Kumbakonam Famous Temples & Parihara Sthalangal
Kottaiyur Kodeeswarar Temple - திருக்கொட்டையூர் கோடீஸ்வரன் கோவில்
Kottaiyur Kodeeswarar Temple:
Kottaiyur Kodeeswarar Temple dedicated to Shiva, located in Kottaiyur around one km from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
Shiva is worshipped as Koteeswarar and his consort Parvathi as Pandhadu Nayaki. Koteeswarar is revered in the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanmars and classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam, the 276 temples revered in the canon.
This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 44th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
Mother Goddess Pandhadu Nayaki (Goddess playing with a ball) is so named as She is tossing a ball under Her feet, indicating that She would toss the sufferings of Her devotees as that of a ball.
Sri Unnathapurieeswar (உன்னதபுரிஸ்வரர் ஆலயம்)
Sri Unnathapurieeswar (உன்னதபுரிஸ்வரர் ஆலயம்),
Sri Unnathapurieeswar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Eraharam around one km from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
Sri Unnathapurieeswar Swami, who is blessed with Sri Sivapiriya Ambigai, who gives a noble life in a place surrounded by natural beauty, is reaching the northern side of the Kumbakonam Temple city where Lord Kumara God resides as Swaminathan and in the south side place called Eraharam “Sri Unnathapurieeswar Swami” resides. It is believed that by worshiping Lord SHIVA here with love, everything in life will be fulfilled without any hindrance.
அகிலம் எங்கும் அருளாட்சி செய்து வரும் பரம்பொருள் பல்வேறு திரு உருக்கொண்டு அருளும் திருக்குடந்தை மாநகருக்கு வட பாலும் சுவாமிநாதனாக குமர கடவுள் குடி கொண்டுள்ள திரு வேரகரத்திற்கு தென்பாலும் இயற்கை எழில் சூழ்ந்த இடத்தில் உன்னத வாழ்வளிக்கும் ஸ்ரீ சிவப்பிரியா அம்பிகை உடனாகிய ஸ்ரீ உன்னதபுரீஸ்வரர் சுவாமி அருள் புரிந்து வருகிறார்.
Sri Sankari Samedha Skandanadha Swamy temple - ஶ்ரீ சங்கரி சமேத கந்தநாத சாமி
AADHI SKANDANADHA SWAMY TEMPLE
Sankari Samedha Aadi Skandanadha Swamy Temple Story
Aadi Skandanadha Swamy Temple , dedicated to Lord Muruga, located in Eraharam, Kumbakonam and around Two and half km from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
When the asuras disturbed the penance of the sages, they prayed to Lord Shiva . Then Shiva called Kandan and asked him to guard the sages and also gave him an astra and blessed him to set up a place where it would be offered. The place where Muruga’s astra fell on the earth is called Erakam.
The Lord Muruga to guard the sages and Devargal (Gods) came down to this world in a peacock vehicle, worshiped Lord Shiva and prayed for Pasupadastra and got the vel (divine javelin) from Sikkal by Lord Ammai and performed samkara in Tiruchendur and returned to Erakam. On their return, the Devas were delighted and wore with golden Crown. Therefore here, Lord Muruga is blessing Ponmudi appearance for devotees. Then the incident of preaching took place here. Lord Shiva, got the name Kanda Natha Swami because he received upadesha from Kandan. Kandan was also known as Swaminathan because he preached to Swami. Ammai was also known as Sankara Nayaki because she received instruction (upadesha) from Sankaran.
This temple was built by King Vikrama Chola. Hence this town is called Mummudich Chola Mangalam and Kumarapuram. It is believed that by worshiping Lord Muruga here with love, everything in life will be fulfilled without any hindrance.
திருவேரகம் (திரு+ ஏர்+அகம் = திருவேரகம்) இவ் ஊரின் பெயர் தேவர்களை காத்தருள முருகப்பெருமான் இப்பூவுலகில் (சிகிவாகன) மயில்வாகனத்தில் இறங்கி சிவபெருமானை பாசுபதாஸ்திரம் வேண்டி பூஜித்து சிக்கலில் அம்மையிடம் வேல் வாங்கி திருச்செந்தூரில் சம்ஹாரம் செய்து ஏரகம் திரும்புகையில் தேவர்கள் மனம் மகிழ்ந்து பொன்முடி சூட்டினார்கள், ஆதலால் இங்கு முருகப்பெருமான் பொன்முடி சேவையில் அருள் பாலிக்கிறார். பின்பு உபதேசம் செய்த நிகழ்வு இங்கு நடந்தது. கந்தனிடம் உபதேசம் பெற்றதால் (கந்தநாத சுவாமி) எனவும் சுவாமிக்கு உபதேசம் செய்தமையால் (சுவாமிநாதன்) எனவும் பெயர் பெற்றார். சங்கரனிடம் அம்மை உபதேசம் பெற்றதால் (சங்கர நாயகி) எனவும் அம்மை பெயர் பெற்றார்.
Shri Brahma Temple - வேத நாராயண பெருமாள் (பிரம்ம கோயில்)
Brahma Temple,
Located in the Kumbakonam and around Three Kms from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
Brahma Temple is a Hindu Temple mainly dedicated to Lord Vishnu colloquially known as Vedanarayanaperumal. His consort- Goddess Lakshmi enshrines the chamber next to the presiding deity, and she is known as Vedavalli. Lord Brahma occupies the shrine adjacent to the sanctum sanctorum on the right. The temple is popularly known as Brahma Temple as this is one of the only two temples dedicated to Brahma in the world. The temple presents Lord Brahma in a four face figure- the front face and the adjoining two faces are open to display; however, the back face is of a female, that can only be seen in the mirror which is veiled and can be viewed only after requesting the priest to uncover the mirror.
Lord Brahma is flanked with the idols of Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge) and Gayatri (personified form of Gayatri mantra). At the left side of the sanctum is the shrine of Lord Narasimha flanked by Sridevi and Bhoodevi. Brahma Sankalp Pooja is the most important pooja performed at the temple. Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswati are especially worshipped by parents for success and prosperity before their kids begin their education. The temple is a revered pilgrimage spot and is thronged by devotees and tourists alike.
Sri Ezhuthari Natheswarar Temple - எழுத்தறிநாதர் திருக்கோயில் - இன்னம்பூர்
Sri Ezhuthari Natheswarar Temple,
(Aaditya Hridayam Shakthi Temple – The Sun God worshiped Lord Shiva here. Innan refers to Sun.)
Located in Innambur dedicated to Lord SHIVA 4 km from Kumbakonam inn Stay.
This place’s name “Innambur” is derived from “Inan Nambia Oor” (“Inan means Suryan, “Nambia” means trusted and “Oor” means a village in Tamil).
This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 45th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
The temple is situated in a massive two acres of land, with two praharams. The Shivalingam and the entrance to the sanctum are massive. Goddess Nithyakalyani Amman representing the Kalyana Thirukkolam is to the right of Shiva. Goddess Sugandha Kundalambal Amman is in the outer praharam. The rays of the Sun fall directly on the Lord on the 13th , 14th & 15th of Tamil month Panguni(March-April). God Suryan, Chandran, Iravatham and Sage Agasthiyar have worshiped the lord here.
Moolavar – Sri Ezhuthari Natheswarar, Sri Iravatheswarar, Sri Atcharapureeswarar, Sri Thanthontreesar
Ambal – Sri Sugantha Kundhalambigai and Sri Nithya Kalyani
Legend has it that Shiva is revealed the grammar of Tamil to Agasthyar here and is also said to have submitted temple accounts to a king. Airavatam the mythological elephant is said to have worshipped Shiva here.
Worshipping here gives good education. Devotees bring their children here on Vijayadasami day and pray for their increased mental faculties.
Thiruvalanchuzhi Sri Swetha Vinayagar (vellai Vinayagar) Temple - ஸ்ரீ வெள்ளைப் பிள்ளையார் (சுவேத விநாயகர் அல்லது நுரைப்பிள்ளையார்) கோயில்
Thiruvalanchuzhi VELLAI PILLAIYAR TEMPLE
(Swetha Vinayagar Temple, Vellai Vinayagar temple, Valanchuzinathar)
Thiruvalanchuzhi known in purana as Swetha Vignesa puram is in Tamil Nadu and other nine being in North India in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.
The Swetha Vinayagar Temple ( Vellai Vinayakar) is situated in the village of Thiruvalanchuzhi six kilometres from Kumbakonam inn stay. The presiding deity is Kapardiswarar,with ambaal Brihannayaki. Though the moolavar is Kapardiswarar the importance here is for Ganesha, known as Swetha Vinayagar.
The presiding deity is revered in the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil poet saints known as the nayanars and classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. Legend has Devendra (Indira) came down to earth with Swetha Vinayaka seeking relief from the curse caused by his wrong behaviour towards Agalya. He came to this place finally after worshipping various Shiva temples. Lord Swetha Vinayaka, till then with Indira, wished to stay in this place for ever and prayed to Lord Shiva for the purpose. Lord Shiva came before Indira as a little boy. Indira asked the boy to keep his Vinayaka till he came back after worshipping Lord Shiva.
The boy simply put the Vinayaka on the floor and disappeared. Indira could not find either the boy or his Vinayaka. He finally found his Vinayaka under the Bali Peeta in the temple but could not lift despite all his efforts. Indira brought Deva Shilpi (sculptor of great skills), made a Rath – car covering the surroundings of the Bali Peeta and tried to pull Vinayaka to his place, but in vain. A voice said that if Indira worships Vinayaka in this place on each Vinayaka Chaturthi day (occurring in August-September), he would reap the benefit of worshipping Him each day. It is believed that Indira visits the temple on each Vinayaka Chaturthi to worship Lord Swetha Vinayak.There is a separate shrine for Heranda maharishi. Many sages and Devas attended a yagna conducted by Durvasa maharishi and each one has installed their lingams here. There are about 20 of those lingams present in the outer praharam, some of which have square avudayar.
One another important deity of this temple is AshtaBhuja(one who has eight hands) Kali. It is believed that the great king Rajaraja Chozha Worshipped this Kali devi before all his Wars and gained victory in all his ventures. Hence, believed to be more powerful.
Thirupurambiyam "PRALAYAM KAATHA VINAYAGAR TEMPLE" - பிரளயம் காத்த விநாயகர் ஆலயம்
Thirupurambiam “PRALAYAMKATHA VINAYAGAR TEMPLE”
This Shiva temple is situated in Thirupurambiyam, Kumbakonam and around seven kilometres from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
“Sri Satchinathar” 64th “Thiruvilaiyadal” of Lord Shiva (as he witnessed). The place is sung in the Thevaram hymns of Thirugnanasambandar, Sundarar and Thirunavukkarasar. The temple theertham are known as Brahma Theertham, Saptha Sahara Theertham, River Manniyaru and River Kollidam. Agathiyar, Pulasthiyar, Sanahar, Sanandhanar and Viswamithrar are said to have worshipped here Lord Siva and got grace.
The Presiding deities are God Sri Satchinatheswarar / Sri Punnaivana Nathar and Goddess Sri Karumpadu Solliammai / Sri Ishuvaani. one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 46th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai) and 64th “Thiruvilaiyadal” of Lord Shiva occurred here. This is one of the 24 significant temples for Lord Dakshinamoorthy.
In the temple Lord Ganesha who is worshipped as Sri Pralayamkatha Vinayagar.
Sthala Purana: On the finish of each “yuga”, tremendous flood will take place which destroys all living creatures on the earth. This is known as the “Pralayam”. During the finish of the “Krutha yuga”, on the guidance of Lord Shiva, Vinayakar of this temple saved this spot by redirecting the water of seven oceans into this temple’s well. This well is known as the “Saptha Sagara Koobam” (“seven ocean well”) and it is situated on the eastern bank of this temple’s tank. Thus the Vinayakar here is named as “Pralayam Katha Vinayakar”. This spot gets the name Thiru Purambayam as it was not influenced by the Pralayam (“puram” signifies exception and “payas” signifies water in Tamil).
The Vinayakar Icon in this temple has been made by Lord Varuna (the divine force of water) utilizing froth and shells from the ocean. No abhisheka is performed to this Vinayakar besides on the Vinayaka Chathurthi day. On this day, Abhishek is performed to him for the whole night with honey and All the poured honey gets completely assimilated.
On the night before Ganesha’s Chathurthi day, a special abishekam is being performed for this Ganesha idol only with honey. This (Thenabishekam) abishekam with honey is performed all through the night. During the abishekam it is a wonderful experience to watch that all the honey that is being poured on the idol is being drawn into the idol. At the end of the abishekam the Ganesha deity turns a crimson color. No abishekam is performed during the rest of the year. Hence in order to save the world from destructions and protect, Astroved is performing the Ganesha Chathurthi day in this temple.
There is a deep inner meaning behind this absorption of honey. Lord Ganesh absorbs all the falsehood that is in people and burns it up. This is the inner meaning, and it is worthy of deep meditation.
Sri Gnanambiga Sametha Sri Thenupureeswarar Thirukovil (Thiru Patteeswaram) - தேனுபுரீஸ்வரர் கோவில், பட்டீஸ்வரம்
Sri Gnanambiga Sametha Sri Thenupureeswarar Thirukovil (Thiru Patteeswaram)
Patteswaram Durga Temple is located in Patteswaram town that is only around Eight km from Kumbakonam inn stay.
This temple is very big and is spread over a sprawling 4.4 acre temple campus. This place was once called Pazhayarai and it was the capital of the Chola Kingdom. This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 23rd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). This temple is very famous for Goddess Durgai and is popularly known as Durgai Amman temple. Sri Durga (also called Shanta Swarupi, Vishnu Durga, Durga Lakshmi, Navasakthinayaki, Navayoganayaki and Navarathri Nayaki) in this temple has been installed by Cholas.
According to the legend, divine cow Kamadhenu’s daughter Patti is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here and hence this sthalam is called as Patteeswaram. Sage Viswamitra got the title of Brahma rishi at this Sthalam. Sri Rama is said to have worshipped Shiva at this sthalam to absolve himself of the Chaayadosham which he got by killing Vaali. Shiva is said to have blessed Sambandar by sending through his Shivaganas an umbrella made with pearls (Muthu Pandal), to protect him from the scorching summer sun when he was coming to Patteeswaram. It is said that God Shiva asked Nandi to move aside so that he can see Sambandar while he was coming to this temple to have darshan of Lord Shiva. Hence, the Nandi in this temple is not in a straight line facing the sanctum sanctorum. This is a “Pancha Nandhi kshetram”. All the 5 Nandhis here are not seen in their usual place but are shifted a bit to the side.
The well called Koti Theertham in Dhenupureeswarar Temple is said to have been created by Lord Rama. The well is considered to be equivalent to Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram. Dhenupureeswarar Temple attracts devotees who have the negative effects of the snake planets Rahu and Kethu.
SRI VEERA SUDARSHANA CHAKRA ANJANEYAR TEMPLE, (சுதர்ஷன சக்கரத்துடன் காட்சியளிக்கும் அபூர்வ ஹனுமான்)
SRI VEERA SUDARSHANA CHAKRA ANJANEYAR TEMPLE,
(சுதர்ஷன சக்கரத்துடன் காட்சியளிக்கும் அபூர்வ ஹனுமான்)
This VEERA SUDARSHANA CHAKRA ANJANEYAR TEMPLE is situated in Adhanoor and around Eight kilometres from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
Sri Anjaneya is facing east and seen walking north. The deity is about seven feet tall and is a fully sculptured figure. The first thing that attracts the attention is the tail of the Lord seen above the head in a coiled form. In the centre of the coil one could see a chakra with twelve petals. Anjaneyar has his tail above his head in 3 concentric circles.
The outermost one has 27 partitions, middle one 12 and innermost 9 partitions. The 27 partitions represent 27 nakshatras , then likewise 12 Raasi and 9 planets.
Devotees can get relief from the adverse effects of planets by worshiping SRI VEERA SUDARSHANA CHAKRA ANJANEYAR here.
Valvil Ramar Temple, Thiru Pullaboothangudi (Pithru Saabha Nivarthi) - புள்ளபூதங்குடி வல்வில் ராமர் கோயில்
Valvil Ramar Temple, Thiru Pullaboothangudi
(Pithru Saabha Nivarthi)
Tirupullam Boothangudi is a village near Kumbakonam and around Ten kilometres from kumbakonam inn stay. It is considered as the 10th Divya Desam temple. Lord Ram is found in the reclining posture. This is the only temple where Raama is in a reclining posture with all his ornaments and 4 hands. It is considered as a Budha Parihara Sthalam. The temple was built by the Cholas.
The Moolavar of Sri Valvil Ramar Perumal Temple is Sri Valvil Raman. Moolavar in Kidantha kolam in Bujanga Sayanam facing East direction. Prathyaksham for Chakravarthy Thirumangan Ramar and Raja Kruthra. Utsava Moorthy gives seva Valvil Raman has four hands (Chathur Bhujan) along with Sangu and Chakram. Thayaar is Potramaraiyaal (Hemambujavalli). She has her own seperate sannadhi.
As per the legend, Sri Ramar born and brought up as an ordinary human being met Lord Parasuramar (Previous avathaar). After performing the rituals for “Jatayu”, who tried to save Goddess Sita, Sri Ramar took rest. This temple reflects the position of Moolavar as though taking rest. As Goddess Sita Devi was not present, Sri Ramar did all the rituals along with Bhoomi Devi. So Bhoomi Piratti is in a sitting posture along with Moolavar Sri Valvil Ramar. Also there is a separate temple for Bhoomi Devi Natchiar in this temple. The name of Thayar is “Potramarayal”.
Kiruthrajan was doing meditation (tapas) here at Thirupulla Bhothangudi keeping Lord Vishnu in his heart and mind. Lord Vishnu was very much impressed upon his tapas and gave Dharshan as Valvil Raman in Bujangha Sayanam. Since, the Theertham which purified Kiruthrarajan, the theertham here is called “Kiruthra theertham”.
Another sub-shrine in the prakara is dedicated to Yoga Narasimha, who is very popular in this temple. Many devotees are believed to have got employment after visiting Yoga Narasimha Sannidhi at this temple, so much so that the devotees have named it the Udyoga Narasimha. This is a Parikara Sthalam dedicated to Buthan (Mercury)
Thiruvijayamangai, VIJAYANATHAR TEMPLE - விஜயநாதேஸ்வரர் திருக்கோயில் - திருவிஜயமங்கை
Thiruvijayamangai, VIJAYANATHAR TEMPLE,
Govanthaputhur is a village near Kumbakonam and around Ten kilometres from kumbakonam inn stay.
This is the 101st Thevaram Paadal petra Shiva Sthalam and 47th Sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Since Thirugnanasambandar and Thirunavukkarasu Swamikal has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple, the original temple might have existed before 7th Century. Lord Shiva was called as Vijayamangalamudaya Mahadevar, Vijayamangalathu Mahadevar, Vijayamangalamudaya Paramasamy.
As per the legend, The place obtained the name as Vijayamangai since Arjuna also called as Vijayan worshiped Lord Shiva of this temple, hence called as Vijayamangai.
The Legend is associated with Arjuna to get the Pasupata astra from Lord Shiva. As per the legend Arjuna did a penance on Lord Shiva to get the Pasupata Astra to win over the Duryodhana in the war. Duryodhana sent Mukasura in the form of a pig to disturb Arjuna’s penance. In the mean time Lord Shiva and Parvati took the form of Hunter and came to the forest. On seeing the Pig both shoot the pig with arrow. Both Lord Shiva and Arjuna claimed that their arrow only killed the Pig, This leads a tussle between them. Arjuna’s bow was broken. Angered Arjuna hit Lord Shiva with his bow. This blow was felt by all the lokas. Arjuna realised his mistake and prayed Lord Shiva to pardon him. Lord Shiva pardoned Arjuna and blessed him with pasupata astra. The scar can be seen on moolavar.
When Appar came to worship at this temple, the Kollidam river was in spate, and so Appar sang his pathigam from the banks of the river itself. Vinayakar and Murugan wished to listen to the pathigam, and turned south to face the saint. They are depicted facing south, in the temple. Arunagirinathar has sung about Murugan in this temple, in his Tiruppugazh.
This temple is a prarthana sthalam for success in all kinds of endeavours, including education, business work and all betterment in life.
Ayyavadi Maha Pratyangira Devi Temple - அய்யாவாடி பிரத்தியங்கிரா தேவி கோயில்
Ayyavadi, PRATHYANGIRA DEVI TEMPLE,
Ayyavadi (Aivar Padi) is a village near Kumbakonam and around Ten kilometres from kumbakonam inn stay.
Devi Pratyangira is the Goddess associated with eternal energy. She is manifest with a lion’s face and a human body. This combination of lion and human forms is said to represent the balance of good and evil.
Sri Pratyangira Devi is seated on a chariot with 4 lions. Devi Lakshmi and Devi Saraswathi are also present on either side. This is the oldest Temple for Devi Prathiyangira. And is the only Temple mentioned in the Vedas and the Agama Shastras. No Archana or Abhishekam is performed at this Temple. The Devi is Lion Faced, having 18 hands armed with weapons.
According to Hindu mythology, the anger and fury of Lord Narasimha could not be stopped after He killed King Hiranyakashipu. To calm Him down with the power of compassion, Lord Shiva took the ferocious form of Lord Sarabeshwarar. With Sri Pratyangira Devi, and Sri Soolini Durga seated on His wings, Lord Sarabeshwarar was able to calm down the anger of Lord Narasimha.
Homams are conducted every full moon day and No moon day, after which huge volumes of Red Chillies are offered to the Goddess. This temple is surrounded by Maayanams (Cremation grounds) in all 8 directions. The location is perhaps apt, for the Devi is known to be effective in warding off evil, especially witchcraft.
According to legends, the 5 Pandavas visited this place, kept their weapons under a tree, worshipped Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi and went around in the forests. As the five Pandavas worshipped here, it is beleived that the place was called as Aivar Padi which later changed as Ayyavadi. In Ramayana, Indrajit, son of Ravana performed a Yaga called “Nigumbalai Yagam”, worshipping Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi. It is beleived that from this Ayyavadi he performed the Yaga. If he had completed the Yaga successfully, he would have got the powers to kill Rama.
But somehow it was spoiled by Lakshmana and Anjaneya before completion. Here the Devi is seated on the chariot with 4 lions, 8 arms with weapons possessing Lion’s face.
Sri Maha Prathyangira Devi’s worship will take away all evil forces and unsolvable problems from one’s life. An interesting thing about this temple is the Sthala Vriksham – the sacred tree, which is a banyan, has 5 different kinds of leaves growing on the same tree!
Thirubuvanam, KAMPAHESWARAR TEMPLE - அருள்மிகு கம்பஹரேஸ்வர் திருக்கோயில்(சரபேஷ்வரர் கோவில்)
Thirubhuvanam, KAMPAHESWARAR TEMPLE,
The Kampaheswarar –Sarbeshwarar Temple is situated in the town of Thirubuvanam around Ten kms from Kumbakonam inn stay.
The temple was built by Kulothunga-III in memory of the victory over the Pandyas at Madurai. He assumed the title of Thiribuvana Chakravarthy after defeating Cheras, Sinhalese and Pandyas. This place was named after his Title as Thirubuvanam. The vimana of the temple is higher than the Raja gopura. The Gopuram of the sanctum of 130 ft high and flaunts some of the exquisitely carved sculptures. The front part of the temple is awe-inspiring, resembling 120 feet high chariot.
Lord Shiva is worshipped here as “Kampaheswarar” for having removed the quaking (Kampa in sanskrit) of a king who was being haunted by Brahmarakshasa. In this temple, there is a separate shanithi for Sarabeswarar. The Sarabeswarar is a form of as half animal and half bird with 8 legs, 4 hands, 2 feathers and sharp tooth, nails that was looking ferocious. The Sarabeswarar is an avatar of Lord Shiva to cool the Narasimha after destroyed the asura Hiranyakaskasan.
To cool him down, the Devas approached Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva assumed the form of a bird Sarabha. This form comprises the forms of an animal, human and bird – the face of a yali, human body and the form of a bird. The form of Narasimha consisted of a human body and the face of a lion. Kaali and Durga became the wings of Saraba. Lord Sarabesa, had in collective powers of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Pratyangaradevi and Durga (Sulini Durga). Thus, worshipping Lord Sarabeswarar brings the devotee the benefit of worshipping all four Gods.
The Lord is also known as Nadukkam Theertha Nayakan meaning one who saved the devotee from shivering or trembling. Goddess is also known as Aram Valartha Nayaki meaning one who upholds Dharma forever. Mother graces her devotees with Abhaya Mudra – ensuring protection with one hand and holding lotus flower and Akshamala in other hands in a standing posture. The peeta (dais) is called odyanapeeta and Padma peeta.
Those praying to Lord Kampahareswarar are blessed with total relief from neurology problems, shivering, meaningless fear i n mind, lack of brain growth and other ailments. They are also blessed with healthy longevity. Mother Ambika frees her devotees from sin, ensures unity among couples and child boon. People pray to Lord Sarabeswarar for removing obstacles in marriage, relief from illness, promotion in jo b, child boon, recovery from debts, worries, court matters, neutral izing the effects of witchcrafts & black magic, threats from hidden enemies, spells, adverse situations caused by planets.
Thirunageswaram Naganatha Samy Temple - நாகநாதசுவாமி கோவில் திருநாகேஸ்வரம்
Thirunageswaram, RAGHU BAGAVAN TEMPLE,
Sri Naganathaswamy Temple is situated in the town of Thirunageswaram around Ten kms from Kumbakonam inn stay.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Naganathaswamy (Shiva), Pirayani Amman (Parvathi), Giri-Gujambika (Parvathi) and Rahu with his divine spouses. Goddess Girigujambika has a separate shrine in the north side inside the temple campus as it is believed that the goddess is in mode of deep penance. This temple is said to be built in 10 th Century by Aditya Chola. Thirugnana Sambandar, Thiru navukarasu Nayanar, Thiru Sundramoorthi Nayanar, and Arunagiri Swamigal have praised the glory of the Lord in this Temple. Ragu Sthalam is classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. It is one of the Panchakrosa Sthalas.
The temple’s special feature is Rahu Bhagavan graces with his consorts Nagavalli and Nagakanni. This temple is where Rahu worshiped Lord Shiva and got relieved of a curse. Many serpents, including Adishesha, Takshaka and Karkotaka, worshipped Shiva at this place, leading to the name “Thirunageswaram”. The very significant feature of the Rahu shrine here is the Rahu Bhagavan is seen with human face. In other places, Rahu is seen with a serpent face.
According to the history of Thirunageswaram, the serpents Aadi Seshan, Dakshan and Kaarkotakan worshipped Shiva here. Also, Nala worshipped Shiva here as in Gowtama muni, Paraasarar and Bhageerata also associate with legends that relate this temple. Rahu prayed to Shiva and hence this place got the name Thirunageswaram.
Nandi after worshipping shiva attained the status as Nandeeswaran here. Vinayakar attained the status of Head of Ganas or Ganapathi. Indira, the king of devas was relived of bad smell emanating from his body by worshiping goddess Girigujambal with punugu. King Sambumali who had incurred the wrath of sage Kaalangiri, attained moksha after bathing in the temple tank and praying to the Lord and Ambal of this temple.
The main importance of the temple is the Rahu Idol. When we pour milk on the Rahu Idol during Abhishekam, the milk turns blue while passing through the idol and then turns white after leaving the idol. People performing Abhishekam with milk during the Rahu Kalam will clear all your obstacles from marriage, getting children and other problems.
Rahu is the source of plenty. Kalathra dosham, puthira dosham, communicable diseases, mental disorders, leprosy, fall in grace are caused by Rahu dosham. Praying to Rahu at this sthala helps to rid a person from these factors and also saves the person from all poisonous life forms.
OPPILIAPPAN KOIL - ஒப்பிலியப்பன் கோயில்
UPPILIYAPPAN KOVIL – ஒப்பிலியப்பன் கோயில்
(‘Vaikunta Nagaram’, ‘Markandeya Kshetram’, and as ‘Tulasi vanam’)
Arulmigu Venkatachalapathi Swamy Temple, Oppiliappan Koil, Thirunageswaram
Temple located near Thirunageswaram, and around ten kilometers from kumbakonam inn stay. The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams. The temple is counted as the 14th in the list of divyadesams in Chola Nadu and 83rd in the overall list.
Uppiliappan Temple, also known as Thiruvinnagar Venkatachalapathy Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, stands upto 8 feet tall in the centre & Below him Bhoomidevi faces north in a kneeling posture while Markandeya Maharishi who has the boon of retaining his age as 16 forever has the position of marrying his daughter to the Lord.
Visting OppiliAppan is equivalent to visting Tirupathi Srinivasa
Those who cannot go to Tirupathi can visit OppiliAppan in Thiru Vinnagar as a visit here is considered equivalent to visiting the Tirupathi Lord. In fact, Lord OppiliAppan considered the elder brother of Tirupathi Srinivasa.
Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is glorified in the Divya Prabandha, the early medieval Tamil canon of the Azhwar saints from the 6th–9th centuries AD. It is counted as the 60th of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu. The temple is believed to be of significant antiquity and to have been initiated by the Medieval Cholas of the late 8th century AD, with later contributions at different times from Thanjavur Nayaks.
The Story
Thiruthuzhaai Devi was upset that Lord Vishnu was closer to Goddess Lakshmi’s heart. Wanting to get a special treatment from the Lord, she undertook penance. A pleased Lord asked her to appear inThiru Vinnagar as Tulasi (the sacred plant). Lakshmi would then be born as Bhoomi Devi under the Tulasi tree.
Lord said that one would have to undertake penance to get the blessings of Lakshmi. However, those who seek blessings from me by showering the Tulasi garland will derive benefit equivalent to having performed the Ashwametha Yaagam.
Mirukanda Rishi’s son Markandeya wanted Goddess Lakshmi to be born as his daughter and the Lord as his son in law. He undertook penance at this place and found a young girl (Goddess Lakshmi) under the Tulasi tree. He brought her up as his daughter.
Years later, Lord Vishnu, disguised as an old Brahmin, came to his house and asked for the hand of his daughter. A shocked Markandeya, who had wanted to give his daughter to Lord Vishnu, tried to dissuade the old man with several different excuses. He pleaded that his daughter was far too young and that she did not know to manage a household. The old man was not convinced and would not move out of the house without Markandeya’s daughter.
Markandeya told the old man that his daughter did not know the art of cooking, so much so that she was not even aware of the right mix of salt. The old man promised to consume food even if it was without salt.
A hassled Markandeya prayed to Lord Vishnu for help and on opening his eyes found the Lord in his full form with conch and chakram.
“Ahoraathra Pushkarani” – once there was lived a king called Devasarma and he became passionate about Zaina Muni’s (a Rishi) daughter and had wanted to forcibly take her. The saint rishi cursed him to become a bird. After realizing his mistake as per sage told, he taken bath accidently in the form of bird in temple tank and regained his original form as the King. In general bathing in the temple tank in the night is not recommended by our scriptures, but the rule is exempted here and hence it is called “ahoraathra pushkarani”. Ahoraatra in Sanskrit meaning day and night.
The Name
As the Lord agreed to eat food without salt, he came to be called UppiliAppan (Lord without the salt). This temple Neivethiyam is always done without salt in any food. This is the only Divya Desam where food is served to the Lord without salt.
People offer black peppers with salt at Lord Narayana’s feet in front of the Garudazhwar, to cure them of any dermal diseases.
It is believed that praying to Lord and Mother in the temple would ensure unity among the couples and cultivate harmony in their life.
Sri Agasteeshwarar Karuvalarcheri Temple - ஸ்ரீ அகிலாண்டேஸ்வரி அம்பிகை சமேத அகஸ்தீஸ்வரர் சுவாமி கருவளர்ச்சேரி
KARUVALACHERI TEMPLE
(Akilandeswari sametha agastheeswarar temple in karuvalarcheri)
”கரு காப்பாய் கருவளர்சேரி தாயே!”
karu = foetus or embryo , valar = to grow , cheri = place.
karu + valar + cheri = the place which helps form foetus or embryo.
Karuvalarcheri is for initiation of the foetus. Thirukarugavur is for the safe development of the foetus.
Karuvalarcheri is at a distance of ten kilometers from kumbakonam inn stay – Marudanallur on Kumbakonam- Mannargudi road. It is one of the major temples of Agastiar Siddha Lineage.
It is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Agastheeswarar, and Goddess Sri Akilandeswari, who is worshipped as Karu Valarkkum Nayagi. She is the mother of the universe, and she nurtures the fetus and ensures the baby is grown well inside the womb.
The legend of the temple is connected with Sage Agastya, who came to this temple with his consort Lopamudra. He worshipped Lord Shiva to gain higher spiritual guidance. Karu Valarkkum Nayagi is believed to have manifested herself in the form of mystical energy in the anthill of the temple, known as ‘Putru Kovil.’ People who worship the anthill with piety receive the blessings of the goddess.
Worshipping in Karuvalarcheri Temple:
Couples who want children after praying to the goddess must clean steps to the sannidhi with Ghee and then draw a Kolam with rice flour, and then highlight it with Turmeric and Kungumam imagining doing this to the goddess’s feet and pray. Once after the Pooja is completed, seven turmeric pieces and one full lemon would be handed over to the praying couple. They have to make a juice out of the lemon and consume it fully. The lady has to use the turmeric and apply it on her body. A commitment also should be made that during the Baby Shower ( Valaikaapu or the Bangle ceremony), the first seven bangles are reserved for the Amman and they are to be brought to the temple along with the child. The child will be put in a cradle in front of the Ambal shrine. It is a belief that, even before the third piece of turmeric is over, there could be positive news about her pregnancy. Thus once the baby is grown, they have to come back as a family and pay their tributes to the Goddess. It is also believed that people looking for a life partner would also be blessed with a good partner.
Thiruvisanallur, SIVAYOGINATHAR TEMPLE - திருவிசநல்லூர் சிவயோகிநாதர் கோவில்
Thiruvisanallur, SIVAYOGINATHAR TEMPLE
(Yoganandeswarar temple)
This temple is located in Thiruvisanallur and around Ten kilometres from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
The temple is incarnated by the hymns of Thevaram and is classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. The temple is considered 43rd of the Tevara Stalams in Chola Nadu located North of the river Cauvery. Thiruvisanallur can be traced to the time of the Medieval Cholas having 97 inscriptions dating back to Parantaka I, Rajaraja Chola I and Rajendra Chola II. The temple was erected during the Parantaka I reign 907-955 A.D.
The presiding deity in the temple is Lord Sivayoginathar and his consort as Goddess Soundarya Nayagi.The Sivayoginathar Temple is believed to be built at the spot where eight Siva yogis attained salvation and merged with the lingam. The shrine is dedicated to Chatur Kala Bhairava, one of the four Bhairavas. There are seven strands of hair at the back of the Shiva lingam to depict this union. And this is how the lord got the name, Sri Shivayogi Nathar. There’s a separate shrine for Chatur Kala Bhairava which denotes four Bhairava forms representing four phases or stages in the lifespan of a human being. They also represent the four yugas – Satya, Treta, Dvapara and Kali Yuga. Chatur Kala Bhairava signifies the four forms of Lord Bhairava that represent the four yugas of the universe. They also denote the four stages of the life cycle of man.
1) Gnana Bhairava (Brahmacharya phase of the human life)
2) Swarna Akarshana Bhairava-( Representing the Grahasta or householder phase)
3) Unmatha Bhairava-( Vanaprastha phase)
4) Yoga Bhairava-( Sanyasa)
The deity is worshipped as Puraathaneswarar in the Kritha Yuga, Vilvaaranyeswarar in the Tretha Yuga, Yoganandeeswarar in the Dwaapara Yuga, and Sivayoginaathar in the Kali Yuga.
Interesting 1400 years old sun clock of Chola Empire:
A Sun-Dial which is about 700 years old is located in the temple. This clock is constructed in such a way to measure the route of the sun from the sunrise in the morning till the sunset in the evening. A semi-circle is made and the numbers from morning 6.00 to evening 6.00 are carved around. In the center, a brass nail is fixed. When the sunlight falls on this nail and on the number where its shadow falls, is that time at that moment.
As per the legend, Once a person who had committed numerous sins, exhorted the Lord of this place in his last moments. Lord Siva, then asked Nandhi: and Nandhi turned to find out. It was a pradosham day when the person called the Lord. All his sins vanished with Nandhis seeing him. His life had to end at that moment. Lord Yama came there and Nandhi stopped him. There arose a fierce quarrel between them. Nandhi won Yama and sent him out away from the flag-post. Usually in the temples Nandhi will be seen inside the flag-post. But, we can see Nandhi in this holy place outside the flag-post.
According to temple history, devotees who worship Chatur Kala Bhairava during the eighth day of the waxing period or Shukla paksha gain immense prosperity, business and career growth. Devotees who worship Chatur Kala Bhairava on the 8th day of the waning period or Krishna paksha, get cured of their diseases, gain protection from evil spirits, envy and removes problems in the family.
In the temple, worshippers light oil lamps with black pepper for eight consecutive Sundays during Rahu Kalam which helps retrieve lost property and wealth. People also pray here for marriage and child blessings. Chatur Kala Bhairava Homam on Kalashtami which falls on Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha, is auspicious for Bhairava worship. It removes dark evil within you, ends sufferings, pain, sins and negative influences. It blesses you with authority in your work space, favours you with good time and overall progress in life.
Karkadeswarar – Tirundudevankudi (திருத்தேவங்குடி கற்கடகேசுவரர் கோயில்) (Nandaan Kovil / Nandu Koil )
Karkadeswarar – Tirundudevankudi
(திருத்தேவங்குடி கற்கடகேசுவரர் கோயில்) (Nandaan Kovil / Nandu Koil )
Thirundhudevankudi is a small village around ten km away, from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
This is the 96th Thevara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 42nd Sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. This temple is considered auspicious and also a parikara sthalam, for those under the Kataka rasi. (zodiac sign comprising of three stars-Punarvasu, Poosa and Ayilya) Chandran at this temple is in yoga, and hence this place is also considered a Chandra dosha nivritti sthalam. kings of the Chola Dynasty constructed and maintained this temple. Later, Kulothunga Chola I (1075 – 1120 AD) renovated it as a stone temple.
Presiding Deity is called as Karkadeswarar / Arumarunthu Devar / Devadevesar. Generally, One Mother Parvathy shrine is found in Shiva temples. But here there are two Mother Parvathy Shrines namely Arumarunthu Nayaki and Apoorva Nayaki. It is believed that Arumarunthammai was installed by a King who was suffering from a decease. Later the original Ambal statue was found and installed as Apoorva Nayagi. Planet Moon is in a shrine at the entrance of the temple in meditating form as Yoga Chandra.
Puranic Significance: Sage Durvasa once cursed a disrespectful Gandharva to become a crab. As a remedy, he told the crab to worship Lord Shiva. So the crab came to this temple, worshipped Lord Shiva, and was absolved of the curse. Meanwhile, Indra, the King of the Devas began worshipping Shiva with 1008 lotus flowers each day. He saw a crab taking one of the flowers and tried to kill it. However, the crab, with the blessing of Lord Shiva, burrowed a hole in the Linga and escaped. Indra then realised that before God all creatures are equal. As this Deva repented for his mistakes and mended his ways (thirundhu – reform), this place got the name Thirunthudevankudi. The Shiva Lingam still has the hole made by the crab. We can see a hole on the Linga made by a cancer (nandu) and an injury scar caused by Indira.
Another Legends Of Karkadeswarar Temple – Once, an aged couple miraculously cured a Chola King of Paralysis. The old couple then brought the king to this region and revealed the ancient Shivalinga to him. They asked him to build a temple here, which he did at once.
Cancer Rasi natives have naturally medicinal powers. They also have the confidence that they can achieve this through divine backing. They should pray to Lord of this temple on their star days, new moon days, Tuesdays, Saturdays and on Ashtami days in the new moon fortnight. People of other stars too may depend on Lord Karkadeswara and Arumarundu Nayaki for cure from prolonged diseases.
SRI KALYANASUNDARESWARAR TEMPLE - கல்யாணசுந்தரேசர் கோவில், நல்லூர்
SRI KALYANASUNDARESWARAR TEMPLE – THIRUNALLUR
(Then (Dakshina) Kayilayam)
( திருநல்லூர் கோயில்- கல்யாணசுந்தரேஸ்வரர், பஞ்சவர்ணேஸ்வரர், பெரியாண்டேஸ்வரர் )
This is one of the Mada Koil or temples built at an elevation by Kochengat Cholan. This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 20th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). It has been sung about by Appar,Sundarar and also Amara needhi nayanar. The original masonry structure was built during the Chola dynasty in the 9th century, while later expansions are attributed to Vijayanagar rulers of the Sangama Dynasty (1336–1485 CE), the Saluva Dynasty, and the Tuluva Dynasty (1491–1570 CE).
Lord Kalayana Sundareswarar appears in five different colours each day – copper, pink, golden, emerald green and one that could not be named or recognized. Hence, He is praised as Panchavarneswarar – God of five colours.
The temple complex has three precincts and houses two gateway towers known as gopurams. All the central shrines of the temple are located in an artificial hillock.
The Shivalingam changes colours as the day progresses (after every 2 hours and 24 minutes)
From 6:00 Am-8:24 Am, (copper)
From 8:25 AM-10:48,AM (light red/Pink)
From 10:49 AM-13:12 PM (Golden)
From 13:13 PM-15:36PM (Emerald Green)
From 15:37PM -18:00 PM(Multi colour)
The Lord granted His Feet Darshan (Pada darshan) to Saint Tirunavukkarasar. Hence, the tradition of Sadari blessing as in Vaishnavite temple came into practice here too.
Lord Gana Natha blesses here in the form of a Balipeeta at the entrance of West Tower. It is only in this temple and in Kasi-now Varanasi, Gana Natha graces in this form. The Ashtabhuja Durga found in the lower prahara is very powerful and is the kuladeivam for many families.
LEGENDS AND STORIES:
Agasthya worshipped here and saw the divine wedding of Shiva and Parvathi here during his sojourn south of the Vindhyas.
During the divine Shiva-Parvathi wedding in Mount Kailash, the place went down due to the heavy weight of the presence of all the beings to have this darshan. To balance the level of the earth, Lord Shiva sent Sage Agasthya to South.
The sage had to sacrifice his wish of witnessing the wedding. The Lord assured him that He would grant the wedding darshan to him in this holy place. Enjoying the divine darshan here, Sage Agasthya installed a Linga right of the Sundaralingam for his worship. That Linga is behind the presiding Linga.
Kunti (Kunthi devi mother of Pandavas ) was directed by Sri Narada to have a bath in the tank here and was relieved of her sins. Kunthi belonging to Magam Star bathed in the tank and was relieved of her dosha.
Another legend associated with this place is that of Amaraneethi Nayanar. He is one of the 63 Nayanmars. He lived in this place and attained salvation.
Lord Nataraja in the temple is depicted with eight hands and in a dancing posture over the head of a demon. The image is considered to be one of the nine dance poses of Shiva, called Navathandavam.
Behind the Lingam in the sanctum (“garbagraham”), there is a sculpture of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in a seated posture. An interesting feature is that lords Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma are present in the same sanctum. Brahma is seen standing to Shiva’s right and performing the marriage rites, while Vishnu is seen standing to Shiva’s left. Sage Agasthiyar can be seen worshiping the lord.
Another legend is that Sage Brinki, an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, was not willing to worship the Goddess Parvathy. Hence, he took the form of a “vandu” (bee) and worshipped Lord Shiva alone by flying around him. Similar to a bee hive, there are a few small holes on this Shivalingam.
It is also believed that Emperor Musukundha Chakravarthi was presented with seven idols of Lord Thiyagarajar by Lord Indra. While taking them back to his kingdom, the emperor stayed here for three days and worshiped Lord Shiva. This emperor belongs to the “Dwapara Yuga”, the third of the four yugas.
Devotees who are born during the time of “Maka nakshatram” can visit this temple to seek the blessings of the lord.
Devotees believe that by worshiping the lord here, they will be relieved from the sins committed by them (such as illicit relationship, abortion, cheating and adultery).
It is believed that a dip in this temple’s holy water, Saptha Sahara Theertham, will absolve a person from all his sins. This Theertham is considered to be as auspicious as the Kumbakonam Mahamaham tank.
Thiruvidaimaruthur, Arulmigu MAHALINGASWAMY TEMPLE - மகாலிங்கேஸ்வரர் கோவில், திருவிடைமருதூர்
Thiruvidaimaruthur, Arulmigu MAHALINGASWAMY TEMPLE
திருவிடைமருதூர் மகாலிங்கேஸ்வரர் கோவில் – பிரம்மஹத்தி தோஷம் நீக்கும்.
( Shanbagaranya, Saktipura, Tapovana, Muktipura, Idaimarudur )
Mahalingeswaraswamy Temple situated in Thiruvidaimarudur and around twelve kilometres from Kumbakonam Inn Stay.
Thiruvidaimaruthur temple is considered as holy as Varanasi. This huge temple, in a sprawling campus of 20 acres, bejewelled with 7 lofty towers, 7 praharams and many ornate mandapams is one of the greatest Saivite shrines in Tamilnadu.
This is the 147th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 30th Sthalam on south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. This is one of Nalvar Paadal Petra Sthalam This temple is one of the seven popular temples of Lord Shiva. The temple represents the Lord in the form of Lingam known as Jothimayalingam (Lord Shiva raised out as a flame to the sages, the presiding deity is also referred as Jyothirmaya Mahalingam) and goddess Parvathi as Perumulai Naayaki or Pirguchuntarakujambigai. There is a separate shrine for Mookambika in the posture of doing penance built in the North Indian style. The Ammbal Shrine is one of the Sakthi Bheetas. Chakkara Maha Meru is installed here.
This temple was established in the 9th century (in Chola Dynasty). There are 149 inscriptions associated with the temple indicating contributions from Pandyas, Cholas, Thanjavur Nayaks and Thanjavur Maratha kingdom. The temple is also referred as Pancha Linga stala due to the presence of five lingams, four of which in the cardinal directions and the fifth one at the centre.
The Sthala Vriksha (temple tree) is Maruda. This temple is classified as Madhya Arjunam, called Idai Maruthu. This Temple also has 28 Nakshatras’Idols. The 28th Nakshatra is called ‘Abhijeet’. There are also 27 dedicated pools within the temple complex. Nakshatra Shanti Puja will be offered at this temple. There are as many as 35 Theerthams associated with this temple
The temple has three famous praharams: (i) Aswamedha pradhakshina praharam – Going around this will give the effect of doing Ashwamedha yaga. (ii) Kodumudi praharam – Going around this will give the effect of going to Kailash. (iii) Pranava praharam – Going around this will give Moksha.
There are 3 places where a sacred well is in the form of a lion (Singa kinaru). Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Vrinchipuram and this place. It is called KrishnaKupam
Sthala purana – Brahmahathi (Hathi- sin caused by a murder – Brahminicide) is found in the south wall (south torana vayil) with head disheveled and face immersed betwixt the knees. Varaguna Pandiya’s horse accidentally crushed a Brahmin and killed him. The sin followed wherever he went. The king came to this temple. The Brahmahathi could not enter and waited outside. The king went out by another entrance. The Brahmahathi is waiting outside still. The king was relieved of his melody. People inflicted with mental disorders go round the circumambulatory path and get redress. It continues till day where people take the second entrance to exit the premises after worship. This is the temple for performing parihara pooja (remedial pooja) for the malefic effects of the Birth stars.
• One of the interesting beliefs held here is that an abhishekam performed to Chokkanathar to the accompaniment of the megaraagakurinji raaga would result in a bountiful monsoon.
Tiruvidaimarudur is the birthplace of Saint Pattinathar. Saint Patinathar and his disciple Pathragiyar attained Moksha in this temple. Lord Shiva blessed Markandeyan by appearing before him in the form of Ardhanareeswarar.
Worshiping Mahalinga Swamy resolves all issues related to insanity and other mental illness. People pray to Mookambika for childboon and safe delivery. This Special Archana is performed to the Bramhahathi sannithi available in this temple.By doing this Pooja devotees get rid of sins caused by Extra martial affairs, Betrayal, Felling of Green trees, undergoing abortions etc.
Thirunandhipura Vinnagaram (Nathan Koil) - திருநந்திபுர விண்ணகரம்- ஸ்ரீ நாதன் கோவில்
Thirunandhipura Vinnagaram (Nathan Koil) –
Sri Jaganatha Perumal Temple – “Dakshina Jagannatham” / “Nandipuram”
108 வைணவத் திருத்தலங்கள் – நாதன் கோயில் என்ற திருநந்திபுரவிண்ணகரம் – ஜகந்நாதன் (நாதநாதன், விண்ணகரப் பெருமாள்) தாயார் : செண்பகவல்லித் தாயார்
This temple is located in Nathan Kovil and around 7 kilometres from kumbakonam inn stay.
It is one of the 108 Divyadesam dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The name of the God Vishnu here is Sri Jaganatha Perumal (Veetrirundha Thirukkolam – Sitting posture) also known as Nadhanadhan, Vinnagara Perumal and Goddess Shenbagavalli Thayar. The Lord is present in a sitting posture, with sword, bow, chakram (discus), sangu (conch) and Dandam (stick) in his hand, under the Mandara Vimanam facing west. The Theertham is Nanditheertha pushkarini and the Vimanam Mandaara Vimanam. Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is glorified in the Divya Prabandha, the early medieval Tamil canon of the Azhwar saints from the 6th–9th centuries AD.
According to the sthala purana Nandi performed penance at this place to seek atonement for the fault of insulting the Dwarapalakas at Vaikuntam, and had the Darsan of Lord Vishnu. Tirumangai Azhwar calls it as “Nandi panisaida naga”. The names of the temple’s bodies are named after Nandi; the temple tank is called Nandi Theertham, the vimanam as Nandi Vimanam, the place called Nandipuram and other water body as Nandi Pushkarani. The image of Nandi, which is otherwise part of Shiva temples, is present in the main sanctum. It is also believed that the moolavar was originally facing east and turned to west to see Sibi Chakravarthi sacrificing his life to save the life of a pigeon. The great King Sibhi was a great donor. Once, Lord Indra took a form of a hunter and Lord Agni transformed himself as a pigeon. The pigeon saught Sibhi’s help and to help the poor bird, he came forward to give his own flesh equal to the pigeons weight to the hunter. So, he sat in the wert plate of the Balance while the pigeon in the east. So, to see this beautiful scene, Lord Narayana faces west in this temple. Then he blessed eternity to King Sibhi.
There’s a historical note that Lord Vinayaka was seen in the tree “Mandara”.
The temple is frequented by people seeking timely wedding, reunion of married couples, children, court verdicts and cure from neural issues.
Thiru Kabisthalam- Gajendra Varadha Perumal (Thirukkavithalam) - கஜேந்திர வரதராஜ பெருமாள் கோவில்- கபிஸ்தலம்
Thiru Kabisthalam- Gajendra Varadha Perumal (Thirukkavithalam)
“Aatrankarai Kidakkum Kannan”(Kannan reclining on the river bed) “Krishnaranya kshetram” “Aadhimoolame”
கஜேந்திர வரதராஜ பெருமாள் கோவில்- கபிஸ்தலம்
This temple is the 22nd among the 108 divyadesams of Vishnu . This place is around 13 Kms from Kumbakonam Inn Stay, Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam-Thiruvaiyaru road. The temple was built around 7th Century with additions by the Vijayanagar, Madurai Nayaks and Thanjavur Kings. The temple is one of the five Pancha-Kannan temples, where Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu is given prominence over the presiding deity.
Here the Moolvar is known as Aadi Moola Perumal and consorts are Pottramaryar thayar (Mother) and Remamani Thayar. Utsavar is Gajendra Varadha Perumal, giving darshan with Sree devi Boodevi and Andal. There are separate shrines for Remamani Thayar and Andal. The sthala vruksham is Magizha Maram ( Spanish Cherry/Medlar/Bullet Wood). There are two Pushkarnis connected to this temple- Gajendra Pushkarni and Kapila Theertham.
A king named Indradyumna was a ardent Vishnu devotee and, because of deep meditation, he did not recognize Durvasa and encouraged a curse to be born as an elephant. At the same time, a demon named Koo hoo liked to joke swimmers by grabbing their legs underwater, Agastya cursed him for being born as a crocodile and his redemption was also in Mahavishnu’s Sudarshana chakra. Gajendra performed pooja to Maha Vishnu using the lotus flowers from this pond. One day a crocodile caught Gajendra and there was a big struggle. The elephant was about lose the battle when cried ‘Adimoolamae’ seeking Sri Narayana’s help.Sri Narayana rescued the elephant Gajendra from the crocodile’s mouth using his ‘chakra’ cutting the neck of the crocodile. He then gave motcham ( salvation) to the elephant and koo hoo here. .
Kabi means Monkey, as he gave darshan to Lord Anjaneya this temple is being worshipped as Thirukavithalam familairly Kabisthalam. Sri Hanuman, Gajendran, Sage Kapila have had dharshan of the Lord here.
Generally people worship in this temple for getting relief from the ill effects of Rahu. They do Poojas here they can get relieved of the poverty, diseases and the curses due to their sins.
Sri Vilvaneswarar Temple / Vilvavana Nathar Temple - அருள்மிகு வளைக்கைநாயகி சமேத ஸ்ரீ வில்வவனேசுவரர் /வில்வவனநாதர் திருக்கோவில் – திருவைகாவூர்
Sri Vilvaneswarar Temple / Vilvavana Nathar Temple / Sri Vilvavana Nathaswamy Temple/ Makavaruleeswarar – Thiruvaikavur – Tiruvaikavur ( Vilva Vanam and Bhoomi Puram)
அருள்மிகு வளைக்கைநாயகி சமேத ஸ்ரீ வில்வவனேசுவரர் /வில்வவனநாதர் திருக்கோவில் – திருவைகாவூர்
Thiruvaikavur Sri Vilvaneswarar Temple is situated at a distance of about 13 kms from Kumbakonam inn Stay, Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Thiruvaiyaru route (via Puliancheri). This temple is believed to have been built during the Cholas period in the 7th century. This place was called as Bhumipuram, Vilvavanam during ancient times and Thirugnanasambandar mentions as “Vaika” and now called as Thiruvaika.
Lord Shiva is worshipped as Vilwaneswarar and his consort Parvati as Valaikai Nayagi. Ambal Sarvajana Rakshaki is in a separate sannadhi facing east, instead of Dwarapalakis, Vinayagar images are installed on both sides. This is the 102nd Thevaram Paadal petra Shiva Sthalam and 48th Sthalam on north side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu.
THE LEGEND, While sage Thavamuni was performing penance, a hunter was chasing a deer. The Muni gave asylum to the animal. The hunter began to attack the Muni. Seeing this, Lord Shiva came there in the form of a tiger and chased the hunter. The hunter climbed a tree for protection and stayed on the tree waiting for the departure of tiger waiting to kill him. It was Maha Sivarathri night. The hunter, to keep himself awake, picked the Vilva leaves and was dropping it. The leaves fell on the tiger, which was but Lord Shiva himself and thus unknowingly performed a Shiva Puja on the holy Sivarathri day. The Lord gave Darshan and salvation to the hunter. The Lord of Death Yama came there to take away the life of the hunter as it was his expiry day. Nandhi was indifferent to the visit of Yama and did not check him. Lord Shiva, in the form of Dakshinamurthy was angry with Nandi for negligence of duty. Nandi immediately bound Yama by his breath. Yama worshipped Shiva and made a tank opposite to the temple performed pujas and took leave.
This temple celebrates Maha Shivaratri in a grand manner. There are six places where Lord Shiva will relieve from yama fear and This is one of the place. The other places are, Thirukadaiyur, Thiruveezhilimizhalai, Thiruvaiyaru, Thiruvenkadu and Thiruvanjiyam. Lord Shiva is in the form of Dakshinamurthy with a stick in hands to chase Yamadharman. Brahma and Vishnu are on both sides. There is no flag post (“Dwajasthambam”) here.
Nandhi is facing same direction ( East ) like moolavar to threaten and chase Yamadharman. In this temple, all the idols of Nandhi have their backs facing the deities. There is no Navagraha sannathi. It is believed that Maha Vishnu, Brahma, Agni, Bhoomadevi, Sage Unthaala, 4 Vedas, worshiped Lord Shiva of this temple. There is no Dwarapalakas and it is believed that Brahma and Maha Vishnu acts as guardians. Maha Vishnu got relieved from Wife of Jalandara’s curse for lied her and Killed Jalandaran. Hence Lord Shiva here is also praised as “Sri Hariesar”.
Lord rescued the life of a child who was killed by a thief for his jewels on a Sivarathri. It is believed that Lord Shiva gave rebirth to the child. Hence, he is also praised here as Sri Makavarulesar.
It is believed that Sage Unthaala had cursed the Saptha Kannihas. They visited this place, worshiped the lord and were relieved of their sins.
Other than the Yama Theertham, there is another Theertham called Agni Theertham. It is believed that Lord Agni created this holy water and worshiped the lord here.
It is also believed that on the advice of Lord Shiva, the four Vedas visited this place and performed penance here in the form of Vilva trees. Hence this place also gets the name Vilva Vanam.
Devotees considers that worshiping Lord Shiva on Shivaratri is auspicious will increase the benefits by many fold. Devotees believe that by worshiping Goddess Sarvajana Rakshaki here, their prayers will be heard and resolved.
Sri Padaikatti Maha Mariamman Temple - பாடைகட்டி மாரியம்மன் கோவில்
Valangaiman PADAIKATTI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE – Shakti peetha sthalam in Valangaiman.
பாடை கட்டி அதில் பிணம் போல் படுத்துக் கிடந்து, கோவிலைச் சுற்றி வலம் வந்து நேர்த்திக் கடன் செலுத்தும் கோவில் – சீதளாதேவி மகா மாரியம்மன் கோவில்
The most world famous Sreesitala Devi Mahamariamman Temple is located in Valangaiman,and around 13 Kms from Kumbakonam Inn Stay. The temple is famous for its annual ‘Pada Kavadi’ festival which is held in the month of Panguni (March-April).
It is also known as Sri Valangaiman Maha Kali Temple and is very old – 1000 to 2000 years old.
People suffering from severe illness will beg Valangaiman Maha Mariamman to beg for their lives. The patient after recovery shall lie on this Paadai as a dead person accompanied by son, wife and their relatives. People who escaped from the jaws of death due to disease or accident will normally request the temple management for ‘paadaikattuthal’ ritual to convey their gratefulness to the deity for having saved his or her life.
At the request, a cloth made of bamboo/Paadai (It is made of two horizontal pole with cross poles (6 1/2 feet X 2 feet) with a bed made of flowers and coconut leaves) is generally used by the Hindus for carrying a dead body to the cremation ground) is tied and the debtor is put to bed, and his relatives lift the cloth and return to the temple 3 times to pay their dues. After paying the fine, the temple priest sprinkles the anointing water on the person lying on the ground. The person would then wake up as if to signify that he has come back from death by the blessings of the Goddess. The devotees believe that the goddess will always protect them from death.
There is a legend associated with this temple. centuries ago a Brahmin couple, for unknown reason, had to move over to some place, leaving behind their young baby girl near Ayyanar temple there. A local couple accidentally saw the young baby and began to bring it up. Unfortunately, as fate had it, the young girl a few years later died of small pox. The parents buried the girl in the back yard and built a tomb with thatched roof over it. Daily the parents lit the oil lamp and the villagers also lit the lamp and prayed at the make shift temple and got positive results. The villagers called her Seethala Devi (the place is cooled by the neem leaves which also said to control chicken pox. seethala means cooling).
Prayers – Those suffering from impaired vision, suffering from small pox and facing hurdles in marriage proposals pray in the temple.
Govindpuram sri Vittal rukmini temple - ஸ்ரீ விட்டல் ருக்மிணி கோயில்
Govindhapuram SRI VITTAL RUKMINI TEMPLE –
(பண்டரிபுரம் பாண்டுரங்க ஸ்ரீ விட்டல் ருக்மிணி கோயில்)
This Temple in Govindapuram Village (Dhakshina Pandari Puram), about 13 Kms from Kumbakonam inn stay, kumbakonam. Built in 2011 by Vittal Das Sri Jayakrishna Deekshitar, the temple is replete with Garbhagriha, Ardha Mantapa, Maha Mantapa and Vasantha mantapa. This temple of Sri Vittal and Sri Rukmini has been built in 8 acres of land. Also known as Dakshina Pandaripuram, the temple complex houses a large Goshala too. Sri Vittal Rukmini Samsthan has established Sri Gokulam Goshala in around 10 acres of land housing morethan 1000 cows of various Indian breeds from various states. To venerate the same, Go pooja is performed in the goshala twice a day. Sri Vittal Rukmini Integrated Vedic Academy is a part of Sri Vittal Rukmini Samsthan.
The 28 steps to the entrance represent 28 constellations added to its divinity. With beautiful fibre glass paintings and enormous statues adorning the temple, the Gopuram stands tall at 150 feet high. A huge Kalasam crowns the Maha Gopuram. The Kalasam itself is 18 ft high. Vasantha Mandapam is a piller less huge hall, where Namasankeerthanam, Bhajans, Upanyasams and various uthsavams like Radha Kalyanam etc., will be held. This hall can accommodate more than 2000 Bakthas at a time .
The worship of Sri Pandurangan and Sri Rukmini Devi is carried out here several times during the day as per an elaborate system called ‘nithyothsavapaddhathi’ in accordance with the Premika Sampradayam. The entire Temple is to be fully Air-conditioned for the convenience of the visiting devotees, to enable them to concentrate in their prayers, with comfort and peace. The ground floor of the Temple will have a Library and Meditation Halls. Very useful socio-religious books will be available for the visiting devotees to glance at. Devotees can calmly meditate with silence and peace at the special Meditation Hall. Visitors are always deeply touched by the lyrical quotient and the musical nature of worship which is unique among all other temples in India.
Nachiyar kovil - KAL KARUDAN TEMPLE - நாச்சியார் கோயில் கல் கருடன் (திருநறையூர் நம்பி)
Nachiyar kovil – KAL KARUDAN TEMPLE /TIRUNARAYUR KAL GARUDAN /Tirunarayur Nambi / Sri Thirunarayoor Nambi Perumal Temple.
(நாச்சியார் கோயில் கல் கருடன் – “Mani Mada kovil”)
The temple in Nachiyar koil situated at a distance of about 14 Kms from Kumbakonam Inn stay, kumbakonam on Thiruvarur route. Lord Naraiyur Nambi and Nachiyar preside here in the wedding posture. Presiding Deity of Perumal called Thirunarayur Nambi with his consort Thaayar Vanjula devi. Inside the sanctum, one can see the images of Brahma, Pradyumna, Aniruddha, Sankarshana and a set of gods, who are depicted attending the wedding. Built by Chola King Kochenganan as a Mada Koil and believed to be 1000 years old. The temple follows the Thenkalai Samprathyam – mode of worship.
The temple holds the prestige of being one among the 108 Divyadesam dedicated to Vishnu glorified by Azhwar saints from the 6th to 9th centuries AD. The temple shows a great example of the Dravidian style of architecture. It is decorated with 5-tiered raja gopuram, rising high up to 75 feet. The eastern gateway leads to a hall of containing 16 pillars, called Neenila Mutram. Unlike other temples here Paramapada Vasal or Sorga Vasal is facing south. This is the only temple where Lord Vishnu blesses devotees in his 5 forms (Parabrahman and his 4 vyuhas), in kalyana kolam along with Thayar. It is also the only temple where Brahma blesses in a standing posture, that too in the Lord’s moolasthanam.
In this temple Nachiyar (thayar) gets the primary importance. On all occasions, the first rights are reserved for the Nachiyar. Even the food is first served to the Nachiyar and only then to the Naraiyur Nambi. Devotees will be able to see that Vishnu stays at an arm’s length from Thayar.Thaayar is having the key chain in hip and thus is prime administer. As per Sthala Purana Mahavishnu agreed to give the prime position to Thaayar here and the place is named after her as Nachiyar Koil.
As per the legend, Once Sage Medhavi underwent penance, when he found an image of Chakarathazhvar and Narasimhar. A divine voice told him to install it in his hermitage and worship it. For this, he was blessed that Lakshmi would be born as his daughter. He later found a baby under a Vanjula tree, and brought her up as Vanjulavalli. Lord Vishnu came in his five forms (self, and four vyuha forms – Vasudeva, Aniruddha, Sankarshana, Pradyumna) in search of Lakshmi, and Garudar was assigned the task of locating her. Once Vanjulavalli was found, Vishnu requested the sage to give Vanjulavalli in marriage to Him. The sage agreed on the condition priority should always be given to his daughter. This explains why at this temple, the order of worship is first Thayar and only after that, Perumal. Also as a result, in the main sanctum, Lord Vishnu is located a bit to the side and Thayar has a more prominent place in the sanctum. Also, neivedyam is served first to Nachiyar before Perumal.
Neelan, king of a small kingdom, was a devotee of the Lord and used to spend all his wealth in the service of the Lord. He was not recognized as a vaishnava by the acharyas. Neelan prayed to the Lord to save him and the Lord himself appeared as an acharya and did Samasrayana (Pancha Samskara) for Neelan and declared him a Vaishnava. Neelan came to be known as Thirumangaiazhvar.
Kal Garudar-
The main attraction of the temple is an idol of Kal Garuda. The most inexplicable part of this temple is the exponentially growing Kal Garudar. Here, Vishnu’s festive vahana Garuda is not made of metal but of Saligrama stone. The weight of KalGarudan grows exponentially when moved away from Garbhagraham. During Garuda Sevai,the number of people required to carry Garuda through each of the five prakarams of the temple keeps doubling from 4 to 128 people. Again while coming inside the temple, the weight keeps decreasing and the number of persons carrying keeps reducing to final 4 who carry it into the sannadhi. During the procession the Thayyar’s vahana Annam – swan moves faster than the lord’s. Because Garuda vahana moves forward slowly hampered by the weight.
Here Garuda has the capability to cure the Navagraha doshas. Worshipping Kal Garuda is said to free devotees from Naga dosha and bless childless couples.
Shri Suriyanar Koil Temple - ஸ்ரீ சூரியனார் கோவில்
Surya Navagrahastalam – Suriyanar Koil Temple (ஸ்ரீ சூரியனார் கோவில் – சூரியன் நவக்கிரக ஸ்தலம்)
The Suryanar Temple is situated at the village of Suryanarkoil around 15 Kms from Kumbakonam inn stay, to the north of Aduthurai and to the east of Kumbakonam-Mayavaram road and about 1 km from Tirumangalakkudi. It is compulsory that at the first one should worship Shiva (Prananadeswarar) and Parvati (Mangalambigai) at Thirumangalakudi and after that they can offer worship to Suryanarayana and other Navagrahas. (சூரிய தோஷம் போக்கும் திருமங்கலக்குடி பிராண நாதேஸ்வரர் ஆலயம்). Navanayakars did their meditation and offered worship to pranavaradeshvarar and Mangalanayaki.
At Suryan Temple,the presiding deity is Suriyanar, the Sun and his consorts Usha Devi and Pradyusha Devi(Chayadevi). The other eight Navagrahas are seen facing the presiding deity Sun God. As Sun is noted for his scorching heat, to cool down the effect, planet Guru (Jupiter) is just opposite the shrine, facilitating his worship under a bearable temperature. Sun’s horse vehicle is also before him, as Nandhi is before Lord Shiva. None of the Navagrahas is armed. The Navagrahas (nine planets) are without their their vahans-vehicles.
There are shrines to Kasi Vishwanath, Visalakshi and Brihaspati(Guru) within the sanctum while shrines for the other celestial bodies are located outside.The Kol Theertha Vinayakar shrine is considered very important.
The temple tower has 15.5 meter in height and 3 tiers, 5 domes at the peak.There are 12+ theerthams in the temple. It is important to know the fact only 2 temples in INDIA are dedicated to KING OF GODS (Sun God). It is believed that King Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty have built the Konark Sun Temple and Kulottunga Chola I of Chola Dynasty have built the Suryanar Temple. According to history Kulothunga Chola I built Sooriyanar Kovil Temple in 1100 AD.
As per Hindu legend, Sage Kalva was suffering from serious ailments along with leprosy. He prayed to the Navagrahas, the nine planet deities. The planets were pleased by his devotion and offered cure to the sage. Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, was angered as he felt that the planets have no powers to provide boons to humans. He cursed the nine planets to suffer from leprosy and they were sent down to earth in Vellurukku Vanam, the milky weed jungle. The planets prayed to Lord Shiva to relieve them off the curse. Lord Shiva appeared to them and said that the place belonged to them and they would have to grace the devotees worshipping them from the place. This is the only temple where there are separate shrines for each of the planet deities.
As one enters the mandapam in front of the garbhagriham, Siva and Parvati as Viswanathar and Visalakshi Amman can be seen on the left. Typically, one would exit the mandapam from the left. Here, one has to exit from the right, walk counter-clockwise around the rear of the garbhagriham, and reach Chandikeswarar. After this, the order to be followed is clockwise, and worship the shrines in that path, in the order of: Rahu, Sukran, Ketu, Chandran, Sevvaai, Budhan and Sani. Finally, one arrives back at the dhwajasthambam, and performs namaskaram (prostration) facing north.
Suriyanar Koil temple is designed like a chariot like vimana, representing the sun’s chariot. The holy tank here is called as Surya Pushkarni which is in the north side of Raja Gopuram. Thala Virutcham : Vellerukku
Those who suffer the ill effects of Kalathara Dosham, Vivaha Paribandha Dosham, Puthra Dosham, Puthra Paribandha Dosham, Vidhya Paribandha Dosham, Udyoga Padhibandha Dosham, Surya dasai, Surya bukthi would benefit from worshipping at this temple. Father, Athma, physical strength, right eye, governmental largesse are the beneficial aspects of this planet. Surya Bhagawan blesses his devotees with good health, fame and efficient management. Sun will protect the father, protect service and all ill blocked. Chanting of Powerful Aathithya Hirudhayam with devotion and dedication will give all the best to the devotees.
Thirucherai - Runa Vimochana Lingeshwarar ( திருச்சேறை சாரபரமேஸ்வரர்) KADAN NIVARTHEESWARAR TEMPLE / Sri Saraparameswarar / Sri Senneriyappar Temple / Udayar Koil
Thirucherai Saraparameswarar (Also known as Chenneri Appar – meaning that the Lord shows all the people the righteous way of living.) – is situated at a distance of about 17 kms from Kumbakonam Inn Stay on the Kumbakonam – Nachiyar Koil – Kudavasal route. This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 95th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). There are two stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the period of Chola King Kulothungan. It is believed that this temple was built by him.
Legend – Sage Markandeyar installed and worshiped a Shivalingam here. He prayed to Lord Shiva here and he was cleansed of the debts that he had accrued in his previous birth (“poorva janma kadan”). He also attained salvation (“moksham”) here. Ambal Gnanambikai’s ( Gnanavalli) shrine is on the left side of the Swamy on the outer prakaram, the other deities like Vinayaka, Nataraja etc are in the inner prakaram. Apart from the Rina Vimochana Murthy, Shiva is also present as Idaparoodar ( idapam= bull) where He sits on the Nandi. Another notable shrine is that of Bhairava. special poojas are offered to Him on Ashtami days. This is one of the few Bhairava shrines where He is adorned with Vada malai ( like Hanuman idols).
This temple is considered to be significant for its three important attributes – Moorthy, Sthalam and Theertham – glory of Lord, sacredness of the land and the auspicious temple tank. This temple is very famous as a “Kadan Nivarthi Sthalam” (to remove indebtedness). The lord is swayambumurthy .The general belief is that worshipping Lord Shiva here helps to improve financial status and be debt free. However there is a deeper meaning to it, debt includes financial but not limited only to it. Every human being is born with debts like Deva rina( debt to god), Rishi rina(debt tosages), Pitru rina( debt to our ancestors). If a human is not able to repay these debts intheir life they will have another birth to repay. Before we preform archanai the gurukal distributes the flower and we were asked totake sankalpam and the flowers are taken back and poured over Lord to signify that thedebts are paid back to signify that there is no rebirth. Devotees seek the grace of the Lord in this temple for freedom from debt burdens and cure from illness. They offer prayers on 11 Mondays performing archanas and participate in the abishek ceremony finally on the 11th Monday to realize their prayers. Devotees firmly believe that this prayer would offer solution for all their problems and endow them with a life free of debt and blessed with children, education and material progress.
Devotees also believe that by worshiping the lord here, obstacles from their marriage proposals will be removed. This is also a parihara sthalam for performing poojas for “Santhana Prapthi” (child boon). The speciality of the temple is where three Durgas are present as Shiva Durga, Vaishnavi Durga and Vishnu Durga. Saint Tirunavukkarasar has praised the Bhairavain the temple with a special hymn. The rays of Sun fallsdirectly on the presiding deity and the feet of the Mother on 13,14 and 15th of Masi (February-March). The Sthala Viruksham of this temple is Maavilangai. The peculiar aspect of this tree is that in a year, it will be full of leaves for 4 months, full of white coloured flowers for another 4 months and it be barren for the remaining 4 months.