Sri Eri-Katha Ramar Temple, located in Maduranthakam, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama. It holds significant importance in the Vaishnavite tradition and is one of the 108 Abhimana Kshetrams. Glorified by saints like Ramanuja and Thirumalisai Alvar, the temple is known as the place where Udayavar (Ramanuja) received his name and where Thirumalisai Alvar attained siddhi, adding to its spiritual and historical significance.
Built during the Pallava era, the temple is estimated to be over 1600 years old, making it one of the oldest temples dedicated to Rama in South India. Historical inscriptions reveal donations from Chola King Parantaka I and suggest that the region was once a prominent center during the Chola dynasty. The village was called Maduranthaga Chaturvedi Mangalam, named after the Chola ruler Madurantaga Uttama Chola, and known for its Vedic scholars.
The temple’s presiding deity is Lord Rama, accompanied by his consort Sita and his brother Lakshmana. The main deity, or Moolavar, is made of stucco and stands about 8 feet tall, facing east in a majestic posture. The temple is similar in style to other famous temples like Ulagalantha Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram. The shrine of Sita, worshipped as Janakavalli, stands adjacent to the main sanctum.
Apart from its architectural beauty, the temple is closely associated with Sri Ramanuja, one of the most prominent saints in Vaishnavism. It is believed that he received the Pancha Samskara Mantra at this sacred location. The temple’s history, spiritual relevance, and cultural heritage make it an important pilgrimage site in Tamil Nadu, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike.