Thiruvarur is a town in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, steeped in history and cultural significance. It is best known for its spiritual heritage, particularly the Thyagaraja Temple, a massive and intricately carved structure dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, with its towering gopurams and sprawling courtyards, stands as a fine example of Dravidian architecture and attracts devotees from all over the world.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| District | Thiruvarur |
| Coordinates | 10.7732° N, 79.6360° E |
| Population (2021 est.) | ~40,000 (Town); ~1.26 million (District) |
| Official Language | Tamil |
| Area | 10.47 sq km (Town); 2,161 sq km (District) |
| Literacy Rate | 83% (approximate) |
| Major Temple | Thyagaraja Temple |
| Primary Economic Activity | Agriculture (primarily rice cultivation) |
| Elevation | 3 meters (9.8 feet) above sea level |
| Climate | Tropical; hot summers, moderate monsoons |
| Average Temperature | Summer: 28°C – 40°C; Winter: 20°C – 30°C |
| Major Festivals | Panguni Uthiram, Rath Yatra, Carnatic Music Festival |
| Nearest Airport | Tiruchirappalli International Airport (~110 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Thiruvarur Junction |
| Famous Personalities | Saint Thyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, Syama Sastri |
| Rivers | Vennar, Vettar, and Odambokki |
Here are some key aspects of Thiruvarur
Religious Significance
Thiruvarur is one of the most important towns for Saivism, the sect of Hinduism that worships Lord Shiva. The Thyagaraja Temple, also known as the Sri Vanmikanathar temple, is the centerpiece of the town’s spiritual life. It is one of the “Padal Petra Sthalams,” or temples that have been glorified by the hymns of Tamil Saiva saints. The deity here, Lord Thyagaraja, is worshipped in the form of a lingam (an abstract representation of Shiva), making this town a key pilgrimage destination.
Thiruvarur is the birthplace of Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Syama Sastri, popularly known as the Trinity of Carnatic music of the 18th century CE.
Music and Culture
Thiruvarur is the birthplace of the Carnatic music Trinity—Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri—who revolutionized classical music in South India. The town celebrates its musical heritage with annual festivals that attract music lovers and performers from all over the region.
Festivals
The town is famous for its grand car (rath) festival, which is part of the temple’s annual celebration. The Thiruvarur chariot is said to be one of the largest temple chariots in India. During the festival, thousands of devotees gather to witness the majestic procession of the deities through the streets of the town.
Geography and Environment
Thiruvarur is located in the Cauvery Delta region, a fertile area that is rich in agriculture. Paddy fields stretch across the landscape, making rice farming a major economic activity here. The lush surroundings and proximity to several rivers contribute to its scenic beauty.
Historical Importance
Thiruvarur has a rich history that spans several centuries. It has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandyas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. Each dynasty has left its mark on the town, particularly in the form of temples and monuments.
Modern Thiruvarur
Today, Thiruvarur continues to thrive as both a cultural and economic hub in Tamil Nadu. It is a district headquarters and has developed into an urban area with modern amenities, while still retaining its traditional charm. Its people are deeply rooted in their religious practices, but the town also keeps pace with contemporary developments.
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Villages | 573 |
| Total Panchayats | 430 |
| Towns | 7 |
| Blocks | 10 |
| Municipalities | 4 (Thiruvarur, Mannargudi, Nannilam, Thiruthuraipoondi) |
| Revenue Divisions | 2 (Thiruvarur, Mannargudi) |
| Revenue Villages | 431 |
Thiruvarur Famous For
Thiruvarur district is famous for its evergreen paddy fields and temples with sky-high towers. This town is situated in the south east of Tamil Nadu. The Arulmighu Shri Thiyagarajar temple located in Thiruvarur town has many distinctions. It has the largest chariot or temple car among the temples in Tamil Nadu.
If you’re planning a visit to Thiruvarur, you’ll be greeted by a blend of spirituality, history, and music, making it a unique destination in Tamil Nadu.
FAQ
How many kilometers from Trichy to Thiruvarur?
The distance between Tiruchirappalli and Thiruvarur is 104 km. The road distance is 115.2 km.
What is the Thiruvarur special for?
Thiruvarur is the birthplace of Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Syama Sastri, popularly known as the Trinity of Carnatic music of the 18th century CE. Thiruvarur Thiyagarajaa Swaamy temple is older than Tanjore big temple. Thiruvarur was a part of Thanjavur district until 1991.
Which God is in Thiruvarur temple?
Shiva temple
Thyagaraja Temple is a Shiva temple, located in the town of Thiruvarur in Tamil Nadu state, India. Shiva is worshiped in the form of a lingam as Thyagarajaswami, also known as Putridankondar. His consort Parvati is worshipped as Goddess Neelotpalambika.
Which is the nearest airport to Thiruvarur?
Tiruchirappalli International Airport is the nearest airport from Thiruvarur which is just 120 km away from the town. The airport connects the town with other major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai through daily flights.
Who born in Thiruvarur?
The triumvirate of Carnatic music, Shri Thiyagaraja Brahmam, Shri Muthuswamy Dheekshathar and Shyma Shastri were born here and this adds admiration, dignity and glory to this district. Agriculture is the principal occupation in Thiruvarur district.
Why is it called Thiruvarur?
Thiruvarur’s historic name was Arur or Aroor, which is referenced in ancient texts like the Tevaram. Thiru: The prefix “Thiru” signifies holiness and is added to temple cities revered by the verses of Tevaram. Thus, Arur became Thiruvarur.
Is Thiruvarur city or town?
Tiruvarur (a.k.a. Thiruvarur) town is the head quarters for Tiruvarur district in India, located at a distance of 58 km from Thanjavur (a.k.a. Tanjore) and 25 km from Nagappatinam. In the olden days Tiruvarur has been an important town for the Chola Kings. The famous King Manu Needhi Chola was ruling here.
Which is the largest chariot in Asia?
Tiruvarur temple car, the largest (chariot) temple car in the world, it weighing 300 tonnes (295 long tons; 331 short tons) with a height of 90 feet (27.43 m).
