. Thus was born the first model of Vasan Medical Centre (VMC), which started its first centre in Trichy.

The centre offers spacious consulting rooms with paramedical support staff, common equipment, minor theatres and all administrative support for managing the clinic. “Each doctor was given time slots in the centre, and their patients managed well with efficient patient care team. This model also gained quick success and accommodated more doctors from different areas," says he.

In 2001, one of the leading group of eye care service provider in the south, approached Dr Arun for strategic alliance in eye care hospital in Trichy. "As ophthalmology was not an organised healthcare segment in south India during this time, I decided to tap the opportunity and started the first eye hospital in the town," says he. Thus was born Vasan Eye Care (VEC). As a pilot project, he invested only in secondary eye care facilities and later in tertiary care segment of eye care. Eventually, he expanded his services network to key markets in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Acquisition of Dr Prem's Eye Clinic in Chennai was one of the significant acquisitions of VEC.

Today, VEC has 31 secondary and tertiary eye care hospitals across the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra. He has more than 200 ophthalmologists and 2,000 paramedics working in his eye care enterprise.

Mistakes made and lessons learnt

He claims he made no serious business mistake, but had overcome various market challenges and backstabbing of key doctors and associates in the business process. "During the initial stage of expanding our network, I faced flak from aggressive competitors who tried to downplay my vision, and criticised me about my approach to penetrate and network which was totally innovative and revolutionary," says he.

Fear and apprehension

"I had no apprehensions about the success of my business model as there was a naked lacunae and it was all about who taps the opportunity first," says he.


Overcoming roadblocks

Earlier challenges lay in roping in experienced doctors to join his hospitals. "I had to do beyond the limited retention exercises and also offer attractive perks to make doctors join my upcoming hospitals. Today, we are at luxury of choosing the best talent among hundreds of applications for employment," says he.

Any degree in management?

No. "But I am a voracious reader and keep myself updated of all business developments across the world. I have travelled extensively during the initial stages to understand the successful business models. Before venturing into any new business model, I personally inspect a similar model, do my own research and analysis, and weigh all pros and cons,” says he.

Tips for entrepreneuship

"Healthcare is a passion more than a business. The secret of success in any healthcare business is passion to evolve it with great involvement," he says passionately.

An entrepreneur that he admires in healthcare

“Dr Prathap C Reddy, who has passion and carries the fire among the entire team down the line. All successful eye care models today evolve around passion of individual entrepreneurs like G Venkatasamy who built Aravind Eye Care System, GN Rao, who built LV Prasad Eye Care, and Dr SS Badrinath who built temple of vision, Sankara Nethralya,” says he.

The road ahead

Dr Arun has set his sails in a voyage towards 50 eye hospitals by this year and 100 eye hospitals by the year 2010.

Majestic Entrance

The majestic towers, small and big, beckon one and all to this historic temple. As it is a common practice to worship Devi Meenakshi first and then Lord Sundareswarar, devotees enter the temple through the Ashta Sakthi Mandapam on the eastern street, named after the figures of eight sakthis represented on the pillars on two sides. At this Mandapam, one can see the vivid scriptural representation of Devi Meenakshi's wedding with Ganesha and Subramanya on either side.

Crossing over, one comes to the extensive Meenakshi Naickar Mandapam, named after the builder. This Mandapam has five aisles separated by six rows of stone pillars on which are carved holy sculptures. At the western end of the Mandapam is the massive Thiruvatchi containing 1008 brass oil lamps. Adjacent to the Mandapam is the holy golden lotus tank. Legend has it that Indra bathed in this tank to rinse out his sins and worshipped Lord Shiva with the golden lotus from this tank. Expansive corridors surround this holy tank and on the pillars of the northern corridor the figures of 24 poets of the third Tamil Sangam are etched. On the walls of the northern and eastern corridors exquisite painting depicting scenes from 'puranas' can be seen. The verses of Tirukkural are inscribed on marbles slabs on the southern corridor.

Madurai

Visit India's city of temples, Madurai. Take your choice from hundreds of magnificent temples, tap on the musical pillars, visit the colourful morning markets, and accommodate yourself in a Raj-style oasis.

The capital of Tamil Nadu is Channai, formerly called Madras, but the holy city of Madurai is considered to be the cultural capital. It is called the City of Temples, and there are hundreds and hundreds of them to give credence to its name.

Madurai was planned and laid out in the pattern of a lotus flower, with the famous Meenakshi Temple in the centre. Legend says the city was founded by the Pandya King Kulasekera, and that in the 10th century it was captured by the Chola emperors. The Pandyans regained their independence in the 12th century. The local people still live by the same set of 2000-year-old Hindu rules.

The River Vaigai flows through Madurai, with the old and more touristy section on the southern bank. The more modern part is on the northern side, where you will find hotels, clubs and university campuses.

The city is shielded by three prominent hills called Elephant, Snake and Cow, as they resemble those animals. With just over a million residents and no high-rise, Madurai is considered a small city by Indian standards, but there are throngs of bicycles, rickshaws, cars, buses and carts.

There are an estimated 10,000 pilgrims in the city on any given day, and the most visited place is the Meenakshi Temple, with its towers dominating the skyline. Its Dravidian architecture is typically covered with coloured images of gods, goddesses, animals and mythical figures. The Mahatma Gandhi Museum pays homage to the late leader, who visited Tahmil Nadu 14 times. Most shrines and inner sanctums of the temples are not accessible to non-Hindus, but tourists are permitted through the main entrance and in the brakaram, the area around the inner sanctum.

The Thirumalai Nayak Mahal is considered to be one of the most wonderful secular buildings of south Mumbai. Thirumalai Nayak lived for only 32 years, but was considered the greatest of the Nayak rulers.

Madurai is known for its hand-loom weaving of silks and cottons, making it a popular place to buy woven handicrafts and saris.

The Thousand Pillar Mandapam (which actually has 985 pillars) was built in 1569, with all the pillars in perfectly straight lines. There are two small temples where the remaining 15 pillars should be.

The Musical Pillars are located outside the entrance to the Thousand Pillar Mandapam. When tapped gently (as they are quite old and fragile), they will resonate with a musical sound. The pillars feature sculptures and decorations glorifying different gods.

The Golden Lotus Tank is Madurai’s version of the Ganges. The tank is surrounded by a pillared corridor with steps leading to the water's edge, and worshippers and devotees go there to bathe. The ancient academy of poets used to meet there, and to test the worthiness of their writing, they threw their manuscripts into the tank. If a manuscript sank, it was considered to be inferior, with only those that floated considered worthy of attention.

Mysticism, astrology and palmistry are dominant in southern India. Most Indians consult an astrologer when a child is born and before making most major decisions. Parrot astrology is still practised: a bird selects your card, the astrologer tosses some shells on it and is then able to read your future. If you are keen to find out what the future holds, it is recommended that you ask your guide or a local to suggest a reader.

One experience well worth rising early for is a visit to the morning markets. They are a bustling array of noise and colour, with stalls loaded with fruit, vegetables and spices. Nearby are the flower markets, full of colour and perfume.

The Taj Garden Retreat is one of Madurai’s best hotels. It is a low-rise oasis situated on a hill 15 minutes from the centre of town, set in 25 hectares of landscaped gardens. Rather Raj in style, it has only 50 rooms, many with views over the city, the Meenakshi Temple and the Kodai Hills. It has a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, conference rooms, outdoor pool, plus car hire and babysitting services.

Azhagiri - Party at chennai

After being appointed as DMK’s South Zone Organising Secretary, M K Azhagiri, the strongman of the party’s Affairs in the Southern districts, and the elder son of party Supremo M Karunanidhi, is expected to contest the coming Lok Sabha elections from Madurai.

Party sources, quoting the remarks of Madurai Rural District Secretary P Murthy, MLA in the recent District Committee meeting, here on Sunday said Mr Azhagiri was expected to swing into active politics after he ensured victory for the party in the recently concluded Tirumangalam Assembly bypoll.

The sources said DMK's victory in Tirumangalam was not only considered to be a litmus test of the organising capabilities of Mr Azhagiri, but it also sent strong signals to the opposition that he would ensure huge victory for DMK in the coming elections.

Mr Murthy, in his address at the meeting of Madurai Rural District DMK functionaries, called upon the partymen to get ready for the Lok Sabha polls, as 'Anja Nenjar' Mr Azhagiri is fondly called as 'Brave Heart' by partymen in Southern districts) would contest the poll from Madurai seat.

He urged the party functionaries to begin works of setting up booth committees and other works to face the elections.

Interestingly, in the meeting, chaired by party District Presidium Chairman Arunachalam, a resolution was passed unanimously urging Mr Azhagiri to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Madurai.

Mr Azhagiri, who had refused to accept any post in the party over the years, however, controlled the party affairs in the Southern districts.

He was rewarded with the newly-created post of 'Organising Secretary' of the DMK in South Zone by the High Command after the impressive victory in the Tirumangalam by-election.

Banks

Andhra Bank
Sesh Plaza
221,South Masi Street
Madurai - 625001
Phone: 0452-744640
bmche349@andhrabank.co.in

Bank of Baroda
Main Bazaar
5 East Avani Moola Street
Madurai – 625 001
Phone: 0452-2622938

Bank of Madura Ltd
North Chitrai Street
Madurai – 625 001
Phone: 0452-2680609

Bank of Maharashtra
110/110 A,Thycmmal Building
Netaji Road, Madurai
Phone: 0452 2344746

Central Bank of India
Tallakulam
Madurai – 625 002

Central Bank of India
1st floor, Raja Muthiah Mandram
Opp. to Dist. Court
Dr. Ambedkar Road
Madurai - 625020 Phone : 0452 2526752 - 0452 2526753
0452 2526754 - 0452 2537469
0452 2300971


Global Trust Bank
A.R.Plaza, 16&17
North Veli Street
Madurai-625001Phone : 0452 2348183 - 0452 2348186
0452 2348187

v.srinivasan@obcmail.co.in

Idbi Bank
1/1, Karthik Raja Complex
Vinayaga Nagar
K.K. Nagar
Madurai - 625020Phone : 0452 2527666 - 0452 2527667
0452 2527668

madurai@idbibank.com

Karnataka Bank Ltd
32, Town Hall Road
Madurai – 625 001
Phone No: 0452 2340735

Madurai District Central Cooperative Bank Ltd.
PBNo.14, 187, North Veli Street
Head Post Office
Madurai - 625 001

State Bank of Mysore
PB NO 54
19-20, North Veli Street
Madurai - 625 001
Phone No: 0452-2340473
madurai@sbm.co.in

Uco Bank
90/92-East Avani Moola Street
Madurai 625 001

Uco Bank
80 Feet Road
KK Nagar
Madurai - 625020

Book Bazaar - Madurai

Name Address
Mother Land book center West veli street,
Opp. Railway Station
Madurai

Sarvodhaya Ilakkiya Pannai West Veli street,
Near Railway station
Madurai

Book world 5B, West Marret st,
College house, Town hall rd,
Madurai.

Book Plaza Town Hall Road,
Madurai

Selvi Book center No.92, Nethaji Road,
Near New Arya bhavan signal,
Madurai.

Jayam book center 27, Pudumandapam Road,
East avani moola st,
Madurai.

Things To Buy

Madurai has long been a textile center and the streets around the temple still teem with cloth stalls and tailors' shops. A great place to buy locally manufactured cottons as well as the batiks loved by many travelers is Puthu Mandapam, an old, stone-pillared hall just along from the eastern entrance to Sri Meenakshi Temple. Here you'll find lines of textile stalls opposite rows of tailors, each busily treading away and capable of whipping up a good replica of whatever you're wearing in an hour or two.

Temple Bazaar

We caught the overnight train from Chengalpattu to Madurai arriving at 06:30 in the morning. February seems to be the season for Indian weddings so we had a difficulty finding a reasonably priced hotel we ended up checking in to the Royal Court for one night then switching to the Hotel Supreme for the next two nights.

Madurai is another busy Indian city and famous for the Meenakshi temple - a massive complex which seems to blur the interface between worship and shopping and the Gandhi museum which was an unexpected pleasure.

After breakfast and a couple of hours rest we took an auto rickshaw ride around the city taking in the main sites. The following day we spent a couple of hours at the Gandhi museum them had a bit of relaxation on a pedelo around the Teppakulam temple water tank, this was supposed to be closed so we were the only ones put and also fortunate that the tank was full, they only fill it for special festivals.

Significance

The Hindus had developed a system of calendrics that encapsulates vast periods of time. For computing the age of the earth and various geological and other epochs, as well as the age of mankind, they still employ a Tamil calendar derived from ancient astronomical data, known as the Tirukkanida Panchanga (cf. The Secret Doctrine, 2:49-51).
This calendar contains a calculation of something over three hundred million years for the age of the present earth since sedimentation occurred, and a period of somewhat more than eighteen million years since the first appearance of our mankind.
The 10th Tamil month, called Thai, falls in the mid-January every year. It is celebrated with much enthusiasm among the Tamil Community all over the world. It is marked by gifting new dresses for the family members and giving prayers to God wishing for prosperity among the people for the coming year. The month of Thai and the fifth month Aavani are considered very auspicious and most marriages usually happen during those months than the other months of the year.
The fourth month Aadi is considered inauspicious, so usually weddings do not happen in the month. Aadi is also the month of preparation for next crop cycle by farmers. Hence, farming communities avoid major events like weddings in this month. On the contrary (or as advantage) the communities that don't actively contribute/participate in farming take the advantage of having important functions like wedding in this month. For example, the business community prefers this month for wedding. It is usually the worst month for thriving businesses and recently this situation has changed a lot, as the businesses started providing discount shopping during that month. Each Friday of this month is set aside for prayer and worship.
And another important point to note that for the newly married couple is also an inauspicious month to sleep together. The reason being if the girl who is conceived in this month will deliver the baby in the month of May, the hottest month in Tamil Nadu (Agni natchathiram [pinezu] last 7 days of Chitharai and [munezu] first 7 days of Vaigasi) and it will be tough period for baby delivery.
The sixth month Purattaasi is auspicious to the effect that, most of the non-vegetarian Tamil people do not eat meat during the month. This faith can be considered much similar to the fasting by Muslims during the month of Ramadan. Each Saturday of this month is set apart to venerate the planet Saturn.
The full moon days and the new moon days have considerable importance among the Tamil people. One of the famous festivals, the Deepavali, is celebrated on the new moon day, in the seventh month Aipassi. The month of Aipassi is usually characterised by the North-East Monsoon in Tamil Nadu, which has given birth to a phrase, Aipassi Adai Mazhai meaning the "Non-stop Downpour".
The ninth month Maargazhi is characterised by winter in Tamil Nadu, and considered auspicious for maiden women to find their groom. The Shaivite fast of Tiru-vembaavai and the Vaishnava fast of Tiru-paavai are observed in this month.
The total number of days in a Tamil Calendar is an average 365 days and day's name are also similar to the western calendar. In temples, and for day to day purposes, Vakiya Panchangam is used. For astrological calculations Trikanitha Panchangam is used.

Seasons

Seasons

The year is divided into six seasons, each of which lasts two months:Season name English translation Sanskrit Name (Rtu) English equivalent Months
kār dark, rain Varsha rainy āvani, puratāci
kūlir chill, wind Sharada autumn aippaci, kārthikai
munpani early dew Hemanta early winter mārkazhi, tai
pinpani late dew Sishira late winter māsi, pankuni
ilavenil young warmth Vasanta spring chithirai, vaikāsi
mutuvenil extreme warmth Grishma summer āni, ādi

Tamil Calendar

Week

The days of the Tamil Calendar relate to the celestial bodies in the solar system: Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn, in that order. The week starts with Sunday.

The following list compiles the days of the week in Tamil Calendar:No. Weekday (Tamil) Weekday (English) Vaasara (Sanskrit) Lord or Planet Gregorian Calendar equivalent

01. ஞாயிற்றுக்கிழமை Jnyaayitru-kizhamai Ravi-vaasara Sun Sunday
02. திங்கட்கிழமை Thingat-kizhamai Soma-vaasara Moon Monday
03. செவ்வாய்க்கிழமை Sevvaai-kizhamai Mangala-vaasara Mars Tuesday
04. புதன்கிழமை Buthan-kizhamai Budha-vaasara Mercury Wednesday
05. வியாழக்கிழமை Viyaazha-kizhamai Guru Vaasara Jupiter Thursday
06. வெள்ளிக்கிழமை Velli-kizhamai Sukra-vaasara Venus Friday
07. சனிக்கிழமை Sani-kizhamai Shani-vaasara Saturn Saturday


Months

The number of days in a month varies between 29 and 32.

The following list compiles the months of the Tamil Calendar.No. Month (Tamil) Sanskrit Name * Month (English) Gregorian Calendar equivalent

01. சித்திரை Chaitra Cittirai mid-April to mid-May
02. வைகாசி Vaisākha Vaikāsi mid-May to mid-June
03. ஆனி Jyaishtha Āni mid-June to mid-July
04. ஆடி Āshādha Ādi mid-July to mid-August
05. ஆவணி Shrāvana Āvaṇi mid-August to mid-September
06. புரட்டாசி Bhādrapada Puraṭṭāsi mid-September to mid-October
07. ஐப்பசி Ashwina Aippasi mid-October to mid-November
08. கார்த்திகை Kārttika Kārthikai mid-November to mid-December
09. மார்கழி Mārgashīrsha Mārkaḻi mid-December to mid-January
10. தை Pausha Tai mid-January to mid-February
11. மாசி Māgha Māsi mid-February to mid-March
12. பங்குனி Phalguna Paṅkuni mid-March to mid-April


Note: The Sanskrit months above would start one month ahead of Tamil months since the Tamil calendar is a solar calendar while the Sanskrit calendar is a lunisolar calendar

Tamil Calendar

The Tamil Calendar is used in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry in India, and by the Tamil population in Malaysia, Singapore and Sri Lanka. It is used today for cultural, religious and agricultural events, with the Gregorian calendar having largely supplanted it for official use both within and outside India.

There are several festivals based on the Tamil Hindu calendar. The Tamil New Year follows the nirayanam vernal equinox and generally falls on April 13 or 14th of the Gregorian year. April 13 or 14th marks the first day of the traditional Tamil calendar and this remains a public holiday in both Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Tropical vernal equinox fall around 22 March, and adding 23 degrees of trepidation or oscillation to it, we get the Hindu sidereal or Nirayana Mesha Sankranti (Sun's transition into nirayana Aries). Hence, the Tamil calendar begins with the same date which is observed by most traditional calendars of the rest of India - Assam, Bengal, Kerala, Orissa, Manipur, Nepal, Punjab etc. The 60-year cycle is also very ancient and is observed by most traditional calendars of India and China, and is related to 5 revolutions of Jupiter according to popular belief, or to 60-year orbit of Nakshatras (stars) as mentioned in Surya Siddhanta.

The traditional Tamil year is (From April 13, 2008), Kaliyuga 5110. Vikrama and Shalivahana Saka eras are also used.

The current DMK-led Government of Tamil Nadu abolished the traditional Tamil calendar in February 2008 citing a so-called but disputed proclamation in 1920s by a group of so-called Atheists under leadership of Periyar E. V. Ramasamy who assembled in Madurai and adopted first day of Thai Month as first day of the Tamil Calendar. The Tamil Nadu Government has ordered the Tiruvalluvar Era as official Tamil Calendar for the state and abolished the Tamil years used for several millennia. The new year has been changed to begin with Pongal day during month of Thai. This controversial move however has no public support and the traditional calendar that begins in April remains very much in use. The opposition AIADMK has vowed to restore the traditional Tamil calendar when it assumes power. The present state government's move has also been challenged in court.

Tamil New Year

Puthandu, or better known as Tamil New Year, is the celebration of the first day of the new Tamil year by people of Tamil origin. It follows the Tamil Calendar, which is used in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry in India, and by the Tamil population in Malaysia, Singapore and Sri Lanka. The traditional Tamil New Year tends to coincide with the traditional start of year in Assam, Bengal, Kerala, Manipur, Nepal and the Punjab, not to mention Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka and Thailand. It is based on the classical Hindu solar calendar.

The celebration generally fall on April 12, April 13 or April 14. People greet each other on this day by saying இனிய தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு நல்- வாழ்த்துக்கள் (Iniya Tamizh Puthaandu Nalvazthukkal).Origin and Significance

The Tamil New Year follows the nirayanam vernal equinox and generally falls on April 13 or 14th of the Gregorian year. April 13 or 14th marks the first day of the traditional Tamil calendar and this remains a public holiday in both Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Tropical vernal equinox fall around 22 March, and adding 23 degrees of trepidation or oscillation to it, we get the Hindu sidereal or Nirayana Mesha Sankranti (Sun's transition into nirayana Aries). Hence, the Tamil calendar begins with the same date which is observed by most traditional calendars of the rest of India. The 60-year cycle is also very ancient and is observed by most traditional calendars of India and China, and is related to 5 revolutions of Jupiter according to popular belief, or to 60-year orbit of Nakshatras (stars) as mentioned in Surya Siddhanta.

The traditional Tamil year is (from April 13, 2008), Kaliyuga 5110. Vikrama and Shalivahana Saka eras are also used.

Celebration

Every year in the month of Chithrai (the first month of the Hindu solar calendar), in the temple city of Madurai, the Chithrai Thiruvizha is celebrated in the Meenakshi Temple. A huge exhibition is also held, called Chithrai Porutkaatchi. In some parts of Southern Tamil Nadu, it is also called Chithrai Vishu. The day is marked with a feast in Hindu homes and entrances to the houses are decorated elaborately with kolams.

On the day of Tamil New Year, a big Car Festival is held at Tiruvadamarudur near Kumbakonam. Festivals are also held at Tiruchirapalli, Kanchipuram and many other places.Controversy

Recently the Tamil Nadu DMK government by an Act of Legislature abolished the Tamil calendar for secularist political reasons and started to follow a newly created Tiruvalluvar era as the official calendar with the first day of the month of Thai as the beginning of the year. The order also abolishes use of Tamil Years from this year Thai.

Henceforth, it proposes that January 14 of every year be celebrated as Tamil New Year in addition to the famous harvest festival Ponga. But the said resolution has no public support.

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