NAGULESHWARAN Hindu temple in Keeramalai, Jaffna which remained closed for public for more than thirty years was re-opened again on 15th December 2009 for offerings and rites and rituals as the peace has now dawned into the Jaffna peninsula following eradication of terrorism from the country.
This Hindu temple, situated inside the High Security Zone (HSZ) in Palaly, close to the beach is of historic value in Hindu tradition. The fact that it had been made of a rare variety of black granite adds a special significance to the pantheon of gods in Hindu belief. The largest “Shivalinga” statue in the country is also housed inside this sacred place with 100 other smaller ones. This temple covers an area of about 50,000 sq ft.
The road patch between Sendikulam and Keeramalai has been now kept open for devotees to attend to religious performances. Minister Douglas Devananda declared the road opened during a special brief ceremony attended by District Secretary for Jaffna K. Ganesh, Brigadier B.C.J.F. Rodrigo Brigadier, Army Quartering at Security Forces Headquarters (Jaffna) on behalf of the Jaffna Commander and several Senior Officers. Major General L.B.R. Mark, Commander Security Forces Jaffna and Major General G.A. Chandrasiri (retd), Governor for Northern Province directed the Army towards this project.
The Army also has got a special bus service organized along Senthankulam-Keeramalai-Ponnale pond from Jaffna town facilitating the devotees to attend religious ceremonies.
The history of this sacred place runs into the times of Ravana period and it has been build as a sacred place in 1842. The offerings have been made by one Sabhapathi Kurukkal, Chief Priest in 1908 and legend says that a saint in India has arrived in Keeramalai area and opened this temple afterwards. Hindus are in the practice of disposing ashes of mortals after their death after visiting this holy place, according to historical evidence. This is also well known for blessing the childless couples to have babies.
Troops gave the security and provided assistance needed for the pilgrims who attended the Poojas.
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