Tirupperunthurai, also known as the Athmanathaswamy Temple, is located in Avudaiyarkoil village near Aranthangi in Tamil Nadu's Pudukkottai district. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is significant in Tamil Saiva Siddhanta literature, with the revered text Tiruvasakam attributed to Manikkavasagar, who famously converted a king to follow Shiva. He used funds meant for war-horses to build the temple, marking a profound commitment to spirituality over material wealth.
Legend has it that the temple was constructed by Manikkavasagar, who served as prime minister under King Varaguna Pandya II. When the king inquired about the horses, Manikkavasagar explained his devotion, prompting Lord Shiva to perform a miracle by transforming jackals into horses. This divine act reinforced the temple's spiritual significance, illustrating the belief that true devotion transcends worldly possessions and responsibilities, solidifying the temple's status as a pivotal site for worship.
The architecture of Athmanathar Temple exemplifies the exceptional skills of ancient Tamil sculptors and engineers. Spanning over 10 acres, it features three enclosures and is uniquely oriented to capture the setting sun within its sanctum. Unlike traditional Shiva temples, it does not house a Śivalingam; instead, the presiding deity is represented by a pedestal, emphasizing the temple's focus on formlessness, reflecting deeper philosophical teachings about the nature of the divine and spirituality.
Renovations throughout history have maintained the temple's grandeur, with most of the current structure dating back to the 15th century. The thousand-pillared hall showcases intricate carvings of deities and events from Hindu mythology, embodying the temple's artistic and cultural significance. The composite columns, influenced by the Vijayanagara dynasty, further enhance the temple's architectural beauty, making Tirupperunthurai a remarkable example of Tamil temple craftsmanship and a cherished pilgrimage destination.