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.