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This temple town is famous for its musical pillars and huge Hanuman
statue. The Thanumalayan temple is dedicated to the Lords Siva, Vishnu and Brahma and is a repository of art treasures. This
temple, at suchindram, is noted for its 'musical' columns and its impressive 3 m tall statue of Hanuman, the monkey god. Musical
pillars and huge Hanuman Statue are the proof of the artistic skill of the time. Two chief attractions are the gigantic Hanuman
and Vainayaki (Female Vinayaka) relief carving. Thanumalayan temple is dedicated to a deity who is the representation of the
combined forces of Siva, Vishnu and Brahma. The temple has a beautiful gopuram and inscriptions of the 9th century are found
in this temple. Lord Siva started from this place to wed Kanyakumari Amman, but returned when he heard the cockcrow
Interesting story
Sage Atri lived here with his wife Anasuya, who was considered a chaste woman. Lords
Siva, Vishnu and Brahma visited her once in the absence of her husband to test and prove her chastity to the world. They came
as sanyasis asking alms and bade Anasuya to feed them, but without any dress. But Anasuya was not baffled and she just prayed
to her husband and transformed the Lords into three small babies and fed them. As a result, Siva, Vishnu and Brahma are worshipped
here.
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