Dhivya Dharsanam

Thirumukkoodal Sri Appan Prasanna Venkatesa Perumaal

2011-05-24T16:26:00.006+05:30

Thirumukkoodal is a village located about 20 kms from Kanchipuram on the road going towards Chengalpattu. While going from Chengalpattu, one can reach Pazhaya Seevaram, 5 kms before Walajabad. From Pazhaya Seevaram one has to take left and cross the bridge on the river Palar to reach Thirumukkudal.

Thirumukkoodal has an ancient temple for Lord Vishnu called ‘Sri Appan Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal’.

Thirumukkoodal got its name as three rivers Palar (Ksheera Nadhi), Vegavathi (Saraswathi) and Cheyyar (Bahu Nadhi) merge together at this place. This place is called Triveni Sangamam and is considered equivalent to Ganges. Taking bath here is considered as holy as bathing in Prayag.

The temple is beautifully located on the banks of the river giving a scenic view. The compound of the temple is just on the shore of the river is a wonderful site to see. Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar temple is located in Pazhaya Seevaram (pic below) on one side of the river and Sri Appan Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple on the other bank of the river.

This temple is said to be 1200 years old, as the oldest inscription found in this temple belongs to 9^th Century. This temple is said to have built by a king ruling Thondai Mandalam (with capital as Kanchipuram), by name Raja Thondaimaan Chakravarthy.

According to the legend, the king Thondaimaan once started to Thirupathi to have dharshan of Lord Venkatesa Perumal. He then heard a divine voice telling him that it was not the time to visit Thirupathi as a king from a neighbouring country was nearing his kingdom to wage a war. The voice advised him to be with his son during war time to save the country and later to visit Thirupathi.

On hearing this Thondaiman prayed to Lord Venkatesa Perumal and the Lord blessed him to win the battle and gifted him with His Sanku (Conch) and Chakra (Wheel). Thondaiman successfully won the battle and on his way back both the weapons Sanku and Chakra vanished. Later, the Lord directed Sri Ramanujar to install Sanku & Chakra for Him at this place. That’s how the deity here had got Sanku & Chakra here.

Then the king Thondaiman surrendered to Perumal at Thirupathi seeking ‘Moksha’. The Lord directed him to come to Thirumukkudal to grant Moksha to him. The king visited here to have dharshan of the Lord. Till then, the Lord here was said to be in ‘Sayana Kolam’ (reclining posture like Ranganathar). When the king visited here the Lord is said to have changed his posture and gave him dharshan in standing posture.

The king Thondaiman, out of his excitement and bliss, embraced the Lord saying ‘Appaney Venkatesa’ (அப்பனே வெங்கடேசா), means ‘Oh My Father Venkatesa!’ and from then the Lord here came to be known as ‘Appan Venkatesa Perumal’. The king Thondaimaan is said to have built this temple initially for Lord Sri Venkatesa Perumal. The same king is said to have built the temple at Thirupathi (Thirumala) as well as Thirumalai Vaiyaavoor, which is called Southern Thiruppathi.

The main deity Sri Appan Venkatesa Perumaal is seen majestically in the standing posture. Brigu Maharishi, Sri Markandeyar and Sri Bhumadevi are seen worshipping him.

The Lord here is said to have given dharshan to Brigu Maharishi, Markandeya and Bhumadevi (mother Earth).

There are 3 Sthala Virukshams (holy trees) for this temple, which are Devadhaari, Vanni and Sandhanam (Sandal).

Kanchipuram Sri Varadaraja Perumal’s Parvettai is a very popular festival here. Sri Varadharaja Perumal, Pazhaya Seevaram Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar & Appan Venkatesa Perumal give dharshan together here in this temple every year on the ‘Kaanum Pongal’ Day, which is said to be a delight to watch. Vaikunda Ekadasi is celebrated in a grand manner at this temple.

The Thaayaar (Goddess) here is Sri Alarmel Mangai Thaayaar for whom there is a separate shrine present at the temple.

Other deities like Sri Varadhar, Sri Aandaal and Sri Anjaneyar (Hanuman) have separate shrines in the temple.

Sri Anjaneyar is very special here. Whenever the Lord is carried out for procession, the first respects are paid to Sri Anjaneyar before the God is taken out.

Also Sri Anjaneyar is said to be very powerful here in reducing the burden of one’s debts. People worship Lord Anjaneyar here to come out of their heavy debts. Also peculiarly, Lord Anjaneyar is not offered ‘Vadai Malai’ here like other temples. Instead, he is offered the garland made of ‘Thenkuzhal’ (a kind of Murukku snack). People pray Lord Anjaneyar to come out of their debts and once their debts are settled, they come here and offer ‘Thenkuzhal Maalai’ to Him.

This temple is protected and maintained by ASI. Lots of stone inscriptions are found along all the walls of the temple. These epigraphs belong to various periods starting Raja Raja Chola 1, Rajendra Chola and others. The inscriptions tell a lot about the grants made by various kings to the temple where the temple enjoyed huge popularity.

Also there are inscriptions belonging to the Veera Rajendra Chola (11^th Century), mentioning about a Veda Patasala (Vedic School) which was existent at the temple premises. According to the inscriptions, there has been a Vedic College run in the ‘Jananatha Mandapam’ of this temple. Eight subjects including Rig Veda, Yajur Veda and grammar were taught to various students here.

Interestingly the inscriptions also reveal clearly in detail about the number of students enrolled in college, the number of teachers appointed for each subject and the remuneration paid to them. Also there has been a hostel for this college where the students stayed during their studies and the details of the servants and cooks appointed to take care of the inmates have been detailed in the inscriptions.

There has also been a medical centre (Athura Saalai) attached to this college at this place where the students, teachers and the temple staff were treated for various illnesses. This 15 bedded hospital was named after the king ‘Veera Chozhan’ and had ample manpower comprising a physician by name ‘Kodhandaraman Aswathaaman Bhattan’, a surgeon who performed operations, nurses to attend to patients and servants to bring herbs from places and even a barber.

The information on the salaries paid to the employees of the hospital and the names of about 20 different types of medicines which were stored in the hospital are well detailed in the inscriptions.

There was also a provision made for the reciting of ‘Thiruvaimozhi’ at this temple during Chola period.

According to the inscriptions, Thirumukkudal in ancient days was situated under a subdivision of a territory called Madhuranthaka Chathurvedhimangalam (today’s Madhuranthakam) which was part of Kalathur Kottam, a district of Jayamkonda Chola Mandalam.

This temple stands a testimony for Indian heritage across centuries and explains about the glorious periods during the reign of Pallavas and Cholas where the kings not only showed interest in conquering places but also patronised education and health care along with religion to make a better society.

The temple priest Sri Raghunaadhan (Tel: 94437 78352) takes care of this temple and also patiently explains the visitors about the temple in detail. Below is the video of his narration shot on the mobile (kindly bear the poor quality due to mobile recording and poor light inside the temple).

The temple is open between 08.30 am to 11.30 am and 4 pm to 6 pm on weekdays. On Saturdays and Sundays the temple is open from 08.30 am till 1 pm and from 3 pm till 7 pm.

Pazhaiya Seevaram Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar

2011-04-15T17:57:00.006+05:30

Pazhaiya Seevaram is a small village located about 20 kms from Kanchipuram on the road going towards Chengalpattu. While going from Chengalpattu, one can reach Pazhaya Seevaram 5 kms before Walajabad.

Pazhaya Seevaram has an ancient temple for Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar, amidst picturesque location. This temple is located on a small hill on the banks of the river Palar. It is said that 3 rivers namely, Palar (Ksheera Nadhi), Cheyyar (Bahu Nadhi) and Vegavathi (Saraswathi) merge here to become one and it is called Triveni Sangamam. It is considered equally sacred as Ganges here.

The hill on which the temple is located is called Padmagiri. There is a motorable road to ascend the hill. The temple is not located on the hill top. While ascending the hill, one can find the temple in a few hundred metres itself on the midway.

From the temple one can see the scenic view of the river Palar and the surroundings.

According to the Sthala Puranam, once in Naimisaaranyam, a Rishi by name Vishnu Siththar enquired with the other Rishis about a best place where he can get the Dharshan of Lord Vishnu as result of the penance.

Another Rishi called Mareecha Muni explained the him about the existence of such a place on the earth, where one’s penance (Thapas) will get fulfilled with the Dharshan of Lord Narayana and guided him to this place which was called Padmagiri. He also told the story of Athri Rishi, who got the Dharshan of the Lord in this place in the form of Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar, after his severe and dedicated penance. It is said that, Athri Rishi, after having Dharshan of the Lord, prayed the Lord to stay in this place and bless the people worshipping here. The Lord accepted his wish and stayed here in the same form to bless the mankind.

The temple is so good amidst wonderful natural setting and is maintained very well. The temple is facing towards the east with a grand Rajagopuram. A tall and beautiful Dwajasthambham (flag staff) on the outer praakaaram adds beauty to the temple.

The main deity, Lord Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar is having the Goddess Lakshmi seated on his lap and is cool and calm, hence also called as Shaanthamoorthy. Though the temple is facing east, the Lord in the sanctum is facing west towards Kanchipuram.

The Goddess here has a separate shrine on the southern side of the sanctum and is called Sri Ahobilavalli Thaayaar.

There is a beautiful and ancient stone mandapam on the northern side.

Sri Aandal shrine is located on the north western side facing east.

There is a beautiful 4 pillared stone mandapam at the eastern side of the praakaaram which is probably used for Urchavams.

There are shrines for Nammaazhvaar, Thirumangai Aazhwaar and Vishnu Chiththar together at the south eastern side of the Praakaaram.

According to the legend, there is a link between this temple and Kanchipuram Sri Varadaraja temple. Every year, during the Thamizh month of ‘Thai’, on Kaanum Pongal day, the Lord Sri Varadharaja Perumal from Kanchipuram is brought to this hill temple which is popularly called ‘Paarvaettai’ or ‘Malai Urchavam’ (hill festival). On that day, the Urchavar of Sri Varadharajar from Kanchi, is kept in a stone Mandapam on top of the hill, from where he gives dharshan to the people. This event is very popular here. There are steps to reach the top of the hill from the place where the temple is located. It is said that the stone Mandapam too is facing towards Kanchipuram on the west.

The temple has a beautiful pond, which can be viewed while climbing up the steps to reach the hill top.

A wonderful temple which should not be missed, not only for the speciality of its deity, but also for the location amidst scenic surroundings.

Another temple at the village called Thirumukkoodal for Sri Appan Prasanna Venkatesa Perumaal on the other side of river Palar is again a wonderful temple not to be missed.

Ponneri Sri Agatheeswarar

2011-01-17T18:07:00.012+05:30

Ponneri is a small town in Thiruvallur district, located about 38 kms north western side of Chennai. From Chennai, one has to drive past the Padi junction on Chennai - Kolkata highway to reach Thachur cross roads (koot road). From Thachur cross road junction, one has to take right turn and drive about 5 kms to reach Ponneri.

Ponneri has an ancient temple for Lord Shiva by which is said to be over 2500 years old. The main deity here is Sri Agastheeswarar and Goddess Sri Anandavalli.

According to the legend, the Lord here is said to have been worshipped by the ancient sage Sri Agasthiyar himself. The ancient name of this place is Kumbamuni Mangalam. Sage Agasthiar is also known as Kumbamuni, as he once collected the whole of river Cauvery into his holy pot (Kamandalam) to bring down the force of the river.

It is said that Sage Agasthiar had stayed in this place for years while he was travelling in the Southern part of India. Sage Agasthiyar was caught with severe stomach ache while he was passing this side and he found this temple, stayed here and worshipped the Lord to get relieved of his pain. The Lord who was pleased with his prayers appeared to him and relieved him from his pains.

Since, sage Agasthiyar worshipped the Lord here; the God came to be known as Sri Agatheeswarar. One can see a lot of temples in this part of Tamilnadu in which the main deity Lord Shiva is called as Agastheeswarar. It is said that Sage Agasthya installed and worshipped about 108 Shiva Lingas in various places here and the 108th Shiva Linga being Sri Ashtotheeswarar (or Nootretteeswarar which means 108th Shiva) at Chinnakkaavanam near this town Ponneri.

The temple is built on a very vast land and is highly scenic and beautiful, which has stood strong across centuries. The temple is facing east and has a wonderful 3 tiered Rajagopuram which welcomes us into the temple.

There is a beautiful pond outside the temple which is called Agasthya Theertham which serves as the Theertham for the temple.

There is a grand Dwajasthambham (flag post) at the outer praahaaram of the temple once we enter the temple.

There is an ancient Nandhi in a small mandapam just in front of the Dhwajasthambham facing the west towards the sanctum.

A wonderful stone mandapam with multiple pillars and meticulous carvings is present in front of the Nandhi, which takes us towards the sanctum.

The Lord Sri Agastheeswarar is present in the sanctum with divine silence and excellent vibrations. The sanctum is built in Gajabrishta shape (also called Thoongaanai Maadam), which is in the shape of the back of a sleeping elephant. This type of architecture is seen in many of the temples built by the Chozha kings.

Goddess Sri Anandavalli is seen adjacent to the sanctum with a motherly smile showing lots of grace and mercy to the worshippers. The Dwarapaalikaas statues are found guarding the Goddess’s shrine near the entrance on either side.

Lord Dhakshinamurthy (Guru) is seen facing south on the outer wall of the sanctum.

This temple has received many donations in form of lands and gold during the Chola period. There are sculptures of Raja Raja Chola 1 on the pillars.

Also there are images of Rajendra Chola and Mummudi Chola on the pillars, which have visited the temple during various periods and offered lots of grants to this temple for renovation and maintenance.

There is also an image of one of the later Vijayanagara Kings which is present on the pillars of the mandapam. This temple also has received various grants and patronage by Vijayanagara kings.

In one of the pillars, sage Agasthiar is also carved to mark his stay here and his penance towards Lord Sri Agastheeswarar.

The outer praahaaram is huge and peaceful with pleasing breeze. All the walls of the outer praahaaram are painted with lots of Thamizh hymns in praise of various Gods. The entire temple is very neat and maintained well, though it received very less visitors, unless auspicious days like Pradhosham, Sivarathri and Aarudhra.

There is a magnificent 16 pillared stone mandapam outside the temple, adjacent to the temple pond with lot of beautiful sculptures on it, providing shelter to cattle and few homeless people.

The temple is open till 12 pm and again opens at 4 pm till 8 pm.

Overall, Sri Agastheeswarar temple is just another masterpiece to our temple architecture and our heritage. A ‘must see’ place for temple lovers.

Aarani Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswarar

2010-08-31T15:28:00.001+05:30

Aarani is a small, beautiful village located about 70 kms north western side of Chennai near Gummidipoondi. To reach Aarani, one has to cross Red Hills from Chennai and take the road towards Gummidipoondi.

Aarani has a wonderful temple for Lord Shiva, called Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswarar. The Goddess here is Sri Sivakaamavalli. The place Aarani got its name as it lies on the banks of Aarani river which was known as Brahmaranya River in ancient days.

Lord Shiva has 5 faces; Isaanam, Thathpurusham, Vaamadhevam, Sathyojaatham and Agoram. There are 5 Shiva temples (Pancha Brahma Sthalams) near Chennai, representing each of the 5 faces of the Lord. Out of 5, this temple represents the Vaamadheva face of Lord Shiva. This place was also called as Vaamadhevapuram in ancient days.

The other 4 being Ramagiri Sri Vaaleeswarar (Isaanam), Suruttuppalli Sri Pallikondeeswarar (Thathpurusham), Ariyathurai Sri Varamoortheeswarar (Sathyojaatham) and Karungaali Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar (Agoram). Interestingly, these entire 5 temples lie on the banks of Brahmaranya (Arani) river, till the river merges into the ocean at Karungaali.

This temple for Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswarar is believed to be very ancient and is said to be over 2000 years old. The Rajagopuram is so elegant and antique which invites us towards the temple.

This temple has an interesting legend attached to it. It is said that this village had lots of Sampangi (flower) plants all over. A man who owned many cows in this village, saw one of his cows going alone in the bushes and pouring milk by its own. Surprised by this act of his cow, the man and few villagers curiously went and cut the bushes off including a Sampangi plant to see what’s under bush. To his surprise, he saw a beautiful Shiva Lingam in the ground which was bleeding as the Axe had hit while cutting off the Sampangi plants.

Guilty of his act, the man cut his own hand off as he felt he had done an irreversible sin. The man’s wife pleaded to Lord Shiva and with His blessings the man got back his hand. Since the Lord evolved from the Sampangi bush and gave the man’s hand as biksha (alm), He came to be known as Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswarar.

The temple is so big looking grand and strong. As we enter the temple, there is a spacious ‘Thirukkalyaana Mandapam’ on the right hand side, where the God’s wedding is performed.

A lovely Dhwajasthambham (flag staff) welcomes us towards the sanctum.

There is an ancient Nandhi Mandapam where Sri Nandhigeswarar is present, facing the Lord towards the sanctum.

Lord Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswar is present inside the sanctum, facing east. The inner praakaarams are too nice with pillars and carvings. Goddess Sri Sivakaamavalli is present adjacent to the sanctum.

A beautiful Sri Natarajar is present just outside the sanctum, facing south.

There is also a small peetam outside the sanctum, where Sri Ambaal’s Paadham (Goddess’ feet) is present, which is very rare.

The outer praakaaram has a very large space with shrines for many other deities. Sri Ganapathy is present on the southern side of the sanctum facing north.

Sri Dhakshinamurthy is present on the southern wall facing south.

There is a separate shrine for Lord Ayyappan which is present behind the sanctum (western side) facing east.

Also there are shrines for Sri Annamalaiyar and Sri Kaalahastheeswarar adjacent on the western side.

Sri Mahavishnu, Sri Brahma, Sri Durga devi are present along the praakaaram.

Beautifully sculpted Sri Rahu and Sri Kethu combined have a separate shrine too.

Also there is a shrine for Sri Sani Bhagawan on the eastern side, facing west.

Vimanam

Overall, it’s a lovely temple which will definitely take us through few centuries of the past. It is better if all the 5 temples (representing 5 faces of Lord Shiva) are visited, which will be an interesting experience.

Karungaali Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar

2010-04-30T15:39:00.000+05:30

Karungaali is a small village located in the north western side of Chennai. Karungaali has a beautiful temple for Lord Shiva called Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar, amidst scenic surroundings.

The speciality of this temple is that, it has sea (கடல்) in the front side, a river (நதி) behind it and forest (வனம்) on the other side. It is a very rare sight to see a temple amidst such a natural setting.

To reach Karungaali one has to take the road from Minjur towards Pazhaverkadu (Pulicat). After crossing about 10 kms from Minjur one can reach a village by name ‘Kaattoor’. Take right turn from Kaattoor and drive about 5 km (bad and sandy road amidst many salt lakes) to reach the banks of the river Arani.
After reaching the river Arani, one has to take a boat to cross the river and the temple is on the other side of Arani river, which is Karungaali village. There is only one boat available and sometimes we have to wait for some time for the boat man to arrive. He charges Rs. 10/- for an up and down trip which takes hardly 5 minutes for each way. Alternatively, to reach the temple by road one can also take the Ennore Port Road, which will lead to this temple.

Lord Shiva has 5 faces; Isaanam, Thathpurusham, Vaamadhevam, Sathyojaatham and Agoram. There are 5 Shiva temples near Chennai, representing each of the 5 faces of the Lord. Out of those 5 this temple represents the Agora face of Lord Shiva.

The other 4 being Ramagiri Sri Vaaleeswarar (Isaanam), Suruttuppalli Sri Pallikondeeswarar (Thathpurusham), Aarani (near Periyapaalayam) Sri Sampangi Pichaaleeswarar (Vamadhevam) and Ariyathurai Sri Varamoortheeswarar (Sathyojaatham). Interestingly, all these 5 temples lie on the banks of Brahmaranya (Arani) river.

Karungaali, where this temple is located, is where the Brahmaranya (Arani) river finally merges into the ocean.

As per the legend, there lived a Rishi (Saint) by name Sattai Muni who performed Thapas (penance) in this place on the banks of Brahmaranya River. It is said that he formed this temple and worshipped Lord Shiva here. According to the inscriptions, the temple is over 1300 years old.

The temple is beautifully located with the river on one side and the sea on the other side. The sanctum is small and there are no boundary walls to the temple. There are other shrines located outside the sanctum for other deities. The main deity Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar is so majestic and beautiful, facing east towards the sea.

A wonderful Nagaabharanam adds beauty to the Shiva Lingam. Dwarapaalakas are seen guarding outside the sanctum. Sri Nandhigeswarar is seen facing the Lord towards the sanctum.
Lord Ganesha (Vinayakar) and Sri Murugar are present on either sides of the sanctum with the names, Sri Chinthaamani Vinayagar and Sri Chinthaamani Murugar respectively.

There is a small shrine outside the sanctum where Ambaal Sri Sivakaamavalli is seen facing east. There is also a Simha Vaahana facing the Goddess. Adjacent to Ambaal, there is another small Shiva Lingam present with another Nandhi. There are also other deities like Sri Dhandaayudhapani (Murugar), Sri Mahavishnu, Sri Nagar and Sri Durgai next to each other, present in the same shrine.

On the north eastern side outside the sanctum, there is a separate shrine for Sri Kaala Bhairavar. This temple is also considered a Bhairava Kshethram where people worship Lord Bhairavar for a sooner marriage and other wishes.

The Vimana above the sanctum is built in Gajabrishta shape to look like the back of a sleeping elephant which in Thamizh is called Thoonganai Maadam (தூங்கானை மாடம்), a Chozha style of temple architecture. This temple is said to be built during the Chozha period.

This temple is considered equivalent to Kasi (Varanasi) and Rameshwaram as it lies both on the sea shore and the banks of a holy river. Performing annual rites to the ancestors during Amavasya (No Moon) and Pournami (Full Moon) days here is considered equal to that of performing them in Kasi or Rameswaram. Many people visit here to do the annual rites to their ancestors.

It is also believed that the Lord grant their wishes who worship Him here and stay overnight during Pournami days.

Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar is the Kuladheivam (family God) for the fishermen in this village. Also the people of this village worship the Lord here by preparing Pongal at the temple, like how it is done in Amman temple in villages. It is very rare and unusual to see this type of worship in Shiva temples.

Chithra Pournami (Full moon day in the Thamizh month of Chithirai) is very popular here in this temple. People from neighbouring villages and also from other places throng here in the night of Chithra Pournami, prepare Pongal and offer to the Lord and worship Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar here. It is said that the entire place will be filled with people and everyone will be staying overnight on the sands during that night to get their wishes fulfilled.

Karungaali is worth visiting for its picturesque location and uniqueness in spite of distance and bad roads.

Temple contact : Sri Shanmugam (Temple Priest) - 98402 14130

Gudiyatham Sri Gangai Amman

2010-04-15T14:41:00.000+05:30

Gudiyatham is a municipal town situated in Vellore District (North Arcot Dt), 32 kms from Vellore. One has to take the Bangalore Highway from Vellore and turn right at Pallikonda and go about 12 kms to reach Gudiyatham. Gudiyatham has about 500 villages surrounding it.

The name of the town Gudiyatham has arrived from the word ‘Kudiyetram’ (குடியேற்றம்) which in Thamizh means ‘surging population’. It is said that, Kulothunga Chozha cleared some forest, made people settle here and named the place as ‘Kudiyetra Nallur’ (குடியேற்ற நல்லூர்), which is believed to be the ancient name of this town. This place also was called as ‘Jayamkonda Chathurvedi Mangalam, as the king Kulothunga Chozhan donated this place after his victory over parts of Thondai Mandalam regions. Even today, the majority population of this town belongs to a community called ‘Sengunthar’ who were integral part of Chola army.

Even today, there is an ancient Shiva Temple by name ‘Karuppuleeswarar Temple’ which was built by Chozha Kings and the place in which the temple is located is called as ‘Nellorepet’ (நல்லூர்பேட்டை). Ancient inscriptions about this town belong to 1705 AD during Kulothungan’s 1st dynasty and few Vijayanagara kings at later stages.

The town is also popular with many other credits to itself. The Republic of India’s first National Flag was woven here by the weavers of this town, which was hoisted at the Red Fort in New Delhi. Also, the shape of Thiruvalluvar (by statue) was given by this people. Kamarajar won the elections from this constituency, when he became the Chief Minister of Tamilnadu.

Gudiyatham is very popular for the temple it has for Sri Gangai Amman. Sri Gangai Amman temple is located at the heart of this town on the northern bank of the holy river Koundinya Mahanadhi. This river is believed to be the Ganges itself which came down to earth with the prayers of a Saint by name Koundinya Maharishi, who was a disciple of Sage Vasishtar. The legend has it that the Koundinya Rishi, to free himself from his sins came to this place, prayed Lord and brought the Ganges to flow through this place and worshipped Lord Shiva in this village (called Karuppuleeswarar).

Sri Gangai Amman temple is connected with the legend of Padavedu Sri Renukambal temple. According to the legend, Sage Jamadhagni was performing Thapas in the forest. His wife Renukadevi, who was a Pathivritha, used to go to the nearby river, make a pot instantly out of the sand in the banks and fetch water for the Rishi’s daily pooja. Such were her powers.

Once when Renukadevi went to the river and when she was about to fill the water, she happened to see in the water, a reflected image of a handsome Gandharva, flying on top. He was too handsome, which made Sri Renukadevi’s thought stumble a moment. With this, her sanctity of being a Pathivritha was spoiled and the sand pot broke into pieces. She tried again and again to make another pot to fetch water, but failed.

Knowing this, Sage Jamadagni got furious with her and called his son Sage Parasurama and ordered him to chop off her head. Rishi Parasurama, who is an ardent disciple and obedient son of Jamadhagni, obeyed his order and went chasing his mother with his weapon. Renukadevi, frightened of being killed by her own son, went and hid herself inside a Chandal’s house, where the Chandal’s wife came forward to rescue Renukadevi and tried to stop Sage Parasurama. Parasurama got angry with the lady and chopped off both the lady and Renukadevi’s head.

Sage Parasurama went to Sage Jamadagni and told him that he had fulfilled the wish of his father. Jamadhagni was too happy with his son and was willing to grant him a boon of his choice. Sage Parasurama humbly said that he wanted his mother up and alive again. Sage granted his wish and told him to fix the chopped head to the body of his mother to get her alive. Sage Parasurama went back to the Chandal’s house and by mistake, fixed the head of the Renukadevi on the Chandal lady’s body. Sri Renukadevi, came alive with the Chandal lady’s body and her own head.

A major festival called ‘Gangai Amman Thiruvizha’ is celebrated in this town in a grand scale every year on the first day of the Thamizh month Vaikasi, which usually falls on May 14th or 15th. Sri Renukadevi is celebrated here as Sri Gangai Amman.

A beautiful temple Chariot is made to float around the city on the previous day to the festival.

Traditionally, the head of Sri Gangai Amman is made by a washerman’s family ancestrally, is carried on their head and brought to the temple by walk for about 3 kms. Inside the temple, the Amman’s head is fixed on the body which is kept for Dharshan during the day.

This event is popularly called as Sirasu (சிரசு, means head) festival. About a million people throng the town from various parts of the country to visit this event. Amman will be a feast to watch to see her being carried on the head, which will look like as if she is floating on the huge crowd of people. Various artistes from many villages will be performing throughout her way to the temple. One can see many village art forms like Karagam (கரகம்), Silambu (சிலம்பு), Puli Vesham (புலி வேஷம்) and many other martial arts being performed all her way to the temple. This is to symbolize that the Amman is so happy that she is going to get alive with the head which is going to be fixed on her body.

Breaking of coconuts in front of the Sirasu is considered a way of worship to the Amman. We can see lakhs of coconuts broken by the devotees all through her way to the temple. The entire road stretch of the procession can be seen drenched with coconut water. Many people like rag pickers make a life out of the broken coconuts as they gather and sell them off in the market and get their fortune once a year.

Also people pray and garland the Sirasu to get their wishes fulfilled. Gangai Amman is so powerful in granting the wishes of her devotees. After this grand procession the Sirasu is taken inside the temple and fixed on the body, where Amman gives Dharshan to the devotees all through the day.

In the late evening, the head is again taken out of the body and carried in a procession, after which it gets immersed in the water and dissolved. This procession is again celebrated in a grand manner than her morning procession, as it is believed that Amman is going to her mother’s place after the festival.

Major fireworks happen for more than 3 hours which is contributed by various people from the town and neighbouring places. One can know with the first shot of the cracker, which will be heard atleast to about 3 kms radius, that the Amman procession has started.

This colorful fireworks, popularly called as Vaana Vedikkai (வாணவேடிக்கை) is a major event by itself for the town, where lakhs of people witness from anywhere in the town, right from their terraces itself.

The next day, Gangai Amman is carried in a Chariot made full of flowers called Pushpa Pallakku (புஷ்பபல்லக்கு), which is very again a feast to watch.

With this, the festival ends and the whole town awaits again for a year to watch this grand holy event. Gangai Amman festival is popular in the whole district, attracting lakhs of devotees every year. In fact, every house celebrates the event by distributing butter milk, water and ragi porridge (கூழ்) to the visiting pilgrims. One can see people from every house standing outside with something to offer to the people passing by, which are considered to be very auspicious.

The temple has a small sanctum for Sri Gangai Amman and is developed in a bigger way with many shrines around the Praahaaram.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Koundinya Maharishi and Sri Ganga Devi.

Vinayagar shrine is present on the left side of the entrance.

Sri Gangai Amman is believed to be blessing the native people without any scarcity of water and with good health. Like Samayapuram, one can see many people affected with small pox, staying in this temple till they get cured. The Goddess cures many such illnesses of people. People offer Salt and Pepper in the temple to get their illness cured.

Overall Sri Gangai Amman temple is an important and must visit temple in the whole of Vellore District.

Madhuraanthakam Eri Kaatha Sri Raamar

2009-04-19T21:57:00.000+05:30

Madhuraanthakam is a beautiful place located about 75 kms south of Chennai. While traveling from Chennai, Madhuraanthakam lies on the GST Road after crossing Chengalpattu.

Madhuraanthakam has a wonderful temple for Sri Kothandaraamar. In ancient days, this place was called as Vakulaaranya Kshethram, as this place was a forest with lots of Magizham trees (மகிழ மரம்). This place also had other names like Madhuraanthaka Chathurvedhi Mangalam, Vaikunda Vardhanam, Thirumadhurai and Thirumandhira Thirupathi.

The legend of this temple is connected to Ramayana period itself. There lived an ancient saint called Sri Vipaandakar in Madhuraanthakam, performing penance towards Lord Vishnu. He was worshipping the moorthies of Sri Karunaakara Perumaal along with Sri Bhu Devi and Sri Neela Devi in this place.

During that period, Sri Rama was expelled to the forests where He lost Sri Sita Devi and was going towards Sri Lanka to get her back. Vipaandakar came to know that Sri Rama was moving towards Sri Lanka and had to pass by this forest. Vipaandakar went and invited Sri Rama to his Ashram here and requested Him to stay for sometime before proceeding. Sri Rama accepted Vipaandakar’s request and stayed for a short while and worshipped Sri Karunaakara Perumaal along with the Rishi.

While leaving Madhuraanthakam, Vipaandakar insisted Sri Rama that He should continue the stay for some more periods. Sri Rama told the saint that He was on the mission of defeating Raavana, to bring back Sita Devi and assured him of a long stay and accept the saint’s hospitality on His way back from Lanka.

After killing Raavana, Sri Rama along with Sri Sita and Sri Lakshmana was flying back to Ayodhya on the Pushpaka Vimaanam. As promised to Vipaandakar, Sri Rama stopped on His way at Madhuraanthakam and got down from the Pushpaka Vimaanam. Sage Vipaandakar had a privilege of having the dharshan of the Lord Sri Rama, holding the hands of Sri Sita Devi, like a wedding posture. Sri Rama stayed here in the saint’s place for some days and left to Ayodhya. While leaving, Sri Rama carried Sri Karunaakara Perumaal along with Sri Bhu Devi and Sri Neela Devi with him and was worshipping the Lord at Ayodhya.

Later, many years after Pattaabhishekam, Sri Rama directed Sri Hanuman to carry Sri Karunaakara Perumaal back to Madhuraanthakam to install and worship the Lord here. Sri Hanuman installed Sri Karunaakara Perumaal and started worshipping regularly. Once, Sri Rama appeared to Sri Hanuman here in the same posture as how he gave dharshan (holding Sri Sita’s hand) to saint Vipaandakar.

Hence, the moolavar Sri Ramar gives dharshan in an unusual yet rare posture holding Sri Sita’s hand. Sri Lakshmana is also present with them. This is probably the only place where Sri Rama is seen in such posture. There are two Urchavars; Sri Sita, Lakshmana Sametha Sri Kothandaramar and Sri Bhu Devi, Sri Neela Devi Sametha Sri Karunaakara Perumaal.

The image of Lord Rama is so beautiful and said to be the next best beautiful to Sri Rama at Vaduvoor. Sri Rama here is so beautiful and charming with enchanting smile and divine Thejas.

This temple also is also connected to the life of Sri Ramanujar. Sri Ramanujar along with his wife, was on his way from Kanchipuram to meet Sri Periya Nambigal at Sri Rangam, as he was directed by Sri Thirukkachi Nambigal to do so and become his disciple. During the same time, Sri Periya Nambigal started from Sri Rangam towards Kanchipuram, in search of Sri Ramanujar, whom he felt would be the right disciple.

As a coincidence both met here at Madhuraanthakam and Sri Periya Nambigal performed Pancha Samskaaram to Sri Ramanujar under the Magizham tree of this temple.

There is a small Mandapam where Sri Ramanujar undertook Pancha Samskaaram from Sri Periya Nambigal.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Periya Nambigal and Sri Ramanujar here in this temple. This is said to be the only temple where Sri Ramanujar is seen as a Grahastha (married person) and is seen with white clothing instead of saffron, as seen in other temples.

The name of Sri Kothandaramar here came to be popularly known as Eri Kaatha Ramar because of an interesting incident happened during the British rule here. There was a district collector of Chengalpattu by name Colonel Lionel Blaze (some say that his name is ‘Lionel Place’) during the period 1795 - 1798. Madhuraanthakam lake being one of the biggest ones in the district, threatened the natives during rainy seasons. The bund of the lake was weak and most of the times the lake broke opened the bund and waters gushed into the village creating disaster to lives.

Blaze who took up charge as collector of the district was worried about the lake during one such rainy season and had visited the village and camped there. He happened to see this beautiful temple and visited it to know more about it. The priests at the temple told him about the history and legend of the temple. While going around in the temple, he found huge pillars and stone slabs piled up in one of the corners of the temple and enquired about the purpose of those slabs. The priests explained that they were meant for the construction of the shrine for Sri Janakavalli Thaayaar and were kept on hold due to lack of funds.

Blaze now told the priests that if Sri Rama protected the village from the lake during the storms of the year, he himself would build the shrine for Sri Janakavalli Thaayaar at his cost. Saying this, he went back in a hurry without even having dharshan of the deities.

Colonel tried to strengthen the lake bund with his resources but was not confident about the strength of the bund. The storms began to show in the village with heavy winds and strong pouring of rains. Rain continued for days together without any signs of stopping. The water began to rise in the lake and on one day reached up to the bund level. Blaze expected a calamity to occur. But as the collector of the district, he went out to see the water level of the lake so that he can take some precautionary measures. He took one of his servants with him holding an umbrella and went near the lake.

On seeing the water filled lake, he got worried about handling the calamity which could happen anytime then. While he was thinking worriedly, he watched two young, well built men going around on the banks of the lake with bow and arrows on their hands. He patiently waited and saw these men wandering repeatedly on the banks. As it was night time, he couldn’t figure them out, but pitied them as they were walking on the lake bund during that dangerous night. He returned back to his place as he was already wet but was still thinking of those two strange young men.

The next morning Blaze woke up and saw that the rains stopped and the sun shining. Anxious about the status of the lake, he came out and understood that there was no flooding the previous night and the bund withstood all the waters. He was too happy and went rushing to the temple to share the news with the priests. The priests were happy and welcomed him inside the temple. This time, Blaze who was in a relaxed state of mind, peacefully entered the temple and accepted the respects from the temple priests. During that time the sanctum was closed as the Alankaaram (decoration) was going on for the deities.

Once the doors of the sanctum opened, Blaze was shocked to see the same two young men who were wandering with bow and arrows the previous night along the lake bund, being worshipped. He couldn’t control himself and explained the priests what he saw the previous night. The priests were too happy to hear him and everyone realized that those two young men were Sri Rama and Sri Lakshmana only who have saved the village from the threatening lake.

From then onwards, people fondly started calling Sri Rama here as ‘Eri Kaatha Raamar’. Blaze, as promised, immediately arranged to build the shrine for Sri Janakavalli Thaayaar, which is present at the south western side of the temple. Sri Janakavalli Thaayaar is so beautiful and is decorated with wonderful ornaments.

An inscription is still found in the temple revealing that the Thaayaar shrine was built by Colonel Lionel Blaze of East India Company, the then district collector of Chengalpattu.

The temple is facing east with Sri Kothandaraamar as the main deity. There is a beautiful Mandapam outside the sanctum with lots of pillars allowing cool breeze into the temple.

In the Mandapam adjacent to the sanctum, there is a secret underway found which starts from the Madhuraanthakam lake and passes through the temple and reaches the temple pond.

The outer praakaaram has a majestic Dhwajasthambham, adding beauty to the temple.

On entering the temple, Sri Chakkarathaazhwar shrine is found on the left hand side facing north.

The Sthala Viruksham ‘Magizha Maram’ is found on the north western side of the temple.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Vishvaksenar on the outer praakaaram facing south.

Sri Narasimhar gives dharshan at the north eastern side of the temple, facing towards south.

Lots of stone inscriptions are found along the walls of the temple.

The Vimaanam for this temple is called Pushpaka Vimaanam.

The temple pond is found in front of the temple and is called Sri Rama Theertham, which needs some clean up.

Sri Aanjaneyar is seen in a separate shrine adjacent to the pond facing west towards the temple. Adjacent to Sri Aanjaneyar shrine Sri Ahobila Mutt is present.

The temple has two main festivals. One is Sri Rama Navami and the other is the Brammothsavam during the Thamizh month of Aani on the day of Moolam star.

Madhuraanthakam Eri Kaatha Ramar temple is a wonderful temple with rich heritage and history of various periods linked to it.

Kettavarampalayam Sri Ramar

2009-04-09T14:01:00.000+05:30

Kettavarampalayam is a small village located about 20 kms south west of Polur. Polur can be reached by road from Chennai or Thiruvannamalai and also from Vellore. Buses going from Polur to Melcholankuppam stop at Kettavarampalayam.

This holy village is synonymous with Lord Sri Rama and Bhajans. Kettavarampalayam is very popular for its Sri Rama Navami celebrations. Every year all 10 days of Sri Rama Navami is celebrated with utmost devotion by the natives. Though most of the native villagers have migrated and settled in various places, everyone gathers during these 10 days of Sri Rama Navami to celebrate Sri Rama.

It is said that this village was once called as Kashtaharampalayam (a place where ones difficulties are overcome) and in later days known as Kettavarampalayam (means granting boons as per wishes) as many devotees’ wishes were granted by Lord Sri Rama here.

This is one place where one can hear, see and feel Sri Rama Nama round the clock on all the 10 days of Sri Rama Navami.

This tradition was started over a century ago in 1907 by one Sri Janakirama Dhikshithar in a small way during Sri Rama Navami. This cult has been carried forward through generations by various Baagavathas during various periods and now has evolved as a very popular place of Sri Rama and Sampradaaya Bhajans. An unique feature of Bhajans at Kettavarampalayam is that the entire Bhajan from start to finish is rendered in the standing posture by everyone, irrespective of the number of hours.

Kettavarampalayam celebrates the 103rd year of Sri Rama Navami this year with the same faith and devotion instilled by the ancestors. Every year during these 10 days devotees throng from various parts of the country to witness the festival and take part in it. It is a feast for the soul to watch the proceedings during the festival at Kettavarampalayam.

All the above happens, not in some ancient temple or a grand auditorium but in a simple Mandapam constructed and maintained exclusively for this cause. The shrine does not even have idol of Sri Rama, but has a beautiful image of Sri Rama Pattaabhishekam with divine charm. This place is called Sri Rama Bhajanai Mandhiram.

The festival here starts on Sri Rama Navami day and goes on for 10 days with various events happening on each day. Sri Rama Seetha Kalyanam (Ram Sita Marriage festival) is very popular here. The festival ends with Hanumanthothsavam on the last day.

Lakshaarchana is conducted every day on all the days of the festival. One can witness Lakshaarchana, Vedic chanting, Ashtapathis, Sampradaaya Bhajans and much more happening round the clock in this village. It is said that, in Kaliyuga, Bhajans and Nama Sankeerthanams are the best way to reach God.

Unjavruthi tradition is very popular here, where Baagavathas reciting Bhajans on the street visit every house collecting Bhiksha. Members from every house offer rice as Bhiksha which is collected and offered to the Lord here.

Also very renowned Baagavathas and Bhajan groups come and perform Bhajans every year in this village.

On entering the village, there is an arch constructed during the centenary year which welcomes us towards Sri Rama Mandhiram. Sri Rama Mandhiram is present is the same street with Sri Rama in His beautiful Pattaabhishekam posture. Devotees in large numbers visit this place during Sri Rama Navami days. The photographs of all the scholars including Sri Janakirama Dhikshithar who started Sri Rama Navami here and others who were instrumental in keeping the Kettavarampalayam tradition alive are preserved and displayed in this Mandhiram.

A trust called Kettavarampalayam Sri Rama Bhajanai Mandhiram Trust is formed by the native people and the trust has constructed a huge Mandapam to accommodate the visiting pilgrims, free of cost. Pilgrims can have a comfortable stay at this Mandapam which is attached with all the basic amenities.

Irrespective of the number of visitors, the trust feeds each and every pilgrim visiting this place right from coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner every day during these 10 days. There is a vast dining hall just behind Sri Rama Mandhiram which feeds thousands of pilgrims every year.

The native people have also recently formed a Vedha Paatasaala (Vedic school) to teach Vedhas to aspiring children. The Paatasaala is run in this village itself with about 4 residential students for now.

This village has a small beautiful temple for Sri Kasi Viswanathar. Another feature of this village is its ancient hill temple called Malaikkovil where Sri Venkatesa Perumaal is blessing the devotees.

The very popular Parvathamalai (pic above) is just next to this village. The dharshan of beautiful Parvathamalai and the hill temple can be had from this village itself.

Thus Kettavarampalayam is sanctified by various temples around it and with Sri Rama Nama being chanted for over a century. There is also an age old saying that “One should visit Kettavarampalayam at least once in the life time”.

Contact details: Sri Rama Bhajanai Mandhiram, Kettavarampalayam, Via Adamangalam S.O, Thiruvannamalai District – 606901, Tamilnadu. Tel: (Chennai) 91 44 4553 4041,

Thiruverkaadu Sri Karumaari Amman

2009-04-08T13:44:00.000+05:30

Thiruverkaadu is situated about 20 kms from Chennai city. It lies on the road branching out off Mount Poondhamalli Road near Kumananchaavadi.

Apart from an ancient temple for Lord Shiva called as Sri Vedhapureeswarar temple, Thiruverkaadu also has a temple for Sri Karumaari Amman, which is more popular in Chennai.

According to the legend, once Sri Karumaari Amman took form of a fortune teller and went to Sun God for predicting his future. Sri Surya Bhagawan neglected Her and Sri Ambaal vanished from his sight, because of which Sun God lost his powers and glory. Then Surya Bhagawan realized that it was none other than the Goddess Herself and came and worshipped her here at Thiruverkaadu, seeking apologies. Goddess pardoned him with mercy and Sri Surya Bhagawan requested her to bless that Sunday (Sun God’s day) be the auspicious day for the Devi here. Goddess obliged to it. Also the Sun God spread His rays on the Goddess here during the Thamizh months Panguni and Purattaasi to show His devotion to the Goddess.

In ancient days, this place was a forest filled with VeLvela trees (வெள்வேல மரம்) and hence was called as Velankaadu (வேலங்காடு), which later turned to get its present name. It is also said that Lord Muruga, before His battle with the demon king Surapadhman, got His weapon ‘Vel’ (வேல்) from Sri Karumaari Amman here and so the place was called as Velankaadu.

It is said that Sri Vinayagar (Lord Ganesha) worshipped the Goddess here by performing Abhishegam using Valampuri Sanghu (Conch). The Goddess got pleased with His worship and blessed Him that the poojas at the temple will first be performed to Sri Vinayagar and then to Her. Sri Vinayagar can be seen present in the temple just as we enter the temple near the Dhwajasthambham. While entering the temple, one has to pray Him and then go further to worship Sri Karumaari Amman.

Once, when the Asuras gave troubles to Devas, they came and worshipped Lord Shiva at Thiruverkaadu, to save them. Lord Shiva called His Devi Sri Verkanni and directed Her to look after His duties till He is back from Devaloka. Lord Shiva gave her the holy ashes from His body and blessed Her. The Goddess asked Sage Agasthiyar to look for a holy place where she can perform the heavenly duties assigned by Lord Shiva. When Sage Agasthiyar was thinking of such place, he heard an Asareeri (அசரீரி – a holy voice) saying that the place where he was standing itself is a holy place. Goddess took abode here as Sri Karumaari Amman and also blessed the place that one will be removed of all the sins by worshipping Her at Thiruverkaadu.

Thiruverkaadu is the place where all 3 Gods, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva have worshipped the Goddess. Hence She is called as Sri Karumaari here. Ka means Brahma, Ru means Rudhra or Shiva, and Ma means Vishnu.

The temple here is facing east. There is a beautiful Rajagopuram to enter the temple. Once we enter Sri Vinayagar is seen on an elevated shrine under a tree.

After crossing Sri Vinayagar, the sanctum of Goddess Sri Karumaari Amman is seen. The Goddess is facing east. It is said that originally the Goddess evolved from an ant hill. Amman is so beautiful with a smiling face and decorated well with lots of flowers.

Sri Subramanyar is found at the praakaaram around the sanctum. Navagrahas are found at the north eastern side of the temple. Sri Brahma is found on one of the walls facing north.

There is another small shrine adjacent to this temple, where a huge ant hill is found under a Peepul tree. Devotees offer milk and eggs for the snakes in this ant hill. Camphors are also lit here to offer worship. The entire ant hill is yellow in color as devotees have applied turmeric powder on it.

The temple pond is found in front of the temple which is so beautiful with a small Mandapam in the middle.

A tall and beautiful temple Chariot is parked in a separate Mandapam adjacent to the temple.

Thiruverkaadu attracts thousands of devotees and tourists everyday from various parts of the country. Sri Ambaal here is believed to be so powerful granting the wishes of the devotees worshipping her.

Thiruverkaadu Sri Vedhapureeswarar

2009-03-23T23:14:00.000+05:30

Thiruverkaadu is situated about 20 kms from Chennai city. It lies on the road branching out off Mount Poondhamalli Road near Kumananchaavadi.

Though Thiruverkaadu is much known for Sri Karumari Amman temple, there’s another ancient and older temple for Lord Shiva, called as Sri Vedhapureeswarar (also called Verkaatteesar). Goddess here is Sri Baalaambigai (also called Verkanni Ammai).

As per the legend, once when Lord Brahma, the creator was proceeding to Kailash, the playful child Lord Muruga asked him for the meaning of the Pranava Manthra "OM". When Brahma admitted that he did not know it, Lord Muruga imprisoned him. As a result, all creations came to a standstill and the Devas prayed to Lord Siva to get Brahma released.

Lord Shiva sent Sri Nandhigeswarar to talk to Lord Muruga and rescue Lord Brahma. But Lord Muruga didn’t listen to Sri Nandhigeswarar. So, Lord Shiva Himself decided and went to Lord Muruga and convinced Him to leave Lord Brahma.

Since Lord Muruga didn’t obey the words of Sri Nandhigeswarar, Lord Shiva ordered Him to go to Thiruverkaadu and worship Him here. Lord Muruga visited Thiruverkaadu, formed a Theertham (Pond) using his Vel (His weapon), installed a Shiva Lingam and worshipped Lord Shiva here. The Theertham created by Lord Muruga is called Velaayudha Theertham.

In this temple, we can see Lord Muruga in a separate shrine without any weapons in His hand. Also there is a Shiva Lingam seen in front of Lord Muruga which is rare to see.

Another history connected to this temple is, during Lord Shiva’s wedding everyone including Gods, Devas and Saints gathered at Mount Kailash to witness the celestial event. Because of this, the whole earth tilted towards North, where everyone gathered. Lord Shiva directed Sage Agasthiar to go towards South to balance the earth. Sage Agasthiar prayed the Lord saying that he will not be able to see the God’s wedding.

Lord Shiva granted him a boon that from wherever He prays the Lord, he can have the dharshan of His wedding. Sage Agasthiar on his way stayed here at Thiruverkaadu and worshipped Lord Shiva and had the Dharshan of Lord Shiva’s wedding. One can see Lord Shiva and the Goddess’s in ceremonial wedding posture just behind the Shiva Lingam inside the sanctum. Sage Agasthiar was blessed to have God’s dharshan from various places and Thiruverkaadu is one of them.

The temple is constructed on a vast area and the Raja Gopuram is facing east. The Rajagopuram is 5 tiered and has various sculptures on it.

Sri Nandhigeswarar is so beautifully present at the outer praakaaram decorated with many flowers and Vilvam, allowing us to have the Dharshan of Sri Vedhapureeswarar.

In the sanctum, we can see Sri Vedhapureeswarar in the form of Shiva Lingam and behind that the wedding posture of Lord Shiva and Sri Parvathi.

At the inner praakaaram, we can see the Naalvar viz Appar, Sundharar, Manickavaasagar and Thirugnanasambandhar. Along with them are seen the others among 63 Naayanmaars in a row at the southern praakaaram.

Sri Dhakshinamurthy is found at the southern side of the praakaaram. At the south western side there is a separate shrine for Sri Sannadhi Vinayagar.

The sanctum is apsidal which is called Gajabrishta shape (Thoonganai Maadam). Sri Lingothbavar is present behind the sanctum on the outer wall.

Just behind the sanctum, Sri Kasi Viswanathar, Sri Visalakshi, Anabaya Chozhan and Sekkizhar are seen facing East towards Sri Lingothbavar.

Sri Sandigeswarar is facing south towards the Lord and another Sri Sandeeswarar is also seen sitting and meditating the Lord looking towards the sanctum.

The Vimaanam of the sanctum is of the Gajabrishta shape (கஜப்ருஷ்ட விமானம்).

Ambaal Sri Balambigai is facing south and has Simha Vaahanam facing Her towards north.

The Shiva Ganaas are seen on the top of the walls of the temple on specific directions, guarding the whole temple.

There is a tall and beautiful Dhwajasthambham adding beauty to the temple.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Saneeswarar and Sri Moorgha Naayanaar on the north eastern side of the outer praakaaram. It is said that Sri Moorgha Naayanaar was born here at this place.

Sri Arunagirinaathar has sung Thiruppugazh on Lord Muruga here and has a separate shrine facing west on the south eastern side.

The Sthala Viruksham is called VeLvela Maram (வெள்வேல மரம்) which is seen on the outer praakaaram. There is a Shiva Lingam and Sri Nandhi under the Sthala Viruksham.

The Theertham of this temple is called Velaayudha Theertham formed by Lord Muruga, which is under renovation now.

Thiruverkaadu is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams for Lord Shiva (Thiru Gnana Sambandar has sung hymns on Lord Shiva here) and is one of the renowned temples in Thondai Mandalam, which is worth visiting.

Kaaladi Sri Aadhi Sankarar

2009-03-21T00:32:00.000+05:30

Kaaladi is a very small village located in Kerala, about 1 hour by road from Ernakulam (Kochi). Kaaladi can also be reached by train. Nearest railway station is Angamali. From Angamali, Kaaladi is about half an hour by road.

Kaaladi is the birth place of Sri Aadhi Sankarar, who lived during 8th century BC. There lived a couple belonging to Namboodhiri (a Brahmin sect) family by name Sivaguru and Aryaamba. Sivaguru was a well learned man who excelled in Vedas and Saastras. They lead a happy life but with constant worry that they didn’t have children.

The couple went and prayed Vadakkunnathar (Lord Shiva) at Thrissur for 48 days with fullest devotion. Lord Shiva, who was delighted with their prayers, appeared in Sivaguru’s dream and asked whether he would prefer many ordinary children who will live long or just one intellectual son who will be short lived. Sivaguru humbly left the choice to Lord Shiva Himself, saying that God knows what the devotee deserves.

Lord Shiva was pleased with the attitude of Sivaguru and the Lord Himself chose to be born to the couple. Aryaamba gave birth to a beautiful male child on Aarudhra star and the couple named him Sankaran.

Sankaran grew up as an intelligent child in the village. He started his ‘Aksharaabyaasam’ (Vidhyaarambh or start studying) at the age of 3. Sankaran missed his father at the age of 4. Aryaamba with the support of others in the village performed ‘Upanayanam’ (ceremony to adorn holy thread) to Sankaran at his 5th year, after which he was sent to Gurukulam to learn Vedas and scriptures. Sankaran excelled in everything he learnt and everyone admired Sankaran’s knowledge and wisdom.

As per tradition, Brahmachari in Gurukulam has to go house to house seeking Bhiksha (alms) and has to submit it to his Guru. One day, as part of his everyday practice, Sankaran went on the streets for Bhiksha. He went to a poor woman’s house on a Dwaadasi day and asked for Bhiksha from the door. It was a very small hut, where lived alone a lady without any food for her day. The lady got worried as she did not have any grains at home. Also refusing to offer Bhiksha to a Brahman was considered a sin those days. That was a Dwadasi day and the woman remembered that she had kept a small ‘Amla’ fruit for herself to break the fast on Dwadasi (Hindus observe fast on Ekadasi day and end their fasting on Dwadasi).

The poor woman took out that single ‘Amla’ fruit and offered it in the Sankaran’s bowl. Sankaran got stirred by the selflessness and willingness of the lady by offering the only fruit she had for herself. Sankaran instantly composed and chanted slokas on Goddess Sri Lakshmi and prayed her. The sloka is called ‘Kanakadhaara Sthothram’. Soon after he completed reciting, Sri Lakshmi appeared and poured a rain of Golden Amlas into the lady’s house from the roof.

Even today, Kanakadhaara Sthothram is recited by many to get rid of poverty and to earn good wealth. The house where Sankaran chanted Kanakadhaara Sthothram is still found near Perumbavoor (a neighboring place to Kaaladi) and the house is called ‘Swarnathumanai’ (Swarnam means Gold and Manai means house).

There was a river by name ‘Poorna’ (today’s Periyar River) which was flowing through this village at a distance from Sankaran’s house. Aryaamba had a practice of bathing in Poorna river everyday and worshipping Lord Krishna (their family deity) at the temple, which was on the banks of Poorna. One day while Aryaamba was returning after bathing, fell fainted. Hearing this, Sankaran went and brought her back home. Aryaamba told Sankaran that she was getting older and not able to walk such a distance.

Sankaran understood his mother’s difficulty and came out of the house, prayed to Sri Ganga Devi and marked a curved line on the ground using the thumb of his foot. As Sankaran was none other than the Lord, river Poorna took a bend and started flowing through the back yard of Sankaran’s house. Even today, if viewed from a height, we can see river Poorna taking a bend near Sri Sankara’s place.

Sankaran completed his Gurukulam successfully and learnt everything with ease. When he was 8, he started participating in debates with scholars and many learned scholars came to meet him to get clarifications. Aryaamba was too happy to see his son to be so wise. She wanted to see Sankaran get married soon.

Sankaran realized the purpose of his birth and wanted to undertake ‘Sanyaasam’ from earthly bondings. But he knew that Aryaamba won’t allow him to be a Sanyaasi as he was her only son.

One day Sankaran was bathing in the river Poorna while Aryaamba finished bathing and was waiting for Sankaran to finish. Suddenly, a crocodile caught hold of Sankaran’s leg and he started screaming out of pain. Sankara tried much to get relieved of his leg from crocodile’s mouth, but couldn’t. Aryaamba screamed for help and prayed God to rescue her son.

Sankaran told his mother that his life is short and only if she allows him to become a Sanyaasi he can get relieved of himself from the crocodile. Aryaamba didn’t know what to do. She got reminded of Lord Shiva’s boon to Sivaguru. But Sankaran said only if he becomes a Sanyaasi, his lifetime would get extended because Sanyaas is like another birth. Aryaamba only wanting to see her son alive promised that she would allow him to undertake Sanyaas. The crocodile set Sankaran free.

Aryaamba was too worried about Sankaran undertaking Sanyaas, as he is the only son who is responsible to cremate her after death. Sankaran with mother’s blessings prepared himself to be a Sanyaasi. He also promised his mother that during her last days he would personally come back home and perform the rites, though being a Sanyaasi.

When Sankara set to start his divine journey, heard a heavenly voice of Lord Krishna. The voice told him that, as the river Poorna was diverted in a different direction and the temple then was not in the right place it meant to be. It also directed him to install the idol and the temple in proper location on the banks of the river. Sankaran took Lord Krishna’s words and re-installed Lord Krishna’s idol on the banks of Poorna River before he left the village. Even today one can see the Krishna temple on the banks of river Poorna which is located near Sri Sankara Mutt.

Though Sankarar took Sanyaas by himself, he went in search of a Guru who was required to initiate him formally as Sanyaasi and to guide him through his new mission. He traveled across the country and reached the banks of river Narmadha. When Sankarar reached there, Narmadha was gushing out with heavy floods, which he felt would affect the people. Sankarar with his divine power collected the gushing water into his Kamandalam (a small container in which Sanyaasis carry water for Pooja) and poured it on the banks. Immediately Narmadha stopped flooding wildly and started flowing gently.

A sage by name Sri Govindha Bhagavathpaadhar who was meditating on the banks of the river saw this act of Sankara and enquired about him. Sankarar introduced himself. Sri Govindha Bagavathpaadhar was happy to know about Sankara and also realized that he is none other than Lord Shiva, willingly accepted Sankara, the Bala Sanyaasi as his disciple.

Sri Govindha Bhagavathpaadhar taught him Adhvaitha philosophy and wanted Sankarar to spread it around the world. The Guru also advised him to write ‘Bhaashyam’ for Brahma Suthra based on Adhvaitha philosophy. Brahma Suthra was originally written by Veda Vyaasa. Sri Govindha Bagavathpaadhar conferred him the name Sri Sankara Bhagavathpaadhar and asked him to go and serve the world with his preachings. Sri Sankarar was just 12 by then.

Sri Sankarar reached ‘Kaasi’ (Varanasi) where he stayed and worshipped Sri Kaasi Viswanathar and Sri Annapoorni Devi everyday. He also started explaining Vedas and Saastras to people there. His fame spread across the country. Sri Sankaraacharya got many good disciples.

One day while Sri Sankaraacharya was walking down in a narrow lane towards Ganges, a Chandaala (one who performs cremation - சண்டாளன்) came opposite to him. He was seen with his wife and having 4 dogs. Sri Sankaraacharya saw him obstructing his path and told him to keep away. The Chandaala asked Sankara “According to the principles you practice, the Jeevaathma and the God are one and the same. If so, how am I different from you? When Aathma is the same in everyone, how do you ask me to keep away? Or how do I keep away from myself? Should I keep my body or my Aathma away?”

Sri Sankaraacharya was shocked to hear such words of wisdom from a Chandaala and realized that he is none other than Lord Shiva. He also realized his ignorance and instantly conveyed his obeisance through a composition of 5 Slokas called “Manisha Panchakam”. Before he could finish reciting, the Chandaala vanished and Lord Shiva appeared to him with Goddess Sri Visalakshi and the 4 dogs appeared as 4 Vedas.

When Sri Sankaraacharya was about 16, an old Brahmin met him and debated with Him on the Bhaashyam he wrote for Brahma Suthra. The old man had various arguments with Sri Sankaraacharya which continued for 8 days after which Sri Sankaraacharya realized that the old man was none other than Sage Veda Vyaasa himself. Sri Sankaraacharya prostrated before Sage Vyaasa and apologized for entering into an argument with the original author himself. Sage Vyaasa blessed him and told that he tested Sri Sankaraacharya only to establish to the world that the Bhaashyam (commentary) written by him was perfect. Also the Sage blessed Sri Sankaraacharya with another 16 years of life.

There was a well learned person called Mandana Mishra in a place called Mahishmathi (presently Bihar), who followed the Meemaamsa philosophies. He had a well learned wife called Sarasawani who was extremely intellectual. Sri Sankaraacharya met Mandana Mishra and invited him for a debate. Mandana Mishra initially refused but later agreed to it.

Sri Sankaraacharya won over him and made him His disciple. He also paid respects to the wife of Mandana Mishra as Goddess Saraswathi. He walked down towards south and wanted to establish his Mutts in few places. At one place He found that a snake was holding shadow as an umbrella for a frog and he decided that it was the place where He wanted to establish an Aashram, because of the fact that even the enemy animals were supporting each other in that place. Also a sage called Rishya Sringar had his Ashram during Ramayana period, in that hill station called Rishya Sringa Parvadham.

This place is known as Sringeri where He installed and worshipped Sri Saradha Devi (who was Sarasawani) there and formed a Mutt. It is called Sringeri Sri Saradha Peetam today.

One fine day He realized that His mother Aryaamba was in her death bed and rushed to His village Kaaladi. He met His mother there and chanted Slokas for her peaceful death. But later realized that she was afraid of the Shiva Ganas who came to receive her and chanted different Slokas so that Aryaamba’s soul would depart without fear with chants of Sri Maha Vishnu Slokas.

After the death of His mother Aryaamba, the native villagers didn’t allow Sri Sankara to perform the last rites as He was a Sanyasi and didn’t allow him to the burial ground for cremation. Sri Sankara cremated His mother in the back yard of their own house and started His divine journey around the country.

It is said that even today in Kaaladi, people cremate their dead in the family in their own back yards.

Thus Sri Sankara traveled across, spreading His philosophy to nook and corner of this holy country. He was the one who ended the Kaapaalika way of worship and initiated 6 ways of worships (called Shanmadham – means 6 religions or ways of worship) among the people. The Shanmadhams taught by Him were Souram (Surya worship), Saaktham (Shakthi worship), Gaanaapathyam (Ganesha worship), Kaumaaram (Lord Muruga worship), Saivam (Lord Shiva worship), and Vaishnavam (Lord Vishnu worship).

Also while traveling across this country He installed Sri Chakras at various temples to bring down the fierce of Sri Shakthi including Maangaadu in Tamilnadu (Chennai).

He is said to have gone towards north and performed penance at the Himalayas during His last days and attained Moksha. Also there is a belief that He spent His last days at Kanchipuram where He formed another Mutt (Ashram). He is believed to be an incarnation of Sri Dhakshinamurthy (Lord Shiva) Himself. Like Kanchi and Sringeri, Sri Sankara formed the Mutts in few other places in the country.

Even today the birth place of Sri Sankara is present at Kaaladi and the Samaadhi of His mother Aryaamba is found in the temple which is located on the banks of river Poorna. Sri Saradha Devi is present at the temple. Sri Ganesha and Sri Sankarar are also seen in separate shrines in the temple.

Sri Vedha Purusha (a huge Vedha Book) is kept in the temple and is worshipped.

A wonderful Mutt which is also a temple, with Vedic chanting throughout the day quenches the thirst of the soul.

Sri Sankara’s service to the mankind, this country and our religion is unmatchable and unimaginable. If we do the poojas or rituals in any of the temples at present, all those ways of performing them were formulated by Him and followed by generations. Sri Aadhi Shankara has composed many hymns and Slokas including Bhaja Govindam which is soul stirring. His Maathru Panchakam tells about the importance of mother.

Sankara Jayanthi and many other festivals are celebrated with pomp at Kaaladi Shrine. Kaaladi is a very peaceful and blissful place in God’s own country, which must be visited at least once in the lifetime.

Hara Hara Shankara! Jaya Jaya Shankara!

Vallam Sri Vedhaantheeswarar & Sri Giri Varadharaaja Perumaal

2009-03-20T15:21:00.000+05:30

Vallam is a small village near Chengalpattu. While going from Chennai, one has to take left from Chengalpattu on the Mahabalipuram Road and Vallam is located on the 3rd Km from Chengalpattu. A small pathway from the main road leads to the village.

Vallam has a beautiful small hillock on which two wonderful rock cut temples are found. There are steps leading to the temples. According to the inscriptions found, these temples are said to have been built during the period of Mahendravarma Pallava. Inscriptions also reveal the ancient name of the place as Valla Naadu under Kalathur Kottam.

On the left hand side there is a temple for Lord Shiva called Sri Vedhaantheeswarar. Goddess here is Sri Gnaanaambigai. This is perhaps the only place where one can have dharshan of Sri Vinayagar, Sri Subramanyar, Lord Shiva, Sri Ambaal and Sri Sandigeswarar from the same place where we stand. Lord Muruga here is called as Sri Muthukumaaraswami.

Unlike other Shiva temples, here Goddess Sri Gnaanaambigai is facing the east. Sri Gnaanaambigai looks like a very new idol with clear details and is beautifully decorated with silk saree. The face has so much of Thejas and benevolence. The Dwarapaalakaas are so exquisitely sculpted in life size. The Soolam and Mazhu, which are the weapons of Lord Shiva, are carried by the Dwaarapaalakaas here. It is said that, in this temple, during Pradhosham, the Abishegams are first performed to Dwaarapaalakaas and then to Sri Vedhaantheeswarar and finally to Sri Nandhigeswarar. Now a concrete structure is built around this temple for convenience.

It is said that during the sunrise, the rays from the Sun fall directly on the Lord like a garland.

On the right hand side there is a temple for Sri Giri Varadharaaja Perumaal. Sri Perumaal is seen here with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhu Devi. Dwaarapaalakaas are found outside the sanctum.

Unusually, Sri Durgai is found in the Perumaal temple facing south instead of north as found in Shiva temples. According to the inscriptions, it is found that a lady called Kommai (கொம்மை), daughter of a Pallava King has installed Sri Durgai in this temple 1300 years back.

The temple pond is called as Sivaganga Pushkarani, the water from which is used for Abishegams to the Gods.

Pradhosham and all other Saivite and Vaishnavite festivals are done here at these temples. On usual days, priest visits the temple once a day for daily rituals. But one can have dharshan even in the absence of the priest.

Nice temple with serene ambience with excellence of Pallava architecture.

Manimangalam Sri Kailaasanaadhar

2009-03-09T12:06:00.000+05:30

Manimangalam village is located about 10 kms from Tambaram on the western side of Mudichur Road leading towards Padappai.

This village has a very high historic importance because of the huge battle fought here between Narasimhavarma Pallava and the Chalukya King Pulikesi II. This battle was fought in Manimangalam during 7th Century AD.

In ancient days, the lands along with temple were donated by the kings to the Vedic scholars for performing Vedic rituals for the well being of the country. Such villages were called as Chathurvedhi Mangalams. Manimangalam is one such village and was called as Grama Sikhamani Chathurvedhi Mangalam.

Apart from a beautiful, huge temple for Sri Dharmeswarar, Manimangalam also has another ancient temple for Lord Shiva called Sri Kailaasanaadhar. Goddess here is Sri Gnaanaambigai.

According to inscriptions, this temple was constructed during 950 AD by a Chozha king called Vijaya Baalaya Chozhan. Later, this temple has been renovated during various periods by Raja Raja Chozhan (985 AD), Rajendra Chozhan (1014 AD) and Kulothunga Chozhan (1070 AD).

One of the 63 Naayanmars called Siru Thonda Naayanar (originally a Chozha Chieftain called Paranjothi) is said to have worshipped the Lord here and also has offered number of Annadhaanams (free feeding) in this holy village.

Now the temple is in complete ruins. This dilapidated temple has been taken care by a trust and Balalayam is done for re-consecration (Kumbabhishegam) of the temple.

The Moolavar Sannidhi (Sanctum) is facing east and is totally damaged. It looks as if it will crumble down anytime. Though the structure looks so majestic and ancient it’s in a very poor state and needs great attention.

There is a beautiful Nandhi facing the Lord towards the sanctum.

There is also an exquisite Nandhi Mandapam a little away from Nandhigeswarar and facing the sanctum.

Even the roof for the sanctum is open and some PVC sheet is kept as the ceiling to cover the sanctum.

There is a beautiful Peepul tree at one corner of the temple site for which a nice platform is built around.

Many dilapidated idols of Nandhi, Sri Vinayagar and few more are kept in front of the sanctum, the sight of which makes our heart heavy.

Definitely the temple must have had huge properties in this ancient place and is sure to have been encroached by many.

Now a trust called ‘Arulmigu Thirukailayanathar Gnanambigai Educational & Charitable Trust’ is engaged in the service of the Lord by initiating the works towards the Kumbabhishegam.

Someone willing to help or to visit the temple shall contact: Arulmigu Thirukailayanathar Gnanambigai Educational & Charitable Trust’, C/o. Sri. S. Balasubramanian, Flat No. 1, Jayam Apartments, # 13, Rameswaram Road, T. Nagar, Chennai – 600017. Mobile : 98400 13132. email: kailayanathar@gmail.com.

Manimangalam Sri Dharmeswarar

2009-03-08T23:22:00.000+05:30

Manimangalam village is located about 10 kms from Tambaram on the western side of Mudichur Road leading towards Padappai.

This village has a very high historic importance because of the huge battle fought here between Narasimhavarma Pallava and the Chalukya King Pulikesi II. This battle was fought in Manimangalam during 7th Century AD.

Manimangalam has an ancient temple for Lord Shiva called Sri Dharmeswarar. The Goddess here is Sri Vedhaambigai. According to the inscriptions, this temple is said to have got constructed by Chozhas. This temple has mentions in the inscriptions as Grama Sikhamani Chathurvedhi Mangalam, belonging to Kunrathur Naadu, a division of Puliyur Kottam in the district of Jayamkonda Chozha Mandalam.

In ancient days, the lands along with temple were donated by the kings to the Vedic scholars for performing Vedic rituals for the well being of the country. Such villages were called as Chathurvedhi Mangalams. Manimangalam is one such village and was called as Grama Sikhamani Chathurvedhi Mangalam.

The temple is built on a very vast space amidst greenish paddy fields. A beautiful Peepul tree welcomes you as you enter the gates of the temple. This temple is maintained by Archeological Society of India and protected properly. The looks and the structure itself show the antiquity of the temple.

There is a small Mandapam outside the sanctum. Sri Vinayagar and Sri Subramanyar are seen on either sides of the entrance of the sanctum. The main deity, Sri Dharmeswarar is seen facing east. One can feel the divinity in this calm and cool ambience with the view of the Lord in natural light and the light from the temple lamps.

There is a small Nandhi facing the Lord in the sanctum, from this Mandapam.

There’s another small gated portion facing south, which is empty. There had been a beautiful Sri Natarajar here in ancient days and some miscreants had stolen the deity. While local people chased them, it is said that the miscreants had thrown Sri Natarajar in the nearby pond and ran off, in which Sri Natarajar’s idol was damaged.

In the inner praakaaram, Sri Vinayagar is found at the South western corner, under a tree in good shadow.

Along the walls of the praakaaram, Sri Vinayagar and Sri Dhakshinamurthy are seen facing South.

Lord Sri Mahavishnu is facing the west from the walls of the praakaaram.

Lord Sri Brahma, Sri Sandigeswarar and Sri Durgai are seen on the Northern side of the praakaaram.

A window, beautifully carved window with 12 openings is found on the eastern side wall of the praakaaram.

The Vimaanam is built of Gajabrishta shape called Thoonganai Maadam (தூங்கானை மாடம்) in Thamizh.

The whole temple is built on stone with wonderful architecture. Even the steps to reach the Mandapam outside the sanctum is done beautifully, but damaged in few places.

There are many dilapidated idols of Parivaara moorthies and Shiva Lingam kept safely in the inner praakaaram.

One can notice many inscriptions along the walls of the temple.

There is a Bali Peetam and another big Nandhi found at the outer praakaaram facing the sanctum. There is a wall obstructing Nandhi from viewing the sanctum, but for a small opening in it.

There is a separate shrine for Goddess Vedhaambigai at the outer praakaaram, facing south. Goddess is beautifully dressed and is so gracefully in blessing posture like a Mother blessing her children.

The temple pond is found adjacent to the temple, without any steps or bathing Ghats to it.

Festivals like Maha Shivarathri, Pradhosham, and Karthigai Dheepam are celebrated well in this temple, with much effort of the priests. People from various parts of the city visit this temple very often but unfortunately, not the local villagers.

Another rarity of Manimangalam is one can find many Vinayagar temples in this village, be it small or big. And all the Vinayagars have elephant as their Vaahana (Carrier) and not the Mooshikha (mouse).

Manimangalam also has another ancient temple for Lord Shiva called Sri Kailaasanathar, which again is an ancient one and needs attention.

Ponpadhar Koodam Sri Chathurbuja Kothandaraamar

2009-01-30T10:22:00.000+05:30

Ponpadhar Koodam is a small village located at about 10 kms east of Chengalpattu, just further to PV Kalathur.

Ponpadhar Koodam has a rare temple dedicated to Lord Sri Rama called Chathurbuja Kothandaraamar. The rare feature of Sri Rama here is that He is seen with four arms holding Bow, Arrow, Shanku (Conch) and Chakra in each of His arms.

It is said that, according to Vaalmeeki Ramaayana, Sri Rama gave dharshan only to 4 people in this posture with four arms. That is to His mother Kausalya during His birth, to Sri Aanjaneya when He met first, to Thrisadai in her dreams and to Mandodhari (wife of Raavana) after Raavana was killed in the battlefield.

According to the legend, there lived a sage called Sri Devaraaja Rishi who was performing penance in this village on the banks of the nearby pond. Lord Raama gave dharshan to Sri Devaraaja Rishi as Chathurbuja Kothandaraamar (with 4 arms). This place in ancient days was known as Prapada Mahaadevarajapuram.
The pond near the temple, where the Rishi was doing penance is now called as Devaraaja Pushkarini.

Sri Raama is seen here with Sri Sita Devi, Sri Lakshmana on the sides and Sri Hanuman in front of them. The deity is so beautiful and charming. Sri Aanjaneya in front of Sri Rama is seen in a very humble gesture facing Sri Rama with His palm closing the mouth in obidience. It is said that such moorthy is rare to find and is called Sri Bhavya Aanjaneyar. The Urchavar made of 5 metal is highly admirable for the sculptural brilliance. Urchavar is so beautiful with a gentle smile on His face. Urchavar also has 4 arms with respective weapons. Sri Raama is holding the arrow on His right hand with His fingers folded to hold the arrow. The Lord is wearing a golden ring in one of his fingers. The ring can be removed from the finger and replaced back without any difficulty. Such a marvelous creation to admire!Also, one can see the rays (lines) on the palms of the Lord created so naturally like a human palm. Even the edges of the grown nails are done beautifully. Sri Raama can be felt so human, standing in front of us and blessing us.

Once in 1982, Pattaabhishekam was performed to Sri Raama here. When the rituals were happening, a monkey had visited the temple sat quietly and had witnessed the whole ceremony and had left the place after the Pattaabhhishekam, without disturbing anyone. According to the native villagers, there were no monkeys present in the village before and after this incident. But no one knows how a lone monkey arrived at the temple exactly for the Pattaabhishekam ceremony. The villagers believe that it was Sri Hanuman Himself, who came and witnessed Sri Raama Pattabhishekam.

This temple is small, yet beautiful amidst a serene atmosphere with lots of paddy fields around. The road from Chengalpattu to this temple is not too good. But it’s worth to take a drive in such a bad road to see such a wonderful Sri Raama and the rare Sri Bhavya Aanjaneya.

Pon Vilaindha Kalathur Sri Munkudumeeswarar

2009-01-25T14:27:00.000+05:30

Pon Vilaindha Kalathur is a small village situated about 60 kms from Chennai and about 8 kms from Chengalpattu. After Chengalpattu, one has to take the road towards left (eastern side of GST Road) and cross a level crossing to reach the road towards Pon Vilaindha Kalathur.

It is said that the village got its name as Gold was harvested in fields in the ancient days. Presently, the name of the village is shortened as PV Kalathur. Great poet Pugazhendhi Pulavar, who wrote Nalavenba was born here. One of the 63 Naayanmaars called Sri Kootruva Naayanar is also said to have lived in this village.

PV Kalathur has a small yet wonderful temple for Lord Shiva. The main deity here is called as Sri Munkudumeeswarar (முன்குடுமீஸ்வரர்) and Goddess Sri Meenakshi Amman. The temple was built by Rajendra Chozhan.

The legend of the God here is too unique and interesting. There lived a king who was ruling this part of the country in ancient days. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva and had a habit of getting Prasaad (Prasaadham) from this temple every day before starting his routines.

The priest of this temple used to perform daily morning pooja to the Lord and carry the Prasaadham for the king at his palace. Once, as usual, the priest performed the pooja and went to the palace to submit to the king. The king was having his bath the priest had to wait for while for the king to return and accept the Prasaadham. Meantime, the queen saw the priest waiting and enquired him. The priest told that he had brought Prasaadham from the temple for the king. The priest was holding a plate carrying Vibhuthi (Holy Ash), Kumkum, fruits and some flowers offered to the Lord.

The queen liked the fresh flowers on the plate and out of curiosity took the flowers and wore on her head. The priest was shocked and told the queen that the first Prasaadham from the temple is meant only for the king and grabbed the flowers from her head and kept them back on the plate.

The king arrived and accepted the Prasaadham with much devotion. But he was shocked to see a single long hair stuck with the flowers of the temple. The king got angry and asked the priest on how the hair got mixed up with flowers from the temple and whether the Lord had a long hair. The priest got frightened as he cannot tell the king that the queen was the responsible for it. At the same time, he had to answer. So, the priest told the king that the Lord in the temple has a long hair and hence the flowers taken from the Lord’s idol had a hair mixed up among the flowers.

The king couldn’t believe it and told that he will visit the temple the next day morning during the Pooja and if he doesn’t find the hair on the Lord, the priest’s head will be cut off.

The priest returned to the temple, cried and prayed the whole day in front of the Lord to save him from the king’s punishment.

The next day both the priest and the king arrived at the temple for morning Pooja. When the priest opened the doors of the sanctum to start the Pooja, he was astonished to see a tuft near the forehead of the Shiva Lingam. The priest was in tears realizing the mercy of the God to whom he was doing Poojas with full devotion. The king, on seeing the tuft apologized with the priest for suspecting him. As the Lord has a tuft (Kudumi) towards his forehead He came to be known as Sri Munkudumeeswarar. Even today, we can witness the tuft on the Lord’s (Lingam’s) head.

The temple is situated on a vast area amidst the paddy fields in the calm village. The temple is now protected and maintained by Archeological department and is very neat and clean.

Sri Munkudumeeswarar is bold and beautiful and is facing the east. Sri Nandhigeswarar is seen present in front of the sanctum.

Goddess Sri Meenakshi Amman is so beautifully decorated and has a separate shrine near the sanctum facing south.

Koshta deities like Sri Dhakshinamurthy, Sri Brahma and Sri Durgai are present around the sanctum.

Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Sri Subramanyar is present at the north west corner of the outer praakaram.

Sri Surya Bhagawan and Sri Chandra Bhagawan are seen in front of the sanctum, facing the Lord.

Sri Bhairavar is present at the corner at the praakaaram around the Ambaal Shrine.

There is a small shrine for Sri Kootruva Naayanaar who is said to have lived in this village, worshipping Lord Shiva here.

There are many beautiful sculptures found on many of the pillars of the mandapam in front of the sanctum. There are also many inscriptions found on the walls of the temple.

There is a beautiful Panchamuga (5 headed) Lingam carved on one of those pillars.

Outside the compound wall of the temple, a huge and majestic Nandhi is found facing the Lord towards the sanctum. But the wall obstructs the Nandhi from facing the Lord. There are 4 strong pillars around the Nandhi which might have been the pillars for Nandhi Mandapam in ancient days.

The priest visits the temple only in the morning and evening for daily poojas to be performed. As there are no much of visitors, the priest leaves after his poojas. The temple is open and the sanctum is closed during the day. One can have dharshan of the Lord through the closed grill door at the sanctum. One will be lucky if the priest is present to perform a Haarathi to the Lord.

But during our visit the priest wasn’t around and we thought he must have carried the God’s Prasaadham to some king!!

Overall, Sri Munkudumeeswarar temple is an excellent masterpiece of ancient architecture.

Thiruppaasoor Sri Vaaseeswarar

2009-01-22T16:16:00.000+05:30

Thiruppaasoor (திருப்பாசூர்) village is located about 50 kms from Chennai on the road going from Thiruvallur to Thiruthani and is about 7 kms from Thiruvallur Railway Station.

Thiruppaasoor has a vast and beautiful temple for Lord Shiva. The main deity here is called Sri Vaaseeswarar and Goddess Sri Thankaadhali (தன்காதலி) Ambaal.

It is believed that the Goddess worshipped Lord Shiva here and joined him to bless the devotees at this temple.

Thiruppaasoor got its name from the ancient Thamizh word ‘Paasu’ (பாசு) which means Bamboo. It is said that the entire place was a bamboo forest during ancient days. Once the local hunters saw a cow pouring its milk on its own in the bamboo forest and they dug up the place to find this beautiful Shiva Lingam.

On hearing this, Karikaal Chozha, the then ruler of this place, had visited Thiruppaasoor and built a temple for the Lord here.

While people dug up the place, an axe like tool which was used to dig the ground hit on the Shiva Lingam and created a scar on Him. The axe like tool was called ‘Vaasi’ in Thamizh and hence the Lord here is called as Sri Vaaseeswarar.

There were about 16 ancient stone inscriptions found in this temple. According to the inscriptions, this place is referred in ancient days as Thondai Mandalathu, Eekkaadu Kottathu, Kaakkalur Naattu Thiruppaasoor.

It is also said that, Karikaal Chozha, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva had to wage a war against Kurumbars who were troubling him. Some Jain saints, who were supporting Kurumbars, made a serpent attack the king. Karikaalan surrendered the Lord here and prayed for rescue. Pleased with his prayers, Lord Shiva tamed the serpent and saved Karikaalan.

The Lord is said to have accepted the Goddess here as ‘His love’ and hence the Goddess got her name Thankaadhali (தன்காதலி). Usually in most of the Shiva temples, we can see the Goddess shrine at the left side of the sanctum of Lord Shiva. But here, the Goddess is seen on the right side of the Lord and also facing east, which is unusual and rare.

Even today, the poojas and rituals are performed are first performed to the Goddess and then to Lord Shiva.

Upon entering the temple, one can find a group of Vinayagar (Lord Ganesha) statues. This is another rare feature of this temple. There are about 11 Ganeshas in a group at the same place and of various sizes. Here Vinayagar is called Ekadasa Vinayagar (Ekadasa means 11 in Sanskrit).

It is said that Lord Vishnu took bath here in Soma Theertham and worshipped Lord Shiva to get relieved of His Dhosham. There is another shrine for Lord Shiva called ‘Vinai Theertha Easwarar’ (வினை தீர்த்த ஈஸ்வரர்), who was worshipped by Lord Vishnu.

There is a Sri Chakram in front of the sanctum, which was installed by Sri Aadhi Sankaraachaarya, for which poojas are performed regularly. Sri Subramanyar, Sri Somaskandhar & Navagrahas are found in the praakaaram. Sri Dhakshinamurthy has a small separate mandapam facing South. Sri Lingothbavar is found behind the sanctum.

Sri Vishnu Durgai, Sri Veerabadhrar and Sorna Bhairavar are found at the northern side of the praakaaram.

Thirunaavukkarasar, Thirugnaana Sambandar & Ramalinga Vallalaar have visited this temple and have sung praises on the Lord here.

There is a beautiful 4 pillared Urchava Mandapam at the outer praakaaram used for rituals during festivals.

It is said that, apart from Sri Ambaal, many sages and saints like Maarkandeyar, Brighu, Roma Rishi, Bharadhwajar, Kaasyapar, Vashishtar, Naaradhar, Sugar, Abhimanyu, Viswamithrar and Vyaasar have worshipped Sri Vaaseeswarar here.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is Bamboo and there are two Theerthams for this temple; Soma Theertham and Mangala Theertham.

The wonderful scenic view of the temple from the roadside itself is sure to attract anyone to visit and have the Dharshan of the Lord.

Thirumullaivayil Sri Maasilaamaneeswarar

2009-01-20T21:31:00.000+05:30

Thirumullaivayil is situated at the northwest suburbs of Chennai and is about 12 kms from the Padi Junction. One can reach Thirumullaivayil after crossing Ambathur and taking right driving about 5 kms.

Thirumullaivayil has an ancient Shiva Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva called Sri Maasilaamaneesarar. Among the 32 temples which are sung by Nayanmars in Thondai Mandalam, Thirumullaivayil stands 22nd of them. The Goddess here is Sri Kodiyidaiamman.

Legend has it that, there were two evil kings called Vaanan and Onan who belonged to the community called Kurumbars. These two Kurumbars were giving constant trouble to the then ruling king called Thondaimaan.

Thondaimaan, waged a war against Kurumbar to suppress them from creating trouble to his peaceful kingdom. These Kurumbars fought against Thondaimaan with the help of Sri Bhairavar. The King Thondaimaan, returned unsuccessfully after fighting with Kurumbars. On his way, when he was riding on an elephant, he found that the jasmine creepers encircled his elephant’s leg and obstructed his way. The king angrily whipped his sword on the creepers and blood started flowing from the place where he whipped.

The king got down from his elephant and found that there was a Shiva Lingam and he had whipped his sword on the Lingam itself and hence it was bleeding. Thondaimaan felt guilty of his deed and tried killing himself with his sword. Lord Shiva gave dharshan to Thondaimaan and said that though He was injured by the king’s sword, He would be giving dharshan without any scar on His idol and hence he would be called Maasilaamaneeswarar. (God, without any scar).

Lord Shiva, also directed His Nandhi to accompany the king to help him win the war. Hence Nandhi here is seen facing the opposite direction instead of facing Lord Shiva in the sanctum.

The king, Thondaimaan, who won the battle against kurumbars (Vaanan and Onan) destroyed their forts and brought two (Vellerukku) pillars from there and installed them to form a temple for Sri Maasaalaamaneeswarar. Even today, one can find two strong (Vellerukku) pillars in front of the sanctum of Lord Sri Maasilaamaneesarar.

Another feature of this temple is, both the Lord and the Goddess are be facing east as the Lord gave dharshan to Thondaimaan in a hurry, on his way from the battle field. Usually, one can see the Goddess on the left side of the Lord and here She is seen on the right side.

It is said that when full moon day and Friday fall on the same day, it is auspicious to worship Sri Thiruvudai Amman at Melur in the morning, Thiruvotriyur Sri Vadivudaiamman in the noon and Sri Kodiyidaiamman here in the evening, on the same day, which is equivalent to the pilgrimage to Kaasi and Raameswaram.

The Lord here is not performed any Abhishegam,as he has an injury on his body caused by the king blowing his sword. Only the Sandhana Kaappu (Sandal Paste) is applied on the Lord throughout the year and once a year during the Thamizh month of Chithirai on the Sadhayam star day, a new Sandhana Kaappu is applied again to the Lord.

Ancient saints like Sri Arunagirinaadhar, Sri Sundharar and Sri Vallalaar have visited this temple and have sung praise on the Lord here. Sri Arunagirinaadhar has sung a special Vada Thirumullaivayil Thiruppugazh here, which is inscribed on stone in the temple.

The temple is built on a very vast space and has very wide praakaarams. The entire structure is too ancient that one can easily feel the age and divinity of the temple.

A tall Dhwjasthambham (flag staff) in front of the sanctum, adds glory to the whole temple.

Nandhi is seen facing east instead of facing the Lord.

Around the praakaaram, there are shrines for Lord Ganesha and Sri Balasubramanyar.

There is a separate shrine for Kusalavapureeswarar on the outer praakaaram (might be worshipped by Lava and Kusa, the sons of Rama, as there are many temples around Chennai, worshipped by them).

There is also a separate shrine for Sri Bhairavar on the outer praakaaram.

The sanctum and the Vimaanam are of Gajabrishta shape, which looks like the back of sleeping elephant.

The Koshta Moorthies give Dharshan at their respective directions around the inner praakaaram.

There is also a statue for Sri Thondaimaan Chakravarthy at the praakaaram, who built this temple.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is Vellerukku which is seen at the outer praakaaram.

The Theertham for this temple is Kalyaana Theertham, which is huge and beautiful , present opposite the temple.

A beautiful 16 pillared stone mandapam is present in front of the temple, facing the entrance.

There is also couple of ancient inscriptions dating about 1915 and beyond, mentioning about the donations made to the temple welfare by one Pachaiyappa Mudaliar & a lady called Chellammal for the maintenance of the temple.
This wonderful temple is within the easy reach from Chennai city and is worth spending a day.

Vyasarpadi Sri Raveeswarar

2008-11-03T16:13:00.000+05:30

Vyasarpadi is located in the north of Chennai, which is one of old settlements of Chennai. Vyasarpadi has a several thousand years old temple for Lord Shiva called ‘Sri Raveeswarar’.

The legend has it that, once Sri Surya Bhagawan (Sun God) was caught with Brahma Dhosha. To get rid of his Dhosha, Sri Surya Bhagawan installed and worshipped Lord Shiva under a tree called ‘Vanni Maram’ here. He also created a pond in front of the temple for worship.

Lord Shiva, who was happy with the prayers, appeared before the Sun God and granted His wish. As Lord Shiva was worshipped by Surya Bhagawan, He came to be known as ‘Sri Raveeswarar’ (Ravi means Sun in Sanskrit). Also Lord Shiva named this place as ‘Baanu Puram’ (Banu means Sun).

It is also said that Rishi Sri Veda Vyasar visited this place and worshipped the God here and have sung praises on the Lord. As Sri Vedha Vyasar stayed in this place and worshipped the Lord, this place came to be known as ‘Vyasarpadi’.

The temple is situated amidst the town, facing east. The temple is beautifully done that one can worship the Lord and the Goddess from the same place. The main deity Sri Raveeswarar is facing east from the sanctum. The Aavudaiyar (base) of the Lingam is of square in shape. Goddess is Sri Maragadhaambika beautifully decorated in a separate sanctum facing the South.

There is an idol of Sri Surya Bhagawan just outside the sanctum, seen worshipping the Lord. Sri Kaala Bairavar is present adjacent to the Goddess sanctum facing South.

A beautiful Dhwajasthambham (flag staff) adds beauty to the temple at the outer praakaaram. There are separate sanctums for Lord Ganesha and Lord Subramanyar in the outer praakaaram.
There is also a small sanctum just behind the sanctum for Sri Vedha Vyasar.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is Vanni Maram which is seen at the north western side of the praakaaram.
There is a nice temple pond in front of the temple created by Sri Surya Bhagawan, called ‘Surya Pushkarini’.

Lot of pilgrims visit and worship the Lord here for want of relief from various illnesses and Dhoshas.

According to the priest, if Sri Vedha Vyasa has visited this place, no one could measure the age of this temple and the Lord.

A wonderful temple to visit, that too amidst the busy city.

Pudhuppaakkam Sri Veera Anjaneyar

2008-06-15T21:54:00.000+05:30

Pudhuppaakkam is a small village located about 40 kms from Chennai. Pudhuppaakkam lies on the Kelambakkam – Vandalur Road, which is off. OMR. One has to take right from Kelambakkam and drive about 5 kms on Kelambakkam – Vandalur road to find Pudhuppaakkam on the right side of the road. A statue of Sri Anjaneyar by the side of the road shows the way to the temple.

The temple for Sri Veera Anjaneyar is located on a very small hill filled with trees and plants. The hill looks beautiful and there are steps to climb up the hill to reach the temple. One can get a very scenic view of the surrounding places while ascending the hill. Also the cool breeze pampers us as we climb up.

According to legend, it is said that, Sri Anjaneyar, while carrying the Sanjeevini Hill to save Sri Lakshmana, stopped here for a while to perform Surya Namaskar. Lord Hanuman is believed to be so powerful at this place.

The temple is located on the hill top and is small and beautiful. This temple awaits Kumbhabishegam (consecration) shortly.

It is also said that Rajnikanth is an ardent devotee of this Anjaneyar and visits here whenever possible.

Though there are no evidences like sculptures or history about the origin of this temple, it attracts lot of devotees from various places.

The temple is too calm with good vibrations and is a must visit for Sri Hanuman devotees.

Semmancheri Sri Srinivasa Perumaal

2008-06-15T18:41:00.000+05:30

Semmancheri is located about 25 kms from Chennai on the Old Mahabalipuram Road, just before Sozhinganallur. Semmancheri has a small, but ancient temple for Sri Srinivasa Perumaal. While traveling from Adyar, this small but ancient temple can be on the left side of the road itself.

This age old temple dates back to Pallava period. The presiding deity here is Sri Srinivasa Perumaal and Goddess Sri Alarmel Mangai Thaayaar.

It is said that a Pallava king who was ruling this part of the country lost his eye sight, after which he had worshipped Lord Srinivasa Perumaal here and got back his eye sight. Many people having problems with their eye sight take bath in this temple pond and worship the Lord here to get recovered.

The main deity Sri Srinivasa Perumaal here is so beautiful with many ornaments, glittering inside the sanctum. The Lord is seen in the standing posture.

A tall and beautiful Dwajasthambham adds beauty to the ambience.

Goddess Sri Alarmel Mangai Thaayaar is seen on the south west side of the sanctum. Goddess too is beautifully decorated and seen blessing the devotees with much grace.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Kaalinga Nardhanar where Lord Krishna is seen in a dancing posture on the venomous demon snake ‘Kaalinga’. Sri Kaalinga Nardhanar here is believed to be very powerful. It is said that the childless couples are blessed with a baby by worshipping Sri Kaalinga Nardhanar here for 48 days.

Sri Aandaal shrine is located on the northwest side of the sanctum.

Sri Anjaneyar is present in a small shrine at the north east side facing west.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is ‘Athi Maram’ which is seen inside the temple near Sri Aandaal Shrine.
Just near the entrance of the temple, there is a shrine for Sri Navaneetha Krishnar for Lord Vishnu.

The pond for this temple is located about 500 meters east of the temple which definitely needs attention.

The temple now is in a poor state and few volunteers are helping to bring the temple back to its charm.

Temple Contact : Sri Srinivasa Perumaal Temple, OMR, Semmanchery. Tel : +91 98403 88836 / 98400 69650

Koyambedu Sri Vaikundavaasa Perumaal

2008-06-14T17:05:00.000+05:30

Koyambedu is situated at the north western side of Chennai. An ancient temple for Lord Vishnu is located in Koyambedu where the main deity is Sri Vaikundavaasa Perumaal and Goddess Sri Kanagavalli Thaayaar. This temple lies adjacent to Sri Kurungaaleeswarar temple and both forming twin temples in Koyambedu.

It is also said that the names of this place in ancient days were as Kosai Nagar, Koyattipuram and Prayachithapuram. Kulothunga Chozha is said to have ruled in the 12th Century and hence it is said that the temple was constructed during his period.

It is said that Lava and Kusa, sons of Sri Rama stayed with Sage Valmiki in his Ashram here, along with their mother Sita Devi. It is said that Sri Vaikundavaasa Perumaal here was worshipped by Sage Valmiki, Lava and Kusa.

Usually, Vaikunda Perumaal temples will have the presiding deity in sitting posture. But here Perumaal is seen in standing posture along with Sri Devi and Bhu Devi.

This temple is also famous for its shrine for Sri Rama and Sita Devi. Sri Rama and Sita are found just outside the sanctum unusually on normal clothing instead of being dressed like King and Queen. Sita Devi is seen on a regular Saree with her hair do (called Kodaali Kondai) as an ordinary woman. It is made to signify their posture when they spent 14 years in the forest.

In another place, Sita Devi is also seen as a pregnant woman, as She gave birth to Lava and Kusa at Sage Valmiki’s Ashram, after She was exiled to forest.

Goddess Sri Kanagavalli Thaayaar is present in a separate shrine on the outer praakaaram at the southwest side of the temple. Goddess is so beautiful, decorated with all Her ornaments.

Sri Aandaal shrine is located at the northwest corner of the temple.

There are 3 trees uniquely grown very close to each other. There is one Vilvam tree between 2 neem trees on its either sides. It is said that Vilvam signifies Lord Shiva and one of the Neem tree represents Sri Parvathi and another Neem tree signifies Her brother Lord Vishnu. It is believed that it is like the wedding posture of Lord Shiva where Lord Vishnu presides over their marriage by joining their hands together. A Vilvam and Neem tree inside a Vaishnavite temple is a very rare sight.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Anjaneyar at the opposite side of the temple, where Sri Anjaneyar is seen facing west towards the temple.

The theertham for this temple is ‘Lava Kusa Theertham’ which is believed to have been created by the two sons of Sri Rama. The same tank serves as Theertham for Sri Kurungaaleeswarar temple, which lies just adjacent to this temple.

There are many beautiful sculptures all around the temple.

Koyambedu, apart from CMBT has these great twin temples, to form a divine pilgrimage center.

Koyambedu Sri Kurungaaleeswarar

2008-06-09T20:16:00.001+05:30

Koyambedu is situated at the north western side of Chennai. An ancient temple for Lord Shiva is located in Koyambedu where the main deity is Sri Kurungaaleeswarar and Goddess Sri Dharmasamvardhani (also called Aram Valartha Naayagi).

Inscriptions which date back to Kulothunga Chozha III and Vijayanagara kings, informs about various contributions made to the temple. Inscriptions also reveal the political bifurcation of the place as Kulothunga Chozha Valanadu, part of Puliyur Kottam belonging to Jayankonda Chozha Mandalam.

It is also said that the names of this place in ancient days were as Kosai Nagar, Koyattipuram and Prayachithapuram. Kulothunga Chozha is said to have ruled in the 12th Century and hence it is said that the temple was constructed during his period.

The main deity Sri Kurungaaleeswarar is also called as Sri Kusalavapureeswarar. It is said that Lava and Kusa, sons of Sri Rama stayed with Sage Valmiki in his Ashram along with their mother Sita Devi.

There are few other places too in and around Chennai like Thiruvaanmiyur and Siruvapuri, where Sage Valmiki had his Ashram when Lava and Kusa stayed with him.

The legend of this temple connects to Ramayana period, when Sita Devi was sent to forest by Sri Rama. Sita was under the care of Sage Sri Valmiki during that period and also gave birth to her 2 sons Lava and Kusa.

When Sri Rama sent the Aswamedha horse around the country, Lava and Kusa brought the horse to their custody. Without knowing that it was His sons who captured the horse, Sri Rama sent Lakshmana who fought a battle with them. As Lava and Kusa fought against their own uncle, they acquired a Dhosham called Gothra Dhosham. To be relieved of it, it is said that, they installed and worshipped Lord Shiva in this place.

The presiding deity Sri Kurungaaleeswarar is too small as it was installed by two small kids. This wonderful temple has stood strong across centuries and still has not lost its originality.

There are beautiful stone pillared praakaarams around the sanctum. Another beautiful stone pillared Mandapam is found in front of the temple, in which Sri Sarabeswarar is seen on one of the pillars facing west. Special Poojas are performed to Sri Sarabeswarar on all Sundays during Raahu Kaalam.
At the outer praakaaram Sri Vinayagar shrine is located at the south west corner of the temple.

Sri Visaalaakshi Samedha Sri Kaasi Viswanathar shrine and Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Sri Subramanyar shrine are located adjacent to each other behind the sanctum.

Sri Nandhigeswarar is seen on the outer praakaaram facing the presiding deity.

The temple also maintains a beautiful garden (Nandhavanam) along the outer praakaaram.

Ambaal Sri Dharmasamvardhani is beautiful and is seen in standing posture.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is ‘Palaa Maram’ (Jack tree) which is located on the outer praakaram.

The theertham for this temple is called Lava Kusa Theertham which is believed to have been created by the two sons of Sri Rama.

There are many beautiful sculptures all around the temple and on the pillars.

Few of them are Sri Rama performing Pooja to Lord Shiva, Lord Shiva punishing Yama to save Markandeyan and Kannappa Naayanar.

There is another temple adjacent to which is dedicated to Maha Vishnu called Sri Vaikunda Vaasa Perumal temple, which is again formed by Lava and Kusa.

Wonderful temple and worth visiting.

Aappoor Sri Nithya Kalyana Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal

2008-05-19T15:02:00.000+05:30

Aappoor is a tiny village situated about 5 kms from Singaperumal Koil. This village lies on the west side of Singaperumal Koil off the GST Road. One has to take right from Singaperumal Koil through the railway level crossing and drive about 3 kms and again take right and go about another 2 kms to reach Aappoor.

This is a hill temple and is visible from a distance itself on the right hand side of the road. The foot hill can be reached by going another half a km inside the village.

This hill is located about 2 km from Thirukkachur, where the hill is called Oushadhagiri and the deity Sri Oushadheeswarar. Similarly, this hill too is called as Oushadhagiri, as it contains lots of herbs in it.

Legend has it that on all full moon days Siddhars and Rishis gather here to worship the Lord. Also, Giripradhakshanam is popular in this temple.

There are about 500 steps to reach the temple on top of the hill. The stone steps are beautifully done and painted in white, which look beautiful when viewed from a distance. The steps are also a bit tedious to climb up. But one can stop in between to breathe some fresh herbal breeze and proceed.

The temple is very small and beautiful. The main deity here is Sri Nithya Kalyana Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal, also fondly called as Aappooraar by the local villagers. This temple is said to have been mentioned in many palm leaves of Naadi Astrology.

It is also said that, this is probably the only Vaishnava temple, where Sage Agasthiyar had stayed and performed penance.

The whole temple is just the sanctum and the mandapam around it. The main deity is seen facing east. Sri Garudan is seen in front of the sanctum, facing west towards the Lord.

Perumal here is said to bless the devotees for timely marriage and harmony within the family.

The Mandapam is decorated with Dhasavathara (10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu) images made of concrete, which is seen all around.

Pilgrims have to carry water or other refreshments with them, as nothing is available on top, after a strenuous climb.

One can have a scenic view of the villages around, from the temple on hill top. Lovely breeze embraces us and cools us down relaxing us to prepare for descending down.

This temple is open only till 11 am in the morning including Sundays, as there are not much people visiting here, except on festival days. But it is ideal to visit this temple on a normal day without much crowd. Also it is suggested to go in small groups, which will make the climb less painful.

Aathur Sri Muktheeswarar

2008-05-10T16:34:00.000+05:30

Aathur village is situated 5 kms off the Chengalpattu Bridge on the west of GST Road. Aathur has a beautiful temple belonging to Chozha period.

The main deity here is Sri Muktheeswarar and Goddess Sri Dharmasamvardhani Ambaal, also called Aram Valartha Naayagi (அறம் வளர்த்த நாயகி). This wonderful temple has Lord Shiva in the form of Shiva Lingam facing east. The unique feature of this Lingam is, a thin ray of line separates the top portion (Baanam) of Lingam into two equal halves vertically. It is said that such Lingam is very rare to see and it represents the Ardhanaareeswarar (Shiva & Shakthi in equal halves) form of Lord Shiva.

Sri Vinayagar has a separate shrine in the temple’s outer praakaaram and is facing east. There are many stone inscriptions found all along the walls of the temple. According to the inscriptions this Vinayagar was installed by a local villager in this temple, during Chozha reign.

The inscriptions also reveal that the funds generated from this temple were donated to build one of the Gopurams of Chidambaram Sri Natarajar Temple. It thus shows the prosperity of this temple in those days.

This temple lies on the banks of the river Palar, also called Ksheera Nadhi which serves as the Theertham for this temple. It is also said that as the temple lies on the river banks of Palar, the place was originally known as ‘Aatru Oor’ (Aaru means, river in Thamizh) which later corrupted to become Aathur.

This temple has beautiful praakaarams. The outer praakaram has Sri Vinayagar, Sri Dhakshinamurthy, Sri Brahma and Sri Durgai around the sanctum.

Just near Sri Dhakshinamurthy shrine, a small underway is seen, which is kept closed using an asbestos sheet. There is a small room under the ground level which is said to be the hiding place during the times of war.

Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Sri Shanmugar has a separate shrine on the praakaaram. The idol of Sri Shanmugar is yet to get Ashtabandhanam done. The idol is wonderfully sculpted with Lord Shanmugar with 6 faces, 12 arms holding weapons and seated majestically on an aesthetic peacock which is holding the snake in its beak. All the details of this idol along with its base is made of single stone and is just kept in the shrine without fixing it (Ashtabandhanam) to the floor. The idol is made in such a way that it aptly balances itself firmly on the ground.

On the North West side of the praakaaram Sri Jyeshta Devi is seen facing east. Sri Jyeshta is elder to Sri Lakshmi as she evolved out prior to Sri Lakshmi during the churning of the mighty ocean, Ksheera Saagaram (Paarkadal). It is said that Sri Jyeshta Devi was one of the main deities for the then Chozha rulers.

A beautiful Nandhi is seen facing west towards the Lord.

There is a window beautifully sculpted on stone in front of Sri Nandhigeswarar, having 9 holes to it. It is called Navadhwaram in Sanskrit.

The northern side of the praakaaram has the shrine for Ambaal Sri Dharmasamvardhani. Sri Ambaal is so beautiful and charming and is facing south.

At the north eastern side of the praakaaram, about 4 Lingams are kept in a separate mandapam which were found during excavation. Out of 4 Lingams, 2 are Baana Lingams, without the Aavudaiyaar (base). It is said that, this temple as 8 Shivalingam shrines (Ashta Lingam) around it on all 8 directions, like Thiruvannaamalai temple. But the people were able to locate only a few till now.

There is a stone marking on one of the walls of the temple, mentioning that the Kumbhabhishekam (Consecration) was held last on 30.08.1917.

The Theertham for this temple is Ksheera Theertham (Palar river) and there are 2 Sthala Virukshams for this temple, Vilvam and Maa Maram (Mango tree). This mango tree has a very unique quality.

This tree branches into two from the base and the fruits formed from each half of the tree has different tastes. It is said, as Lord Shiva here is in the form of Ardhanaareeswarar the tree too naturally gives fruits with 2 different tastes, symbolising the dual form of Lord Shiva.

Pradhosham and Maha Sivarathri are celebrated in a grand manner in this temple. Like Thiruvannamalai temple, this is one of the temples which conduct 6 times Pooja during Sivarathri.

This temple has been in a dilapidated condition and the local youths have formed a trust called ‘Srimath Muktheeswarar Nithya Poojai Arakkattalai’ to help bring back the originality of the temple and to conduct Poojas everyday.

The trust is raising funds and contributing to the welfare of the temple. Those willing to visit or help the temple shall contact Sri Ananthasayanan (+91 98422 89081) or Sri Rishikesh (+91 97103 46703), 'Athur Srimath Muktheeswarar Nithya Poojai Arakkattalai', Reddy Street, Aathur Village and Post, Kanchipuram District – 603 101.

The temple which will surely be admired by temple lovers.

Pozhichalur Sri Agatheeswarar

2008-04-16T14:32:00.000+05:30

Pozhichalur is about 3 kms from Pallaavaram Railway station off the road towards Kunrathur.

It has an ancient Shiva temple belonging to Chozha period.

The main deity here is Sri Agatheeswarar and Goddess Sri Aanandhavalli.

This beautiful temple is one among the Navagraha temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam) dedicated to Lord Sri Saneeswara Bhagavan.

According to legend, Lord Shiva directed Sri Agasthiyar to go towards south to balance the earth during His wedding at Mount Kailash. As per the God’s direction, Sage Agasthiyar came down to the southern part to balance the weight of the earth. While he was on his way to Podhigai hills, he stayed here for many years and worshipped Lord Shiva, a Swayambhu (self evolved) Lingam at this place.

Sage Agasthiyar had a boon that wherever he worships Lord Shiva, he will get the dharshan of the Lord’s marriage with Goddess Parvathi. Sage Agasthiyar is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here and got His dharshan in this place.

Sri Saneeswara Bhagavan is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here. As Sri Saneeswara had been giving ill effects to people, he had gained Dhosham out of it. Sri Saneeswara Bhagavan, wanting to be relieved of his dhoshams, prayed Lord Shiva for help.

Lord Shiva asked Sri Sani Bhagavan to come to this place and worship Him. As directed, Sri Sani Bhagavan came to this place, created a pond called ‘Sani Theertham’ and worshipped Lord Shiva and got relieved of his problems.

Hence, Sri Sani Bhagavan here is believed to be Mangala Saneeswarar with no dhoshams or ill effects. People having problems because of Sani (Saturn), worship here to reduce the ill effects. This place is also called ‘Vada Thirunallaaru’.

The main deity, Sri Agatheeswarar is seen facing the east and Goddess Sri Aanandhavalli facing south. The temple is facing north and does not have Rajagopuram.

Sri Sani Bhagavan is facing west towards the main deity in the sanctum. This temple is also a Parihaara Sthalam for Raahu and Kethu.

This temple had been renovated during Chozha period. The sanctum is built in Gajabrishta shape (also called Thoongaanai Maadam) shape.

Lord Ganesha (Vinaayagar) is seen under a peepul tree at the south west corner of the temple. At southeast of the sanctum, Lord Anjaneyar (Sri Hanuman) has a separate shrine.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple 'Maa Maram' (Mango tree) is at the north western side of the temple.

There is a beautiful Shiva Lingam under the Mango tree along with Sri Nandhi.

The Theertham of this temple is called ‘Sani Theertham’ which is located a little away from the temple. This pond is in a very poor state with encroachments all around.

Raahu Kaalam, Pradhosham, Aarudhra Dharsanam, Sivarathri, Sani Peyarchi and Karthigai Deepam are few of the special days in this temple.

Temple Address : Sri Agastheeswara Swami Temple, Pozhichalur, Chennai - 600 074. Tel : 044 - 32564022, 9382305974, agaskoil@yahoo.com (Contact : Mr. Shanmugavel Kumarasamy, Trustee). Website : www.pozhichalursaneeswarartemple.org

Nandhambakkam Sri Kothandaramar

2008-04-12T18:01:00.000+05:30

Nandhambakkam is located on the Mount Poonamallee Road just about 2 kms from Guindy Kathipara junction of Chennai city. This temple is located just 100 meters from the main road on the opposite side of Chennai Trade Center.

Nandhambakkam has a beautiful temple for Sri Rama and the temple is connected with Ramayana. When Sri Rama was proceeding towards Sri Lanka in search of Sita Devi, He happened to pass through this place. This place was then called as Brindhaaranyam.

During that period, an ancient sage called Bringi Rishi was performing penance in this part of the country. He was doing penance from the hill nearby. The hill got its name as Bringi Malai (Bringi Hill) as sage Bringi was staying there for years. The name later corrupted to become Parangi Malai which is presently called as St. Thomas Mount.

Knowing that Sri Rama is passing through his place here, Bringi Rishi went and invited Sri Rama to stay with him for few days before proceeding. Sri Rama agreed to be the guest of Bringi Rishi and stayed here. Bringi Rishi created a small Nandhavanam (means garden) for the comfort of Sri Rama and the place came to be known as Nandhavanam itself, which later changed as Nandhambakkam. The neighboring place to Nandhambakkam is called Ramapuram, which is said to have got its name after Sri Rama’s stay here.

This story of this place is said to be mentioned in the ‘Aaranya Kaandam’ of ‘Kamba Ramayanam’ (Ramayana written in Thamizh by ancient poet Kambar).

Later, an ancient Vishnu devotee called Thirukkachi Nambi (1180 AD) wished to construct a temple for Sri Rama at this place and made a small temple for the Lord.

During Krishna Devaraaya’s Rule one of his territory heads called ‘Sanjeevi Raayar’ renovated this temple and made it bigger.

Sri Rama here is seen along with Lakshmana, Bharatha and Chathrugna in Pattaabishega posture. Sri Sita Devi is seen sitting on Sri Rama’s lap and looks so beautiful. All are seen facing south. Sri Anjaneyar is seen facing the Lord towards north.

In the same place, Sri Srinivasa Perumal is seen facing the east.

There is a beautiful Nandhavanam (garden) outside the sanctum on the southern side. Sri Krishna is seen here as a child inside the garden. He is called Nandhavana Kannan here.

There is another shrine for Sri Anjaneyar (Sri Hanuman) on the praakaaram. Here Sri Anjaneyar is very tall in the standing posture.

There is a beautiful temple pond opposite to this temple. This is called ‘Bringi Rishi Theertham’, which is very large in size and needs maintenance.

Sri Ramanavami is celebrated in a very grand manner in this temple.

Maangaadu Sri Vaikunda Perumaal

2008-04-12T17:44:00.000+05:30

Maangaadu is located at the outskirts of Chennai near Poondhamalli. While going from Chennai city on Mount Poondhamalli road, one has to take left from Kumananchaavadi junction to reach Maangaadu.

This temple is located very close to Maangaadu Sri Kamakshi Amman temple. This is a very ancient and beautiful temple for Lord Vishnu. The main deity here is Sri Vaikunda Perumaal.

According to the legend, when Goddess Sri Kamakshi performed Thapas here in Maangaadu, Lord Shiva came down to earth to marry Her. Lord Shiva appeared to Sri Kamakshi and directed Her to reach Kanchipuram where He can marry the Goddess.

Lord Vishnu, who is the brother of Goddess anticipating the wedding to happen at Maangaadu, came down here with maternal gifts for the bride and waited here.

But as the wedding did not happen here at Maangaadu, Lord Vishnu took abode here as Sri Vaikunda Perumaal with the Jewel (wedding ring) he brought for the Goddess and started blessing devotees.

The main deity Sri Vaikunda Perumaal is so beautiful with Sri Devi and Bhu Devi facing east. God is seen holding the wedding ring in his palm. Also He is holding Prayoga Chakra in one of his hands, which is believed to be so powerful.

Goddess here is Sri Kanakavalli Thaayaar having a separate shrine facing east on the outer praakaaram.

Aandaal shrine is found on the northwest corner of the temple, facing east.

The temple also maintains a beautiful Goshala with many cows.

Many beautiful statues like Sri Rama, Sri Anjaneya etc, are found on the outer walls of the temple.

It is said that people visiting Sri Kamakshi Amman temple should also have dharshan at Sri Velleeswarar temple and Sri Vaikunda Perumaal temple in Maangaadu, as all these three temples are interconnected with the history of Sri Kamakshi Amman.

Kovur Sri Sundhareswarar

2008-04-12T17:16:00.000+05:30

Kovur is a small town situated about 22 kms from Chennai, on the road going from Porur towards Kunrathur. The temple is located about 200 meters off the main road.

Kovur has a massive temple for Lord Shiva built by Kulothunga Chozha, dating back to 7th century. The main deity of this temple is Sri Sundhareswarar (also called Thirumaeneeswarar) and Goddess Sri Soundharaambigai (also called Thiruvudai Naayagi).

According to legend, Goddess Kamakshi was performing thapas on Panchagni (fire) in Maangaadu praying Lord Shiva to marry Her. Her penance was so intense that the whole surroundings became too hot and all living beings suffered because of enormous heat. But Lord Shiva was meditating deeply with His eyes closed. Sages and Devas worshipped Lord Vishnu to save the world from the heat of the penance. Lord Vishnu directed Sri Mahalakshmi to save the world.

Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi came down here to this place in the form of a cow and worshipped Lord Shiva to make Him open the eyes, so that the world is saved. Pleased with Her prayers, Lord Shiva opened His eyes, after which the heat of the place subsided and became cooler.

As Sri Mahalakshmi worshipped here in the form of a cow, the place came to be known as Kopuri (In Thamizh, Ko means cow) and later corrupted to become Kovur. At later stages Kulothunga Chozha had built this temple beautifully.

The temple is facing south with a beautiful 7 tiered Rajagopuram. The entire Sannadhi street itself is so beautiful with shady trees and ancient houses.

This temple is one among the Navagraha temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam) for Sri Budhan (Mercury).

Lord Sri Sundhareswarar and Goddess Sri Soundharaambigai are said to be so beautiful here and hence they are called so. It is said that, by worshipping Sri Sundhareswarar, one will be cured of many ailments. The temple has undergone Kumbhabhishekam (consecration) recently and looks fresh and new.

Other deities present in the temple are Sri Veerabadhrar, Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Sri Subramanyar and Navagrahams. All 63 Naayanmaars are also present in this temple.

Saint Thyagaraja has visited this temple on his way to Thirupathi. It is said that Saint Thyagaraja traveled on a palanquin towards Thirupathi and passed through this place. He also visited this temple on his way. A local headman called Sundharesan asked the saint to compose and sing some songs on him. Thyagarajar refused and said that he won’t sing praise of any individual and he will sing praise of God only and left Kovur.

While going from Kovur, his palanquin was obstructed by a group of bandits who threw stones on the palanquin and his servants to stop him from going further. The saint Thyagaraja stopped and got down from the palanquin to explain the bandits that he was not so rich to be robbed and also he was on a pilgrimage to Thirupathi. The bandits came near Thyagaraja and asked him who threw the stones back at them. Thyagaraja told them that there were no other people with them except the carriers of palanquin. But the thieves told that they saw 2 youngsters furiously throwing back the stones on them to save Thyagaraja. Saint Thyagaraja realized that they were none other than Sri Rama and Sri Lakshmana who came to his rescue.

Saint also realized that there is some holy power to this place and again came back to Kovur temple and sung 5 compositions (Keerthanas) called ‘Kovur Pancharathnam’. The local headman was too proud thinking that Saint Thyagaraja sung in praise of him only. But the saint explained him that the 5 compositions were made in praise of the Lord Sri Sundhareswarar and not the individual called Sundhareswaran. The Kovur Pancharatnams are "Ee Vasudha" (Sahaana Raagam), "Kori Sevimpa" (Karaharapriya Raagam), "Sambo Mahadeva" (Pantuvarali Raagam), "Nammi Vachina" (Kalyani Raagam) and "Sundareswaruni" (Sankarabharanam Raagam).

Most of the compositions of Saint Thyagaraja are in praise of Lord Rama only. This is one of the few places where he had composed Keerthanas on other Gods.

Sri Sekkizhaar, who was born in the nearby place ‘Kunrathur’, started writing ‘Periya Puranam’ from this temple only.

Another rarity of this temple is the Sthala Viruksham called Maha Vilvam tree. The Maha Vilvam of this temple is a very rare one that each stalk of Maha Vilvam has 27 leaves to it. This Maha Vilvam also has many medicinal properties in it.

The Theertham for this temple is called Siva Gangai Theertham. This temple also has a beautiful chariot which requires renovation.

Such another marvelous temple, standing tall across centuries is definitely a boon to pilgrims.

Poondhamalli Sri Vaidheeswarar

2008-04-11T18:34:00.001+05:30

Poondhamalli is about 25 kms from Chennai city and has an ancient temple for Lord Shiva, which is more than 1000 years old. The main deity here is Sri Vaidheeswarar and Goddess Sri Thaiyyal Naayagi.

This temple is very similar to the Vaidheeswaran Koil temple near Kumbakonam, which is one of the Navagraha Sthalam for Angaaragan (Mars in English or Chevvaai in Thamizh).

This temple is one among the Navagraha temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam) for Angaaragan. It is said that Sri Angaaragan worshipped Lord Shiva at this place.

Sri Angaaragan’s Paadham (foot mark) is found in the temple just outside the sanctum under the Panai (Palm) tree sculpted on stone. This temple is a Parihaara Sthalam for Chevvaai Dhosham. Special Poojas are done here on Tuesdays for Sri Angaaragan.

The temple is so huge with very vast praakaarams. The main deity is facing east in the form of Shiva Lingam. Goddess Sri Thaiyyal Naayagi is facing south.

In the inner praakaaram Sri Dhakshinamurthy, Sri Brahma, Sri Subramanyar, Sri Sandigeswarar and Sri Durgai are seen. There are 3 Chakras installed by Sri Aadhi Sankarar in the Praakaaram called Sri Chakram, Subramanya Chakram and Shanmuga Chakram.

On the northern praakaaram there is a Baana Lingam installed facing the entrance.

Though there is an entrance at the eastern side, the temple has its main entrance and Rajagopuram facing north.

There are some beautiful carvings on either sides of the entrance.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is Thaazhi Panai Maram (Palm tree). The temple pond (called Vinai Theertha Kulam) is located on the eastern side of the temple, which needs attention.

Surya Pooja happens in this temple in the Thamizh month ‘Maasi’. On the 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th of Maasi, Sun’s rays directly fall on the main deity around 6 am in the mornings. This amazing act happens only on these 5 days of the year and never repeats again.

This temple is also called 'Uthara Vaitheeswaran Koil'. A wonderful temple with amazing architecture.

Maangaadu Sri Velleeswarar

2008-04-09T12:46:00.000+05:30

Maangaadu is a small beautiful village located at the outskirts of Chennai near Poondhamalli. While going from Chennai city on Mount Poondhamalli road, one has to take left from Kumananchaavadi junction to reach Maangaadu.

This temple is located very close to Maangaadu Sri Kamakshi Amman temple. This is a very ancient and beautiful temple for Lord Shiva. The main deity here is Sri Velleeswarar. There is no Ambaal in this temple, as Sri Kamakshi Amman is present nearby.

According to the legend, when Goddess Sri Kamakshi performed Thapas here in Maangaadu, Lord Shiva came down to earth to give dharshan to Her and marry Her. It is said that, Sri Sukran (Venus) worshipped Lord Shiva here. When Sri Kamakshi came here to have dharshan of Lord Shiva, she saw Sri Sukran worshipping the Lord. The Goddess went back as She did not want to disturb the prayers of Sukran.

Later Lord Shiva directed the Goddess to come to Kanchipuram and married Her there. As Sri Sukran (Velli in Thamizh) worshipped Lord Shiva here, the Lord came to be known as Sri Velleeswarar and also called as Sri Bhaargaveswarar.

This temple is Sukran Sthalam among the Navagraha Temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam). Sri Sukran blesses people with wealth, prosperity, good family, vehicles, fame and social status.

The main deity Sri Velleeswarar is huge and looks very grand, facing east. Lord Ganesha and Lord Muruga are seen at either side of the entrance of the sanctum. Lord Ganesha here is holding a Mango fruit in His hand and is called ‘Maangani Vinayagar’. The place Maangaadu itself had got its name as it was once a vast Mango forest.

Lingothbavar is seen on the outer wall behind the sanctum. Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu are present on either side of Lingothbavar worshipping Him.

There is a separate shrine for Sri Veerabadhrar behind the sanctum. Sri Veerabadhrar is said to have got created from the sweat of Lord Shiva to defeat Dhakshan.

Sri Subramanyar shrine is present at the North West side of the outer praakaaram. Sri Subramanyar is so beautiful and seen with His consorts Sri Valli and Sri Dhevasena. All the 3 deities are made of a single stone. Lord Muruga’s Vaahanam (carrier) peacock is present outside the shrine facing the shrine.

A beautiful Nandhi is present outside the sanctum, facing towards west. It is said that people visiting Sri Kamakshi Amman temple should also have dharshan at Sri Velleeswarar temple and Sri Vaikunda Perumaal temple in Maangaadu, as all these three temples are interconnected with the history of Sri Kamakshi Amman.

Kunrathur Sri Naageswarar

2008-04-08T17:19:00.000+05:30

Kunrathur is located about 25 kms from Chennai city. One can reach Kunrathur by taking the road off GST road from Pallavaram. One can also take the road from Porur junction leading to Kunrathur.

Kunrathur has an ancient temple for Lord Shiva which is over 800 years old. The main deity is Sri Naageswarar and Goddess Sri Kamakshi.

This temple was built by the famous poet Sri Sekkizhaar who wrote the popular ‘Periya Puranam’. Sekkizhaar was born in Kunrathur itself. Once Kulothunga Chozha II wanted to know his intellect and tested him with his questions. Sekkizhaar answered the king perfectly and the king was amazed.

The king made Sekkizhaar his minister at his capital. Sekkizhaar was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva and was regularly worshipping Lord Shiva at Thirunaageswaram near Kumbakonam.

During later stages, Sekkizhaar built a temple for Lord Shiva at Kunrathur which is very similar to the Thirunaageswaram temple. He installed the deity (Shiva Lingam) with Naagaabaranam (snake as an ornament) around the Shiva Lingam and named the Lord as Sri Naageswarar.

This temple is also popularly called as Vada Thirunaageswaram.

This temple is considered the Raahu Sthalam among 9 Navagraha Temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam). The Naagar around the deity is considered the ‘Raahu’ for worship. Parihaarams (remedial worship) for Raahu are done here, especially during Raahu Kethu Peyarchi and also during Raahu Kaalam (4.30 pm to 06.00 pm) on Sundays.

The temple is very huge and wonderful. The vast praakaarams add beauty to the temple. Sri Naageswarar is seen facing east and Goddess Sri Kamakshi is facing south. Sri Sekkizhaar also has a separate shrine inside the temple.

A magnificent Dwajasthambham is located on the eastern side of the temple, straight to the entrance.

Sri Nandhigeswarar is seated in a small stone mandapam and is facing east towards the sanctum.
Sthala Viruksham (holy tree) for this temple is ‘Shenbaga Maram’ and Theertham is ‘Surya Pushkarani’. Surya Pushkarani is very large and beautiful which is seen outside the temple on the south eastern side.

The temple definitely showcases the dedication of Sri Sekkizhaar toward Sri Naageswarar.

Porur Sri Ramanaadheswarar

2008-04-07T16:58:00.000+05:30

This ancient temple for Sri Ramanaadheswarar is located in Porur, very near to Porur junction, off. Kunrathur Road.

This ancient temple is connected to the Ramayana period. According to the history, Sri Rama on His way to Sri Lanka rested here in this place which was then a forest. While resting under an Amla tree (‘Nelli’ in Thamizh), He realized that there was a Shiva Lingam under the ground and his feet had touched the head of the Lingam unknowingly.

Sri Rama acquired a Dhosham as He had touched the Lingam with His feet. So he undertook a penance towards Lord Shiva for 48 days with just one Amla fruit as his food, to recover from the Dhosham and to bring out the Shiva Lingam. Lord Shiva pleased with Sri Rama’s penance came out from the earth and gave Viswaroopa Dharshan to Sri Rama.

Sri Rama overwhelmed by the Lord’s mercy named the Shiva Lingam as Sri Ramanaadheswarar and worshipped Him. Goddess Parvathi too appeared and gave Dharshan to Sri Rama as Sri Sivakaama Sundhari.

Sri Rama with sincere prayers worshipped Lord Shiva as His Guru and got to know the directions to reach the place where Sri Sita was kept under custody of Raavana and headed towards Sri Lanka.

As Sri Rama worshipped Lord Shiva as His Guru, this place became a Guru Sthalam among 9 Navagraha Temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam). Here Lord Shiva Himself is worshipped as Sri Guru Bhagavan.

Also this place is called Uthara Raameswaram, as Sri Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here, similar to Raameswaram. Also according to temple sources, it is said that Porur was called as Uthara Raameswaram in ancient days. It is also said that, this temple is equivalent to Raameswaram and those who are not able to go pilgrimage to Raameswaram can visit this place and be blessed by the Lord.

The main deity Sri Ramanaadheswarar is too gigantic and beautifully decorated, facing east. This huge deity is a Swayambhu Lingam (self evolved). Goddess Sivakaama Sundhari has a separate shrine in the temple.

The sanctum is built in Gajabrishta shape or Thoongaanai Maadam (தூங்கானை மாடம்) type which is popular in Chozha temple architecture. Sri Vinayagar, Sri Dhakshinamurthy and other Koshta Murthies are found around the sanctum. This temple does not have Rajagopuram at the entrance and Vimanam above the sanctum.

Nandhigeswarar is found on the outer praakaaram facing the sanctum.

Here Sri Sandigeswarar is seen in a peculiar position near Nandhi facing south.

The practice of offering Theertham and Sadaari are generally seen only in Vishnu temples. But, this is probably the only Shiva temple, where Theertham and Sadaari are offered to the devotees.

The Sthala Viruksham is Vembu (Neem tree) which is seen on the southern side of the praakaaram. Lord Brahma is seen under the tree facing north. A small Shiva Lingam is kept facing east with Nandhi, adjacent to Lord Brahma. The Neem tree is dressed up with a nice saree which looks like a beautiful woman.

Pournami, Pradhosham, Sivarathri and Guru Peyarchi are celebrated well in this temple.

One can’t stop admiring the beauty of Sri Ramanaadheswarar and His magnificence at this temple.

Gerugambaakkam Sri Neelakandeswarar

2008-04-07T13:10:00.001+05:30

Gerugambaakkam is located about 20 kms west of Chennai. While going from Porur towards Kunrathur, one should take left to reach Gerugambaakkam.

Gerugambaakkam has an ancient temple for Lord Shiva, which belongs to Chozha period. The main deity is Sri Neelakandeswarar and Goddess Sri Aadhi Kamakshi.

This temple is one of the Navagraha temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam) devoted to Sri Kethu Bhagavan. There is a separate shrine for Kethu Bhagavan on the southern side of the sanctum. Special Poojas and Homams are performed to Sri Kethu Bhagavan during Raahu Kethu Peyarchi. This is also a Parihaara Sthalam for people having ill effects in their lives because of Kethu’s position in their Horoscope.

The main deity Sri Neelakandeswarar is situated in a small and beautiful sanctum. The Lord got His name Neelakandeswarar, as he swallowed the Aala Kaala Poison which evolved during the churning of the ocean, after which His neck turned blue. In Thamizh ‘Neela’ means blue and ‘Kanda’ means neck.

It is said that the Nandhi in front of the Lord is so powerful, as he absorbs the poisonous breath of the Lord after He consumed poison.

Sri Aadhi Kamakshi is present just outside the main sanctum, facing south. Sri Aadhi Kamakshi is tall and looks very beautiful. She is said to be the first among 5 forms of Kamakshi.

Navagraham is present at the north east side corner of the temple. There are carvings of image of snake on the ceiling of Navagraha shrine, which indicates that this temple is a Parihaara Sthalam.

There is an old and vast temple pond adjacent to the temple, which definitely requires attention.

The entire temple itself is now in a poor condition with lack of funds. It is said that when the temple was being constructed during the Chozha period, it was kept on hold due to some foreign invasion. So, the temple looks semi finished.

Recently, Tamilnadu Tourism has made arrangements to organize package tour to all 9 Navagraha Sthalams around Chennai and hence the turnout of people is gradually increasing here.

This lovely temple amidst a calm village has more to be uncovered.

Somangalam Sri Somanaadheeswarar

2008-04-05T19:01:00.000+05:30

Somangalam lies at about 35 kms south west of Chennai city. One can take the route from Tambaram via Kishkinta to reach Somangalam. The better alternative is to take the road from Pallavaram going to Kunrathur. After reaching Kunrathur junction, one has to take left (towards south) to reach Somangalam. Somangalam is about 10 kms from Kunrathur. Also plenty of busses ply from Porur directly to Somangalam.

Somangalam is an ancient, beautiful village having a temple for Lord Shiva. The main deity here is Sri Somanaadheeswarar and Goddess Sri Kamakshi Amman.

This temple is one of the Navagraha temples of Chennai (or Thondai Mandalam) devoted to Sri Chandra Bhagavan (Moon God). According to legend, once, Sri Chandra Bhagavan (also called Soman) is said to have got cursed by Dhakshan. As a result, he lost his divine charm and forgot all 16 form of arts he acquired. To come out of this, He is said to have created a pond here called Soma Theertham and worshipped Lord Shiva here. After this, he got back his beauty and wisdom. As Sri Soman (Sri Chandra Bhagavan) worshipped the Lord here, Lord Shiva here is called Somanaadheeswarar and the place came to be known as Somangalam.

This temple is a Parihaara Sthalam for those having any Dhosham related to Chandra Bhagavan. Sri Chandra Bhagavan has a separate shrine in the temple, facing west.

This temple is said to have been built by Kulothunga Chozha in 1073 AD during his 3rd year of reign. According to inscriptions found here, this place was referred as ‘Jayankonda Chozha Mandalathu Senkaattu Kottathu Maaganoor Naattu Somangalamaana Rajasigaamani Chathurvedhi Mangalam” (ஜெயங்கொண்ட சோழமண்டலத்து செங்காட்டுக்கோட்டத்து மாகனூர் நாட்டு சோமங்கலமான ராஜசிகாமணிச் சதுர்வேதிமங்கலம்). Those days the places gifted (tax free) to Vedic Brahmins by ancient kings were called Chathurvedhi Mangalams.

The inscriptions found in the temple also reveal the information about the local lake which got damaged and about the repair works done to it. Also, there is information about the cows donated to the temple to fetch revenue to light the lamps in the temple, every evening.

There lived a king called Somakaanthan in this part of the country, who wished to build 108 Shiva temples throughout his country. While he was in the middle of the construction work for this temple, he had his enemies marching towards his territory for war. The king was shocked to hear this, because he was never prepared for a war at that time and had engaged all his soldiers in the temple construction work.

With much grief, he prayed Lord Shiva here to save him. Lord Shiva was pleased with his devotion in constructing the temple, directed Sri Nandhigeswarar to fight against the king’s enemy. Nandhi turned towards east and blew away the entire troupes of the enemy just with his forceful breath. Lord Shiva made Nandhi to face east permanently to make sure that there were no further attacks to the king’s country by enemies.

Here one can see Nandhi unusually facing east instead of facing the Lord in the sanctum. This is one of the very unique features of this temple.

Ambaal Sri Kamakshi Amman has a separate shrine in the temple, facing south.

Lord Natarajar here is present as Chathura Thaandava Murthy which is again very unique and rarely seen anywhere.

The sanctum is built in Gajabrishta shape or Thoongaanai Maadam (தூங்கானை மாடம்) type which is popular in Chozha architecture. Such structures would look like the back of a sleeping elephant.

Sri Vinayagar, Sri Dhakshinamurthy, Sri Mahavishnu, Sri Brahma, Sri Durgai and Sri Sandigeswarar are seen on the outer walls of the sanctum.

The other deities like Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Sri Subramanyar and Sri Bhairavar have separate shrines on the outer praakaaram.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is Sarakkonrai Maram which is found on the northern side of the sanctum. There is a small shrine having small Shiva Lingam below this tree and is called Viruksha Lingam. An image of a tree is carved on stone above this Lingam.

A few dilapidated idols are seen near Sthala Viruksham.

In the southern side of the outer Praakaaram Saptha Maathaas are seen in a row along the walls, in which Sri Jyeshta Devi is also present. Sri Jyeshta Devi is said to be the elder sister of Sri Mahalakshmi, who evolved earlier to Sri Mahalakshmi when the mighty ocean was churned.

The Theertham for this temple is said to be Sandeeswara Theertham, which is believed to be created by Sri Sandigeswarar. Another Theertham is Soma Theertham, which was created by Moon God is present a little away from the temple.

The temple is strictly closed between 12 pm and 4 pm. This beautiful temple surely has lots within itself for temple lovers.

Kolappaakkam Sri Agatheeswarar

2008-04-03T14:39:00.000+05:30

Kolappaakkam (கொளப்பாக்கம்) is located at about 18 kms from Chennai. One can take the road from diagonally opposite to MIOT Hospitals off. Mount Poonamallee Road, to reach Kolappaakkam. Alternatively, one can also go from Porur via Gerugambaakkam and reach Kolappaakkam.

Kolappaakkam has a beautiful Shiva temple where the main deity is Sri Agatheeswarar (also called Sri Vaakeesa Mahadhevar) and Goddess Sri Aanandhavalli.

This temple is said to be over 1300 years old. According to legend, Sri Surya Bhagavan had worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple. Sri Surya Bhagavan has a separate shrine inside this temple facing the Lord towards west. This temple is one of the Navagraha temples of Chennai devoted to Sri Surya Bhagavan. The Sun God is given prominence in this temple, where all important deities of the temples are facing Surya Bhagavan shrine.

The color of Vasthram (clothing) meant for Sri Surya Bhagavan is Red. The Dhaanyam (grain) dedicated to Him is Wheat and the auspicious day to worship Sri Surya Bhagavan is Sunday. Worshipping Sri Surya Bhagavan on Sunday, by offering red cloth, red flowers and wheat gives success to one in all his deeds. Also, it is said that worshipping Sun God makes one gain the Thejas.

It is said that, apart from Surya Bhagavan, Sage Agasthiyar too had worshipped Lord Shiva here and hence the name Sri Agatheeswarar. Another Rishi called Vaakeesa Muni also had worshipped Sri Agatheeswarar here.

The temple is built facing south on a vast land. Sri Agatheeswarar is seen facing east. Ambaal Sri Aanandhavalli is facing south and is in standing posture. Nandhi is seen facing the Lord towards east.

Other deities like Sri Ganesha, Sri Dhakshinamurthy, Sri Mahavishnu, Sri Durgai and Sri Sandigeswarar are seen around the sanctum.

There is a separate shrine for Lord Ganesha called Raja Ganapathy here. Also, Sri Kaasi Viswanathar and Sri Visaalakshi have separate shrines facing east at the south west portion of the temple. Lord Subramanyar also has a shrine in the temple in which a Maragatha Mayil (Peacock made of green granite) is found.

Sri Kaala Bhairavar is very popular in this temple and is said to be more powerful. Special Poojas and Abishegams are performed to Sri Kaala Bhairavar every Sunday during Raahu Kaalam (4.30 pm to 6 pm) timings. It is said that people worshipping Sri Bhairavar here for 6 consecutive Sundays, get their wishes fulfilled.

Many kings have patronized this temple during various periods. A king called Aadhithyan is said to have done renovations to the temple during 878 AD.

Also Raja Raja Chozha I, Raja Raja Chozha II (1152 AD), Kulothunga Chozha III (1188 AD), Sundara Pandiyan (1200 AD), Veera Rajendra Chozha, a Telugu Chozha king called Vijayakanda Gopala are said to have contributed much to the temple, according to the inscriptions found in the temple.

According to another inscription, a king by name Sri Vijaya Maharaja of Sumatra Island (Indonesia) is said to have gifted 250 Kuzhi (குழி - in Thamizh is an unit to measure lands) of lands to Sri Agatheeswarar at Kolappaakkam, during the 8th year of his reign. Inscriptions reveal that Sri Vijaya Maharaja was contemporary to Raja Raja Chozha and also had very cordial relationship with the then Chozha kingdom. The inscription also gives details about some Buddhist activities nearby this temple and Sri Vijaya Maharaja was a Buddhist.

In the recent past, the ASI have explored the area and found ruins of a Buddhist shrine near the temple. A couple of Buddha statues and pillars were discovered near this temple, which is kept in the street sides of the temple. A carving of Lord Ganesha is also found on one of these pillars. Archeologists predict that Sri Vijaya Maharaja, who visited the Buddhist temple at Kolappaakkam, could have also visited Agatheeswarar temple and made donations to the temple.

The Sthala Viruksham for this temple is ‘Arasa Maram’ (Peepul tree) and Theertham is called ‘Amirtha Pushkarani’ (pic above) which is found adjacent to the temple and is less maintained.

Special days like Pradhosham, Sivarathri etc., are celebrated well in this temple. Devotees throng from different parts of the city during such days.

This wonderful temple with great significance is now coming to light gradually.

Thiruvidandhai Sri Nithya Kalyaana Perumaal

2008-03-31T13:16:00.000+05:30

Thiruvidandhai is located about 40 kms from Chennai on the East Coast Road (ECR) before Mahabalipuram. While going from Chennai, one can see a big arch on the right side of the road, indicating the temple.

Thiruvidandhai (திருவிடந்தை) got its name as the Lord here is seen holding Sri Lakshmi on His left lap. In Thamizh ‘Thiru’ means Lakshmi, ‘Ida’ means left and ‘Endhai’ means ‘my father’ (God). Hence the place came to be known as Thiru Ida Endhai which later corrupted to become Thiruvidandhai.

During Thretha Yuga (second among 4 Yugas), there lived a king called Bali, who was the son of King Meganaatha. He remained a victorious ruler. Three demon kings by name Maali, Maalyavaan and Sumaali approached him and requested him to support them in their war against Devas for which Bali refused. The demon kings went ahead and fought with Devas in which they were defeated. They again came to Bali and requested him that if he can be with them, they can win over Devas.

As they insisted much, Bali accepted to help them in their battle against Devas. This time the demon kings (Asuras) won Devas in the battle. As Bali fought against Devas and won them, he acquired Brammahathi Dhosham and to get relieved of the ill effects of the Dhosham, he came to Thiruvidandhai and did penance towards the Lord. The Lord pleased with the devotion of Bali gave dharshan to him as Sri Varaaha Perumaal. Varaaha Avatar is the 3rd one of 10 Avatars (incarnations) of Lord Vishnu.

Once, there lived a sage called Kuni. He along with his daughter performed severe penance together as they wanted to reach heaven. Sage Kuni succeeded in his penance and reached heaven but his daughter couldn’t. Sage Naradha appeared and told her that an unmarried woman cannot reach the heaven. She met many sages and requested them to marry her. Finally a sage called Kaalava Rishi, who lived in Thiruvidandhai agreed to marry her.

After their marriage, she gave birth to 360 female children. As the girls grew up the Rishi was worried as he had to get all his daughters married, which was a huge task. He prayed Lord Vishnu for help but the Lord didn’t turn up.

One day a handsome bachelor youth came to Thiruvidandhai as part of his holy pilgrimage. Kaalava Rishi requested the youth to marry his daughters. The young man agreed to marry one daughter everyday and the marriages went on everyday for 360 days. On the last day, the young man revealed himself as Lord Varaaha Perumaal to Kaalava Rishi and all the 360 daughters combined to become one woman, who was none other than Sri Lakshmi. The Lord gave her His left side and made her seated on His lap. The Goddess here is called as Komalavalli Thaayaar, as that was the name of the first daughter of Kaalava Rishi.

As all the 360 wives merged together as one, the Goddess here is also called as Akilavalli Thaayaar. This story also signifies the philosophy that the Supreme God is the only male of the universe, who is, the ‘Maha Purusha’ or ‘Purushothama’ and all the living beings are Naayagis or females who with much devotion can reach the Lord.

This beautiful temple on ECR belongs to Chozha period. Though this temple is popularly known as Nithya Kalyaana Perumaal temple, the main deity here is Sri Varaaha Perumaal and Goddess Komalavalli Thaayaar.

The Lord Sri Varaaha Perumaal is seen in the standing position with left leg folded, facing east. He is resting His left leg on Sri Aadhiseshan. He has Thaayaar seated on His left lap.

The Urchavar here is Sri Nithya Kalyaana Perumaal, who is the processional deity.

The temple is so huge and is made of stone throughout. As the Lord married all 360 daughters, one each day, the Lord here came to be known as Sri Nithya Kalyaana Perumaal. Kalyaana Urchavam is performed to the Lord everyday here.

Also the Lord blesses the unmarried ones for a speedy marriage here. Many unmarried men and women visit this temple to worship the Lord and get married soon. There is a procedure for the unmarried to offer worship here. They are offered a garland to wear and walk around the temple 9 times after which they are given a garland to carry home and keep safely till they are married. They have to bring back the same dried garland back to the temple after marriage along with their spouse. One can see many unmarried youths walking around the temple.

This temple is one of the Dhivya Desams of Lord Vishnu. Sri Manavaala Maamuni and Sri Thirumangai Aazhwaar (8th Century) have sung Mangalaasaasanams on the Lord here.

The inscriptions found in the temple reveal that 12 fisherman families were dedicated to this temple during the 17th year of reign of Raja Raja 1. It is also found that a 7 day annual festival was organized by Raja Raja 1 during the Thamizh month of Aavani. There is also information found that the installation of the Goddess was done by a merchant from Mayilaarppu (presently Mylapore). The inscriptions also reveal that the present deity Sri Nithya Kalyaana Perumaal was called as Sri Manavaala Perumaal in those days.

There is a beautiful 16 pillared stone Mandapam in front of the temple in which all the pillars have wonderful sculptures on them. I give below a few I shot.

Lord Gopaalakrishna with 4 hands

A female snake charmer and a monkey watching her

Sri Rama seated on Sri Hanuman’s head at warfare

Sri Lingothbavar

Sri Lakshmi Varaaha Perumaal

Sri Narasimha killing Hiranyakasipu holding his intestine as a garland

Sri Hanuman

Sri Mahavishnu

Varaaha Avatar (Boar)

Women holding swords in both her hands (its not dandia)

Sri Baala Krishna

Matsya Avatar (Fish)

Lord’s Ananthasayanam on Sri Aadhi Seshan

Koorma Avatar (Turtle)

Vaamana Avatar

Beautiful woman seated on a bird aiming an arrow

There is a separate shrine for Sri Anjaneyar near the end of the street, facing the temple.

There is a beautiful temple tank for this temple called Kalyaana Theertham where the devotees take bath before visiting the Lord.

Thiruvidandhai is a lovely temple that will take one to the Chozha period itself.

Ariyathurai Sri Varamoortheeswarar

2008-03-28T18:19:00.003+05:30

Ariyathurai village is located off the Chennai – Kolkota highway and about 50 kms from Chennai. While going from Chennai, there is a junction called Thachur cross road. After crossing this junction, one has to go further about 2-3 kms to reach Kavarappettai where one Durga Devi Polytechnic is seen. Opposite to this polytechnic, one has to take left from the highway and go about 3 kms inside to reach this temple.

Ariyathurai has an ancient temple for Lord Shiva, which is said to be about 6000 years old. The main deity here is Sri Varamoortheeswarar and Goddess Sri Maragatha Valli. The name of the place Ariyathurai (அரியதுறை) itself signifies the inimitable value of the village. In Thamizh ‘Ariya’ means ‘rare’ and ‘Thurai’ means ‘a place on the river bank’.

Lord Shiva has 5 faces; Isaanam, Thathpurusham, Vaamadhevam, Sathyojaatham and Agoram. There are 5 Shiva temples (called Pancha Brahma Sthalams) near Chennai, representing each of the 5 faces of the Lord. Out of 5, this temple represents the 'Sathyojaatha' face of Lord Shiva.

The other 4 being Aarani Sri Sampangi Pitchaaleeswarar (Vamadhevam), Ramagiri Sri Vaaleeswarar (Isaanam), Suruttuppalli Sri Pallikondeeswarar (Sathyojaatham) and Karungaali Sri Chinthaamaneeswarar (Agoram). Interestingly, these entire 5 temples lie on the banks of Brahmaranya (Arani) river, till the river merges into the ocean at Karungaali.

This temple is located on the banks of river Arani, which is also called as Brahmaaranya Theertham. According to the legend, this river is believed to be created by Lord Brahma. It is said that once when an ancient sage called Romasa Rishi wanted to perform a Yagnya, Lord Brahma churned the Arani trees to create fire. After the fire evolved from the friction, water started flowing due to churning, which ran through this place and came to be known as Brahmaaranya River.

It is believed that Romasa Rishi worshipped the Lord here for over 100 years. Lord Shiva appeared to Him and the Rishi prayed the Lord to take abode here in Ariyathurai and bless the world. Lord Shiva was pleased with the Rishi’s worship and took abode here.

There was another sage called Mukundha Rishi who also is said to have stayed in this place for many years and worshipped the Lord here. After few years of worship, Mukundha Rishi wanted to go on a pilgrimage to Kaasi (Varanasi) and prepared to leave Ariyathurai. He heard a holy voice of Lord Shiva asking him not to leave Ariyathurai and said that the Holy Ganges will flow on the banks of Brahmaaranya River itself for the Rishi to take the holy dip.

A small spring of water had originated on the banks of river Arani. Mukundha Rishi with much joy took holy dip in the Ganges and worshipped Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva gave dharshan to him as Bhairavar. He requested Lord Shiva that the spring of Ganges should flow in this village perennially so that people who are not able to make it to Kaasi can visit Ariyathurai to have bath in Ganges. The Lord agreed and the spring of Ganges is flowing there till today.

There is a small square trench found on the river bank, little away from the temple, in which the water is originating from it. It is said that even when the river Arani dries up, this holy Ganges fountain never dries. Kanchi Paramachaarya Sri Chandrasekarendhra Saraswathi Swamigal had visited Ariyathurai during 1965 and bathed in this holy water. It is said that worshipping the Lord at Ariyathurai is equivalent to worshipping Him at Kaasi (Varanasi).

There lived a king called Chithrasenan who was childless and Goddess Maragatha Valli Herself was born to him. After she grew up, the king arranged for the Swayamvaram for the princess. Lord Shiva went to the palace, brought the Goddess here on a horse and took abode.

Knowing this, the king along with his troupes came chasing and reached here. Nandhigeswarar stopped them from entering the temple and the God gave dharshan to them along with Sri Maragatha Valli. Then the king was made to realize that the Goddess Herself was born to him and she had reached the right place.

There is an Arasa Maram (Peepul) near this temple. It is said that Lord Vishnu once brought a Paarijaatham tree from Devaloka to offer flowers to his wives. He took permission from the queen Indrani but forgot to ask the tree before transplanting it. The tree is said to have cursed Lord Vishnu to become a tree and stay on earth for 1000 years. Lord Vishnu is said to have stood here as Arasa Maram for about 1000 years.

There is a beautiful pond near the temple which serves as the Theertham for the temple. This temple tank was built by a local land lord. It is said that there lived a beautiful Devadasi in this village, who was an ardent devotee of Sri Varamoortheeswarar. The land lord was fascinated by her beauty and proposed to her for his pleasure. Devadasi agreed with a condition that the land lord must build a tank for this temple after which she would agree to be with him. The land lord fulfilled her wish by building a beautiful tank for the temple and went eagerly to meet her. To his shock, he was only able to find her dead to reach the feet of Lord.

The temple is constructed beautifully on the banks of river Arani. This temple is facing south. Temples facing south are called ‘Parihaara Sthalams’ meant for finding remedies to one’s problems.

The main deity ‘Sri Varamoortheeswarar’ is seen facing east. Goddess Sri Maragatha Valli is facing south. The main deity here is said to represent the ‘Sadhyojaatha’ face of Lord Shiva. The Aavudaiyaar (base) of the Lingam is of square in shape. It is said that the Shiva Lingams which were installed by Rishis or Sages would have the Aavudaiyaar in square shape.

This temple does not have Navagrahams. Instead, Sri Surya Bhagavan (Sun God) and Sri Chandra Bhagavan (Moon God) are seen on the pillars just outside the sanctum, facing the Lord.

Kaala Bhairavar is present in the Ardha Mandapam and is a Swayambhu murthy (self evolved).

There are carvings of the images of snakes on the ceiling of the mandapam outside the sanctum, which indicates that this temple is meant to find remedies for Sarpa Dhosham or Naga Dhosham.

An ancient Nandhi is seen on the outer praakaaram facing the sanctum.

A stone slab containing some old inscriptions is kept on the outer praakaaram.

There is also a small shrine for Romasa Rishi just behind the temple. Ariyathurai certainly lives up to its name having many rare features.

Ezhuchur Sri Nallinakkeeswarar

2008-03-26T16:59:00.000+05:30

Ezhuchur is a small, beautiful village located about 57 kms south west of Chennai, on the road connecting Tambaram and Kanchipuram. While going from Tambaram, after Padappai, there is a junction called Orakadam Cross Road (Koot Road). There is a Mahameru Dhyana Nilayam about 3 kms from Orakadam Cross Road. One has to take left on the narrow road adjacent to Mahameru temple and go further about 3 kms inside to reach this village.

There is a marvelous and ancient temple for Lord Shiva at Ezhuchur. The main deity here is called Sri Nallinakkeeswarar. Nallinakkeeswarar (நல்லிணக்கீஸ்வரர்) means ‘God of harmony’. Goddess here is Sri Deivanaayagi. The temple is about 1100 years old, dating back to the Chozha period.

This temple is said to have undergone its last Kumbhabhishekam (consecration) during 1948 after which it got dilapidated. Many trees, plants and bushes were covering the temple for so many years. The native villagers have then taken initiative to completely rebuild the temple again, as it was. It is said that they got a divine instruction that the temple must be completely a stone structure and with much difficulty they are constructing a stone temple itself, starting from year 2000. Now the temple is nearing the finish with about 60% of the work completed.

Some stone inscriptions were found in the temple on couple of stone slabs, which revealed the age and history of this temple. According to a study done by Archeological Survey of India, the temple dates back to 920 A.D. Inscriptions reveal the details of this temple during the 13th year of reign of a Chozha King ‘Koppara Kesari Panmar’ (கோப்பர கேசரி பன்மார்) identified as Paranthaka Chozha 1 and this village was then called as ‘Velimaa Nallur’ (வெளிமா நல்லூர்).

During this period, a local administrative head called Nochi Kizhaan Kaliya Perumaan (நொச்சி கிழான் கலிய பெருமான்) belonging to the village Velimaa Nallur of Velimaa Nallur Naadu, a sub division of Ootrukkaattu Kottam handed over gold to the native Naattaar (நாட்டார்) to build the temple (During the said period agriculturists were called Naattaars). Inscriptions also reveal that the Naattaar has to take responsibility to build the temple in this village using the given gold, failing which they have to pay a fine of ‘Manjaadi Pon’ (மண் ஜாடி பொன்- a pot full of gold) to the king.

As per the inscriptions, it was found that, this village was called as Velimaa Nallur which was under Ootrukkaattu Kottam and this village itself had been the head quarter for this region (Naadu).

There is also a copper epigraph which was found in the temple belonging to 1429 AD. According to this copper inscription, there was a Vijayanagara King called ‘Veera Narasimha’. He had admirations to this temple and the village. During his period, a seer called ‘Sri Vyaasaachala Mahadeva Saraswathi Swamigal’ is said to have headed the present Kanchi Mutt as 54th Peetadhipadhi in the lineage.

The copper epigraph says that ‘the king Veera Narasimha seated on a jeweled throne on the banks of the river Thungabadhra, gifted Ezhuchur and Venpaakkam villages to ‘Sri Vyaasaachala Mahadeva Saraswathi Swamigal’.

The seer is said to have worshipped the Lord here and also attained ‘Mukthi’ at this place. The Adhishtaanam (Samadhi) of ‘Sri Vyaasaachala Mahadeva Saraswathi Swamigal’ is also found in the temple at south west of the sanctum. The idol of Sri Chandhramouleeswarar (Lingam) is also found in the temple which was originally found placed on the Adhishtaanam. Now some bricks and lamps are kept there for identification.

The main deity Sri Nallinakkeeswarar is in the form of a grand Shiva Lingam, facing east. Sri Ganapathy is seen at the entrance of the sanctum. A shrine for Ambaal, Sri Deivanaayagi is at the left side of the sanctum, facing south. Opposite Ambaal shrine, a shrine for Sri Shanmugar is being constructed.

Right now, only the main deity is installed in the temple, as the construction work is in progress. The other deities here are kept in the garden near the temple safely. The other deities here are Sri Shanmugar, Sri Dhakshinamurthy, Sri Maha Vishnu, Sri Brahma, Sri Durga and Sri Sandigeswarar.

Navagrahams are present with their respective Vaahanams; a few of them are in damaged condition.

All the deities are so beautiful and temporarily kept aside the temple which looks like a conference going on among Gods.

The most important of all here is the fantastic Nandhi. The Nandhi here is said to be very unique and not found anywhere else. This Nandhi is called as ‘Rajo Guna’ Nandhi. This peculiar Nandhi has beautiful ornaments and clothing, all carved on it. One of the forelegs is folded backwards and other one is in stretched position.

Of the hind legs, one is folded while another leg goes beneath its stomach and this leg is seen jutting out on the other side. Similarly the tail goes underneath the belly and stretches out on its left side.

Nandhi is wearing elaborate ornaments around its neck. It wears garlands made of Rudhraaksha, an Iron chain, Salangai and a garland made of bells. Nandhi also adorns a beautiful Nethi Chutti (an ornament meant for forehead) on its forehead. It has a beautifully carved Vasthram (shawl) covering it and an ‘Ottiyaanam’ (hip ornament) too. Yaazhi is beautifully sculpted just above the legs.

It is sculpted with minutest of details as even the row of teeth of the Nandhi is so accurate. Nandhi is seen curling its tongue out reaching to its nostril on the right side. It is said that such posture is called ‘Pranayama Kolam’ (doing breathing exercise). Also the ears of the Nandhi are sculpted sharply in an unusually erect shape. It is said that the Nandhigeswarar here is in the posture of doing Prayanama and listening to the Gayathri Manthra.

It is said that Sri Jayendhra Saraswathi Swamigal of Kanchi mutt had visited this temple, got so fascinated by this beautiful Nandhi and also was reported to have said that he had not seen such a beautifully sculpted Nandhi anywhere else.

Thus, the Nandhi here gains much of admiration and stands as a masterpiece to the architectural excellence of our ancestors. One will need at least 5 to 10 minutes to go around and admire this Nandhi in detail.

There are 3 Sthala Virukshams for this temple. ‘Pen Panai Maram’ (female Palm tree) is found behind the sanctum at the western side.

‘Vilvam’ is found at the southern side of the temple.

‘Eru Azhinjal tree’ (ஏறு அழிஞ்சல்), also called Angola tree, which is considered most sacred and medicinal is another Sthala Viruksham here and is on the south east side of the sanctum.

The Theertham for this temple is called ‘Kamala Theertham’ (தாமரைக்குளம்), which spreads on a vast area and looks so beautiful. This water from this pond is said to have medicinal properties. There are a few steps to go down to the Theertham here. Hollow carvings are found on both sides of the stone steps, to pour oil and light the lamps during festivals.

Sri Nallinakkeeswarar blesses the devotees for marriage, child birth and harmony within the family.

The people of Ezhuchur have formed a trust called “Namasivaya Arakkattalai” headed by Sri. Krishna Kumar (a native of Ezhuchur) as the Chairman and are engaged in rebuilding the whole temple with the same elegance as it was. The trust also seeks funds for completion of works. The trust shall be contacted at 5/9, 2nd street, Ramakrishna Nagar, Chitlapakkam, Chennai – 600 064. Tel: 91 - 44 - 2223 3857 / 94443 49009.

Most importantly the trust invites people to visit the temple and experience the divinity and heritage here.