Uthirakosamangai, also known as Mangalanatha Swamy Temple, is a significant Shiva temple located near Ramanathapuram in Tamil Nadu. Spanning approximately 20 acres, it is regarded as a sacred site alongside Ramanathapuram, Sethu Madhava Theertham, and Lakshmana Theertham. The temple is a major tourist destination in the Ramanathapuram district, drawing devotees and visitors with its rich spiritual heritage and stunning architecture, which includes numerous shrines dedicated to various deities.
The temple complex features several prominent shrines, including those of Mangalanathar, Mangalambigai, and Natarajar. A highlight of the temple is the remarkable 6-foot tall ancient emerald Nataraja idol, a unique treasure. Daily rituals take place six times from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., while the temple also hosts six major annual festivals. Managed by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu, the temple maintains its traditions and offerings to devotees.
According to Hindu legend, hundreds of rishis once performed penance in devotion to Shiva. To honor the penance of Mandothari, the wife of King Ravana, Shiva appeared as a child in Ravana's palace. A series of events led to a divine fireball emerging, resulting in the tragic demise of 999 rishis. Shiva then manifested as Sahasralingam, creating a lingam for the surviving rishi, who is believed to have reincarnated as Manickavasgar.
The temple’s history dates back over 3,000 years, constructed by a thousand devotees who attained Moksha simultaneously. Unique features include five intricately designed towers, guarded by mythical yalis at the entrance. The temple houses a sacred pool and the revered emerald statue of Sage Mangaleswarar. Important festivals such as Chithirai, Tirukkalyanam, and Arudra Darshan are celebrated here, continuing the temple's long-standing tradition of worship and community engagement.