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Discovering the Divine
Temples that Bestow Marital Bliss and Long-lasting Married Life
In the sacred lands of Tamil Nadu, particularly within the Kumbakonam, Sirgazhi, Myladuturai, and Thiruvarur regions, lie ancient temples known to bless devotees with the boon of marriage and marital harmony. These temples are steeped in rich legends, spanning several thousand years, and rooted in both Saivaite and Vaishnavaite traditions.
Revered in the sacred hymns of the Nayanmars and Azhwars, these temples are celebrated for granting boons related to suitable alliances, remedying delays in marriage, and ensuring a harmonious married life. Devotees from across the world seek the divine blessings from these sacred spaces, placing their faith in the time-honored rituals and miraculous legends associated with these hallowed temples.
Rooted in divine history and steeped in legends, these ancient temples offer unique blessings to those seeking marital harmony and fulfillment. Revered as Padal Petra Sthalams (Shiva temples hailed by the Thevaram) or Divya Desams (Vishnu temples celebrated in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham), they hold powerful energies to address various marriage-related issues.
Benefits of visiting these sacred temples:
- Removal of Mangalya Dosha
- Guidance in finding a suitable life partner
- Alleviation of malefic planetary influences delaying marriage
- Blessings for marital happiness and progeny
- Resolution of marriage-related conflicts
- Dissolution of obstacles in marriage
| Day | Temple Name | Know the temple | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 Start Time: 7:00 AM End Time: 8:00 PM |
Thiruvelvikudi Manavaleswarar Temple | "At Thiruvelvikudi, Lord Shiva, known as Sri Manavaleswara Swamy, blesses devotees seeking marriage and relief from doshas." | Readmore |
| Mela Thirumanancheri Iravadheswarar Temple | "In the sacred precincts of Mela Thirumanancheri, Lord Iravadheswarar showers blessings on those yearning for marriage." | Readmore | |
| Thirumanancheri Temple | "In Thirumanancheri, Lord Kalyanasundareswarar and Goddess Kokilaambal bless couples with harmony and marital bliss." | Readmore | |
| Lunch Time: Hotel Rayas Rice in Spice | |||
| Thiruvidaikazhi Muruga Temple | "Thiruvidaikazhi, where Lord Muruga blesses devotees with marital harmony and relief from obstacles in love." | Readmore | |
| Aachchalpuram Temple | "At Aachchalpuram, Sri Shivalokath Thyagaraja Swamy Temple provides divine blessings for marital harmony and spiritual fulfillment." | Readmore | |
| Thiruveezhimizhalai Nethrarpaneswarar Temple | "At Thiruveezhimizhalai, Lord Shiva, as Sri Nethrarpaneswarar, blesses devotees with marriage boons and removes obstacles in proposals through his divine grace." | Readmore | |
| Day | Temple Name | Know the temple | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 2 Start Time: 8:00 AM End Time: 2:00 PM |
Thirukannamangai | "At Thirukannamangai, Lord Bhaktavatsala Perumal stands as a divine symbol of marriage blessings, alongside Goddess Abhishegavalli who performed penance here, making it a revered sanctuary for those seeking marital harmony." | Readmore |
| Thirunaraiyur Temple (Nachiyar Koil) | "At Thirunaraiyur, Lord Vishnu, revered as Naraiyur Nambi, blesses devotees seeking marital harmony and divine grace." | Readmore | |
| Thirunageswaram Oppiliappan Koil | "Find divine blessings at the Oppiliappan Koil in Thirunageswaram, where Vishnu, known as Oppiliappan, is revered for his unmatchable grace. This Divya Desam temple is famed for its traditions and the remarkable love story of Vishnu and Bhoomidevi." | Readmore | |
| Lunch Time: Hotel Rayas Rice in Spice | |||
| Sarangapani Temple, Kumbakonam | "Located in Kumbakonam in the Tanjore district, the Sarangapani Temple is about 1.5 miles from Kumbakonam railway station, making it easily accessible by both bus and train. Known as a significant Divya Desam, this temple holds a special place in Vaishnavite tradition and is revered by devotees across the globe." | Readmore | |
| Thirumangalakudi Praananatheswarar Temple | "Thirumangalakudi lies around 17 km from Kumbakonam along the route to Mayiladuthurai, offering bus facilities for easy access. This ancient Shiva temple, built by Alaivaanar, a minister of Kulothunga Chola-I, is unique for its dedication to the welfare of devotees affected by adverse planetary influences, especially those caused by the Sun. Its notable designations include the village name “Mangalakkudi,” the sanctum tower called “Mangala Vimanam,” the holy tank “Mangala Theertham,” and the deity, “Mangala Vinayakar.” | Readmore | |
Thiruvelvikudi Manavaleswarar Temple
Know the Temple:
“At Thiruvelvikudi, Lord Shiva, known as Sri Manavaleswara Swamy, blesses devotees seeking marriage and relief from doshas.”
Greatness of the temple
Thiruvelvikudi, located about 14 km from Mayiladuthurai, is one of the revered 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams. The temple houses a self-manifested (Swayambumurthi) deity of Lord Shiva, celebrated for its spiritual significance in aiding marriage-related issues. This temple is considered a parihara sthalam, addressing doshas that hinder marriage. Shiva is known as Manavaleswarar (Groom).
The temple’s antiquity is highlighted by its association with various legends surrounding Goddess Parvathy and Lord Shiva, linking it to other nearby sacred sites. It is said that after being cursed by Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathy transformed into a cow at Therazhundur and worshiped Shiva at Thirukkozhambam, where she accidentally marked his chest with her hoof, leading to her eventual redemption at Thiruvaduthurai.
Moreover, the great yagna performed by Sage Bharatha, where Goddess Parvathy emerged from the yagna (sacred fire), marks a pivotal moment in the temple's history. The rituals conducted here during their earthly wedding hold immense importance, symbolizing the union of divine love.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thiruvelvikudi Temple
- Main Deity: Sri Manavaleswara Swamy
- Goddess: Sri Parimala Sugantha Nayaki
- Significance: A temple dedicated to marriage boons and relief from doshas
- Location: Thiruvelvikudi, near Mayiladuthurai
- Historical Events: Earthly wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Mela Thirumanancheri Iravadheswarar Temple
Know the Temple:
“In the sacred precincts of Mela Thirumanancheri, Lord Iravadheswarar showers blessings on those yearning for marriage.”
Greatness of the temple
The Sri Iravadheswarar Temple in Ethirkolpadi, around 17 km from Mayiladuthurai, is deeply embedded in the spiritual fabric of Tamil Nadu as a Padal Petra Sthalam. Lord Shiva, revered as Sri Iravadheswarar, holds a significant role in the epic narrative of marriage blessings.
The temple's historical significance lies in its connection to Sage Bharatha, who is said to have received Lord Shiva as a groom for his daughter, Goddess Parvathy. This divine reception marks the temple as a site of celestial marriages, where the rituals of love and devotion take center stage.
Additionally, the temple is steeped in legends, including the tale of Iraavadham, Lord Indra's white elephant, who sought refuge in this temple after being cursed. The shrine serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of divine love and the pursuit of marriage, making it a revered site for those desiring union.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Mela Thirumanancheri Temple
- Main Deity: Lord Iravadheswarar
- Goddess: Sri Vasa Malarkkuzhal Nayaki
- Significance: A temple where Lord Shiva was received as a groom
- Location: Ethirkolpadi, near Mayiladuthurai
- Historical Events: Lord Shiva’s reception by Sage Bharatha
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Thirumanancheri Temple
Know the Temple:
“In Thirumanancheri, Lord Kalyanasundareswarar and Goddess Kokilaambal bless couples with harmony and marital bliss.”
Greatness of the temple
The Thirumanancheri Temple stands as a profound symbol of love and commitment, revered for the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site for those wishing for quick and harmonious marriages.
Historical narratives link this temple to the penance of Goddess Parvathy, who undertook rigorous devotion to win Lord Shiva's heart. This temple is where her wishes were fulfilled, solidifying its status as a marriage boon center.
Unique features of this temple include the portrayal of Lord Shiva in a wedding pose, embodying the essence of marital love. Goddess Kolilaambal is found is a unique sitting posture like resembling a bride and is found happily blushing about her impending marriage. Rituals conducted here often involve the tying of garlands, believed to ensure the smooth course of marriage, making this temple a focal point for couples seeking divine intervention in their marital journey.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thirumanancheri Temple
- Main Deity: Lord Kalyanasundareswarar
- Goddess: Goddess Kokilaambal
- Significance: The site of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy’s divine marriage
- Location: Thirumanancheri, Tamil Nadu
- Historical Events: The union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Thiruvidaikazhi Muruga Temple
Know the Temple:
“Thiruvidaikazhi, where Lord Muruga blesses devotees with marital harmony and relief from obstacles in love.”
Greatness of the temple
Although primarily dedicated to Lord Kameswarar (Shiva), Thiruvidaikazhi is well-known for its association with Lord Muruga, who is believed to have received blessings here for his marriage to Devasena. This temple carries deep historical and spiritual significance, making it a favored destination for those seeking marriage boons.
The temple’s legends recount the story of Muruga defeating Iranyasuran, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil—a crucial aspect for those seeking successful marriages. Additionally, it is said that worshiping at this temple can alleviate Rahu dosha, further enhancing its importance as a place for marital and personal well-being.
The temple’s rich tapestry of hymns, including those by Arunagirinathar, contributes to its spiritual atmosphere, inviting devotees to seek blessings for love and unity. In the Sanctum Santorum of the temple both Muruga and his father Shiva grace the devotees.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thiruvidaikazhi Muruga Temple
- Main Deity: Lord Kameswarar
- Significance: A temple known for marriage-related blessings and victory over obstacles
- Location: Thiruvidaikazhi, Tamil Nadu
- Puranic names: Magizhavanam
- Historical Events: Lord Muruga’s engagement with Devasena
- Thirumurai Sthalam: Yes
Aachchalpuram Temple
Know the Temple:
“At Aachchalpuram, Sri Shivalokath Thyagaraja Swamy Temple provides divine blessings for marital harmony and spiritual fulfillment.”
Greatness of the temple
Aachchalpuram, located near Kollidam, is steeped in history and spirituality, revered as a significant Padal Petra Sthalam. The temple holds particular importance due to its association with Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, who is said to have attained salvation here during his wedding ceremony.
The temple's historical legacy is tied to the grand wedding of the great Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, where he sought Lord Shiva's blessings for marital bliss. This moment became a defining narrative for the temple, leading to its establishment as a site of deep spiritual significance and divine intervention.
In addition to its rich history, the temple is known for its unique prasadam—Vibudhi, which is said to be particularly auspicious, given by Goddess Parvathy herself. The temple continues to be a destination for those seeking blessings for marriage and unity.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Aachchalpuram Temple
- Main Deity: Sri Shivalokath Thyagaraja Swamy
- Significance: A site where Saint Thirugnanasambanthar attained salvation during his wedding
- Location: Aachchalpuram, Tamil Nadu
- Puranic names: Nallur Perumanam
- Historical Events: Grand wedding of Saint Thirugnanasambanthar
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Thiruveezhimizhalai Nethrarpaneswarar Temple
Know the Temple:
“At Thiruveezhimizhalai, Lord Shiva, as Sri Nethrarpaneswarar, blesses devotees with marriage boons and removes obstacles in proposals through his divine grace.”
Greatness of the temple
Thiruveezhimizhalai is a distinguished Paadal Petra Sthalam, cherished among the 276 Shiva temples praised in Thevaram hymns and one of the 61 sacred Shiva sites along the southern bank of the Cauvery in Chola Nadu. Lord Shiva, worshipped as Sri Nethrarpaneswarar and Sri Veezhinathaswamy, is a Swayambumurthi, known to alleviate marriage-related obstacles, making this temple a renowned Parihara Sthalam for devotees seeking marital blessings.
Steeped in a history over 2000 years old, this ancient temple has inscriptions dating back to the reign of Chola King Kulothungan I, affirming its antiquity. Legends tell of Sage Kathyayana and his wife, Sumangalai, who performed penance here for a child. Pleased by their devotion, Goddess Parvathy herself incarnated as their daughter, Karthyayini. When she came of age, Sage Kathyayana prayed for a suitable groom. Lord Shiva, in response, revealed that Karthyayini was indeed Goddess Parvathy and promised to marry her on the auspicious Magam star day in the month of Chithirai. This divine wedding took place here, and the sanctum now reflects a Kalyana Mandapam (marriage hall), with pillars symbolizing the union.
Adding to the temple’s uniqueness, the main sanctum houses 12-foot-tall idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy, representing their wedding form as Sri Kalyanasundarar, also known locally as Mappillai Swamy. The temple tower is shaped like a chariot with Lord Indra driving, symbolizing the auspicious journey of a wedding. The main mandapam of the temple resembles a marriage hall. Additionally, Lord Vishnu is believed to have regained his discus (Chakrayudam) after worshipping here, and the temple has seen worship from Sage Vashistar, Kamadenu, Rathi Devi, and King Manu.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thiruveezhimizhalai Nethrarpaneswarar Temple
- Main Deity: Sri Nethrarpaneswarar (Veezhinathaswamy / Kalyana Sundaramoorthy)
- Goddess: Sri Sundarakujambigai / Sri Azhagiyavanmulaiammai
- Significance: Marriage blessings and removal of obstacles in marriage
- Location: Thiruveezhimizhalai, near Mayiladuthurai
- Historical Events: Divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Thirukannamangai
Know the Temple:
“At Thirukannamangai, Lord Bhaktavatsala Perumal stands as a divine symbol of marriage blessings, alongside Goddess Abhishegavalli who performed penance here, making it a revered sanctuary for those seeking marital harmony.”
Greatness of the temple
Thirukannamangai Bhaktavatsala Perumal Temple, located in the Tanjore district of Tamil Nadu, is part of the celebrated 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known as the Sapthamirtha Kshetram, the temple holds seven unique attributes of holiness, drawing spiritual seekers from far and wide. Here, Goddess Mahalakshmi, revered as Abhishegavalli, performed penance in the Sri Mandapam and took a ritual bath in the temple’s Pushkarani (sacred tank) before uniting in divine marriage with Bhaktavatsala Perumal. This sanctified place, often referred to as Lakshmi Vanam, also houses an ancient bee hive within her sanctum, believed to be the rishis, devas, and yogis transformed into bees to remain forever in her presence.
Lord Vishnu, in his form as Bhaktavatsala Perumal, stands in a gracious posture facing east, blessing devotees with the serenity and steadfastness required in marriage. The temple is said to have been graced by Lord Varuna and Romasa Munivar, adding to its esteemed religious history.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thirukannamangai Bhaktavatsala Perumal Temple
- Main Deity: Bhaktavatsala Perumal (also known as Bhaktaraavi Perumal)
- Goddess: Sri Abhishegavalli
- Significance: Renowned for marriage blessings, Lakshmi’s penance, and the sacred bee hive in her sanctum
- Location: Thirukannamangai, Tanjore district, Tamil Nadu
- Historical Legends: The divine union of Bhaktavatsala Perumal and Abhishegavalli; presence of rishis and devas in bee form
- Divya Desam: Yes
Thirunaraiyur Temple (Nachiyar Koil)
Know the Temple:
“At Thirunaraiyur, Lord Vishnu, revered as Naraiyur Nambi, blesses devotees seeking marital harmony and divine grace.”
Greatness of the temple
Thirunaraiyur, also known as Nachiyar Kovil, is a celebrated Divya Desam, renowned for its sacred association with Goddess Mahalakshmi, who is worshipped here as Vanjulavalli. According to legend, a saint named Medhavi fervently prayed to Lord Vishnu to grant him a daughter, and on an auspicious day, he discovered a beautiful girl child under the Vanjula tree. He named her Vanjulavalli after the tree.
As Vanjulavalli matured, Lord Vishnu, in his divine form, visited the saint's ashram with four other incarnations. When she accidentally called for help upon encountering one of them, the saint rushed to her aid, only to find that all five had vanished, revealing the original form of Lord Vishnu. The saint joyfully accepted the proposal for his daughter's marriage to Lord Vishnu, while requesting three boons: eternal life, salvation for all beings who provided for him, and a place of honor for his daughter.
As a result, this sacred site is called Nachiyar Kovil, symbolizing the union of Lord Vishnu and his beloved consort. Here, Lord Vishnu is depicted in a humble posture, seeking the hand of the goddess, while Vanjulavalli stands a step ahead, signifying her prominence in the divine relationship. The other forms of Lord Vishnu also bless devotees from behind, completing the divine assembly.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thirunaraiyur Temple
- Main Deity: Naraiyur Nambi
- Goddess: Vanjulavalli
- Significance: A temple dedicated to marriage and divine blessings
- Location: Nachiyar Kovil, Tamil Nadu
- Historical Events: The divine marriage of Vanjulavalli and Lord Vishnu
- Divya Desam: Yes
Thirunageswaram Oppiliappan Koil
Know the Temple:
Find divine blessings at the Oppiliappan Koil in Thirunageswaram, where Vishnu, known as Oppiliappan, is revered for his unmatchable grace. This Divya Desam temple is famed for its traditions and the remarkable love story of Vishnu and Bhoomidevi.
Greatness of the temple
This sacred temple is associated with the compelling legends of Bhoomidevi and Thulasi Devi, both revered for their deep devotion to Vishnu. The story begins in the Thiruparkadal, the milky ocean of Vaikunta, where both Lakshmi and Thulasi emerged. Lord Vishnu, captivated by their devotion, bestowed blessings on each, making Thulasi his eternal garland and Bhoomidevi his bride. Sage Markandeya, a devout saint, wished for a daughter blessed by Vishnu. He discovered Bhoomidevi under a sacred tulsi plant, and when she grew up, Vishnu arrived disguised as an elderly man seeking her hand in marriage.
Despite initial hesitation due to her age, Sage Markandeya relented, and when the old man revealed himself as Vishnu, Bhoomidevi was filled with joy. The couple’s wedding took place under the star of Sravana in the Tamil month of Aipasi, attended by all celestial beings. Oppiliappan is unique in accepting only offerings without salt, a tradition established by Sage Markandeya's special wish, emphasizing the value of simplicity, purity, and love of Maha Vishnu towards his consort, Bhoomi Devi.
This sacred site continues to embody the love between Vishnu and Bhoomidevi, providing devotees with profound spiritual blessings.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Oppiliappan Koil
- Location: Thirunageswaram, 4 KMS Kumbakonam, Tanjore district, Tamil Nadu.
- Deities: Lord Vishnu as Oppiliappan and Goddess Bhoomidevi.
- Ancient Tradition: The custom of offering food without salt continues as a divine vow taken by the lord to please Markandeya and Bhoomidevi
- Puranic Names: Known as “Markandeya Kshetram,” “Vinnagar,” and “Thulasivanam
- Significance: This Divya Desam is also known as “Thulasivanam,” “Markandeya Kshetram,” and “Vinnagar,” where Vishnu appeared to marry Bhoomidevi.
- Divya Desam: Yes
Sarangapani Temple, Kumbakonam
Know the Temple:
Located in Kumbakonam in the Tanjore district, the Sarangapani Temple is about 1.5 miles from Kumbakonam railway station, making it easily accessible by both bus and train. Known as a significant Divya Desam, this temple holds a special place in Vaishnavite tradition and is revered by devotees across the globe.
Greatness of the temple
Experience the divine presence of Lord Sarangapani at Kumbakonam, one of the grandest Divya Desams. With a rich blend of legends and divine love, this temple invites you into a realm of unmatched serenity and devotion.
The Sarangapani Temple stands as a testament to humility and divine love. According to legend, Brighu Maharishi once tested the three gods—Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu—to determine the greatest among them. When Vishnu displayed utmost humility even after the sage's disrespect, the rishi’s pride melted, and he surrendered to Lord Vishnu, acknowledging his divine compassion. However, Goddess Mahalakshmi, residing in the Lord's heart, was displeased with the incident and left, taking residence in Kollapuram on Earth. Thus began Lord Vishnu’s journey as Lord Srinivasa, borrowing funds for marriage and ultimately hiding in the Abyss at Kumbakonam. Finally, upon performing penance, Hema Maharishi was blessed to raise Komalavalli as his daughter, who, in time, was married to Lord Vishnu on the sacred day of Mahashankaranthi.
In deference to Komalavalli's initial displeasure, Lord Sarangapani is seen here in a reclining pose, echoing the Ranganatha of Srirangam. The name “Sarangapani” is derived from “Sarangam,” the divine bow of Lord Rama, symbolizing faithfulness and protection.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Kumbakonam Sarangapani Temple
- Main Deity: Sri Sarangapani (Aaramudhan)
- Goddess: Komalavalli
- Significance: Marriage boons and removal of misunderstanding between couples
- Location: heart of Kumbakonam town
- Puranic names: Thirukudanthai and Bhaskara Kshetram
- Historical Facts: One of the Pancha Ranga Kshetram and Pancha Kalyana Kshetram
- Divya Desam: Yes
Thirumangalakudi Praananatheswarar Temple
Know the Temple:
Thirumangalakudi lies around 17 km from Kumbakonam along the route to Mayiladuthurai, offering bus facilities for easy access. This ancient Shiva temple, built by Alaivaanar, a minister of Kulothunga Chola-I, is unique for its dedication to the welfare of devotees affected by adverse planetary influences, especially those caused by the Sun. Its notable designations include the village name “Mangalakkudi,” the sanctum tower called “Mangala Vimanam,” the holy tank “Mangala Theertham,” and the deity, “Mangala Vinayakar.”
Greatness of the temple
Experience the divine protection of Sri Praananatheswarar and Sri Mangala Nayaki at the sacred “Panchamangala Kshetram” of Thirumangalakudi. Known for bestowing harmony and warding off the planetary afflictions of Lord Suryan, this temple is a revered site for devotees seeking peace and prosperity.
Thirumangalakudi’s legend dates back to the 11th century, when Alaivaanar, a loyal minister to the Chola king, constructed this temple with tax revenues without royal consent. King Kulothunga, upon learning this, sentenced Alaivaanar to death. When Alaivaanar’s body was brought to Thirumangalakudi, his wife prayed fervently to the goddess, who restored his life, earning the goddess her title as Sri Mangalanayaki, the one who revives life. Lord Shiva, as Praananatheswarar (Lord of Life), became revered here as a protector of those in peril.
In another legend, Sage Kalava was cursed with leprosy and sought the blessings of the Navagrahas for relief. When denied assistance, he cursed them to endure the same fate. Appealing to Lord Shiva, the Navagrahas performed penance at Thirumangalakudi. Shiva advised them to worship him at this site for eleven Sundays, and upon completing their penance, he freed them from the curse. Since then, visiting this temple has been customary before proceeding to Suryanar Koil, known for housing the Navagrahas in separate shrines.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple Name: Thirumangalakudi Sri Praananatheswarar Temple
- Deities: Praananatheswarar (Shiva) and Mangala Nayaki (Parvati), symbolizing life and prosperity.
- Specialties: Adorned with the “Mangala Vimanam” sanctum tower and the sacred “Mangala Theertham.”
- Significance: Renowned for protecting devotees from planetary afflictions, especially those associated with the Sun.
- Navagraha Association: Before visiting the Suryanar Koil, devotees often stop here to honor the tradition established by the Navagrahas.
- Puranic names: Panchamangala Kshetram.
- Location: Thirumangalakudi, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Padal Petra Sthalam : Yes
