Among many Hindu temples in Tamil Nadu, the Koovagam Koothandavar Temple is a must visit temple. This temple is located in a village known as Ulurndhurpettai, in the district of Villupuram. This temple is dedicated to Iravan- Koothandavar. Koovagam Koothandavar Temple is very famous for the annual festivals that are celebrated for fifteen days in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May) by Transgender and Transvestite individuals. This strange festival of Tamil Nadu invitees thousands of transgender across India to part take in the celebration. The temple is a house for various deities such as Koothandavar, Hanuman and Mohini. According to legends, Aravan, the hero of the Mahabharata (who later became the Tamil god Koothandavar), who marries Mohini before is self- sacrifice. Hence the participants marry and the next day, they mourn the death of him by performing dances and breaking bracelets. There are many interesting competitions too such as beauty contests and singing contests held during this festival.

History of Koovagam Koothandavar Temple

The history of Koothandavar Temple dates back to the Mahabharata war period. Legends suggest that, if the Pandavas wanted to win the Kurushetra war, it was mandatory to sacrifice a life before the war. Lord Krishna, Arjuna and Arjuna's son Aravan were such qualified persons. But Krishna and Arjuna are very important for war. Thus they decided to sacrifice Aravan. Aravan accepted this request. But before sacrificing himself, he made three demands that he should marry a woman and engage in domestic life for just one day, even if he sacrifices himself, he should see the Kurushetra war, and build a temple in the earth to worship him. It is believed that construction of the Koothandavar temple was initiated during the 11 century during the Chola Dynasty.

Speciality of Koovagam Koothandavar Temple

The Specialty of Koovagam Koothandavar Temple lies in the world-famous Transgender festival that will be held during the Tamil Month of Chithirai (April – May) for fifteen days.

Visiting time – 7.00 AM – 10.00 AM, 5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Dress code

There are no strict dress code followed to visit this temple. But it is suggested to dress modestly but avoiding more skin revealing attires.

How to reach Koovagam Koothandavar Temple ?

By Air – Pondicherry airport is the nearest to reach Koovagam Koothandavar Temple covering 79 km.

By Train – Villupuram railway station is the nearest junction to reach Koovagam Koothandavar Temple covering 34 km.

By Road - All road ways in Tamil Nadu are well- connected to reach Villupuram through NH 45, NH208, NH79, NH136, NH32, NH532 and NH234

FAQ

1. Who is Aravan?

Aravan is the son of King Arjuna.

2. What is Koovagam festival?

Koovagam festival is a world famous transgender festival that falls in the Tamil month of Chithirai.

3. What is the date of Koovagam festival?

Koovagam festival falls on Mid-April – Mid-May

4. Can public participate in Koovagam festival?

Public participate in Koovagam festival is generally limited as this is an exclusive festival for Transgender community

5. Where is Koothandavar temple exactly located?

Koothandavar temple exactly located in Ulundhurpettai Taluk in Kallakurichi district.