Kothanda Ramar temple

Overview

The Kothandaramaswamy Temple at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu is a shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity Rama. Located at a distance of 13 kilometers (8.1 mi) from Rameswaram, it forms the southernmost tip of the island. The temple is the only historical structure to survive the 1964 cyclone that washed away Dhanushkodi. The temple has the deities of Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman and Vibhishana. The temple is surrounded by sea and remains a tourist attraction.

About The Temple

The temple is situated in an island surrounded by Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mannar. Lord Sri Rama with Mother Sita and Sri Lakshmana appears gracefully with his celebrated Kodandam bow. Sri Anjaneya nearby is praised as Anjaneya the Supporter. When Vibhishana came to Rama after breaking his relationship with his brother Ravana, the monkey army did not agree to accept Vibhishana as they suspected his sincerity. But Sri Anjaneya recommended Vibishana’s case explaining that he had personally observed his activities in Lanka and found him good in all aspects and that he deserved to be accepted by the Lord. Hence, He is called Anjaneya the Supporter. It is believed that he takes the just prayers of the devotees to Lord Rama and helps them achieving their desires. Traditionally, we see Sri Anjaneya in a worshipping form near Lord. In this temple Vibhishana is awarded with this right. It is also noteworthy that Vibhishana was offered the ‘Azhwar’ title as he was accepted by Lord. In this small temple, Garuda Bhagwan and Acharya Sri Ramanujan have their shrines. Those seeking leadership position through proper ways and to be away from the wicked pray here. Lord helps them. This is the philosophy behind the coronation of Vibhishana.

About The Deity

The presiding deity is Rama. He is called Sri Kodandaramar. His consort is known as Goddess Sita.

Legend and Stories

Vibhishana took all the efforts to persuade his brother Ravana to return Mother Sita to Rama whom he abducted in a cowardly way. Not only Ravana disagreed with Vibishana’s advice but heavily came down on him to hit him with his legs. Leaving his incorrigible brother for good, and came to Rameswaram where Lord Rama was camping then and sought asylum. As a tribute to his impeccable qualities, Lord Rama crowned him the king of Lanka even before Ravana was killed in the battle. Remembering this event, the temple is built in this island.

Festivals

Special pujas are performed on the last Purattasi Saturday in September-October. Vibhishana Pattabishekam-coronation - is celebrated in the month of Aani (June-July).

Significance

It is suggested that those who want to be away from the wicked, desirous of following a righteous life and expecting promotions in job may pray to Lord in the temple.

Nearby Places to Visit

Adhi Ratneswarar Temple
Sakala Theertham Udayavar Temple
Emaneswaram Udayavar Temple
Abhaya Anjaneyar (without tail) Temple
Sukriva Temple
Attala Sokkanathar Temple

Accessibility

Road

Kodandam is 12 km from Rameswaram on the Danushkodi route. Buses are available only at specific hours. The devotee would have to walk a kilometer to reach the temple.

Railways

Rameswaram

Airport

Madurai

Temple Address

The Executive Officer, Sri Kodandaramar Temple,
Dhanushkodi,
Rameswaram,
Ramanathapuram district,
Pin code – 623 526