Who built Thiruchendur Murugan Temple

🔹 Who Built the thiruchendur Temple First?

📌 Thiruchendur Murugan Temple was first built by the Pandya kings in the 8th century. There is no specific particular Pandya king was given the credit, but inscriptions found has the name of Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan I (13th century) has contributed more toward the construction of tiruchendur temple. 

📌 It was originally a small stone temple.

📌 The site is considered sacred as it is believed to be where Lord Murugan defeated Surapadman.

🔹 Who Expanded the Temple Over Time?

✔ Chola Kings (9th–12th century) – Renovated some parts of the temple and improved sculptures.

✔ Nayak Kings (16th–18th century) – Built the massive 9-tier Rajagopuram, expanded the temple complex.

✔ Local Kings & Devotees – Maintained the temple and carried out renovations.

🔹 Key Features of the Temple

✔ One of the largest Murugan temples on the seashore.

✔ 9-tier Rajagopuram – 157 feet high, built by the Nayaks.

✔ Nazhik Kinaru – A sacred freshwater well near the sea, with pure drinking water.

✔ Tamilian architecture with intricate stone carvings.

🔹 Important Sections of the Temple

✅ Main Sanctum (Moolavar Sannidhi) – The primary deity of Murugan.

✅ Maha Mandapam – A large prayer hall for devotees.

✅ Udaya Marthanda Entrance – The main entrance of the temple.

✅ Rajagopuram – 9-tier tower with magnificent carvings.

✅ Nazhik Kinaru – Sacred freshwater well, considered highly auspicious.

🔹 Who Maintains the Temple?

✔ Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department – Handles temple administration.

✔ Devotees & Charitable Trusts – Support temple renovation, food donations, and Kumbabishekam ceremonies.

📜 Legends Related to the Temple

1️⃣ Murugan & Surapadman Battle

📌 Lord Murugan is believed to have defeated Surapadman at this site.

📌 As a result, Thiruchendur is celebrated as the place of Murugan’s victory.

2️⃣ Indra’s Worship

📌 Indra, the king of Devas, is said to have worshipped Murugan here.

📌 The temple has a special area called Indra Vimana, dedicated to this legend.

🌟 Unique Facts About the Temple

✔ One of the largest seashore Murugan temples in the world.

✔ Maha Kumbabishekam (temple renovation ceremony) is conducted once every 12 years.

✔ Major festivals like Thirukarthigai, Soorasamharam, and Masi Festival are celebrated grandly every year.

📌 Finally 

🔹 Thiruchendur Murugan Temple was initially built by Pandya kings and later expanded by Cholas, Nayaks, and local rulers.

🔹 It is considered the sacred site where Murugan defeated Surapadman.

🔹 A rare temple built on the seashore, standing strong for centuries.

🔹 The temple represents the faith of devotees and the richness of Tamil culture.