The Unforgettable Legend and Cultural Significance of the Koothandavar Temple in Tamil Nadu

The Koothandavar Temple, also known as the Koothandavar Temple, is a unique religious and cultural site located in the village of Koothandavar near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, India. Revered for its historical and cultural significance, the temple has a fascinating and rich legend behind it. This article delves into the story of Koothandavar and the temple’s connection to the traditional Tamil performing art form, Koothu.

Historical and Cultural Significance

According to local legends, Koothandavar was a celestial being who descended to Earth to teach and perform the art of Koothu. The temple is dedicated to him and celebrates his role as a patron of this art form. It is believed that the deity blesses performers and audiences.

Architecture and Art

The Koothandavar Temple showcases typical Dravidian architectural styles, complete with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various deities and mythological stories. The main sanctum houses the idol of Koothandavar, often depicted in a dance pose that symbolizes his connection to performing arts. The temple also hosts numerous festivals, particularly during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), when cultural performances and rituals are held in honor of Koothandavar.

Cultural Hub and Pilgrimage Site

As a cultural hub, the temple plays a vital role in the preservation and promotion of Tamil performing arts. It offers a venue for performances and workshops, making it an important landmark. Many artists seek the deity's favor before important performances, and the temple serves as a pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings for artistic endeavors and success in their performances.

The Epic Tale of Koothandavar

The tale of Koothandavar begins from one of the versions of the Mahabharata epic. Before the Great 18-day War of Kurukshetra, both Pandava and Kaurava approached Sahadev (a master in astrology) to make rituals to win the war. Sahadev said they needed to sacrifice a man filled with all good qualities, including dharma and beauty, to Kali. Krishna, worried about Arjuna who had all these qualities, searched for another.

Aravaan, son of Arjuna and Ulupi (a serpent princess), volunteered for the sacrifice. He made two demands: at least one day of life as a married man and the opportunity to witness the Kurukshetra war after his death. Krishna accepted these demands and searched for a girl to marry Aravaan, but no one wanted to marry a man who would die the next day.

On that night, Krishna took the avatar of Mohini (a transgender form) to marry Aravaan. The next day, Aravaan sacrificed his life to Kali, who was pleased with his dedication. Draupadi (wife of the Pandavas) asked Kali to return his life, and Aravaan was reborn with great powers and fought in the Kurukshetra war. On the 8th day, his head fell to the ground after being severed by Alambasura, but he continued to fight by jumping Koothadal, only with his head, thanks to a boon from Krishna. Krishna made his head calm and watch the war silently.

After the 18-day war, Krishna ordered Garuda to leave Aravaan’s head in the Sarbanga River. The head reached the Thenpennai river bank in baby form and became the son of King Chandragiri. After killing Koothaasura and King Chandragiri, Aravaan was reborn and said: “Every full moon day of Chithirai (Tamil month April-May), I'll appear as men and shower my blessings. Mohini (transgender form of Krishna) will marry me on that day, and you may call me Koothan since my head fought in a war like a dance.”

The village where this happened became Koothanagam (Koothan’s Home), and every Chithrapournami (full moon day of April-May), transgenders from all over the world come to the temple and marry him in a ritualistic ceremony. The next day, they mourn the god Koothandavar’s death through ritualistic dances and by breaking their bangles.

Annual Festivals and Sessions

During the 18-day festival, an annual beauty pageant and several other competitions like singing contests, dancing, and more are held. The temple also conducts seminars and other discussions about their rights and health, helping them to improve their status in society as a third gender.

Conclusion

The Koothandavar Temple is not just a religious site; it is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. Through its connection with the art of Koothu, the temple embodies the deep connection between spirituality and performing arts, making it an important landmark in the region.