MADURAI  - THUNDRU VINAYAKAR TEMPLE 

This veritable Harihara kshetra houses several temples built for every denomination of gods of not only Hindu pantheon, but of all religions as well. And each shrine is enshrining adorables not only of its own sect, but of others, like Vaishnavate temples having niches for Saivate gods, indicating thereby the exemplary tolerance teaching the value of mutual help and peaceful co-existence. Here in the Meenakshi temple, there are icons of other sects also. Ganapathy, although is the son of Gouri and Shankar, he has his own distinct sect and Sampradaya and a following which is no inferior to Saiva Sampradaya. There are many images of Ganapathy of all sizes at very many places in the temple receiving first worship. Mention must be made of atleast two, whose place and significance are exceedingly recognised and prayers offered with great ardour thereto.

The first is the biggest Vinayakar that greets the eyes, the moment one enters the temple through the southern entrance. It is facing south and by its conspicuous huge size, it comes into view, first as one steps into the temple. As it is in the corridor leading from Meenakshi temple to Sundareswarar temple, he is worshipped invariably by one and all. Though the priest offers timely worship, almost all burn camphor and pray to him soulfully.

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