Consider the following statements about Alagar Temple: The Alagar Temp...
Statement Analysis
- Statement 1: Incorrect
- It is also known by the name Azhagar Kovil and is one of the prominent temples situated at the foothills of Alagar hills in the state of Tamil Nadu.
- It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its intricate sculpting and mandapams.
- Statement 2: Correct
- It was mentioned in epics such as Silappathikaram.
- Alvars like Thirumangai Alvar, Peri Alvar, Nammalvar, Bhoothathalvar, Peyalwar, and Andal have also mentioned the glorious history of the shrine in their songs.
- There are also inscriptions dating back to King Ashoka's rule. It is said that great Jain monk Ajjanandi had resided here along with his disciples.
- This temple has a prominent place during the Pandyan reign.
- It was during the rule of King Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan (1251-1270 A.D) that the vimana of the temple’s sanctum sanctorum was beautified with gold plates.
- The massive tower seen at the entrance of the temple was also built during the reign of the Pandyan kingdom.
- Statement 3: Correct
- King Thirumalai Naickar of the Nayaka dynasty also added many artistic features to this temple during his reign.
- The kalyan mandapam of the temple especially showcases Nayaka art.
- The Nayaka paintings depict episodes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana and also scenes from Krishna-Leela. The Nayaks marked the golden period of Madurai when art, architecture, and learning flourished expansively.
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Consider the following statements about Alagar Temple: The Alagar Temp...
Overview of Alagar Temple
The Alagar Temple, located at the foothills of the Alagar hills in Tamil Nadu, is a significant religious site with a rich history and cultural importance.
Correctness of the Statements
- Statement 1: Alagar Temple is dedicated to Buddha.
- This statement is incorrect. The Alagar Temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Vishnu, not Buddha. It is known for its Vaishnavite traditions.
- Statement 2: Alagar Temple is mentioned in the great epic Silappathikaram.
- This statement is correct. The Alagar Temple is indeed referenced in the Tamil epic Silappathikaram, highlighting its cultural relevance in Tamil literature.
- Statement 3: The kalyan mandapam of the temple showcases Nayaka art.
- This statement is also correct. The kalyan mandapam, which is the marriage hall of the temple, features exquisite Nayaka art, a distinctive style that flourished during the Nayak dynasty in South India.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis:
- Only two statements are correct: the second and the third. Therefore, the answer is option 'B' - only two statements are correct.
This underscores the importance of verifying historical and cultural claims to understand the true essence of temples like Alagar.