Thakkolam temple, the treasure trove of Tamil history, in derelict

Jalanatheswarar temple in Thakkolam, a historic site in disrepair, awaits restoration to preserve Chola heritage.

The Jalanatheswarar temple at Thakkolam in Ranipet district, a treasure trove of Tamil history, particularly the reign of Cholas, is in bad shape.

The outer wall on the northern side of the temple, situated on the banks of Kosasthalai river, has collapsed and the temple tank is in a state of derelict. The area around the tank is overgrown with vegetation and filled with debris. The entire wall would crumble if steps were not taken to restore the 6th century temple, constructed by Pallavas. The last time the kumbabishekam (consecration) held was more than 15 years ago.

“The wall was destroyed in the rain. We have taken the steps to perform kumbabishekam and are waiting for the approval from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department,” said S. Nagarajan, chairman of Thakkolam Town Panchayat.

Thakkolam is in news after the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) renamed its Recruits Training Centre (RTC) in Arakkonam as Rajaditya Chola RTC, Thakkolam in memory of the Chola prince killed in a battle against the Rashtrakudas in 949 CE. Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the function on March 7, 2025.

“The original name of Thakkolam is Thiruvural and the hymns of Saivite Minstrels in praise of the presiding deity refer to the town as Thiruvural. A total of 51 inscriptions including Pallava king Aparajita are found in the temple and they also refer to the town as Thiruvural, said R. Kalaikovan, founder, Dr M. Rajamanickanar Centre for Historical Research.

He said it was during the reign of Chalukya king Vimaladitya, who married Kundavai, the daughter of Rajaraja, the town assumed the name, “Thakkolamana Thiruvuralpuram”.

Most of the inscriptions talk about grants, land, gold and goats, given to the temple.