The Uthukuli Kaithamalai Murugan Temple, also known as Vetri Velayudhaswamy Temple, is situated atop a hillock near Uthukuli, close to Tiruppur in Tamil Nadu. This temple holds significant spiritual importance due to its association with the revered Sage Agastya and the divine presence of Lord Muruga.
The Legend of Sage Agastya
According to the legend, Sage Agastya, accompanied by Sage Narada and the Devas (celestial beings), was on a pilgrimage visiting various Murugan temples in the Kongu region. During their journey, they arrived at Kaithamalai. Overcome by intense thirst and unable to find water nearby, Sage Agastya prayed fervently to Lord Muruga for relief.
In response to his devotion, Lord Muruga appeared before Sage Agastya and struck the ground with his spear (Vel). Miraculously, a spring of water gushed out from the spot where the Vel had hit, quenching the sage's thirst. The place where this spring emerged was initially called "Utrukuzhi" (derived from "ootru" meaning spring and "kuzhi" meaning pit). Over time, the name evolved into Uthukuli.
Establishment of the Swayambhu Murugan
Grateful for Lord Muruga's divine intervention, Sage Agastya installed a swayambhu (self-manifested) form of Muruga at the same location. This swayambhu, resembling a small mound or lingam, is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum alongside the idol of Lord Muruga.
Architectural and Spiritual Significance
The temple, with its striking five-tier Rajagopuram (entrance tower), stands majestically atop a hillock. Uniquely, Lord Muruga is depicted alone in the main shrine, unlike in most other temples where he is accompanied by his consorts, Valli and Devayani. In this temple, Valli and Devayani have a separate shrine located behind the main temple.
The legend explains that both Valli and Devayanai, desiring to marry Lord Muruga, came to this place to worship him. Since this was considered a pre-marriage shrine, they are enshrined together but positioned away from Lord Muruga. This unique arrangement symbolizes Lord Muruga as an embodiment of Gnana (wisdom), while Valli and Devayanai represent Ichcha Shakti (willpower) and Kriya Shakti (action power), respectively.
Sthalavriksham and Cultural Aspects
The temple's sthalavriksham (sacred tree) is the Vilvam tree. Devotees believe that worshipping at this temple brings them closer to divine wisdom and fulfills their spiritual aspirations.
The Uthukuli Kathithamalai Murugan Temple continues to be a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from far and wide who come to seek the blessings of Lord Muruga and experience the serene spiritual ambiance of this ancient shrine.