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Temples of Knowledge in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu, often referred to as the "Land of Temples," is a treasure trove of ancient architecture, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Among its myriad temples, some are believed to bestow specific boons, including the gift of knowledge and wisdom. In this blog, we will explore three such temples dedicated to deities who are revered for their ability to enhance intellect and aid in academic and professional success.
The Divine Bestowers of Knowledge
In Hindu mythology, several deities are associated with knowledge and learning. Among them, Goddess Saraswati, Lord Dakshinamurthy, and Lord Hayagriva hold a special place. These deities are worshipped by students, scholars, and professionals seeking wisdom and success in their endeavors.
Lord Hayagriva
Lord Hayagriva, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is depicted with a horse's head and is considered the god of knowledge and wisdom. He is particularly revered in the Vaishnavite tradition. Hayagriva’s invocation is believed to make a person knowledgeable and grant him the wisdom to understand anything.
Goddess Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati, the consort of Lord Brahma, is the embodiment of knowledge, music, art, and wisdom. She is often depicted holding a veena (a musical instrument) and seated on a white lotus, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.
Lord Dakshinamurthy
Lord Dakshinamurthy is an important aspect of Lord Shiva, revered as the ultimate teacher and the god of wisdom. He is depicted as a serene yogi, imparting knowledge through silence and meditation.
| Day | Temple Name | Know the temple | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 Start Time: 7:00 AM End Time: 8:00 PM |
Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy and Hayagrivar Temple | "Seek the blessings of wisdom and knowledge at the sacred Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy Temple, where Lord Hayagriva blesses students and scholars with academic brilliance." | Readmore |
| Kumbakonam Veda Narayana Perumal Temple | "Worship the divine source of knowledge—Lord Veda Narayana at this sacred Kumbakonam temple and receive the blessings of clarity, wisdom, and success." | Readmore | |
| Kumbakonam Adi Varaha Perumal Temple | "Visit the oldest Perumal temple of Kumbakonam—the Adi Varaha Temple. Hailed as the embodiment of all knowledge, during Masi Magam and Maha Magam, the Lord receives the first respect." | Readmore | |
| Thirunaraiyur (Naraiyur Nindra Nambi) Temple | "Pray to Lord Naraiyur Nindra Nambi at Thirunaraiyur and receive blessings of prosperity, family happiness, and wisdom, just like Sage Thirumangai Azhwar did." | Readmore | |
| Lunch Time: Hotel Rayas Rice in Spice | |||
| Sri Vidya Rajagopalaswamy Temple, Mannargudi | "Experience the grandeur of Sri Vidya Rajagopalaswamy Temple in Mannargudi and receive blessings for knowledge, wealth, and fulfillment of desires." | Readmore | |
| Sri Mushnam Bhu Varaha Swamy 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 | |
| Day | Temple Name | Know the temple | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 2 Start Time: 8:00 AM End Time: 2:00 PM |
Thiruvenkadu Swetaranyeswarar Temple (Budhan 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. | Readmore |
| Alangudi Abathsagayeswarar Temple (Guru Temple) | Located near Tiruvarur, Alangudi Abathsagayeswarar Temple is an ancient Padal Petra Sthalam where Lord Dakshinamurti bestows divine knowledge and success. | Readmore | |
| Innambur Ezhuthari Nathar Temple | "Seek the blessings of wisdom and knowledge at the sacred Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy Temple, where Lord Hayagriva blesses students and scholars with academic brilliance." | Readmore | |
| Lunch Time: Hotel Rayas Rice in Spice | |||
| Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran Koil | Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran Koil A famous healing shrine, Vaidyanathar Temple in Vaitheeswaran Koil is known for curing ailments and bestowing success in medical education and professions. " | Readmore | |
| Koothanur Saraswati 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. | Readmore | Swami Malai Murugan Temple | Located 5 km from Kumbakonam, in Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu, this revered temple honors Lord Murugan, the embodiment of higher knowledge, wisdom and power. | Readmore |
Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy and Hayagrivar Temple
Know the Temple:
“Seek the blessings of wisdom and knowledge at the sacred Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy Temple, where Lord Hayagriva blesses students and scholars with academic brilliance.”
Greatness of the temple
The Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy and Hayagrivar Temple is a beacon for devotees seeking wisdom, knowledge, and academic excellence. Lord Devanatha Perumal, revered as the king of gods, is worshipped alongside Lord Hayagriva, the god of wisdom. Special rituals like the Hayagriva Homam and reciting the Hayagriva Stotram bless devotees with success in academic pursuits. It was at this temple that the great Sri Vedanta Desika received blessings of all forms of Vidyas (knowledge) from Lord Hayagriva. Located in Cuddalore, the temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and offers protection and relief from life’s hardships.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Tiruvahindrapuram Devanatha Swamy and Hayagrivar Temple
- Main deity (Lord Vishnu) is known as: Lord Devanatha Perumal
- Goddess Mahalakshmi is known as: Goddess Hemambuja Valli Thayar
- Puranic names of the temple: Tiruvahindrapuram, Aindrapuram
- Worshipped by: Lord Indra, Lord Brahma, Lord Chandra, Sri Vedanta Desika
- Special rituals of the temple: Hayagriva Homam for academic excellence, Hayagriva Jayanthi pooja, chanting Hayagriva Stotram
- Special boons of the temple: Grants wisdom, knowledge, and academic excellence; protects devotees from hardships
- Specialty of the temple:
- Lord Hayagriva on Oushadhagiri Hill, believed to be a fragment of the Sanjeevani Mountain
- Worshipped by Adi Sesha and Garuda
- Sri Vedanta Desika received blessings of knowledge from Lord Hayagriva here
- Goddess Saraswati initiated by Lord Hayagriva
- Location: 8 km from Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu
- Divya Desam: Yes, one of the important temple of the 108 Divya Desams
Kumbakonam Veda Narayana Perumal Temple
Know the Temple:
“Worship the divine source of knowledge—Lord Veda Narayana at this sacred Kumbakonam temple and receive the blessings of clarity, wisdom, and success.”
Greatness of the temple
The Kumbakonam Veda Narayana Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Veda Narayana and stands out for its association with Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. Devotees pray for wisdom, knowledge, and success in their endeavors. With Brahma and his consorts Gayatri and Saraswati worshipping the lord here, it’s a place that emphasizes overcoming ignorance and attaining enlightenment. Special rituals like Abhishekam and pujas during Chaturmasya amplify the power of this ancient temple, making it a destination for those seeking academic brilliance and prosperity.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Kumbakonam Veda Narayana Perumal Temple
- Main deity (Lord Vishnu) is known as: Veda Narayana Perumal
- Goddess Mahalakshmi is known as: Veda Valli
- Puranic names of the temple: Brahmapuram
- Worshipped by: Lord Brahma, Saraswati, Gayatri, sages, and devotees seeking wisdom
- Special rituals of the temple: Abhishekam, special pujas for Chaturmasya, Brahma’s worship rituals after realizing his mistake, Homa to Brahma on Thursdays for academic success
- Special boons of the temple: Grants knowledge, wisdom, and success in education and arts
- Specialty of the temple: Unique combination of Lord Vishnu and Brahma, with consorts Saraswati and Gayatri; symbolizes overcoming ignorance
- Location: Located within Kumbakonam town
- Divya Desam: No
Kumbakonam Adi Varaha Perumal Temple
Know the Temple:
“Visit the oldest Perumal temple of Kumbakonam—the Adi Varaha Temple. Hailed as the embodiment of all knowledge, during Masi Magam and Maha Magam, the Lord receives the first respect.”
Greatness of the temple
The Kumbakonam Adi Varaha Perumal Temple is the oldest Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam, where Lord Varaha bestows knowledge, wisdom, and prosperity. The temple holds great significance for Vaishnavites, and devotees believe that worshipping Adi Varaha grants protection from obstacles and negative energies. This temple's role in bestowing knowledge has earned it the title of ‘Gnana Piraan,’ and worship here is a powerful path to both spiritual and material blessings. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Varaha saved the Earth during the cosmic deluge, adding to its legendary status.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Kumbakonam Adi Varaha Perumal Temple
- Main deity (Lord Vishnu) is known as: Adi Varaha Perumal
- Goddess Mahalakshmi is known as: Ambuja Valli
- Puranic names of the temple: Adi Varaha Kshetra
- Worshipped by: Many sages and kings, including Vaishnavite saints
- Special rituals of the temple: Daily pujas, Abhishekam, Alankaram, Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrations
- Special boons of the temple: Grants knowledge, protection from negative energies, wealth, prosperity, and abundance
- Specialty of the temple: Believed to be the oldest Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam, Varaha avatar symbolizing restoration of dharma
- Location: Situated within Kumbakonam town
- Divya Desam: No
Thirunaraiyur (Naraiyur Nindra Nambi) Temple
Know the Temple:
“Pray to Lord Naraiyur Nindra Nambi at Thirunaraiyur and receive blessings of prosperity, family happiness, and wisdom, just like Sage Thirumangai Azhwar did.”
Greatness of the temple
The Thirunaraiyur Temple, one of the 108 Divya Desams, is a revered shrine where Lord Naraiyur Nindra Nambi blesses devotees with prosperity, moksha, and academic brilliance. The temple is known for the Kal Garuda procession and the prominence given to Goddess Vanjula Valli. Sage Thirumangai Azhwar, initiated here by the lord, is believed to have received the ultimate skills and knowledge. Devotees who pray at this temple feel an immense spiritual connection and find solutions to both worldly and academic challenges.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Thirunaraiyur (Naraiyur Nindra Nambi) Temple
- Main deity (Lord Vishnu) is known as: Naraiyur Nindra Nambi
- Goddess Mahalakshmi is known as: Vanjula Valli
- Puranic names of the temple: Vanjula Kshetra, Thirunaraiyur
- Worshipped by: Alwars, sages, kings, devotees, and Sri Thirumangai Azhwar
- Special rituals of the temple: Daily pujas, Abhishekam, Vedic recitations, Vaikuntha Ekadashi festival
- Special boons of the temple: Grants moksha (spiritual liberation), removal of karmic burdens, and prosperity
- Specialty of the temple:
- Famous for the Kal Garuda Sevai (Stone Garuda procession)
- Maha Lakshmi born as Vanjula Valli, married to Vishnu
- Naraiyur Nindra Nambi initiated Thirumangai Azhwar, granting spiritual progress and all knowledge
- Location: 10 km from Kumbakonam
- Divya Desam: Yes, one of the important temple amongst the 108 Divya Desams
Sri Vidya Rajagopalaswamy Temple, Mannargudi
Know the Temple:
“Experience the grandeur of Sri Vidya Rajagopalaswamy Temple in Mannargudi and receive blessings for knowledge, wealth, and fulfillment of desires.”
Greatness of the temple
The Sri Vidya Rajagopalaswamy Temple in Mannargudi is a monumental shrine, known for its grandeur, exquisite architecture, and connection to Sri Rajagopala Swamy. The temple is a haven for those seeking knowledge, prosperity, and success. With its historical roots and divine presence, this temple is often called ‘Dakshina Dwaraka,’ signifying its importance in the spiritual realm. Worshipping Lord Rajagopala here is believed to grant all kinds of boons, particularly academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Sri Vidya Rajagopalaswamy Temple
- Main deity (Lord Vishnu) is known as: Paravasu Deva (Utsavar: Sri Vidya Rajagopala)
- Goddess Mahalakshmi is known as: Shenbaga Valli Thayar
- Puranic names of the temple: Champakaranya, Shenbaga Vanam
- Worshipped by: Kings, sages, Chola dynasty rulers, Vaishnavite saints
- Special rituals of the temple: Elaborate Abhishekam, Naivedyam offerings, Vaikunta Ekadashi, Brahmotsavam (18 days)
- Special boons of the temple: Grants knowledge, prosperity, academic excellence, and fulfillment of desires
- Specialty of the temple:
- Known as ‘Dakshina Dwaraka’ (Southern Dwaraka)
- Utsavar idol Rajagopala adorned with jewelry and flowers, temple has a tall Rajagopuram and large temple pond
- Lord is considered as an embodiment of Sri Vidhya and Para vasudeva
- Location: 40 km from Kumbakonam, Mannargudi
- Divya Desam: No, but a very prominent Purana Sthalam
Sri Mushnam Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple
Know the Temple:
” Pray to Lord Bhu Varaha, the protector of the Earth, and receive blessings of stability, prosperity, and academic success at Sri Mushnam Temple.”
Greatness of the temple
The Sri Mushnam Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple is one of the eight Swayam Vyakta Kshetras, where Lord Vishnu, in the form of Bhu Varaha, saved the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha. Devotees worship here for blessings in academics, agriculture, prosperity, and overall well-being. The temple’s serene atmosphere and rich legends make it a focal point for those seeking divine intervention in their lives. This temple, holds a significant place in Vaishnavism and is known for granting peace, wisdom and fulfillment to those who seek it.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Sri Mushnam Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple
- Main deity (Lord Vishnu) is known as: Bhu Varaha
- Goddess Mahalakshmi is known as: Hemambuja Valli
- Puranic names of the temple: Swetha Varaha Kshetram, Varahapuri
- Worshipped by: Lord Brahma, celestial beings, sages
- Special rituals of the temple: Varaha Jayanti festival, daily prayers, offerings
- Special boons of the temple: Grants prosperity, relief from debts, academic excellence, agricultural success
- Specialty of the temple:
- One of the 8 Swayam Vyakta Kshetras (self-manifested temples of Vishnu)
- Associated with the divine act of Lord Varaha rescuing the Earth
- Location: 40 km from Chidambaram, near the village of Mushnam
Divya Desam: No, but one of the most important eight Swayam Vyaktha Keshetras of Maha Vishnu and a Purana Kshetra too
Thiruvenkadu Swetaranyeswarar Temple (Budhan 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
Situated between Sirgazhi and Poompuhar, Thiruvenkadu Swetaranyeswarar Temple is a powerful abode of knowledge, where Lord Swetaranyeswarar, along with his consort Brahma Vidyambiga, grants devotees wisdom and success in academics.
The temple is considered one of the six holy spots equivalent to Varanasi. It is associated with Budha (Mercury), the planet of intellect, communication, and learning. The temple’s rich heritage includes blessings for brilliant progeny and houses the sacred Rudra Paadam, believed to offer immense spiritual benefits.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Thiruvenkadu Swetaranyeswarar Temple (Budhan Temple)
- Main deity (Lord Shiva) is known as: Lord Swetaranyeswarar
- Goddess Parvati is known as: Brahma Vidyambiga
- Puranic names of the temple: Adi Chidambaram, Swetaranyam
- Worshipped by: Lord Brahma, Budha (Mercury), Meikandar (Saiva Siddanta Preceptor and Saint), Siddha Pattinathar
- Special rituals of the temple: Abhisekham to Lord and Goddess for success in academics, freedom from debts
- Special boons of the temple: Blessings of knowledge, communication, brilliance in children
- Specialty of the temple: One of the six temples equated to Kashi, associated with Budha
- Location: 14 km from Sirgazhi
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Alangudi Abathsagayeswarar Temple (Guru Temple)
Know the Temple:
Located near Tiruvarur, Alangudi Abathsagayeswarar Temple is an ancient Padal Petra Sthalam where Lord Dakshinamurti bestows divine knowledge and success.
Greatness of the temple
Alangudi’s Abathsagayeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered as the savior from dangers. The temple is famed for its Dakshinamurti shrine, which draws large crowds seeking blessings for knowledge and academic success, especially during Guru Peyarchi (Jupiter transit). Devotees believe worshipping Dakshinamurti alleviates Jupiter-related afflictions, leading to academic and career growth. Saints such as Sage Vishwamitra and King Muchukunta have worshipped here, adding to the temple's spiritual significance.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Alangudi Abathsagayeswarar Temple (Guru Temple)
- Main deity (Lord Shiva) is known as: Lord Abathsagayeswarar
- Goddess Parvati is known as: Elavarkuzhali
- Puranic names of the temple: Thiru Alangudi
- Worshipped by: Sage Vishwamitra, King Muchukunta, Goddess Elavarkuzhali, Sanat Kumaras
- Special rituals of the temple: Dakshinamurti Pooja, Guru Bhagawan Homa, Guru Peyarchi rituals
- Special boons of the temple: Knowledge, success in academics and careers
- Specialty of the temple: Guru (Jupiter) associated, most popular Dakshinamurti shrine
- Location: 22 km from Kumbakonam
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Innambur Ezhuthari Nathar Temple
Know the Temple:
Ezhuthari Nathar Temple, located on the outskirts of Kumbakonam, is a sacred Shiva temple where Lord Shiva imparts linguistic knowledge and excellence in academics.
Greatness of the temple
Innambur Ezhuthari Nathar Temple is renowned for its association with the divine art of writing and speech. The temple derives its name from Lord Ezhuthari Nathar, "the Lord who taught alphabets." Sage Agastya is believed to have been instructed by Shiva on Tamil grammar here, making it a key site for linguistic and academic excellence. Parents bring their children to perform the “Vidhyapyasam” ritual, seeking blessings for educational success and speech-related improvements.
Goddess is known as ‘Nitya kalyani’ and is believed answer the prayers of the wives seeking a healthy and long life to their husbands. Lord Surya worshipped Lord Shiva and goddess here and was absolved from his curses. Lord Shiva performed a divine leela to help his devotee, who was serving as an accountant in the King’s treasury, when the king doubted the accountant if he is trustworthy, Lord Shiva himself took the form of the accountant and explained the accounts of treasury and proved the trustworthiness of his devotee to the king.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Innambur Ezhuthari Nathar Temple
- Main deity (Lord Shiva) is known as: Ezhuthari Nathar (Aksharapureeswarar)
- Goddess Parvati is known as: Nitya Kalyani
- Puranic names of the temple: —-
- Worshipped by: Sage Agastya , Lord Surya, Lord Chandra and Iravata (Indra’s White Elephant)
- Special rituals of the temple: Vidhyapyasam (educational initiation), writing on the child’s tongue with paddy for speech development
- Special boons of the temple: Linguistic knowledge, overcoming speech impairments
- Specialty of the temple: Imparts knowledge of alphabets, significant for speech and academic success
- Location: 7 km from Kumbakonam
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran Koil
Know the Temple:
A famous healing shrine, Vaidyanathar Temple in Vaitheeswaran Koil is known for curing ailments and bestowing success in medical education and professions.
Greatness of the temple
Vaidyanathar Temple at Vaitheeswaran Koil is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as the divine healer, Vaidyanathar. Worshipping here is believed to cure illnesses, especially those related to Mars (Kuja). The temple is a major site of pilgrimage for medical professionals seeking success in their studies and careers. With Lord Muruga gracing as Selva Muthukumara Swamy, devotees also receive blessings for academic excellence, especially in competitive exams.
Goddess is known as Thaiyalnaayaki and is considered a Sakthi Peeth. She blesses the devotees with health and advancement in wealth and knowledge.
Key Temple Facts
- Temple name: Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran Koil
- Main deity (Lord Shiva) is known as: Vaidyanathar
- Goddess Parvati is known as: Thaiyalnaayaki
- Puranic names of the temple: Pullirukkuvelur
- Worshipped by: Planet Mars (Angaraka), Lord Muruga (Selva Muthukumara Swamy) , Rig Veda, Lord Surya and Divine Cow Kamadhenu
- Special rituals of the temple: Abhishekam with medicinal oil, Mars rituals for health
- Special boons of the temple: Healing, success in medical education and exams
- Specialty of the temple: Lord Shiva is hailed as the Divine doctor, connected to Mars, blessings for medical professionals
- Location: 5 km from Sirgazhi
- Padal Petra Sthalam: Yes
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 problem
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
Swami Malai Murugan Temple
Know the Temple:
Located 5 km from Kumbakonam, in Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu, this revered temple honors Lord Murugan, the embodiment of higher knowledge, wisdom and power.
Greatness of the temple
As Hindu legend says, Muruga, Lord Shiva's son, expounded the true meaning of the Pranava Mantra ("OM") to his father Shiva, earning the name Swaminathaswamy. This ancient temple, dates back to 2nd century BC and is one amongst the six padai veedu temples of Muruga.
Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, was imprisoned by Lord Murugan for his ignorance of the Pranava Mantra's meaning. The celestial deities approached Lord Shiva, who requested Murugan to release Brahma. Murugan refused, stating Brahma's ignorance warranted punishment. Shiva, intrigued, asked Murugan to explain the mantra's meaning. Murugan's profound explanation enthralled Shiva, who listened intently. Later Muruga pardoned Brahma and released him.
Another legend tells that Lord Shiva lost his knowledge due to a Brahmarishi's curse. Lord Murugan, as his guru, taught him the substance of the Pranava Mantra.
Offering prayers for Muruga at this temple is believed to grant wisdom, knowledge, success in academics, higher studies admission and career development.
Key Temple Facts
- Location: Swamimalai, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Main Deity: Lord Murugan (Swaminathaswamy)
- Special Boons: Knowledge, wisdom, academic excellence, success in education
- Specialty: 4th among six abodes (Arupadaiveedu) of Lord Murugan
- Worshipped by: Lord Brahma, Goddess Bhu Devi and Lord Indra
- Unique Feature: Elephant instead of peacock axial to Murugan’s image
- Famous Festivals: Brahma Utsavam, Murugan Valli, Vaikasi Visagam, Sashti
Literary Significance: Hymns by Arunagirinathar (Tiruppukazh) and Nakeerar (Tirumurukatrupadai)
- Puranic Names: Thiruveragam, Gurugiri, Gurumalai
Worshipped by: Lord Brahma, Goddess Bhu Devi, Lord Indra, Saint Arunagirinatha, Saint Nakkeerar, and Tamil poet Avvaiyar
