A Splendid Shrine to Nothingness
Eastern philosophies generally spiral down to the principle of Nothingness. Matter does not matter. It is all about the Inner Space, Chit-Akasha, Nirvana, Shunya , Formlessness , in whatever way it is understood . Yet , Faith has inspired humans to create wonderous monumental art forms dedicated to that Formless, which is yet given a Form as a crutch to meditate upon till the mind finally evolves to attain the desired No-Form state of Bliss. During Medieval times, remarkable stone temples were built right , left and center in South India for grand Icons that have continued to hold undiminished sway over the populace to this day . In the midst of all that , someone came up with the idea of enshrining the Formless , as formless. A superb and lavish monument was built, a pedestal ( avudai)was consecrated in the Sanctum, above which was ....nothing. Fittingly, the Lord is called Atma-natha-swami . Avudayarkoil , also known as Thiru Perunthurai and Kokazhi , is unique in many ways.