At this Peelamedu shrine, the name Ashtamsa draws attention to Anjaneyar himself. It refers to eight aspects associated with blessing; it does not mean that the temple has an octagonal sanctum.
A gesture of reassurance
Devotional descriptions draw attention to the raised hand and the mace. The hand expresses reassurance, while the mace symbolises strength. Looking for these details adds meaning to darshan without requiring a long architectural tour.
A connection through worship
Accounts of the temple associate its processional images with Haridas Giri. This is a history of devotional relationships and continued worship, alongside the visual symbolism of the main image.
Seeing the image on different days
Decoration changes what stands out. Flowers may frame the image differently from another adornment, so repeat visitors do not necessarily see the shrine in the same form each time.
For a description of the iconography, see Dinamalar’s temple account. Use the Peelamedu visitor guide for the temple’s current opening sessions.