Exploring the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple: A Historical Overview

Uchi Pillaiyar Temple: Latest News

The Tamil Nadu government recently informed the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court that the deepam (lamp) was lit at the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple mandapam in Thirupparankundram hill during Karthigai Deepam this year, continuing a tradition that has been observed for over 150 years.

About Uchi Pillaiyar Temple

The Uchi Pillaiyar Temple, often referred to as the Rockfort Temple, is situated atop Rockfort Hill in Trichy, Tamil Nadu. This remarkable structure, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, dates back to the 7th century CE. Standing at a height of 83 metres (272 ft), it is perched on a granite rock, which is estimated to be over 3.8 billion years old, making it one of the oldest rock formations in the world.

In contrast, the Himalayas are significantly younger, having formed only around 50 million years ago due to the collision of the Indian tectonic plate with the Eurasian plate. The smooth rock of Rockfort Hill was initially cut by the Pallavas, but it was the Nayaks of Madurai who completed the temple structures under the Vijayanagara empire.

Temple Complex

There are three notable temples located closely on Rockfort Hill:

• Maanikka Vinayakar Temple: Situated at the foothill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
• Uchi Pillaiyar Temple: Positioned at the top of the hill, it is also dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
• Thayumanaswamy Temple: Located near the base of Rockfort, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is on the path to the Uchchi Pillayar Temple.

The Rockfort Temple offers an aerial view of the entire Trichy City along with the Srirangam Temple, the River Kaveri, and the River Kollidam, making it a picturesque spot for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Karthigai Deepam at Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
Answer: Karthigai Deepam is a significant festival in Tamil Nadu, and lighting the deepam at Uchi Pillaiyar Temple symbolizes the temple's rich tradition and devotion to Lord Ganesha.

Q2. How old is the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
Answer: The Uchi Pillaiyar Temple dates back to the 7th century CE, making it an ancient and historically significant site in Tamil Nadu.

Q3. What can visitors see from Rockfort Temple?
Answer: Visitors to the Rockfort Temple can enjoy panoramic views of Trichy City, the Srirangam Temple, and the rivers Kaveri and Kollidam.

Q4. Who constructed the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
Answer: The temple was initially cut by the Pallavas, but it was the Nayaks of Madurai who completed its construction during the Vijayanagara empire.

Q5. What is the primary deity of Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
Answer: The primary deity of the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple is Lord Ganesha, who is revered for wisdom and removing obstacles.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: In which Indian state is the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple located?
A) Karnataka
B) Andhra Pradesh
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Kerala
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: Which festival is celebrated at Uchi Pillaiyar Temple with the lighting of the deepam?
A) Pongal
B) Diwali
C) Karthigai Deepam
D) Navratri
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What is the height of the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
A) 100 ft
B) 272 ft
C) 150 ft
D) 200 ft
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which dynasty initially cut the rock for the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
A) Chola
B) Pallava
C) Gupta
D) Maurya
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is the primary deity worshipped at the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
A) Lord Shiva
B) Lord Vishnu
C) Lord Ganesha
D) Goddess Durga
Correct Answer: C

Question 6: Which empire completed the construction of the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple?
A) Mughal Empire
B) Vijayanagara Empire
C) Maurya Empire
D) Gupta Empire
Correct Answer: B