Koothanur Saraswati Temple
Know the Temple:
Nestled in the charming town of Koothanur, Tamil Nadu, this revered temple houses Sri Saraswathi Devi, the Goddess of education, arts, wisdom, and music.
Greatness of the temple:
Goddess Saraswati is the concert of lord Brahma and carries a Veena, sacred texts and japa mala in her hands.
Legend has it that River Maa Ganga, at Lord Shiva's behest, flows as Arasalaru River, having the quality of deliverance from bad karma and sins. Rivers Ganga and Yamuna worshipped Goddess Saraswati here to be alleviated from their past sins. Devotees believe that worshiping at this temple absolves all past transgressions. This sacred site is also the birthplace of Tamil poet Ottakoothar, who served as the chief poet at the court of three chola kings. As per the legend, Ottakoothar worshipped Goddess Saraswati here and through her blessings, he gained speech and literary prowess.
Devotees offer notebooks and pens to Sri Saraswathi Devi, seeking blessings for students. Special homams/yagnas in February/March ensure excellent prospects for students appearing in annual exams. Aksharabhyasam, the festival of commencing education, is also conducted here. May the blessings of Sri Saraswathi Devi illuminate the path to knowledge!
Key Temple Facts
- Location: Koothanur, near Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu. 35 km from Kumbakonam
- Main Deity: Sri Saraswathi Devi
- Special Rituals: Abhishekams with turmeric, honey, milk, curd, fruit juices, and ghee
- Special Boons: Academic excellence, success in studies, cure for speech-related problems
- Specialty: The only temple where Goddess Saraswati is the main deity
- Puranic Names: Poonthottam
- Worshipped by: Rivers Yamuna & Ganga and Poets Ottakoothar & Kambar
- Major Festivals: Navarathri, Saraswathi Puja, Vijaya Dasami, and Vasanth Panchami
