Adhi Kumbeswarar Temple Kumakonam in Tamilnadu

Adhi Kumbeswarar Temple Kumakonam:-

The famous  temple in Kumbakonam is Adi kumbeswarer temple. In this place  the  sacred  Amutha Kumbam has its resting for sacred rise. Because of this, this place is  named as Kudamooku  and in due course Kumbakonam and then Kudanthai. The temple situate  in the midst of the populated area of  residence  and business attracts large gathering of devotees every day. The structure  of building is monumental and carries the glory  of historical period. The temple is beautiful in structure and of art. The Rajagopuram is fantastic and is rich in structure and height. There are 3 prakaram in and around the temple of course three Gopuram for each prakaram. In the east side Amman temple is located and the deity  is Mangalambigai.
The main idols of the temple are Adi Kumbeswarar, Sri Mangala Nayaki, Lord Ganapati & Lord Muruga (Karthikeya) and Kiratamurti. The unique feature of this temple is the 27 star sign and 12 sun shines that are sculptured in a large block of stone. The other major parts of the temple are Marriage hall and Mangala Theertham.

The Linga is broad at the bottom and narrows at the top in the shape of a needle. There is a Nadaswaram (a musical instrument) made of stone which is well maintained. A lion carrying some stones on head in the front hall of the temple stands as an example of the Tamil sculpture art.
When the world was facing destruction due to the devastating tsunami, Lord Brahmma approached Lord Shiva to know wherefrom He had to restart creation.  Lord Shiva suggested that Brahmma make a magic pot with the sand collected from various sacred places and float it in the flood water and also taught the procedure of leaving it on the water.  The pot stopped at a place.  Lord Shiva shot an arrow on the pot.  The nectar spilled and spread on all directions.  That nectar mixed with the sand and became a Linga.  This Linga is Kumbeswarar.

Origin of Adi Kumbeswarar:-

When it was time for the destruction of this world a huge Pralaya came up. In order to save the vedha's Amirtham (Tamil language) and tools necessary to create lives on earth, Lord Brahma collected all these things and put them in a mud pot and kept the pot safety on the top of the Mount Meru (mythology).

Pralaya kalam (ie) the period of non stop heavy rain came and the pot of Brahma was washed away by the flood. In due course moving in the south direction it came to halt at a particular place. Then for the wish of all Devar's (ie) heavenly people Lord Shiva broke the pot with an arrow. Immediately Amudham (ie) the liquid given eternity flowed from the pot and formed two tanks. One is known as Mahamaha kulam and the other is Potramarai kulam. The remains of the pot and Amudham joined together to form Lord Kumbeswarar otherwise called (Shiva) in the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple. In the name of the broken pot (ie) Kumbam (Tamil language) that place was called Kumbakonam. The city of Kumbakonam, is linked to several instances & puranas in the Hindu mythology. Mythological legend has it that there was a deluge after the Dwapara Yugam; a pot of nectar and the seeds of creation were placed in a pot (kudam) and set adrift in the deluge. The drifting pot settled at Kumbakonam giving its ancient name Kudamookku. Kumbakonam is also colloquially known as Kudanthai,


Legends of Adi Kumbeswarar Temple:-

It is considered that post deluge and just before the advent of Kaliyuga the celestial pot that contained the nectar came to rest here. Lord Shiva disguised as a hunter, shot an arrow at the pot that was held by Lord Brahma and broke it. Its contents spilled all over resulting in the revival of life. Kumbham means the pot and Konam means crooked. The place where the nectar fell is known as the Mahamaham tank. The temple belongs to the 7th century and has been expanded by Nayaks during the 15-17th century. The temple is the largest Shiva temple of Kumbakonam. It has a 9-storeyed rajagopuram and three concentric compounds, elongated along an east-west axis have triple set of gopurams.

Deity Kumbeswarar is in the form a lingam. It is believed that it was made by Shiva himself when he mixed nectar of immortality and sand. Manthrapeeteswari Mangalambika is his consort and her shrine is kept parallel to the left of Kumbeswarar shrine. The temple has a colonnaded hall as well as sacred vehicles which carried deities during festival processions. Navarathiri Mandapam has 27 stars and 12 rasis carved in a single block. Subramanya idol have six hands instead of 12, stone nagaswarams and Kiratamurti.

There are six major Shiva temples in Kumbakonam, all related to the pot of nectar shattered by Shiva as Kiratamurthy. These are:

1. Adi Kumbeswarar – the pot of nectar itself,

2. Nageswarar – the bilva leaf in the pot fell here,

3. Someswarar – the thread tying the pot (also known as Kudanthai Kaaronam)

4. Abimugeswarar – the coconut in the pot,

5. Gautameswarar – the sacred thread (also called Yagnopaveeteswarar), and

6. Bana Pureeswarar – it was here that Shiva broke the pot with an arrow (Baanam).

(An interesting thing about this legend is the similarity with the legend of Gokarna, and the lingam that Ravana brought from Kailas. For more details, see my blog on Gokarna)

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple :-

Kumbeswarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at the center of the Tamilnadu town Kumbakonam, India. The famous Hindu festival of Mahamaham is associated with this temple.

The huge temple with built over an area of 30187 sq ft is reported to be more than 1300 years old. This temple covering an area of about 4 acres in the heart of the temple town of Kumbakonam.

The Raja Gopuram at the east rises to the lofty height of 128' with nine  terraces, a symbol of grandeur and splendour of the deities as also the  majesty, immensity and all pervasiveness of the universal consciousness. In the northern and western sides there are  small Gopurams and the Mottai Gopuram at the South. Four prakarams line this temple and are lined with local shops, that it is hard to visualize the spread of the temple by looking at its entrance.

At the  eastern end of the first circumambulatory path of the Mulavar shrine in the Southern  side there abide the sixty three saivaite saints. In the northern part there  are Bhairava, Kalabhirava, Jvarahareswara, Chasta, Sivalingam, Govinda  Dikshitar and his consort Nagammal and ChandraSurya. In the South there are the  Big Four of Saivism, 63 Nanmars, Sapta Kannikas. In the west there are  Vinayaka, Bhikshatana, Subramanya Kartikeya Shrines and continuing there are Tejo  Linga, Akshaya Linga, Kotilinga, as also Annapurani, Gajalakshmi, Mahalakshmi,  Saraswati. At the center of the northern circumambulatory path there is Navaneetha  Vinayaka and to the west is the chamber of rest and respite of the Lord and Sri  Ambal and to the east abides Sri Kirathamurti holding the bow and arrow facing  south in the standing posture. He is the principal Deity of this temple.

The  centre of attraction at the inner circumambulatory path is the shrine of the  Mulavar at the Sanctum sanctorum. The Mulavar Sri Parameswara in the self -  originated linga form abides in all splendour and grace facing east. At the  entrance of the Arthamandapa the sentinels - Dhwarapalakas - Chandi and Mundi  stand in vigil on either side. At the Mandapa - Swami Mandapa - western to this  and in its southern side there is Aarukula Ganapati. At the centre of the  mandapa there abides the Nandi followed by the sacrificial altar and behind  this is Nandi made of brass, all facing Sanctum sanctorum. Passing through the  southern gate of Mahamandapa we have the statue of Soma Skanda facing east.

Western  to the Sabhamandapa in the souththere is SabhaVinayaka and at the entrance  towards Mahamandapa there are sentinels on either side and continuing we have  NandiDeva and Kasiviswanatha. Northern to this mandapa Lord Nataraja abides in  all glory and grandeur persecuting the cosmic dances.

At the  Navaratri Mandapa situated inside the second circumambulatory path -  Mahamandapa - Nandi abides facing the Mulavar and behind it there is the  sacrificial alter. Southwest to Nandi there abides Vallabha Vinayaka and at the  northwest there is Shanmukha with six faces and twelve hands. Northern to Nandi  abides Navagraha shrine.

Southeast  to second circumambulatory path is situated the temple kitchen and at the Northeast  the Yagasala. Southern to the Yagasala there abides Lakshmi Narayana Perumal and eastern to this there is the flag mast of the temple.

At the  outer circumambulatory path in the southwest, Kumbha Muni Siddha abides in meditation,  upon the Gopura in bas - relief. Vinayaka of this shrine is called Adi  Vinayaka, in the northwestern end there is Adhi Linga shrine facing east. To the  east of this circumambulatory path at the gateway of Kailasagopura are Mutra  Vinayaka to the left and Balan Dandayuthapani to the right. Northwest to the  Rajagopuram there is Mangalakupa a well and adjacent to it is the elephant shed  and the Tirukkalyanamandapam. Southern to the Rajagopuram is the flower garden  west wards to the flower - bower abides the Vannimara Vinayaka shrie facing  east.

The Navaratri mandapam bears a carvings of the 12 zodiac signs and the 27 asterisms. This temple also houses two nadaswarams made of stone. Many images in this temple deserve mention, especially those of Kiratamurthy and Subramanyar. The Kalyana Mandapam hall in the temple, is the seat of the Tirukkalyana Utsavam.

Kumbeswarar is represented as a Shivalingam fashioned out of earth - (said to have been made by Shiva in the guise of a hunter - Kiratamurthy). Shiva is also known as Amudha Kumbhesar and Amudheesar. The Kumbariya Vinayakar shrine is situated near the tank, while Aadi Vinayakar is worshipped in the temple. Moorka Nayanaar is one of the 63 Nayanars associated with this temple.

 Sri Mangala Nayaki -  Sri Manatrapeesteswari:-                                 
                                              
  

Conferring all auspiousness to these who worship her with all their hearts, the deity of this kshetra is called sri Mangala Nayaki and as the deity shines lustously at the mantra peeta ,one of the distinguished Sakthi peetas, the deity is famous as Sir Mantra Peeteswari. Moreover as the deity relieves all the diseases of the votaries, She is called the dispeller of diseases and disabilities. one of the big Four of Saivism, tirujana sambandar calls the deity as Valar Mangai in his Thevaram.             

        " May I salute the Divine Mother who is the aggregate form of the mantra consisting of 51 alphabets, who is the form of Mahayaga in the Sri Vidya Worship, who is beloved to the Lord Amudesa, who possesses sixty four sciences and who ascends the Muladara lotus.

        May I adore Sri angalambiga the auspicious of forms, the Mother of all the alphabets of the (mantras), the one who confirs all auspiciousness and who ascends the swadhistana lotus.

        May I worship Durgatartha Pradha Devi who is omniscient, who ever extends the knowledge supreme, who is ever concious of our desires and aspirations and skilful enough to fulfil them and who ascends the Manipuraka lotus.

        May I tender my extolment respectfully to Ganabhedhini who is Kali dispelling all our threatening malicious on slaghts caused by Bhutaganas who is the incarnation of the nectar of compassion and who ascends the Anahata lotus.

        May I tender my reverential respects to Rik Vibhendhini who eradicates all diseases, who removes all poverty and impoverishment and who ascends the Visuddhi Lotus.

        May I greet respectfully Sarvepsita Pradha Devi who fulfils our aspirations by conferring all kinds of prosperity, who extends bliss to us and who ascends the Ajna Lotus.

        The incarnation of all the mantras! the Mantresi!. The one who occupies the left part of Sri Kumbesa! the one who abides at Kumbakonam ! May you extend to me all auspiciousness". 

        Sri Parameswara extended the left –half of His body to Sri Ambal at Tiruchengode. Likewise in this kshetra, he conferred His 36,000 crores of mantra saktis to Sri Ambal thereby making Her supremely glorious to become Sri mantra Peetesvari. Sri Ambal added Her own 36,000 crores of mantra sakthi to that extended by Her Lord and consequently making it thereby to be 72,000 crores of mantra saktis and shines lustrously and blesses us all as the foremost of the Sakthi Peetas of our land. The body of Sri Ambal from tip of the – toe to head – crest illumines as 51 symbols of sakti. While some of the deities of other Sakti Peetas are symbols of their specific Sakti Peetas, this deity, Sri Ambal in this temple is the agglomeration, assimilation and absorption of all the symbols and essences of the Sakti Peetas pooled together and hence this kshetra is the Premier of all the Sakthi Peetas in its benediction.

Vinayaka:-

Anticipating the arrival of Sri Parameswara and Sri Ambal to this Kshetra, Vinayaka reached this stala and was awaiting the Supreme Deities there and hence he was known as Adi Vinayaka.

Kandar-Murugan:-

 Just before starting for Surasamhara, Kanda visited this Kshetra in the manifestation of Arumukha and worshipped the Lord and Sri Ambal for his victory in the warfare. So he was famous as Shanmugha.

         Moreover the Puranas point out that Kanda manifested as Shanmukha with six faces and six hands. Such a rare phenomenon is to be seen on the western side of the inne circumambulatory path at the Kartikeya Shrine. Such a kind a phenomenal apperance of Sri Shanmukha is nowhere to be found.

History of Kumbakonam:-

The earliest history of Kumbakonam could be traced to the town of Pazhaiyaarai, 8 kilometres from Kumbakonam which was the capital of the Chola Empire in the 9th century AD. Records from around the same time mention the nearby township of Kudanthai which grew into the present-day Kumbakonam. Kalki’s Ponniyin Selvan; a semi-historical novel bring out the 10th century A.D., gives a detailed description of Kudanthai and elevates it to the status of a regional headquarters of the Chola governors.
During the Chola Empire rule this place had a local sabha with political autonomy to decide the administrative matters of the town. Krishnadevaraya, the emperor ofVijayanagara visited the town to attend the famous Mahamaham festival.
During the Maratha’s rule Sankaracharya came as a refugee because of Hyder Ali and the person who gave asylum to him was Kabir. A ghat and a street in Kumbakonam were named after Kabir. The societal pattern formed in this town and the supremacy of the Brahmin community during the Maratha and the British rules were documented in the Encyclopædia Britannica.
Research on the name Tirukkudantai with other equivalents such as Kudavayil and Kumbam forms part of a chapter. It also mentions the negative connotations attributed to the place Kumbakonam as “a cheat” and “a crooked person” in the Winslow’s dictionary (1862) and the Tamil lexicon. Later this was corrected and the historical reason behind this was also explained in the book.

Significance:-

 A Unique feature here is the depiction of 27 stars

and the 12 Zodiac signs carved on a large block of stone in the Navarathri Mandapa.


This temple comprises of three Praharas and three Gopurams in the eastern, northern and western directions. The East Gopuram consists of 9 stories with a height of 128 ft.


There's also a fine collection of silver vahanas,

vehicles of the deities, used in festivals,

and pancha loham

(compound of silver, gold, brass, iron and tin)

figures of the 63 Nayanmar poet-saints.

Moorka Nayanaar is one of the 63 Nayanars associated with this temple.

Temple (Holy) Tree (Sthalavirutsha):- tree

Sacred Tank (Theertham):- (Mangala theertham ):-

If there is a tank held to be more sacred than Ganges, it is only the Mahamaham Tank at Kudandai. As Kumbamelas are celebrated in this Tank. The Mahamaham Tank of Kumbakonam is Located near the Head Post Office. This Tank covers an area of 6.2 acers and is in a shape of a pot. The Tank is surrounded by 16 small Mandapams and a "Nava Kannika Temple" in the Eastern side.

Kumbakonam Navganga Kund:-

Kumbakonam comprises of the Mahadharam lake. This lake is considered very sacred by the devotees. Taking a bath in this lake is considered very sacred during the Kumbha fair. Devotees visiting this place take baths and purify themselves in the same lake. It is also known by the name ‘Navganga Kund'. It is believed that during the auspicious time of the Kumbha fair, nine rivers meet and take a bath in this lake. They bless the devotees and purify them.

19 Holy Theerthams around the tank periphery and another theertham at the centre.

1. Vayu,

2. Ganga,

3. Brahma,

4. Yamuna,

5. Kubera,

6.Gothavarai,

7. Esaniam,

8. Narmadha,

9.Indra,

10.Saraswathi,

11.Akni,

12. Cauvery,

13. Nagam,

14. Niruthi,

15.Palaru,

16.Thevan,

17. Varunan,

18.Saratu

19. Kannia

are names of the Theerthams believed to be located inside this tank.


Other Temples in Kumbakonam:-

Brahma Temple:-

Bramman temple is a Hindu temple located at Kumbakonam near Utchi Pillaiyar Koil. The prime deities in this temple are Shri Bramman, Shri Vedhanaraya Perumal, Shri Narasimha moorthy, Elumalayaan Srinivasa Perumal and Shri Aandaal. There are many mythological stories behind the existence of this temple. These stories also relate to the establishment of this temple town.

Kasi Viswanathar Temple:-

Kasi Viswanathar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kumbakonam near Mahamaham Tank. The temple has a nava kanniyar (Nine rivers) in the form of deities worshipping Lord Shiva and hence the temple is referred as 'Nava Kanniyar' temple.

Nageswarar Temple:-

Nageswarar temple is also known as Nageswara Swami Temple in Kumbakonam is one of the most impressive and the most ancient Shiva temples in Kumbakonam. The orientation is structured in such a way that it allows sunlight inside the temple, right on the sanctum only during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April/May).

Ramaswamy Temple:-

Ramaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu located in Kumbakonam. The temple has beautiful architecture pieces and has been built by the Nayakkar kings. Govinda Dikshitar, the prime minister of the Nayaks, constructed the temple.

Sarangapani Temple:-

Sarangapani Temple is a Hindu temple located at Kumbakonam near Utchi Pillaiyar Koil. The main deity is God Vishnu. The Vaishnava deity, Sarangapani, an incarnation of Hindu god Vishnu appeared to a sage called Hema Rishi, who performed penance.

Airavateswarar Temple:-

Airavateshwarar temple is found at Darasuram, 4km of west from Kumbakonam. Airavath is that the Holy White Elephant. This temple made by Rajendra Chola is that the example of twelve Century Chola design. this can be temple is one in every of the tourist a part of Kumbakonam.
Chakrapani Temple:

Chakrapani temple is found at regarding one.2km North Ramaswamy temple. the most deity is Chakraraja with Sudharsana Chakra. The necessary and peculiar purpose regarding this temple is that "Vilva Archana" that is often performed for God Shiva temples is additionally performed here for the God Vishnu.

Someswar Temple:-

Someswar temple is found at south a part of Sri Sarangapani Temple. The temple faces east with 5-tier tower at the doorway. The architectural vogue and component of this temple resembles the Dravidian design of thirteenth Century of the Chola amount.

Opening Schedule:-
  
5.30 a. m to 1. p.m., 3.p.m. to 10.p.m.

Visit Timings:-
  
5.30a. m to 1. p.m., 4.p.m. to 10.p.m.

Pooja Schedule:-  

7 a. m to 1. p.m., 4.p.m. to 10.p.m.

The temple priests perform the puja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. Like other Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu, the priests belong to the Shaiva community, a Brahmin sub-caste. The temple rituals are performed six times a day; Ushathkalam at 5:30 a.m.,
 Kalasanthi at 8:00 a.m.,
Uchikalam at 10:00 a.m.,
 Sayarakshai at 5:00 p.m.,
Irandamkalam at 7:00 p.m.
and Ardha Jamam at 8:00 p.m.

 Each ritual comprises four steps:-
 abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), naivethanam (food offering) and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps) for both Kumbeswarar and Mangalambikai. The worship is held amidst music with nagaswaram (pipe instrument) and tavil (percussion instrument), religious instructions in the Vedas (sacred texts) read by priests and prostration by worshippers in front of the temple mast. There are weekly rituals like somavaram (Monday) and sukravaram (Friday), fortnightly rituals like pradosham and monthly festivals like amavasai (new moon day), kiruthigai, pournami (full moon day) and sathurthi.

Festivals:-

The great Mahamaham festival, attracting lakhs of people from far and wide, is celebrated in honour of Lord and it takes place once in 12 years. It is celebrated on the conjunction of the moon with the Maha nakshatra and Jupiter crosses one Rasi or sign in about one year. It comes to Simha Rasi or Leo every 13th year and it is considered specially sacred. It is believed that on this auspicious day the tank receives supplies of water from the Ganges and eight other holy rivers and all the deities are said to remain present here on that occasion.
Lord has a number of festivals round the year. Every year in the month of Maasi (Feb-Mar) a festival is conducted and the image of Lord Kumbeswara is taken out in a procession. It is celebrated for 10 days during that period.

Others include, Theppam festival during Panguni (Mar - Apl), Sapthathanam during Chitirai month (Apl - May). During this festival Lord's idol will be carried in a palanquin to nearby villages. Marriage festival for Lord Adikumbeswarar and Goddess Mangalambigai will be conducted during Vaikasi (May - Jun). Daily poojas are conducted six times from morning to evening.

Aavani covering August-September is the Malayalam New Year Day when Sun will be in Leo that determines the weather of the year throughout.  The practice of fasting during the Sundays of this month praying to Sun and Nagaraja for protection of the crops from creatures as rat etc. is followed since ancient days.

During the devastating pralaya floods, Lord Shiva placed all ‘creation materials’ in a pot (Kumba) and saved them, hence Lord is praised as Kumbeswarar.  Special pujas are performed in this temple on Aavani Sundays in August-September.

Devotees enter the temple through the Rajagopuram, pass the long Mandap, Bali Peeta and the Kodi Maram (flag post), seek the blessings and Sri Nandi Deva and worship Lord Kumbeswarar.  They then go through the prakara worshipping the 63 Nayanmars, Saptha Mathas, Kamadenu, Bhava Linga, Mahalinga, Lord Dakshinamurthy and Lord Valanchuzhi Vinayaka.  They then have to proceed to Mother’s shrine through the shrines for Lords Bikshadana, Muruga, Akshayalinga, Sahasralinga, Mothers Annapoorani, Gajalakshmi, Mahalakshmi, Saraswathi and Lord Brahmma.  There is a glass room where Lord is in a reclining posture.  Then are the shrines of Mother Ashtabhuja Durga, Navaneetha Vinayaka, Kiradhamurthy, Bhairava, Kala Bhairava, Jurakeswarar, Sastha, Great soul Govinda Dishithar, Nagambal.  After worshipping Mother Mangalambika, devotees leave the temple after worshipping at the Navagraha (nine planets).  It is believed that following this worship procedure would bring all the boons wished by the devotees.

How To reach:-

By Bus:-
Tamil Nadu state transport corporation buses connect Kumabkonam with almost all cities in Tamil Nadu. Regular buses are available from Trichi, Chidambaram and Chennai to Kumbakonam.

By Rail:-
 Tamil Nadu state transport corporation buses connect Kumabkonam with almost all cities in Tamil Nadu. Regular buses are available from Trichi, Chidambaram and Chennai to Kumbakonam.

By Air:-
 Tamil Nadu state transport corporation buses connect Kumabkonam with almost all cities in Tamil Nadu. Regular buses are available from Trichi, Chidambaram and Chennai to Kumbakonam.

Chevvai Bhagavan in Vaideeswaran Koil & Famous for Naadi Satram

 Vaitheeswaran Koil:-

Chevvai Bhagavan is worshipped in the town of Vaideeswaran Koil which is also called Thirupullirukku Velur. Sambathi, Jadayu, Lord Muruga, Suriyan are also reputed to have worshipped in this sthalam. Even diseases that could not get cured by Mani Manthira Aushathangal got cured at this place and the presiding deity came to be called Vaidyanathar. His consort who was the chief of women of both worlds is hailed as Thayal Nayagi. Selva Muthukumarasami of this temple is lovingly called Muthiah. Kumaragurubarasami wrote the book "Muthukumarasami Pillai Thamizh".

History of Vaitheeswaran:- 

Once, when Lord Shiva was in deep meditation, perspiration from his third eye fell on earth. The male child that was born of this sweat drop was Angaragan (Chevvai). Angaragan married Sakthi Devi of Avanti town and had a son called Sumarasan. Problems from wife/children/brothers, enimity with friends, loss of wealth, quarrels, problems with Govt., lasting poverty, anger, bad friendship, Kalathira Dosham are because of Chevvai. By praying to him, a person can offset the problems arising out of his afflictions. Brothers and sisters, physical strength, victory, valour are the beneficial aspects of this planet. The sthalam of Chevvai Bhagavan is Vaideeswaran koil, which is located 6kms from Sirgazhi en route to Mayavaram. His wives are Malini, Susilini. The presiding deity are Vaidyanathan and his consort Thaiyal Nayaki. Chevvai is the Lord of Mesha and Vrichika Rasi and he faces South direction. The Adi Devatha is Boomidevi; Prathyathi Devatha is Kshetra Balagan; his colour is red and his vahana is the ram. The grain associated with him is thuvarai; the flowers - shenbagam and red arali; fabric - red cloth; gem - coral; food- rice mixed with toor dhal powder.


It is said, pul(bird), Rig(once among the four vedas) and Vel(Lord Subramanya) worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple and hence, the village is known as Pul Rig Vel Oor(Oor means village - Pullirukkuvelur). Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Saptarishis(Seven important saints) had also worshipped the presiding deties of this temple. Pujas are being performed every day for six times, Usha kalam at the dawn and artha yamam, late in the night. Karthikai(star) is being celebrated in grandeur and Bhrahmotsavas are being celebrated in the tamil months Thai and Panguni every year. Before waging war against the demon padmasura, Lord Subramanya was blessed by Lord Shiva and goddess pervathi here by offering bouquet and this festival is being celebrated every year in the name skanda sasti.

Vaithyan means physician in tamil. Hence, here Shiva is known as Vaithyanatha, the supreme healer. His consort thaiyalnayaki accompanied to assist him as a nurse, bearing a pot on her head which contained thilam(herbal essence) and goddess parvathi is known as Thaila Nayaki(now she is known as Thaiyal Nayaki). What we use to perform abishek(holy bath) to Lord Shiva joins in the sacred tank of this temple using the way provided and hence, the holy tank inside the temple is known as Siddhamirth(amirth means the elixir and siddhi means sucess) Tirta. Snakes and frogs, it is unique, are unable to survive in the holy tank. By taking bath in the holy tank, the efforts that a devotee extends to get relieved from diseases, would prove fruitful. Tiruchandu Urundai is the prasadam being offered to the devotees here and it is made of medicinal clay(being extracted from a pond close to the temple), essence from neem leaves, neem bark-powder and holy ash being collected from Homa Kundam(sacred fire). It is a panacea capable of curing almost all kinds of diseases that an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva suffers from. Netirapadi chandanam is the other prasadam being offered to the devotees. It is nothing but sandal paste mixed with saffron and it gets medicated powerfully when it is offered to Lord Subramanya.

Chevvai Dhosam" is the unfavourable position of Angarakan in Horoscope. It created Unneccessary arguments, Physical injury, imprisonment, jealous on native and loss of money. The People whom have "Chevvai Dhosam" performing Parihara poojas for Lord Angarakan. By praying him, he removes the sorrows of the devotees and helps everyone to get recognition in the society.

Devotees can buy Jaggery with Salt and Pepper and dissolve in holy water in this temple. Many womens prayed for their Marriage. Neem tree is the sthala vruksham in this temple. Devotees can bath in Siddhamruta theertham and cure their diseases and skin diseases. People can cure so many diseases like skin infection, rashes, unwanted skin diseases etc in this temple..

Marundhu Urundai sold in this temple for devotees to cure all kinds of diseases. It is prepared from Homa kundam. Chandan (Sandalwood powder) with saffron is another medicine as a Prasadham. Devotees offer to donate the silver plated body organs in the Hundi.

Vaidyanathaswamy:-

Vaidyanathaswamy is the main deity here and His consort is Thayyalnayaki ambal. She stands with the medicinal oil to cure the diseases of the devotees. Lord Subramanya, a very important deity here, is known as Selva Muthukumaraswamy.  It is to be noted that Chevvai is ruled by Lord Subramanya. During Lord Subramanya’s fight with Tharakasuran – brother of Surapadman – there was a lot of casualty on both sides leaving many dead and injured.  Lord Shiva obliged Lord Subramnya’s prayer to treat the injured.

The Sthala vriksha, the sacred Neem (Margosa) tree, is in the eastern outer corridor. The important Teertham known as Siddhamurta Teertham is a big tank lying south of the temple of the Goddess in the southern corridor. There are several deities like Sri Nataraja, Sivakami, Durga, Sun, Angaraka, Sapta Kannikas, 63 Nayanmars, etc., in the southern corridor. There is also another Teertham known as Jatayu Kunda near-by where it is believed that Rama and Lakshmana cremated Jatayu. There are images of Rama, Lakshmana, and Vishwamitra. Vasishtha and Jatayu near the Kunda. Singaravelar, Ayyanar, Mariamman, Draupadi, Bhikshatanar and Angaraka are the other Deities enshrined near-by.

The Chevvai dosham (malefic effect) caused by unfavourable position of Angarakan or Chevvai in the horoscope may manifest as aggressiveness, tendency to get into unnecessary arguments or jealousy in the native. It can also result in loss of money, physical injury or even imprisonment. Chevvai dosham is rectified by performing parihara poojas (appeasement poojas) to this deity. Devotees may perform Angaraka Pooja to get rid of financial crisis. Worshipping Chevvai here helps in neutralizing the negative effects. Offerings of red cloth and Bengal gram or kadalai paruppu are made to Chevvai here. Tuesdays are special days here as Chevvai is associated with that day of the week.

Speciality of Sri Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran koil:-

Lord Shiva is a swayambumurthi in the temple. The five towers – Gopurams of the temple are on a straight line. The Maragatha Linga (Emerald Linga) is very famous. There are two flag posts-Kodimaram before the presiding deity made of silver and gold. Navagrahas the nine planets are generally in the front side of the sanctum facing different directions in Shiva temples. Here they are behind the sanctum on a straight line obeying the presiding Lord blessing the devotees freeing them of their adverse aspects, it is believed.

Deities:-

Vaidyanathaswamy and ThaiyalNayaki are the presiding deities of this temple. The Selvamuthukkumaraswamy shrine here is also considered to be of importance. There are Shivalingams said to have been worshipped by Rama, Jatayu, Skanda, Surya and Angaraka.

Angaaraka:-

The Angaaraka shrine here is also of great significance and is indeed unique to this temple. A bronze of image of Angaaraka is housed in this shrine and is taken out in procession on a goat mount every Tuesday. Angaaraka represents the planet Mars and is described as one with a fiery red complexion attired in red and as the overlord of the zodiac signs of Aries and Scorpia and as being the strongest in the zodiac sign of Capricorn.

Description:-

This Shivastalam is a well known, well visited shrine with towering Gopurams; hailed as one of the 9 Navagraha Stalams, sacred to Mars - Angarakan it is visited by thousands. It is located in close proximity to Sirkazhi and Chidambaram. The Singaravelar - Subramanya shrine is also of importance here. There are several literary works about this shrine. Ramalinga Adigalar has sung its praises. Tiruvenkaadu is also located near Vaideeswaran Koyil.

This temple is rich in legend and tradition. There are several works in Tamil dedicated to this shrine. It was visited by Tirugnanasambandar, Appar. Arunagirinathar's Tiruppugazh hymns also speak of the glory of this shrine. So do the hymns of saints such as Kumaragurupara Swamigal and Ramalinga Adigalaar. Poems of Kaalamega Pulavar and Padikkasu Tambiran also speak of the glories of this shrine.

History of Temple:-

Many Siddhas in days of yore performed abishek to Lord of this place with nectar and gained many boons.  The nectar used for the abishek mixed with the holy spring.  18 theerthas are mixed in this tank which cures all diseases people suffer from.  When Sage Sadananda was performing penance here, he saw a snake trying to devour a frog.  As the incident disturbed his penance, he cursed them.  Since then, no snake or frog comes near this tank.
The place is also known as Pullirukkuvelur. Pul means Bird-here the eagle king Jatayu the noblest character in Ramayana in the service of Lord Sri Rama, Irukku the Rig Veda, Vel-Lord Muruga and Oor the place make the name Pul Irukku Vel Oor = Puulirukkuvelur.
The place is the headquarters of medical science that offers cure for 4448 diseases, it is said.  A medicine ball is made of the anthill sand, abishek water, veppilai the neem leaves and abishek sandal and abishek sacred ash.  Consuming this brings total relief for any disease.  Those suffering from skin problems get the punugu oil, apply it on their body for relief.  Lord Vaidyanatha cures not only the physical pains of the people but also cures them from the recurring disease of births and deaths.  He grants every wish of the people, jobs, wedding, children, mental peace, relief from planetary problems etc.  According to scriptures, worshipping Lord facing west brings the devotee the benefit of worshipping in 1000 Shiva temples.  Both Lord Aadhi Vaidyanatha in the entrance of the temple and the presiding deity Vaidyanatha are facing west.  Lord Muruga got His Vel weapon from this place only.  Lord Sri Rama worshipped here.
The place of Mars-Sevvai in the horoscope of a person decides his/her wedding prospectus and other living conditions.  Mars covers 7 years in one’s life.  For those facing adverse effects, special pujas are performed for solution of their problems.  People pray to Angaraka-Sevvai-Mars for success in land deals, freedom from debt burdens and joint pains in the body.  People do the prayers on Kruthika star days and Tuesdays undertaking fasting and performing abisheks offering clothing in red.

Temple:-

The temple has a 5-tier gopuram (temple tower) and large precincts. The central shrine is that of Vaitheeswaran present as lingam in the inner most sanctum. The first precinct around the sanctum has the metal image of Subramanya, worhsipped here as Muthukumara Swamy. The other metal images in the sanctum are of Nataraja, Somaskanda, Angaraka and stone sculptures of Durga, Dakshinamoorthy, Surya (Sun god), Jatayu, Vedas, Sampati. The shrine of Thaiyalnayaki who stands with the medicinal oil to cure the diseases of the devotees is present in the second precinct facing south. The large precinct also has a small shrine to Dhanvantari and shrine of Angaraka in stone sculpture. The southern gateway from this precint leads to the temple tank and directly faces the Thaiyalnayaki shrine. The Sthala Vriksha (temple tree) is margosa (Azadirachta indica) which possesses medicinal properties.It is located in the eastern gateway of the temple. The eastern gateway also has the shrine of Adi (original) temple that has a smaller replica of the main shrines. There is a fine metal image of Gangavisarjanar inside the temple.

Siddhamruta Theertham:-

A big tank opposite to Ambal’s shrine, is known to have medicinal property.  Devotees believe that taking bath in these waters cures them of their diseases, especially skin diseases. Angarakan was cured of his leprosy after a dip in the holy water here. It is also known as Goksheera  (Go means cow and ksheera means milk) Theertham, as Kamadhenu’s milk flowed into this tank when she performed abhishegam to the deity here with her milk. It tastes sweet like a cane juice and hence known as Ikshusara (ikshu means cane and sara means juice) Theertham.  Jatayau had his bath here and hence it is also known as Jatayu Theertham. Devotees buy jaggery from one of the many shops outside the temple and dissolve it in the water here. However, these days the temple administration is very conscious about keeping the water clean and discourage this practice.  A separate bin has been placed near the temple tank to deposit the jaggery.  After a dip in the tank or prokshanam (sprinkling water on ones head), have the darshan of Vinayakar and then offer salt and pepper opposite to Ambal’s shrine. You could buy the Silver plated body organs and deposit in the Hundi.  This is supposed to cure all diseases.  Have the darshan of Vinayakar in the praharam (circumambulatory path) around  Vaidhyanathaswamy’s deity before praying to Lord Vaidhyanathaswamy. Selvamuthukumar, Gajalakshmi, Natarajar, Durgai, Dhanvantri, Dakshinamurthy, Sattanathar, Jatayu Kundam and Angarakan (Utsava murthy) are all there as you do the pradarshanam (cicumambulation) of Lord Vaidhyanathaswamy.

Jatayu Kundam-pit:-

Jatayu the eagle engaged in the service of Lord Rama was killed when he prevented Ravana from abducting Mother Sita.  As requested by him, Sri Rama performed the last rites for the bird in the Vibuthi Gundam here.  A king, Veerasenan by name came here with his son suffering from tuberclosis , bathed in the theertha and offered sweet nivedhanas.  He consumed the nivedhana with his son.  His son was cured completely. 
As a beloved son of Lord Vaidyanatha and Mother Thaiyal Nayaki, Lord Muruga in the temple is praised as Chella Muthukumaraswami – Chella-beloved.   The Prasad containing items used in the Arthajama Puja as described above is an effective medicine for various diseases devotees suffer from.  Lord Muruga enjoys all prominence in the temple. Hence all festivals are dedicated to Him.
Pujas to Lord and Mother are offered only after pujas to Lord Muruga.  A 10 day festival is celebrated in January-February beginning from Tuesday.  28 day Panguni Brahmmotsavam is celebrated in March-April.  Of the Navagrahas (9 planets) importance temples in the state, this belongs to Mars-Angaraka.  Lord Muruga is facing west.  A medicine prepared with sacred ash, anthill sand and oil is an effective medicine for leprosy.
Lord Muruga is always worshipping His divine Father and Mother in the temple.  While the Navagrahas are generally seen in the front side of the sanctum sanctorum, they are behind the presiding deity here.  Lord Rama had worshipped in this temple.  Mother Thaiyal Nayaki ensures the welfare of the children.  Planet Angaraka-Mars blesses the devotees on his Goat Vahan on Tuesdays.  Medical students pray here to pass their exams with distinction.

Nethrapidi Sandhanam and Thiruchandu Urundai are two of the prasadams which are believed to cure all ailments. Thiruchandu Urundai or medicinal pellet was given by Vaidhyanathaswamy to Angarakan to cure his leprosy. It is prepared from the Homa Kundam.  Nethrapidi Santhanam is a paste made by mixing sandal powder and saffron with water.  This is applied on Muthukumaraswamy’s forehead before being given as medicine.

Poojas:-

 The Chevvai dosham (malefic effect) caused by unfavourable position of Angarakan or Chevvai in the horoscope may manifest as aggressiveness, tendency to get into unnecessary arguments or jealousy in the native. It can also result in loss of money, physical injury or even imprisonment. Chevvai dosham is rectified by performing parihara poojas (appeasement poojas) to this deity. Devotees may perform Angaraka Pooja to get rid of financial crisis. Worshipping Chevvai here helps in neutralizing the negative effects.  Offerings of red cloth and Bengal gram or kadalai paruppu are made to Chevvai here.  Tuesdays are special days here as Chevvai is associated with that day of the week.

Pooja Timings:-

Poojas Offered     Timings
Nadai Thirappu     06:00 AM- 11:00 AM
Nadai Thirappu     04:30 PM- 09:30 PM

Festivals at Sri Vaidyanathar Temple, Vaitheeswaran koil:-

    10 day Thai month festival from Tuesday dedicated to Lord Selva Muthukuraswami (Muruga) with daily procession in January-February
    28 day Panguni Brahmmotsavam with abishek to Panchamurthi and procession
    6 day Aipasi Skanda Sashti in October-November
    Vaikasi Mannabishek, Mandalabishek and monthly Kruthikas are grandly celebrated in the temple. The temple will be overflowing with devotee crowd on monthly Pradosha days. Deepavali, Makar Sankranthi, Tamil and English New Year Days are also celebrated in the temple with special pujas, abishek etc.

Naddi Shastram:-

Naadi Shashtra or Palm leaf Astrology is an ancient Indian method of recording data. It is believed that by reading through the writings on these leaves one can learn about one's past, identify the present and predict the future. It is said that thousands of years ago, the great sages of India had the power to look into the past and future of the entire universe. It is believed that they done this and recorded the life of each human being who has lived, is living and of some one who is yet to be born.These predictions were written on palm leaves in an ancient Tamil script, which can now only be deciphered by expert Nadi astrologers.

Naadi in Tamil means in search of. It is believed that an individual goes in search of his details of his past and seeks to know more of the unknown future. Hence it is a search. These palm leaf inscriptions are scattered throughout India. Some of these inscriptions can be found in Tamil Nadu.

These ancient scripts were standardized, ordered and classified in Tamil Nadu nearly 1000 years ago during the reign of the Cholas in South India. There are a number of Nadis who are named after the rishis. They are the Agasthiya Naadi, Suka Naadi, Brahma Naadi, Kaushika Naadi and others. There are only a few Naadi readers available who can interpret the inscriptions that are written in in poetic Tamil.

Each Naadi or set of leaves is made up of ola or palm leaf, written in Vatta ezhuthu, a Tamil script, with a sharp, nail-like instrument called ezhuthani. Rubbing peacock oil on auspicious occasions preserves the palm leaves.

These palm leaves are still preserved in the Saraswati Mahal Library in Thanjavur. The primary centre for Naadi Shastra is in Vaitheeswaran Koil.
The palm leaf inscription of an individual can be identified as being meant for the person by lifting a copy of one's thumb impression. It is well known that the whirls and loops of the fingers of people on the earth are unique and they cannot be replicated. It is believed that these prints are classified into 108 types. The Naadi palm leaves are arranged according to these types. The Nadi readers identify the particular types of lines on the thumb and finding the corresponding set of palm leaves are taken. The time duration to pick up your leaf depends upon the identification of the thumb impression. Some impressions are identified easily and the corresponding leaves are found soon, there are others that may take months or even years to locate.

The leaves are not just records for Indian nationals but also for people of other nationalities, religions and creeds. It is also stated that about 40% of the people in the world are likely to get these results. The other leaves might have been damaged or may have been lost in the course of time.

Origin of Naadi Sastram:-

The origin of the Naadi inscriptions can be traced back to approximately 2000 years ago. It is said that the ancient Indian rishis or sages had written the life patterns of each person on palm leaves using their yogic and intuitive powers.

During the British Rule, the British sold these leaves to the locals who were interested in getting them. People belonging to the Valluvar community in Tamil Nadu and were specialized in astrology bought most of these leaves. The astrology families in Vaitheeswaran Koil also acquired some of these. The leaves were found in Vaitheeswaran Koil around the 13th century. Those interested in Astrology realised their values and copied the contents on palm leaves and made exact replicas. These leaves have been handed down over generations to make predictions about the future. They earned their livelihood through Naadi Shashtra. They got trained by their elders to do the reading.

The then Mahratta king Sarabhoji and Chola Kings patronized this form of astrology and translations. It is said that the Naadis had originally written on animal skins and it was later copied on palm leaves.

The primary centre for Naadi Shastra is in Vaitheeswarankoil, near Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, a state in South India. Here Lord Shiva is said to have assumed the role of a vaidhya or doctor, who alleviated the miseries of his devotees.


How to Reach:-

    By Train:-
    Nearest Station: Tanjore/Kumbakonam and from there you can go by bus.

    By Road:-
    Buses are available from Kumbakonam/Tanjore.
    From Tanjore: 77 Kms and From Kumbakonam 44Kms.