MADHANAGOPALASWAMY TEMPLE, MADURAI
Legend is that Before ascending the throne in Madurai as King Sundara Pandiya , Shiva performed Puja to a Linga. The temple where Shiva did puja to himself is Immayilum Nanmai tharuvar temple. He plunged deep in meditation. The heat and the flames came from his body began to burn the world. In order to save the world and bring Shiva out of meditation Vishnu appeared in his Krishna form and began playing his flute so melodiously that penetrated into the ears of Shiva awaking him. Pleased Shiva asked Vishnu to be with him playing the flute. Vishnu accepted and stayed here with Bhama and Rukmini in the name of Lord Madanagopala Swami, with his right leg pressing on the ground symbolising Vishwaroopa. He holds Shanka and chakra in his two back hands and holds the flute with the other two hands. This temple is next to Immayilum Nanmai tharuvar temple, Madurai. Madhana Gopala Swamy Temple was built in 16th century A.D. The mukha mandap pillars around 60 numbers...