Indo Islamic Heritage
The Nearest Bus Stand is the Kaliyavur Bus Stop, situated at 0.5 km, the Nearest Railway Station is the Seydunganallur Railway Station (SDNR), situated at 12 km, and the Nearest Airport is the Thoothukudi Airport (Vagaikulam - TCR), situated at 16 km from the mosque.
The Eithka Thidal (also known as the Kaliyavur Eidgah) is a significant open-air religious ground located in the village of Kaliyavur, within the Srivaikuntam taluk of the Thoothukudi district. Unlike a typical daily mosque, an Eidgah (or Thidal in Tamil) is a large, consecrated space specifically designated for the massive congregational prayers held during the two major Islamic festivals: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Historical and Religious Significance Communal Prayer Hub: The Eithka Thidal serves as the primary gathering point for the Muslim communities of Kaliyavur and several surrounding agricultural hamlets. It provides the necessary space for thousands of worshippers to pray together in a single congregation, a practice that emphasises Islamic unity and equality. Establishment: The current demarcated grounds of the Eithka Thidal were formally established and enclosed in 1984. Before its formal enclosure, the site was used traditionally as an open prayer field by the local Jamath for generations. Sunni Tradition: Following the Ahlus Sunnat Wal Jama'at tradition, the Thidal is managed by the local village mosque committee. The Eid sermons are delivered in Tamil, focusing on themes of sacrifice, charity, and social brotherhood, which are central to the region's agrarian lifestyle. Social Connectivity: Beyond its religious use twice a year, the Thidal often serves as a venue for significant community meetings and social welfare programs organised by the local Jamath, acting as a civic anchor for the village. Location and Connectivity: The Thidal is situated on the outskirts of Kaliyavur, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Thamirabarani river basin. Qibla Wall (Mehrab): The grounds feature a permanent, elevated Qibla wall with an ornate central arch (Mehrab), allowing the congregation to orient themselves toward Mecca. Open-Air Design: In keeping with the prophetic tradition for Eid prayers, the space is entirely open to the sky, surrounded by low boundary walls to maintain the sanctity of the prayer area. Strategic Access: Located near the arterial roads connecting Tirunelveli and Srivaikuntam, it is easily accessible for residents of neighbouring villages like Maruthur and Vadavallanadu who travel to Kaliyavur for festival prayers.
Year of Built: 1984
Address: Near Main Road, Kaliyavur, Srivaikuntam Taluk
Country: India
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Thoothukudi
Pincode: 627351
Longitude: 77.82381642888706
Latitude: 8.761428526285021