1,000-year-old poet’s memorial lies in ruins

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The 1,000-year-old Ottakoothar memorial in the pilgrimage town of Kumbakonam is in a shambles. The temple premises have been encroached upon by the locals and it is facing destruction.

Ottakoothar - a popular Tamil poet of the 12th century and cotemporary of Avvaiyar and Kambar - had penned immortal classics like Thakkayagaparani and Uthirakandam of Ramayanam. He was the official court poet (avai pulavar) for three generations - Vikrama Chola, Raja Raja-II and Kulothunga Chola.

According to literature available with Tamil Virtual University, poet Ottakoothar was rewarded with 1,000 gold coins by king Raja Rajan for his songs. And he was blessed by goddess Saraswathi, the goddess of wisdom.

Ottakoothar earned the title of Kavichakravarthy for his majestic works. His jeeva samadhi was built by the Chola kings to enlighten future generations. Presently, the temple is managed by Veera Saiva madam of Kumbakonam.

Explaining the pathetic condition of the Ottakoothar memorial, its honorary manager N. Paneerselvam said, “Earlier, the temple was surrounded by 3 acre of open space. But, now, over 300 families have occupied the space. The encroachments have to been cleared to stop further deterioration. All the four walls of this temple have been damaged and need immediate restoration. We do not have enough funds now. We depend on donations and spend only for indispensable needs. We need at least `10 lakh to repair the rajagopuram of this temple,” he added.

Mr S.M. Tamil Selvam, who works for restoration of Tamil temples, said this samadhi was not popularised among tourists.

“The first prakara of the temple is completely encroached upon and looks like a busy road. Not many in Kumbakonam are aware of this historical place. We need to step in immediately to preserve this temple,” he said.