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Discovering the Divine
The Healing Sanctuaries of Tamil Nadu
In the heart of Tamil Nadu, where spirituality and mythology intertwine, lies a unique group of temples known for their healing powers—temples that offer not just spiritual solace, but also physical healing. These sacred places, many of which are Padal Petra Sthalams and Divya Desams, are renowned for their divine blessings in alleviating various ailments. Nestled primarily in the regions of Kumbakonam, Myladuturai, Sirkazhi, and Nagapattinam, these temples are part of the spiritual landscape of Tamil Nadu, a land steeped in history, faith, and healing traditions.
The legends surrounding these temples speak of divine intervention in times of health crises, where the gods and goddesses bestowed their blessings upon those suffering from ailments ranging from eye problems, hearing impairments, and speech disorders to heart conditions, skin diseases, and even cancer. Visiting these temples is believed to invoke the healing touch of the divine, offering not only relief but also protection and overall well-being.
As we explore the temples in this collection, you will discover how faith and devotion have long been intertwined with healing practices, with each temple offering its own divine remedy for those in need. With every prayer offered, devotees seek not just spiritual growth, but physical restoration too.
Benefits of Visiting these Temples:
- Relief from skin diseases and chronic ailments
- Healing for eye problems and vision impairments
- Remedies for hearing impairments and speech disorders
- Alleviation of heart problems and blood pressure issues
- Protection against cancer and other critical illnesses
- Improvement in overall health and well-being
- Divine blessings for longevity and strength
| Day | Temple Name | Know the temple | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 Start Time: 7:00 AM End Time: 8:00 PM |
Vaidyanathar, Vaitheeswaran Koil | "Seek healing and divine blessings at Vaitheeswaran Koil, where Lord Vaidyanathar, the supreme healer, cures ailments and restores health." | Readmore |
| Kumbakonam Karumbayiram Vinayagar | "Experience the blessings of Karumbayiram Vinayagar in Kumbakonam, where devotees seek health, well-being, and sweet success." | Readmore | |
| Kumbakonam Chakrapani Temple | "Revel in divine protection at Kumbakonam's Chakrapani Temple, where Lord Sudarshana's blessings cure ailments and eliminate obstacles." | Readmore | |
| Kumbakonam Nageswararan Temple | "Seek healing and protection at Nageswaran Temple, where the serpent king Nagaraja and Lord Ganesh bless devotees with cures for ailments and fears." | Readmore | |
| Lunch Time: Hotel Rayas Rice in Spice | |||
| Thirunaraiyur Siddhanadeswarar temple | "Located in the tranquil surroundings of Thirunaraiyur, this sacred Shiva temple is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Mahalakshmi, where prayers are said to cure mental illnesses and bring relief from depression." | Readmore | |
| Thiruvelliyankudi Valvil Raman Temple | "Pray to Lord Bhu Varaha, the protector of the Earth, and receive blessings of stability, prosperity, and academic success at Sri Mushnam Temple." | Readmore | Thirudevankudi Karkadeswarar Temple | "At Thirudevankudi, Lord Karkateswarar, the healer of ailments, blesses devotees with health and well-being, bringing relief to those suffering from various diseases." | Readmore |
| Day | Temple Name | Know the temple | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 2 Start Time: 8:00 AM End Time: 2:00 PM |
Suriyanar Koil Siva Suryanarayana Swamy Temple | "Sun God, Surya, is the divine source of energy and health, and at Suriyanar Temple, devotees experience the healing touch of this mighty deity." | Readmore |
| Kozhikuthi Vaanamutti Perumal Temple | Located on the banks of the Cauvery River, the Kozhikuthi Vaanamutti Perumal Temple is situated on the road from Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam, in the village of Kozhikuthi. This 800-year-old temple is unique in that the presiding deity, Vanamutti Perumal (Sri Srinivasa Perumal), stands at an awe-inspiring height of 20 feet, carved out of a single Athi (Fig) tree. | Readmore | |
| Moovalaur Markasagayeswarar Temple | Located 3 km from Mayiladuthurai, the Moovalur Markasagayeswarar Temple is a revered Padal Petra Sthalam linked to the divine acts of Lord Shiva during the Tripura Dahanam. | Readmore | |
| Lunch Time: Hotel Rayas Rice in Spice | |||
| Thirukadaiyur Abirami-Amirthakadeswarar Koil | Located in Thirukadaiyur, the Amritaghateswarar-Abhirami Temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, celebrated in the hymns of Saivite Saints Thirunavukkarasar, Gnana Sambandar, and Sundarar. Renowned for ceremonies like Sashtiapthapoorthy, Bheema Ratha Shanthi, and Sathabishekam, the temple is a symbol of longevity and divine grace. The great devotee Saint Abhirami Pattar is believed to have composed the Abhirami Anthadhi here in praise of the Goddess. | Readmore | |
| Kurumanakudi Ayiram Kannudaiyar Temple | Kurumanakudi Ayiram Kannudaiyar Temple is located 8 km from Sirkali and 18 km from Mayiladuthurai. The presiding deity, Lord Shiva, here is worshipped as Ayiram Kannudaiyar, symbolizing "one thousand eyes." This temple is one of the 276 Padal Petra Sthalams revered in the sacred Thevaram. | Readmore | Thirukolakka Osai Kodutha Nayagi | Located about 1.5 km from the Sirkazhi bus stand and around 4 km from the Sirkazhi railway station, Thirukkolakka is one of the 276 Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and the 15th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu. This sacred site is where Saint Thirugnanasambanthar received golden plates (“thalam”) from Lord Shiva. | Readmore |
Vaidyanathar, Vaitheeswaran Koil
Know the Temple:
“Seek healing and divine blessings at Vaitheeswaran Koil, where Lord Vaidyanathar, the supreme healer, cures ailments and restores health.”
Greatness of the temple
The Vaidyanathar Temple, located in Vaitheeswaran Koil near Sirkazhi in the Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Sri Vaidyanathar, the "Divine Healer." Devotees believe that sincere prayers to Vaidyanathar can cure chronic ailments and bring overall well-being. The temple’s name itself denotes healing, making it one of the most revered destinations for those seeking relief from illnesses. Thaiyal Nayagi, the divine consort of Lord Vaidyanathar, accompanies him with a vessel of sacred medicinal oil, symbolizing health and protection.
This temple is also a significant Navagraha Sthalam dedicated to Angaraka (Mars), known for curing Angaraka from leprosy after his sincere prayers to Lord Vaidyanathar. Devotees can visit the separate shrine for Mars and seek blessings for relief from planetary afflictions. Additionally, Vaitheeswaran Koil holds mythological importance, with Lord Rama cremating Jatayu at this sacred site as per Jatayu’s request, commemorated by the holy Jatayu Kundam.
The temple is a Padal Petra Sthalam, with Lord Shiva appearing as a swayambumurthi (self-manifested). Notable features include the sacred Maragatha Lingam (emerald lingam) and a shrine for Dhanvantari, the divine healer. Devotees take a holy dip in the Siddhamirtham tank, believed to contain nectar that cures skin diseases, before entering the temple.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran Koil
- Main deity (Lord Shiva): Lord Vaidyanathar (Shiva)
- Goddess: Thaiyal Nayagi (Parvati)
- Puranic names of the temple: Pulirukkuvelur
- Special rituals: Prayers and offerings for relief from diseases and ailments
- Blessings of the temple: Cures diseases, provides good health and well-being
- Location: Vaitheeswaran Koil, near Sirkazhi, Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu
- Navagraha Temple: Dedicated to Angaraka (Mars)
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
- Temple name: Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran Koil
- Main deity (Lord Shiva): Lord Vaidyanathar (Shiva)
- Goddess: Thaiyal Nayagi (Parvati)
- Puranic names of the temple: Pulirukkuvelur
- Special rituals: Prayers and offerings for relief from diseases and ailments
- Blessings of the temple: Cures diseases, provides good health and well-being
- Location: Vaitheeswaran Koil, near Sirkazhi, Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu
- Navagraha Temple: Dedicated to Angaraka (Mars)
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Kumbakonam Karumbayiram Vinayagar
Know the Temple:
“Experience the blessings of Karumbayiram Vinayagar in Kumbakonam, where devotees seek health, well-being, and sweet success.”
Greatness of the temple
The Karumbayiram Vinayagar Temple, located in the heart of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known here as Karumbayiram Konda Vinayagar, or Varaha Pillaiyar. This temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees, as worshipping this form of Ganesha is believed to bring health, well-being, and relief from life’s challenges. According to legend, Lord Vishnu, in his Varaha (Boar) incarnation, worshipped this Ganesha before undertaking his mission to rescue the Vedas from the Asuras, cementing the temple’s divine significance.
Another charming legend recounts a merchant who stopped overnight in Kumbakonam with a cart full of fresh sugarcane bundles. When a child, none other than Vinayagar in disguise, requested a sugarcane stick, the merchant refused. By morning, all the sugarcane had turned bitter. Realizing his folly, the merchant prayed to Karumbayiram Vinayagar, and the sugarcane’s sweetness was restored. This story underlines the deity's power to transform negativity into positivity and grant sweetness in devotees’ lives.
Praying at this temple is believed to bestow devotees with good health, protection from ailments, and overall well-being.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Karumbayiram Vinayagar Temple
- Main deity (Ganesha): Karumbayiram Vinayagar / Varaha Pillaiyar
- Location: Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu (near Adi Varaha Perumal Temple and northwest of Kumbeswarar Temple)
- Legends: Vishnu as Varaha worshipped this Ganesha; story of the sugarcane merchant
- Blessings of the temple: Bestows health, overall well-being, and transformation of challenges
- Special rituals: Offerings and prayers for health and relief from ailments
Kumbakonam Chakrapani Temple
Know the Temple:
“Revel in divine protection at Kumbakonam’s Chakrapani Temple, where Lord Sudarshana’s blessings cure ailments and eliminate obstacles.”
Greatness of the temple
The Chakrapani Temple, located in the heart of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Sudarshana, the powerful divine discus of Lord Vishnu. The presiding deity is depicted with eight arms, each bearing different weapons, and uniquely features a third eye on his forehead—a sight found nowhere else. Devotees believe that the Sudarshana Chakra at this temple wields extraordinary healing powers, capable of dispelling the adverse effects of malefic planetary transits, bringing balance, and curing ailments.
Legend has it that Lord Surya (the Sun God) built this magnificent temple, while Lord Brahma installed the idol of Lord Sudarshana. Devotees performing the Sudarshana Yajna here are believed to receive divine blessings for sound health, good vision, well-being, and multiple benefits. The temple's unique depiction of Lord Sudarshana signifies unparalleled divine protection and the destruction of negativity, making it one of the most significant Sudarshana shrines.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Chakrapani Temple
- Main deity: Lord Sudarshana (Chakra of Lord Vishnu)
- Location: Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Special attributes: Lord Sudarshana with eight arms and a third eye
- Legends: Built by Lord Surya; Sudarshana installed by Brahma
- Special rituals: Sudarshana Yajna for health, well-being, and planetary relief
- Blessings of the temple: Cures ailments, removes eye ailments, alleviates adverse planetary effects, and bestows good health
Kumbakonam Nageswararan Temple
Know the Temple:
“Seek healing and protection at Nageswaran Temple, where the serpent king Nagaraja and Lord Ganesh bless devotees with cures for ailments and fears.”
Greatness of the temple
Nageswaran Temple, located near the Kumbakonam old bus stand, is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Nagaraja, the serpent king. Constructed during the 9th century by King Aditya Chola, this temple is known for its divine association with Rahu, one of the nine celestial bodies in the Navagraha. The temple also holds a special significance for devotees seeking remedies for ailments, as it is believed to cure both physical and mental illnesses.
Legend has it that the mythological serpents—Adiseshan, Dakshan, and Kaarkotakan—worshipped Lord Shiva at this sacred site. King Nala, from the epic Mahabharata, is also believed to have sought Shiva's blessings here. A unique aspect of worship at this temple is the healing potential of performing prayers during Rahu Kaalam (the period associated with the malefic influence of Rahu), believed to cure ailments and alleviate fears, especially the fear of death.
Additionally, the temple houses a special shrine to Jwara Hara Vinayagar, a form of Lord Ganesha believed to cure all types of fever. As a Padal Petra Sthalam, the temple is revered by the Naalvar, Tamil Shaivite saints, further enhancing its spiritual importance.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Nageswaran Temple
- Main deity: Lord Shiva as Nagaraja (Serpent King)
- Location: Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu (near the old bus stand)
- Special attributes: Shrine to Rahu; Jwara Hara Vinayagar for fever relief
- Legends: Worshipped by mythological serpents and King Nala
- Special rituals: Prayers during Rahu Kaalam for health and longevity
- Blessings of the temple: Cures ailments, overcomes fear of death, and cures fever
Thirunaraiyur Siddhanadeswarar temple
Know the Temple:
“Located in the tranquil surroundings of Thirunaraiyur, this sacred Shiva temple is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Mahalakshmi, where prayers are said to cure mental illnesses and bring relief from depression.”
Greatness of the temple
Thirunaraiyur Siddhanadeswarar Temple, a revered site in the Kumbakonam region, is known for its powerful spiritual significance. This Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam, situated about 9 km from Kumbakonam, holds a unique place in Tamil Shaiva tradition. The temple is linked with the legend of Sage Medhavi Munivar, who fervently prayed to Lord Shiva for Goddess Lakshmi to be born as his daughter. In response, Lord Shiva facilitated her birth, and she appeared before the sage as a young girl, later married to Lord Srinivasa Perumal (Mahavishnu). As a result, the idol of Goddess Mahalakshmi in this temple is in the form of a sweet-speaking infant, known as "Mazhalai Mahalakshmi."
The temple is also historically known by names like Sidheeswaram, Suganthavanam, Narapuram, Kuberapuram, and Brahmapuram. Worshippers believe that the sacred oil used in the temple’s rituals has healing powers, having cured even a merchant suffering from an incurable disease. With Lord Shiva known as Sri Siddhanatheswarar and Goddess Parvati as Sri Azhakammai, this temple is renowned for its power to cure mental health issues, including depression, and promote emotional wellbeing.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thirunaraiyur Siddhanadeswarar Temple
- Main Deity (Lord Shiva): Sri Siddhanatheswarar
- Goddess: Sri Azhakammai (Goddess Parvati) and Goddess Mazhazhai(Mahalakshmi in child form)
- Historical Names: Sidheeswaram, Suganthavanam, Narapuram, Kuberapuram, Brahmapuram
- Special Rituals: Offering prayers to Lord Shiva for mental peace, wellness, and protection from depression
- Blessings of the Temple: Cures mental illnesses, depression, and brings emotional stability
- Location: Thirunaraiyur, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
- Sakthi Peetam: Yes
Thiruvelliyankudi Valvil Raman Temple
Know the Temple:
“Located 17 km from Kumbakonam, the Thiruvelliyankudi Kollavilli Ramar Temple is one of the revered Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where devotees believe in miraculous healing, particularly for eye-related ailments.”
Greatness of the temple
Thiruvelliyankudi Valvil Raman Temple, also known as Kollavilli Ramar Temple, is an important Divya Desam dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This sacred temple holds the unique distinction of having Garuda Bhagwan with four hands, known as Chaturbhuja Garuda, unlike the usual two-handed Garuda seen elsewhere. Lord Vishnu here is enshrined in a reclining posture, facing the east, with Goddess Lakshmi by His side as Maragadha Valli Thayar. The temple is believed to have existed through all four Yugas, with different names in each era—Brahmaputram in Satya Yuga, Parasharam in Treta Yuga, Saindranagaram in Dvapara Yuga, and Bhargavapuram in Kali Yuga.
The temple is particularly famous for being the place where Lord Sukra regained his vision after worshipping Lord Kolavilli Ramar, and as such, it is strongly believed that praying here can cure eye-related problems and bring spiritual healing. Worshippers believe that Lord Vishnu’s grace bestows overall wellbeing, both physical and spiritual, along with divine blessings for long-term prosperity and peace.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thiruvelliyankudi Kollavilli Ramar Temple
- Main Deity (Lord Vishnu): Kollavilli Ramar
- Goddess: Maragadha Valli Thayar
- Garuda Deity: Chaturbhuja Garuda (with 4 hands)
- Historical Names: Brahmaputram, Parasharam, Saindranagaram, Bhargavapuram
- Special Rituals: Worshipping for the cure of eye-related ailments
- Blessings of the Temple: Healing of eye problems, spiritual well-being, prosperity, and peace
- Location: Thiruvelliyankudi, 17 km from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Divya Desam: Yes
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Thirudevankudi Karkadeswarar Temple
Know the Temple:
A sacred Padal Petra Sthalam, Thiruvenkadu Swetaranyeswarar Temple is also a significant Navagraha temple where devotees seek the blessings of Lord Budha for knowledge and wisdom.
Greatness of the temple
Thirudevankudi Karkadeswarar Temple, located 10 km northeast of Kumbakonam, is a significant Shiva temple dedicated to Lord Karkateswarar (Thiru Aru Marundu Isvarar), revered for its healing powers. The temple is also known as Nandan Koil, a reference to "nandu" or crab, signifying the unique connection between Lord Shiva and the humble crab.
A fascinating legend speaks of a crab that worshipped Lord Shiva, and this story is beautifully depicted in a sculptural panel, where a golden crab is seen crawling on the Shiva Linga. The temple's sanctity is further amplified by the belief that the Linga's small crack is a result of an ancient cure provided by Shiva, who appeared as a mendicant and healed a diseased king.
This temple, the 42nd in the Padal Petra Sthalams, is believed to cure diseases and bring blessings of health to its devotees, especially those under the influence of the Cancer zodiac (Moon, Sun Sign, and Lagna), as well as the Punarpoosam, Poosam, and Aayilyam nakshatrams.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thirudevankudi Karkadeswarar Temple
- Main Deity: Lord Shiva as Karkateswarar
- Goddess: Goddess Parvati as Aru Marundu Ammai / Aboorva Nayagi
- Puranic Name: Nandan Koil
- Special Rituals: Offerings to Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati for health, well-being, and curing diseases
- Blessings of the Temple: Cures diseases, especially health-related issues for Cancer zodiac, boosts health
- Location: Thirudevankudi, near Tiruvisanalur, Tamil Nadu
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
- Dosha Nivarthi: For Kataka Cancer Moon Sign, Cancer Sun Sign, and Lagna, as well as nakshatrams Punarpoosam, Poosam & Aayilyam
Suriyanar Koil Siva Suryanarayana Swamy Temple
Know the Temple:
“Sun God, Surya, is the divine source of energy and health, and at Suriyanar Temple, devotees experience the healing touch of this mighty deity.”
Greatness of the temple
The Suriyanar Temple, also known as Suryanar Kovil, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and his consorts Ushadevi and Pratyusha Devi. Located in the village of Suryanar Kovil, near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, this temple is a significant part of the Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu. It is unique for housing shrines for all nine planetary deities, a feature unmatched by any other temple in the state.
According to legend, Sage Kalava, afflicted with leprosy and other ailments, prayed to the Navagrahas. Impressed by his devotion, the planets granted him a cure. However, Brahma, the god of creation, grew angry, believing the planets lacked the power to grant boons, and cursed them with leprosy. To seek relief, the planets prayed to Lord Shiva, who revealed that the land of Vellurukku Vanam would become their place of grace, where devotees could worship them. This temple, unlike any other planetary temple, does not have Shiva as its presiding deity, but instead honors Surya as the central deity.
Devotees who worship Lord Surya at this temple believe they will receive health, well-being, and relief from ailments. The temple, located 15 km west of Kumbakonam, is a powerful spiritual site for those seeking to overcome health issues and enhance their well-being.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Suriyanar Temple (Suryanar Kovil)
- Main Deity: Suriyanar (Sun God)
- Consorts: Ushadevi and Pratyusha Devi
- Other Deities: Separate shrines for the other eight planetary deities (Navagrahas)
- Puranic Legend: Sage Kalava’s prayers to the Navagrahas and their subsequent curse and relief
- Location: 15 km west of Kumbakonam, 22 km east of Mayiladuthurai, 2 km from Aduthurai
- Significance: Only temple in Tamil Nadu with shrines for all nine planets
- Blessings of the Temple: Health, well-being, relief from diseases and ailments, cures from ailments caused by planetary malefic effects
Kozhikuthi Vaanamutti Perumal Temple
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Located on the banks of the Cauvery River, the Kozhikuthi Vaanamutti Perumal Temple is situated on the road from Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam, in the village of Kozhikuthi. This 800-year-old temple is unique in that the presiding deity, Vanamutti Perumal (Sri Srinivasa Perumal), stands at an awe-inspiring height of 20 feet, carved out of a single Athi (Fig) tree.
Greatness of the temple
The temple holds a significant place in Hindu mythology, as it is believed to be the spot where Sri Srinivasa Perumal gave his Vishwaroopa Dharshan to Maharishi Pippalar. This divine moment is etched in the temple’s legacy, with the towering idol inspiring awe in devotees. The temple is also known for its connection to the myth of a king who, afflicted by a chronic skin disease, was guided to this place by Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. After taking a bath in the Vishwaroopa Pushkarni for 48 days, the king was cured of his ailment. It was here that the king received divine grace and witnessed the Vishwaroopa Dharshanam, transforming into Sage Pippalar later.
This temple is known for its powerful healing abilities, and offering prayers here is believed to cure skin diseases and other ailments.
Key Temple Facts
- Presiding Deity: Vanamutti Perumal (Sri Srinivasa Perumal)
- Deity’s Form: 20-feet tall idol carved from a single Athi (Fig) tree
- Located at: Kozhikuthi, near the Cauvery River, between Mayiladuthurai and Kumbakonam
- Unique Feature: Only temple in the world where the deity is carved out of a single tree
- Healing Powers: Worship here is believed to cure skin diseases and ailments
Moovalaur Markasagayeswarar Temple
Know the Temple:
Located 3 km from Mayiladuthurai, the Moovalur Markasagayeswarar Temple is a revered Padal Petra Sthalam linked to the divine acts of Lord Shiva during the Tripura Dahanam.
Greatness of the temple
The sthala puranam of this temple connects to the legendary Tripurantaka Samharam, where Shiva, after destroying the three cities, guided celestial beings, including the Devas, Brahma, and Vishnu, to worship Him in Mayiladuthurai. Disguised as a hunter, He led them to Moovalur, revealed the Lingam that emerged, and then vanished, earning the title of Marga Sahayeswarar, meaning 'The One who shows the right path.'
The temple's history intertwines with that of the Kozhikuthi Vanamutti Perumal Temple. King Nirmalan, suffering from a chronic skin disease, was advised by a sage to chant a mantra invoking Lord Vishnu. Guided by Shiva in the form of Margasahayeswarar, the king found healing along the banks of the River Kaveri, ultimately being cured at Kozhikuthi. The king later became known as Pippala Maharishi after surrendering to Lord Vishnu.
Worshipping Lord Markasagayeswarar here is believed to cure heart-related ailments and regulate blood pressure, offering relief and health to devotees.
Key Temple Facts
- Location: Moovalur, 3 km from Mayiladuthurai
- Main Deity: Lord Shiva as Markasagayeswarar (also known as Marga Sahayeswarar)
- Special Belief: Cures heart ailments and blood pressure issues through worship
- Historical Significance: Linked to the Tripura Dahanam and healing of King Nirmalan
- Related Temples: Kozhikuthi Vanamutti Perumal Temple
- Unique Aspect: Shiva’s guidance in the guise of a hunter
Thirukadaiyur Abirami-Amirthakadeswarar Koil
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Located in Thirukadaiyur, the Amritaghateswarar-Abhirami Temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, celebrated in the hymns of Saivite Saints Thirunavukkarasar, Gnana Sambandar, and Sundarar. Renowned for ceremonies like Sashtiapthapoorthy, Bheema Ratha Shanthi, and Sathabishekam, the temple is a symbol of longevity and divine grace. The great devotee Saint Abhirami Pattar is believed to have composed the Abhirami Anthadhi here in praise of the Goddess.
Greatness of the temple
The temple’s legend is rooted in the mythological churning of the ocean (Paarkadal), during which the pot of Amrit (nectar) was stolen by Lord Ganesha and hidden in the form of a Shiva Lingam. This Lingam, known as Amrita Ghata Eshwarar (Shiva in the form of a pot), is believed to grant longevity to those who worship here. Ganesha is revered here as Kalla Pillayar (Thief Ganesha) for this act.
A significant legend associated with this temple is the story of Markandeya, the child-sage destined to live only until the age of sixteen. On the day Yama, the god of death, arrived to claim him, Markandeya embraced the Shiva Lingam and sought refuge. Lord Shiva appeared, saving Markandeya and slaying Yama with his trident. Thus, the deity earned the name Kala Samhara Murti (Destroyer of Death). To this day, the Lingam bears a scar from Yama’s noose.
The temple’s three sacred tanks—Amrita Pushkarini, Kaala Theertham, and Maarkandeya Theertham—are revered for their divine significance. The separate shrines for Abhirami and Amrita Narayana with consort Amrita Valli enhance the temple’s spiritual aura.
Key Temple Facts
- Presiding Deities: Lord Amritaghateswarar and Goddess Abhirami
- Famous Rituals: Celebrations of longevity ceremonies like Sashtiapthapoorthy and Bheema Ratha Shanthi.
- Special Feature: Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Kala Samhara Murti, and the Lingam bears a mark from Yama’s noose.
- Unique Deities: Separate shrines for Abhirami and Amrita Narayana.
- Legendary Significance: Site where Lord Shiva granted immortality to Markandeya, defeating Yama in the process.
- Location: 21 km from Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu
- Temple Type: Paadal Petra Sthalam
Kurumanakudi Ayiram Kannudaiyar Temple
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Kurumanakudi Ayiram Kannudaiyar Temple is located 8 km from Sirkali and 18 km from Mayiladuthurai. The presiding deity, Lord Shiva, here is worshipped as Ayiram Kannudaiyar, symbolizing “one thousand eyes.” This temple is one of the 276 Padal Petra Sthalams revered in the sacred Thevaram.
Greatness of the temple
The temple is deeply connected with the legend of Indra, who was cursed with a thousand pustules on his body due to his deceitful actions toward Sage Gautama's wife, Ahalya. Following Sage Gautama’s curse, Indra sought redemption through intense penance at this temple. Guided by Lord Brahma, Indra prayed to Lord Shiva, who took pity on him and transformed the thousand pustules into a thousand beautiful eyes. The moolavar Lingam within the temple bears cavities, symbolizing these eyes, earning Lord Shiva the name Ayiram Kannudaiyar ("Lord with a thousand eyes").
The temple's name, Kurumanakudi, is derived from "Kuru" (meaning "small" or "short" in Tamil), a reference to Lord Vishnu's Vamana Avataram. According to legend, Lord Vishnu sought Lord
Shiva’s blessings here before his encounter with King Mahabali, where he asked for three steps of land.
Worshipping at this temple is believed to aid devotees in overcoming vision-related issues and atoning for sins they may have committed.
Key Temple Facts
- Location: Kurumanakkudi, 8 km from Sirkali and 18 km from Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu.
- Main Deity: Ayiram Kannudaiyar (Lord Shiva)
- Unique Feature: The moolavar Lingam features cavities symbolizing the thousand eyes granted to Indra.
- Historical and Mythological Significance: Associated with the legend of Indra’s curse and redemption, and believed to be connected to Lord Vishnu’s Vamana Avataram.
- Boons Believed to be granted: Worshipping here is believed to help overcome vision problems and offer relief from sins.
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Thirukolakka Osai Kodutha Nayagi
Know the Temple:
Located about 1.5 km from the Sirkazhi bus stand and around 4 km from the Sirkazhi railway station, Thirukkolakka is one of the 276 Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and the 15th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu. This sacred site is where Saint Thirugnanasambanthar received golden plates (“thalam”) from Lord Shiva.
Greatness of the temple
The temple’s historical name is Thirukkolakka, now known as Thiru Thalam Udayar Koil. According to legend, Goddess Mahalakshmi married Lord Mahavishnu here. Lord Shiva, worshipped by Indira, Suryan, sages Agasthiyar, and Kanva Maharishi, holds significant importance in the divine history. Notably, it was the first pilgrimage temple of Saint Thirugnanasambanthar after receiving Goddess Parvathy’s blessings at Sirkazhi. When the young saint's hands turned red from clapping while singing hymns in ecstasy, Lord Shiva bestowed upon him two golden plates. Since the plates did not initially produce any sound, Goddess Parvathi infused divine energy to create beautiful musical notes. This sacred event earned the deities their names—Lord Sri Thalapureeswarar and Goddess Sri Osai Kodutha Nayaki (the Goddess who granted sound). Devotees believe worshipping the Goddess here heals hearing and speech impairments.
Key Temple Facts
- Moolavar (Presiding Deity): Sri Thalapureeswarar (Lord Shiva)
- Goddess: Sri Osai Kodutha Nayaki
- Significance: Closely connected to the life of the great saint Thirugnanasambandar
- Unique Features: Historical significance of receiving golden plates from Lord Shiva; marriage site of Goddess Mahalakshmi and Lord Mahavishnu
- Devotees’ Belief: Worship here cures ailments related to hearing and speech impairments
Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
