Famous Temples in India

Religious Significance

As per Hindu legend, there was a demon by name Vallan who was troubling the Devas, the celestial deities. The Devas sought the help of Murugan. He informed them that the time had come to destroy the demon. He eventually waged a war and slayed the demon at the place. He established the place as Vallan Kottai, literally meaning the Fort of Vallan. As per another legend, a king by name Bhagiratha was ruling the Elanji kingdom. He was very haughty to sage Naradha and to teach him a lesson for his behaviour, Naradha infuriated a demon king named Goran to attack Elanji kingdom. Goran was a powerful demon and he made a sudden attack. Bhagiratha was unable to control the forces and eventually lost the battle to Goran. Realizing his mistake, he sought the advice of Naradha. The sage advised him to find sage Durvasa, who could find a resolution. The king roamed around the forest for a long time and finally found Durvasa. The sage advised him to worship Murugan at Vallakottai to get back his kingdom. The king worshipped Murugan at this place for a long time and built the temple. The demon tortured the Devas who complained to Muruga. The Lord killed the demon and restored peace and prosperity to this place. Vallakottai temple is revered in Thirupugazh composed by Arunagirinathar, a 15th-century saint. The temple is revered in eight verses by the saint. As per a legend, the saint worshipped Murugan at Thiruporur temple and was on his way to Thiruthani Murugan Temple. During his sleep, a divine voice directed him to go to Vallakottai temple. He woke up to realize it was the order of Murugan and he visited the temple. The temple is considered equal in importance to the Arupadaiveedu, the six abodes of Murugan.