Meenakshi Temple, also referred to as Meenakshi Amman or Meenakshi Sundareshwara Temple, is a historic Hindu temple located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in the temple city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
According to legend, the sacred Suyambulingam discovered by the king of Indhira logam at Kadambavanam, was later enshrined by him in Madurai. The fact that the Lord is seen on the vehicle of Indira in this temple is said to be proof for this. Many historical and literary evidences of the temple have been found dating back from early A.D.
The temple was almost completely destroyed in the year 1310 following the invasion of the Islamic conqueror Malikkapur, His invasion destroyed most of the ancient sculptures of the temple. Thirugnanasambandar the Hindu Saint has mentioned the temple in his songs which go back to early 7th century.
The Lord has been described as Alavai Annal in his songs.The temple was restored to its pristine glory in the late 14th century when the Hindu Kings came back to power in Madurai.This can also be termed as a new beginning of a new era in the history of the temple, when it was almost rebuilt.
The King Thirumalai Naicker played an important role in the construction of the new form of the temple, according to the history the temple was under effective management of earlier government governed by the kings. The Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is now under the administration of the HR and CE department of Tamil Nadu Government.
Facilities in Temple:
1 Golden Chariot - OLD THIRUKALYANA MANDAPAM
2 First Aid Medical Centre - Birla Vishram Lodge West Chithirai street
3 Karunai Illam - Theppakullam
4 Thulabharam Facility - Inside temple near golden lotus tank in north side of tank
5 Library Facility - Inside temThis library is located in the south aadi veedhi, inside the temple precinct
6 Battery Car - INSIDE TEMPLE
7 Wheel Chair - Near kumkum production room south and west audi street juction
8 Accommodation Facility - West chithirai street and ellis nagar
9 Vehicle Parking - ELLIS NAGAR,ANUPANADI,WEST PERUMAL MAISTRY STREET
10 Free Footwear Stand - SITUATED IN ALL FIVE ENTRANCES
List of Prathishtas in this temple