Thiru Navaneeteswarar temple: Sikkal, Nagpattinam.

Thiru Navaneeteswarar temple: Sikkal, Nagpattinam.




The place Thiru Sikkal is about 5 kms from Nagapattinam. This temple is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam. The temple is a Maddak koil built by CoChengat Cholan.
This is one of 64 Sakthi Peetam.




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Main Raja Gopuram is of seven tiers and there are two prakaram in the temple. The temple is a Maddak koil built by CoChengat Cholan.



Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Vennaipiran / Nvaneeteswarar and his consort known as Velnedug kanni ammai / Sakthayadatshi.
Teertham is Ksheera Pushkarani and Sthala Vruksham is Kuda Malligai.






As we enter inside and go round the prakarm, we come across Karthigai Vinayakar, Arulmigu Singara Velan, Maragadha Lingam, and Thirumal.







We climb few steps and enter into a mandapam known a Deva kottam. Here we see in separate sanctum Soma Skandar, Viswanadhar, and Arumugan.



Subramanyar was given Vel, to fight against Soorapaduman, by Goddess of this temple hence she is known as Velnedug kanni Ammai. In the month of Karthigai, a day before Sashti they celebrate this, in the urchavam, and at that time one can see the sweat on Lord Subramanian idol. (I have never been during urchavam time, so I have given the information as to what I heard.)



Sthala puranam says once during draught period Kamadenu ate non vegetarian food. Lord Siva cursed Kamadenu to become a tiger. Tiger requested Lord Siva to show him the way to get rid of the curse. Lord Siva asked Kamadenu to go to Mallikaranyam and
Worship Lord Siva. Kamadenu reached the place and dug a pond and had bath. At this time milk starting pouring from its udder, and the water turned into Milk. Hence the pushkarani was known as parkulam. (Milk).



Butter formed from the milk in the pushkarani. Vasishta Muni came to the place on Lord Siva’s command and he made a Siva Lingam from the butter in the pushkarani and worshiped Lord Siva. Here Lord Siva is known as Vennai Nadhar (Butter). After the pooja he wanted to lift the Siva Lingam (Butter) from there, but he was not able to do so. Since there was a trouble in lifting the Siva Lingam, the place was known a Sikkal. (Sikkal means trouble in Tamil)



Importance of the temple is here Perumal has a separate sanctum and he is known as Kola Vamana Perumal. During Vamana Avatharam, Perumal worshiped Lord Siva of this place Sikkal and gained power.



Viswamithrar, Agasthiyar, Kathyayanar, Musukundha chakkravrthi, and Naradhar worshiped Lord Siva of this place.


There is a separate sanctum for Hanuman in this temple. Here in this temple Lord Siva, Murugan, Perumal and Hanuman are seen in same premises.



Thiru Gyana Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this temple. Arunagirinadhar contributed Thirupugazh, on Lord Murugan here.

Patanjali Manohar temple, Vilamar. Thiruvarore.

Thiru Vilamar Temple :



This temple is One of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam. The place is near Municipal office of Thiruvarore.








There is no raja Gopuram for the temple. We see Gnapathy and Murugan to either side of the wall near the main entrance. There is nothing but a garden in the outer prakaram. We see Bali peetam and Nandhi as we enter inside the second entrance.









As we go around the prakaram, we see separate sannidhi for Siddhi Vinayakar, Mahalakshmi, Subramanyar with Valli Devanai. There is a well seen in this prakaram, and there is a separate sanctum for Biravar. Bairavar idol is big here.








Pushkrani in front of the temple is known as Agni teertham and Sthala Vruksham is Vilvam



We proceed to see the main deity, where we enter into a mandapam. We see Ambaal sannidhi, and Nataraja sannidhi here. There is a Maha mandapam, Artha mandapam and main sanctum.



Patanjali Muni, Sooryan and Vygyapadhar sculptures are seen before, we enter into Artha mandapam.



Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam of mud, known as Patanjali Manohar and his consort Madhura Bashini. This is one of Sakthi peeda sthalam. Srichakkram is seen in Ambaal hastham.There is third eye for goddess here which cool and pleasant like chandran.




Inside the main sanctum swayambu Mud Lingam, at the back of Siva Lingam we see Natarajar, and Rudra padam to front of main Deity Patanjali Manohar.



As we go around the inner prakaram, we see Dakshina Moorthy, Maha Vishnu, Brahma, Sri Durgi as Kostha moortham and Chandikeswarar in small sanctum.




Importance:When Aarati is given in the main sanctum, we see the jyothy in Siva Lingam and it is like a jyothy swaroopam. Siva lingam is Jyothy swarupam.



Purana says Pathanjali muni penanced and worshiped Lord Siva to see Nataraja’s dance. Lord Siva was pleased with his worship and showed his dance performance at Thillai (Chidambaram). At this time Vyagayapadha muni was also there to see the dance of Lord Siva. They were happy, and requested Lord Siva to perform Ajaba Natanam and Rudhra Thandavam for them and Padha Darshanam for devotees. Lord Siva asked them to go to Sripuram (Thiruvarore) where they can see his performance and Padha Darshnam.



They came to Thiruvarore where they saw Siva Lingam every where. They worshiped Kamalambal. As per her, guidance Patanjali muni made a Siva Lingam of mud, and they worshiped Lord Siva. Lord Siva was pleased and performed Ajaba Natanam for their sake, and showed his Padha darshan, which is known as "Rudhara Padham". Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Musukundha Chakkravarthy, and Devas were present at this time.



The place is known as Thiru Vilamal, Thiruvadi kshetram and Siva Pada sthalam.



Bairavar is Ksetrablakar, so there is no Navagrahm in the temple. Lord Siva showed his Viswaroopa darshanam here, so Nandi head is turned to side.



Thiru Gyana Sambandhar sang Hymns on Lord Siva of this temple. Sundrar and Thiru Navukkarasar had mentioned about Lord Siva of this temple in their compositions.

Pancha ramala Kshetram.

Panchaa ramala Kshetram:This is a group of 5 temples, in Andhra Pradesh. According to puranas the temples are age old. The latest construction works and development took place in 10th Century, during chalukaya period.








According to purana, Tarakasuran did penence and was blessed by Lord Brahma. He did penance and was also blessed by Lord Siva. He was too strong and he can be defeated only by Siva sankalpam. He acquired an "Athma lingam" from Lord Siva and was asked to wear it to neck so that no one can defeat him.



Once he acquired all these powers, he started troubling everyone on earth. To rescue the living beings on earth from Tarakasuran Siva had to take step. Siva parvathy marriage took place and Lord Subramanian was born.



As Subramanyar grew up, he was made the head of warriors of Devas. Lord Subramanya was asked to fight with Tarakasura. Lord Subramanya took Agni astram and aimed at Athma Lingam tied to the neck of Tarakasuran and it broke into 5 pieces and thrown in different places.




Subramanya asked them to install the pieces immediately in the places where they fell. In three places the Siva lingam started growing, and it was nailed says puranas. There is a controversy about this.




These five places are called as “Pancha arama kshetram”.
The places are “Draksharamam” were Daksha prajapathy installed the Athma lingam, “Kumara ramam”, were Lord Subramanya swamy installed the Athma lingam here, “Ksheera ramam” were Lord Sri Rama installed the Athma lingam, “Amara ramam” were Amarendra installed the Athma lingam and “Somaramam” were Lord Chandra installed the Athma Lingam.

1. Draksharamam:
   
   
   
   The temple is in East Godavari district of AP. It is 10th Century temple.
   The place is about 60kms from Rajamandry and 32kms from Kakinada. This is the place were Daksha prajapathy did his Daksha yagnam and hence the name Draksharamam. The temple arectiture is blend of both chalukya and chola.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu spatika Sivalinga of 16’height and the main sanctum is of 2 floors.
   
   
   
   The Siva lingam is known as Bheemeswarar and it is also known as Bogalingam. Here the installation of Bheemeswarar was done by Dakshaprajapathi, and hence the name Draksharamam for the town.
   
   
   
   Goddess is Manikamba is one of the “Sakthi peetam”, here she is ichha sakthi and gyana sakthi as well. Here sati Devi’s navel part fell, and this is one of the sakthi peetam. She resting on “Srichakra” here. We can have the darshan of srichakram also. She is having Athma lingam in her hand.
   
   
   
   
   Any pooja for Lord Shiva is done from the first floor only. Before we enter into main sanctum we enter into two prakaram which are dark. On the walls of the prakaram we see too many small projections of small stones which they say when the temple was constructed originally there were diamonds kept in those places and the prakaram was well lighted by glitter of diamond stones. When they started robbing the diamond they turned into stones.
   
   
   
   Purana says the temple was originally constructed by demons. We find a pillar in the same prakaram which is supposed to be the foundation pillar of the temple and it is close to the wall and we are supposed to pass through the gap and it is known as “Moksha Dwaram”. To the corner of the prakaram there is a small place from where we can have “Sikara Darshanam”
   
   
   
   As we reach we can have the darshan of Bheemeswarar to all four sides.
   The other deities in the temple are Ganapathy and Nrithya ganapathy near the entrance of the temple. As we enter inside there is a Dwajasthambam and in the prakaram we see Lakshmi Narayanar who is kshetra palakar. Virupakshar, Saptha madhar, Subramanyar, small stone miniature of the temple, unjal mandapam, Navagraham, Ashta dik balakar, Sikha Anjaneyar, Kailasa ganapathy, 108 Siva lingam on a square stone in a line, and bhima sabha.
   
   
   Annadhanam is provided in the temple and a big hall with locker and a rooms are also available there.
   
   
   
   
2. Kumara ramam:
   
   
   
   The place is in East Godavari district of AP.
   
   
   
   The temple is in Samalkotha which is 16kms from Pithapuram and 13kms from Kakinada.
   This is 10th Century temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   One piece of Athma lingam was thrown here and the installation was done by Lord Subramanya and hence the name Kumara ramam.
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is huge swayambu spatika lingam known as Bheemeswarar, and consort Bala Thirupaura sundari.
   
   
   
   As we enter the temple we see pond in front, dwajasthambam and a huge nandi. As we go around the prakaram we see Ganapathy, Soorya Narayanar, Dattatreyar, Saraswathy without veena in her hand, Sapthamadhar, Subramanayar, Mahishasura mardhini, Lakshmi, and Kala Bairavar.
   
   
   
   The main sanctum is of two levels we climb steps to reach the first floor and we have the darshan of “Lord Bheemeswarar” and “Bala thirupura sundari” with Athma lingam in her hand beside Siva lingam in the main sanctum. In front of Siva lingam small nandi is there and we see padam in front of nandi.
   
   
   
   
3. Ksheeraramam:
   
   
   
   The place is in west Godavari district of AP.
   
   
   
   It is 11kms from Narasapur, 21kms from Bheemavaram. The temple dates to 10th century
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu spatika lingam known as Ksheera Ramalingeswarar.
   
   
   
   This is another place where a piece of Athma lingam fell and it was installed by Lord Sri Rama, and hence the name Ramalingeswarar. The Siva lingam is small in this place, it is not smooth and it is white in color. The temple gopuram is about 125’height.
   
   
   
   Near the main entrance of the temple we see Veerabadharar and Anjaneyar to either side. There separate sanctums for Lakshmi, Janardhanar, Saraswathy and Brahama, and hence the temple is known as Trimoorthy temple also. Other deities seen inside the temple are Mahishasuramardhini, Kumara swamy and Subramanyar in the form of Nagar, in different sanctums.
   
   
   
   
4. Somaramam:
   
   
   
   The temple is in Gunupudi village of Bheemavaram town, west Godavari fistrict AP.The place is 32 kms from Narasapur and 70kms from Eluru.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayamby spatika Athma lingam known as Someswarar. One of the pieces of Athma lingam fell here and it was installed by Lord Chandra, hence the name Somaramam.
   
   
   
   The Lingam is big and changes its colors which is something unique. It is milky white on full moon day and by the time of new moon day it changes into whitish or black.
   
   
   
   We see goddess parvathi to side in different sanctum near the main sanctum of Lord Siva. In front of Someswarar we see saligrahamam.
   
   
   
   Main mandapam we have steps leading to Annapurani temple which is above Main Siva sanctum. Amba and Ambalika are Dwara balikas for the sanctum of Annapurani.
   
   
   
   The other deities around the temple are Kumaraswamy, Lakshmi Janardhanar, Subramanya swamy, and Soorya Narayana Moorthy. There is a separate sanctum for Nava graham. There is a pushkarani in front of the temple.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Amararamam:
   
   
   
   This is in Amaravathy town of Sathanapalli taluk, Guntur district.AP.
   The place is 30kms from Guntur.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu Spatika Athma Siva lingam Known as Amararamam.
   
   
   
   The Athma lingam piece which fell here was installed by Amarendran and hence the name Amaravathy for the place. The Siva lingam started growing here and they it was nailed to stop the growth. Again here the lingam is too big and can be worshipped from first floor. We see marks which they say, is the blood stains when nailed. We see 108 Siva lingam in the prakaram. River Krishna is flowing near by.
   
   
   As we visited some years back i have not added pitures.
   
   

Mahakaleswarar and Om kaleswarar Jyothir Lingam Temples.

This time our visit was to Bhopal for a marriage and we availed the opportunity to visit two Jyothirlingas of twelve, nearer to Bhopal. Bhopal stands on the site of the 11th century city of Bhojapal, founded by Raja Bhoja.

1. Bojpur
   
   
   The place is about 28kms from Bhopal.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We see magnificent Shiva temple of 11th century known as Bhojeshwar temple founded and named after Bhoja Raja. The temple structure is incomplete and the earthen ramp used to rise to dome level, is still incomplete. The massive patterns engraved on the surrounding rocks show a grand architectural plan for the temple.
   
   
   The Shiva linga inside the sanctum is huge in size. The temple is one of the best examples of 11th century architecture.
   
   
   
2. Ujjain:
   
   
   The place is about 205 kms from Bhopal and 55kms from Indore.
   
   
   Modern Ujjain is on the banks of Shipra River, and we see lots of temples in this city. Ujjain is the modern name for Ujjayini.
   
   
   Legend is that the God like Shiva of Avanti Commemorated his victory over the demon ruler of Tripura on the bank of River Naramada by changing the name of his capital Avantipura to Ujjayani.
   
   
   
   Importance:This is one of the places where Kumbamela is celebrated once in 12 years. The great poet Kalidasa is said to have written some of his works from this place. Most of the temples are on the ancient sites, which are renovated over years.
   
   
   
3. Mahakaleswar temple:
   
   
   
   this is One of the 12 Jyothir linga temples.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple is rebuilt by Marathas in 18th century. The temple is below the ground level.
   
   
   
   The main deity here is Swayambu lingam known as Mahakaleswar. He is also known as Dakshina moorthy facing south. Near the entrance we see nandi and inside the sanctum, we see Ganesha, Parvathi and Karthikeya. To the outer circle we see Ekadasa linga, Hanuman, Ganasha, andNarashimar. Navagraha here is in the form of 9 lingas.
   
   
   
   
4. Hara Siddhi Matha temple:
   
   
   
   The temple is to the adjacent road to Mahakaleswar temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Here Matha Annapoorna is seen seated between the idol of Maha Lakshmi and Maha Saraswathi. Sri yantra is enshrined in the temple.
   
   
   
   According to Shiva puranam elbow of Sati Devi dropped in this place and it is one of the Sakthi peetam. The stone pillars adorned with lamps are special features of Maratha period. When we go around the temple we see Bala Ganesha, Bala Hanuman, and Maha Maya sanctums.
   
   
   
5. Kala Bairavar:
   
   
   
   The temple of Kala Bairavar was built by the King Bhadrasen on the banks of Shipra. The temple is old and famous one.
   
   
   
   Here wine is poured in the mouth of kalabairavar which he drinks. We don’t see any hole in the mouth. It’s a miracle, which is unique feature of this place.Worship of Kalabairavar is believed to be a part of Kapalika and Aghora sect. Even today liquor is offered as a part of rituals to Kalabairavar and the liquor is given as Prasadam.
   
   
   
   
6. Omkaraswarar:
   
   
   
   This is One of the 12 Jyothir Linga Temples.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple stands on an island formed by the fork of Narmada River in the shape of holiest Hindu symbol OM. We have to cross the river to reach the temple that is on hill.
   
   
   
   Nandi here is spoilt due to the river water. The temple is constructed of soft stone with striking carvings. The roof of the shrine is intricately carved and enriching the shrines. We cross the hall with pillars carved with circles, polygons and squares.
   
   
   
   The main deity Omkareswarar is in Linga form which is coarse and shapeless. Goddess Parvathi is seen at the back of Shiva linga.
   
   
   
   To reach the place from Indore it is 75 kms by road, and by rail it is Omkareswarar road 12 kms on Ratlam-Kandwa of western railway.
   

[Jyothir Lingam] [Shakti Peetam]

Malaikottai, Thiruvanaikaval, Thirupattore, and Utratoore temple. Trichy.

Trichy:


This time our tour was to Thirchirappalli for four days from january 9- 2008. The place is one of the important junction, well connected to Airways, Railways and Roadways.


We stayed at Mayavaram Lodge, 87, Vanappattarai Street, Teppakulam Post, Thiruchirappalli-620002. Phone number-0431-2704089, 0431-2722400. The accommodation was reasonable and service rendered was good . It was homely. They have car for rents also. The car driver Kuzandhaivelu was very coperative and helpful.


Our trip is mainly to visit Old important temples of Siva, Vishnu, and few temples on the way. We were unable complete all temples of our choice due to temple timings.

1. Naganadhaswamy temple:
   
   
   The temple is in Nandikoil Street, near theppakulam.
   Sthala Vruksham: Vilvam. Teertham: Siva teertham.
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu lingam known as Naganadhaswamy and his consort known as Anandhavalli ambikai in different sanctum.
   
   
   Some munie's, due to ego thought without the blessings of god they can live on their own. To awaken them from their ignorance Siva fought with them. They diverted snakes, against Siva, who in turn wore the snakes as ornaments. Hence the name Naganadhar.
   
   
   Importance: The temple is below the ground level. Siva is facing east and Amman sannidhi to south. We can watch both deities at the same time from one place. There is a small tank in front of Amman sannidhi.
   
   
   Sevandhi nadhar and Saramamuni worshipped Siva of this place with sevandhi flowers.
   
   
   Navagraha sannidhi is different here we see only sun with wives and rest alone.
   
   
   The other deities we see here are Ganesha, Subramanya swamy, Dandayudha pani, Somaskandhar, and Bairavar.
   
   
   
   
2. Nandi temple:
   
   
   The temple is in Nandi street.
   
   
   Importance: There is a huge Nandi here. This Nandi belongs to Thayumanar temple.Once upon a time the whole place was belonging to temple. Now houses are built in between, so Nandi is seperated from main temple.
   
   
   
3. Malai kottai: Ganesha and Siva temple.
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam
   
   
   The temple is about 5 kms from Trichy and half km from chattram bus stand. This temple is a fort temple and there are 3 temples here.
   
   
   Teertham: cauveri, Siva gangai, and Brahma teertham. >Sthala vruksham: Vilvam. The temple is known as Dakshina kailasam.
   
   
   
   Main Deities: Mannika vinakar once you enter the temple.
   
   
   
   Mathruboodheswarar or Thayumanavar,and his consort Mattuvarkuzali /Sugandhakundalambikai, in different sanctum and it is half the way to the top hill.
   
   
   Uchhi pilliar, Ganesha on the top hill.
   
   
   
   Importance: The height of the temple is 275’ and there are nearly 420 steps to climb.
   
   
   
   Sthala Purana says Siva took care of a girl during pregnancy and delivery time in the form of the girl's mother, So he is known as Thayumanavar. Sarma muni worshipped Siva with chevandi flowers brought from naga lokha and hence he is called as Chevandhi nadhar.
   
   
   
   Agasthiyar, Arjuna, Hanuman, Rathnavathi, Rama, Saptha Kanniar, Saptha Rishi, Sarama muni and chittar worshipped Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   There is a big hall before entering Siva temple which is full of paintings and pillars have beautiful carvings. We see a chain hanging in the roof made of single stone. The roof of the hall is also fully painted.
   
   
   
   One of 64 Siva moortham known as gangala moortham is seen here. There are two caves in the temple.
   
   
   Navukkuarasar and Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   Purana of ucchi pilliar Veebishana was taking the idol of Ranganadhar to Srilanka on his return. He was cautioned not to keep the idol down if so he will not be able to remove it and take. He agreed to the condition.
   
   
   
   On his way he gave the idol to Ganesha to hold for some time to finish his evening ritualas. Ganesha agreed, and after a while he placed the idol down and went to the top of the hill.
   
   
   
   Veebishana when he returned he saw the idol down and he was not able to lift it up. He prayed Lord Ranganadhar to help him. Lord Ranganadhar agreed to face south dirrection towards srilanka and blessed him. He returned back to his place without the idol.
   
   
   
4. Thiruvannaikaval
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam and Sakthi peetam. The place is also known as Gajaranya kshetram, and Appu sthalam.
   
   
   The place is about 3 kms from Trichy, in between River Kollidam and Cauvery.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu lingam known as Jambukeswarar, and his consort known as Amman Akilandeeswari.
   
   
   
   Teertham: Cauvery, Brahma, Indra, Chandra, Rama, Agni, Agsthya, kollidam and Surya.
   Sthala Vruksham is Vennaval tree.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is known as Jalakandeeswarar due to water springing down the Siva lingam. Spider and Elephant worshipped Siva in this place hence the name Annaika.
   
   
   
   Importance: In front of the main deity Siva we see nine holes and darshan through the hole is equal to dip in all 9 teerthams.
   
   
   
   Ambal worshipped Siva in this place so even now Archakas worship siva in the noon time wearing saree. The earing of goddess is known as Thadangam.
   
   
   
   Sankaracharya controled her anger and placed it in the earings as srichakra.
   One earing is Siva chakkra and the other one is Srichakkra.
   
   
   
   Sambndhar, Navkkuarasar, and Sundarar sang hymns on Siva of this place. Arunagiri nadhar sang thirupugazh on subramanya of this place.
   
   
   
5. Thirupattoore: Siva temple.
   
   
   The place is 21 kms from Lalgudi.
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu linga known as Brahmapureeswarar and his consort Bruhan Nayaki. Sthala vruksham: Magizha maram.
   
   
   
   Importance: Brahma worshipped Siva of this place. We see Brahma in separate sanctum here. The place is known as mumoorthy sthalam. There are 14 lingas in the temple worshipped, by Manduga maharishi.
   
   
   
   
6. Utratoore: Siva temple.
   
   
   This is one of the vaippu sthalam of Lord Siva.
   
   
   The place is about 28 kms from Lalgudi.
   Teertham: Brahma teertham.
   
   
   Main Deity: Sundravaneyswarar and his consort Akilandeswari.
   
   
   Importance: Nataraja and Sivakami ammai idol is made of one single stone. Nandhi river started from the mouth of nandhi in this temple. we see a huge nandi first.
   
   
   As we enter the temple,to the roof we see the devatas relating to 27 stars and 12 rasi is carved. They say the place is good for worship of stars. Inside the temple we see a well and a Nandi.
   
   

Chennai to Arokanam route temples.

1. Thirumarperu:
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   The place is about 12 kms from Kancheepuram. One can reach the place by train also. Kancheepuram to Arokonam rail route and stop at Tirumalpoor station. From there the temple is 5 kms.
   
   
   Main deity is Siva Lingam known as Thiru Manikandeeswarar and his consort known as Anjanakshi ammai in separate sanctum. Teertham: Cheyyar teertham. Sthala
   Vruksham: Vilvam.
   
   
   Importance: Dwarabalaka are huge in size. We see Nandikeswara in standing posture. We see Vigneswara with ten hands known as Vallabha Vinayakar. Durga devi with 8 hands is seen here. We see Vishnu in standing posture with both hands together.
   
   
   Vishnu worshipped Siva of this place and got Chakkrayudha from Lord Siva.
   
   
   Purna says once vishnu used his chakkra against Thadisi muni on request by Raja Kuban. Chakkra was of no use against muni and Vishnu lost his chakkra. Vishnu came to know that Siva, is having sudarshna chakkra, and he wanted to get the chakkra for him from Siva.
   
   
   Lord vishnu started praying Siva with 1000 flowers daily. One day Siva wanted to test Vishnu’s pooja by hiding a flower. Vishnu started his pooja and he was not aware of the number and at the end of pooja he knew he needs one more flower and he immediately removed his eyes offered it and finished his pooja.
   
   
   Siva was very pleased and asked what for Vishnu has worshipped him, and he gave the sudarshna chakkra which Vishnu asked him. Here the utsava vigraha is with flower in one hand and with an eye in another hand.
   
   
   Here the pooja is done without touching the deity because the they say Siva here is teenda thirumeny nadhar always with kavacham.
   
   
   Sambandhar and Navakku arasar sang hymns on Siva of this place.
   
   
   
2. Thiru vooral:
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   Temple timings 7-12 and 4-9Pm.
   
   
   The place is 5kms from Thakkolam station. The station is on railway line from Arakonam to Kanchi. Buses are available from chennai, Kanchi, Arakonam and Thiruvallore.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu lingam known as Chalanadeeswarar and Girija Kannikamba. Teertham: Parvathi teertham, Sathya gangai and Kusasthala river. Sthala vruksham: Takkolam.
   
   
   Water is coming out of Nandi ‘s mouth and water springs out near the feet of Siva and hence, the name Thiru vooral.
   
   
   Importance: On the request of Uthandi muni Nandi devar brought ganges to this place. Kamadenu, Chandra, Yama, Surya, Vishnu & Saptha kanniyar worshipped Siva in this place.
   
   Appar and Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
3. Thiruvirkolam:
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   Distance: Chennai to Arakonam rail route stop at Kadambathoor, and 10 kms south from there is the temple Direct buses are available from Kanchi, Thiruvallore, and Poondhamalli and Sri perumandhur.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu lingam known as Tripuranthakar and his consort known as Thirupurasundari ammai. Teertham: Kuvagni teertham. Sthala vruksham: Vilvam.
   
   
   The axle of the charriot broke here at this place, when Siva was leading his ganas to fight against Thirupurasuran, hence the name of the place is Thiruvirkolam.
   
   
   Importance: Siva lingam here known as teenda thiru meniar so the lingam is always covered by kavacham. Even Sivachariar are not allowed to touch.
   
   
   Sambandhar in his hymns describes about Lord Siva, here the lingam changes its colour when it is going to rain heavily, and to red colour before the break of war as an indication.
   
   
   Sthala purana says that when Siva decided to destroy the asuras Thirupurasuran, Kamalakshan and Vidunmali the world turned into chariot and Surya Chandra as saradhi, Devas as wheels, Meru as bow, and Vasuki as arrow and Agni as tip of arrow.
   
   It was at this place the axle broke because they forgot to worship Ganesha before commencing. They realised their mistake and worshipped Ganesha for success in their mission. Utsavar idol of Siva here is with bow and arrow.
   
   
   
   
4. Thiruvalangkadu:
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva devara Sthalam.
   
   
   Chennai to Arakonam rail route, stop at Thiruvalangkadu station. From there 5kms to north east is the temple. Bus facility is available from Arakonam, Kanchi and Thiruvallore. The place is 15 kms distance from Thiruvallore.
   
   
   Main deity is Arulmigu Devarsinga peruman and his consort known as Vandar kuzhali ammai in seperate sanctum.
   
   
   Teertham:Mukthi teertham. Sthala vruksham: Pala (jack fruit).
   
   Importance: Rathna sabha of Nataraja perumal. Siva did urthava thandavam here. On request of Manji kesa muni and Karkoda muni. To teach a lesson and remove the ego of Badrakali he did urthava thandavam here. He lifted his left leg upto sky and while doing this his earring fell down and he lifted it up and placed it back to its place.
   
   Badra kali being a lady was not able to lift her leg as Siva did. Karikal ammai came to this place with her head and leg up because she was an ardent devotee of Siva and to her the whole place was considered holy and did not want to keep her leg down. She was blessed by Siva here.
   
   There are other deities like Akora veerabadharar, Siddhi vinayakar, Lingothbavar, Durgai, Pancha lingam, Kali, Vijayaraagava perumal, Nalvar and Navagraham. We see Badrakali amman sannidhi near the pond.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar, Navakku arasar and Sundarar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
5. Thirupachur:
   
   This is One of 275 Siva devara Sthalam.
   
   
   chennai to Arakonam rail route halt at Kadambuthur and 3kms distance from there. The temple is 5kms west of Tiruvallore. Bus facility is available to the place.
   
   
   Main deity is Arulmigu Pasoor nadhar and his consort known as Pasupathi nayaki. Teertham: Chozha teertham. Sthala vruksham: Bamboo.
   
   
   Importance: There are 16 Ganapathy represting shodasa Ganapathy. Siva here is theenda thirumeni nadhar. All poojas are done without touching the main deity. Parvathi worshipped Siva here and was given place to left side of his body to reside. Vishnu worshipped Siva here to get rid of his sin of Madhukaitapa vadam and was blessed by Siva. Surya and Chandra worshipped Siva here.
   
   
   Sambandhar, Navakkuarasar & Sundarar sang hymns on Siva of this place.
   
   
   
6. Thiruvalidhayam:
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   The place is about 15 kms from channai. Channai to Ambatoore via paade and this is the stop to reach the temple
   
   
   Main deity is Arul migu Thiru valinadhar and his consort known as Jagandhambal / Thayammai in different sanctum.Teertham: Baradwaja teertham. Sthala vruksham: Padiri.
   
   
   Importance: The architecture of the main temple is known as Gajaprushta because the shape of the sanctum is like the back of elephant, and it is also known as toonganai madam. Other deities like Durgai, Vishnu, Dakshinamoorthy, Ganapthy and Subramanya are there. In front of Goddess there is a kodimaram and Simha vahanam.
   
   
   Sthala purana says Ganapathy got married to kamalai and vimalai daughter of Brahma in this place.
   
   
   Brahaspathi, Vishnu, Hanuman, Sugreeva, Rama, Agystiar, Vayu, Indra, Agni, Surya and Chandra worshipped Siva of this place. Baradwaja muni worshipped siva in the form of black bird known as valian hence the name validhayam.
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
7. Thiru vadamullaivayil:
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   The place is about 20 kms to NW of Channai. Busses and train facility are available from chennai to Ambattoor. The temple is 2kms inside from Ambattoor station.
   
   
   Teertham: Subramanya teertham and palar river.Sthala vruksham: Mullai.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Masilamaneeswarar and his consort known as Arul migu Kodiedainayaki in different sanctum.
   
   
   Importance: Siva linga here, known as teenda thirumeni nadhar, so no abishekam to deity. Once in a year sandal powder kappu is performed. Vimanam is gajaprushta vimanam.
   
   
   Purana says asuras Vanan, Kandan and Onaan were living in a palace near malathi vanam. The doors of the palace had brass bell, coral palquin and Vellerukku pillars. The asuras were worshipping Bairava.
   
   Once the king went for hunting and he came near the palace of asuras. It was night and the asuras were closing the palace gates and the bell made a noise and the king who heard it, assumed he was close to some temple and started moving towards the dirrection with his men.
   
   
   Looking at king with his men, asuras thought they were comming to fight with them, and Asuras attacked the king and he was defeated, since this was unexpected. king escaped into the garden full of mullai plant.
   
   
   The place was so thick with the plant, the king had to cut the plant and make way for him to enter in. Suddenly he saw blood stains on is knife and was worried for his act, and wanted to punish himself by cutting his head and to his surprise he saw Siva and Parvathi on rishba vahana and they blessed him.
   
   Siva asked nandi to help king in his fight against asuras. So nandi in the temple is facing towards the gate to protect. King in turn constructed a temple for Siva here with the same woodden doors and bells with vellerukku pillars.
   
   King made a corol palquin for God. We can see the pillars even today in the temple supporting the roof.
   
   
   Sundarar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
8. Thiruverkadu:
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva Devara sthalam. Karumariamman temple is also famous.
   
   
   The place is about 7kms from poondamalli and the place is also known as veda vedaranyam.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu lingam known as vedapureeswarar and his consort known as Balambikai. Teertham: Veda teertham. Sthala vruksham: velvela tree.
   
   
   Importance: Muka nayanars birth place. Poison has no effect here. When lord Siva got married to parvathi in Kailas, earth tilted to one side because of the presence of everyone in that place, so Agastiyar was asked to go to vedaranyam to balance the earth.
   
   Agastiar said he will not be able to participate in the marraiage cermony and enjoy. Siva promised that he will be able to see their marriage, and see both Siva and Parvathi in bridal form.
   
   Here inside the sanctum at the back of lingam we see Siva and Parvathi in bridal form and the marriage event is sculptured. So the place is known as veda vedanarayan.
   
   
   Worshipping Thhirverkadu Baalambikai, Thiru validhayam Sri Jagadambikai and Thiruvotriyoor Vadavambikai in one day is very good.
   
   
   Lord Subramanya acquired his Vel from Parasakthi to defeat Suran, hence the name verkadu. Thirumoorthy’s worshipped Parasakthi known as Karumari here. Ka represents Brahma, Ru, represents Rudhara and Ma, represents Vishnu.
   
   Arunagiri nadhar sang Thirupugazh , Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva of this place
   
   
   

[Siva devarasthalam]

Devara sthalam of Kancheepuram Town

Temples of Kanchi Town:


The town is 75kms from chennai. Bus and train services are available.

1. Kanchi Kamakshi temple: This is known as Adi sakthi peetam and one of pancha boodha kshetram.
   
   
   
   Sthala vruksham: Sanbagam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Importance: The temple is known as Kamakottam. Brahma Vishnu and Rudra were creations of her eyes, hence the name Kamakshi. Here Kamakshi is in sitting posture with four hands and penancing. Sri Adi Sankarar has kept Srichakra in front of kamakshi to cool her.
   
   
   
   Inside the main sanctum we see Kalla perumal, Soundra lakshmi and Arupa lakshmi. The kumkum prasadam should be first put in front of Arupa lakshmi and then we should take it from there. After worshipping Kamakshi, when we come out in front we see Annapoorani.
   
   
   Kalla perumal inside the kamakshi sanctum is one of 108 important vishnu sthalam. When we go around the temple in front of the pond we see vishnu in different temple in three posture sitting, standing and sleeping.
   
   
   
   
2. Kumarak kottam: Subramanyaswamy Temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Subramanyar asked the meaning of pranava to Brahma the creator, he was not able to explain properly, so Subramanyar captured him in a room and did allow him to do his work of creation. When the issue was taken to the notice of Siva he asked Subramanyar to release brahma but he did not do so.
   
   
   Subramanyar made a Siva linga known as Devasenapadeesar and worshipped him and he was blessed by siva.
   
   
   Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Subramanya here.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Ekambaranadhar Temple:
   
   
   This is One of 275 and Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   Here Siva is in the form of lingam known as Ekambaranadhar and his consort Elavarkuzhali ammai.
   
   
   
   Teertham: Siva ganga teertham and Kamba river. Sthala vruksham: 3600yrs old mango tree with 4 branches related to 4 vedas. Unfortunately the tree is no more in now.
   
   
   
   Importance: this is one of the Pancha boodha kshetram. The lingam is made of sand. The main Raja gopuram was constructed by krishna Devarayar.
   
   
   
   There other deities like vikata chakra vinayakar, Arumugar, 1008 and108 lingas, Vellai kambar, kallakambar, nallakambar, 63 nayanmars, Markendeyar, Bikshadanar, Nataraja, Nilathunda perumal, pralayankattha ammai and navagraha.
   
   
   
   Purana Once parvathi closed the eyes of Siva for fun and the whole universe went dark and Siva was angry with her for doing so. She was punished for her act.
   
   
   
   She chose the place near Kamba River and made a lingam of mud placed it under Ekamba tree and started her worship. One day due to flood the whole town was of water and she embraced Siva linga to protect him from dissolving in flood water and started doing her worship. Siva was pleased with her devotion and he agrees to marry her.We see both Siva and parvathi together at the back of lingam in main sanctum.
   
   
   
   Vellakambar worshipped by Brahma, kallakambar by Vishnu and Nallakambar by Rudra.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar, Navakku arasar and Sundrar sang hymns on siva here. Arunagirindhar sang Thirupugazh on Subramanya.
   
   
   
   On Ratha sapthimi day sunrays falls on Siva here. Ganapathy near gopura vasal is on peacock which is different here.
   
   
   
   
4. Kachi Anekathangaradham temple:
   
   
   
   This is One of 275 temples of Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   The temple is located at West of putheri street and on the way to Kailasanadhar temple.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu lingam known as Anekathagavadeswarar and kamakshi amman.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Vinayaka worshipped in this place and hence the name Anekabesuram. Kubera worshipped here.
   
   
   
   Sundarar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
   
5. Thiru Metrali:
   
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   Location:Pillyar palayam sanndhi street, 2kms from Ekambaranadhar temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Thiru Metrali nadhar and Kamakshi amman.
   
   
   
   Teertham: Vishnu teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: There are two lingam here, known as Metralinadhar facing towards east and the other one vishnu lingam facing towards west. Vishnu worshiped Siva here to attain Sivasaroobyam.
   
   
   
   Sambandar sang hyms on Siva here standing at the end of the road and hearing this vishnu was deeply touched and melted into linga form. Sambandhar also attained Sivasaroobyam here. Budha one of the navagraha worshipped Siva here.
   
   
   

Kumbeswarar, Nageswarar, Banapureeswarar, Adi Kambata Viswanadhar, Marudha Nallore, Someswarar, Kasi Viswanadhar, Abimukeswarar and Gowthameswarar. Temples of kumbakonam town

1. Kumbeswarar Temple:
   
   
   The place is one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam and one of the sakthi peetam
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Kumbeswarar and Mangala nayaki. Prihivi sthalam. The top portion of lingam is sharp (kuda mukku).
   
   
   Teertham: Mahamaga teertham and Surya pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: when the end of universe was happening a pot of nectar was floating, Siva took the form of kratha and destroyed the pot and he opted to stay in the place where the main temple is now says sthala purna.
   
   
   
   This place is one of the sakthi peetam and Goddess is known as Manthra peedeswari. Kumba mela is once in 12 yrs. At that time kumeswara in rishba vahana and pancha moorties visit the mahamaha tank.
   
   Purana says that all the rivers are present in tank at that auspcious time. This is one of the saptha sthana sthalam. Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
2. Nageswarar:
   
   
   this is One of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Nageshwarar and Periya nayaki. The base of lingam is huge.
   
   
   
   Sthala vruksham: Vilvam.
   
   
   
   Importance: The pot of nectar when it was broken to pieces vilva formed as a siva linga and known as Nageshwarar. Adi seshan was unable to bear he weight of the universe. He approached Siva who asked him to worship here, and gained strength.
   
   
   The nataraja mantapa is in the form of charriot with 2 horses & 4 elephants. Sun pays his homage to Siva on April 11, 12, and 13 and these days sun light falls on main deity Siva.
   
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   
3. Banapureeswarar: Siva temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Banapureeswarar and Soma kamalambikai.
   
   
   Importance: Siva as Kradha moorthy broke the pot of nectar by his arrow in this place, hence the name Banadurai.
   
   
   
   
4. Adi kambatta Viswanadhar temple:
   
   
   
   This temple is near Adi Kumbeswara temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu lingam known as Viswanadhar and his consort Ananda Nithyammi.
   
   
   
   Importance: During Nayaka period coin minting was here so the temple is known as Kambatta Viswanadhar.
   
   
   
   
5. Maruda nallore:
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 important siva temple.
   
   
   
   The place was known as Thiru karrukadi previously. The place is about 8kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Karukkudi nadhar and Sarvalankara Ambikai.
   Teertham: Yama teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: sthala ganesha known as Valamburi ganesha. Linga is of mud and small in size. Impression of hands are visible on linga.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
   
   
6. Someswarar: The temple is within the city.
   
   
   
   This is one of the 275 Siva Devara Sthalam. The temple is near portamari kulam (pond).
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Someswara and his consort Soma sundari.
   
   
   
   Importance: Moon worshipped Siva here and hence the name Someswarar. In the month of february / march on he day of Maga star all 9 river goddess meet here. When they all come goddess embraces god out of fear. Hence the Siva is known by name Kayaroganar. The hanging (uri) fell in this place so he is called as sikkaserar.
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord siva of this place.
   
   
   
7. Kasi Viswanadhar: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   This temple is to north of mahamaga pond.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Kasi Viswanadhar and his consort Visalakshi amman.
   
   
   
   Importance: All 9 river goddess Kaveri, Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswathi, Narmada, Krishna, Godavari, Tungabadra, and Sarau are in temple. This is the only temple where we see all of them together.
   
   
   
   Purana says they are waiting there to take a dip along with Siva. Agastyar asked Rama to worship Siva here to overthrow Ravana and Rama did as per wishes of muni and Siva was pleased with him. Rudra amsa was given to rama and hence siva is known as Kayarogaranar.
   
   
   
   
8. Abimukeswarar: Siva temple.
   
   
   This temple is to the east side of mahamaga pond.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swyambu linga known as Abimukeswarar and his consort Amudha valli.
   
   
   
   Importance: During the dooms day Siva took the form of hunter and broke the pot of nectar at that time the coconut fell here and swayambu linga and coconut plant came up hence the name Narikesaran.
   
   
   
   The temple is important place for thula rasi people. When nava kanniyar river goddess came siva turned around to give darshan for them so he is known as Abimukeswarar.
   
   
   
9. Gowthameswarar: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   The temple is to south west of mahamaga pond.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu lingam known as Gowthameswarar and his consort Souandra nayaki.
   
   
   
   Teertham: Gowthama teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: The thread around the kumba fell here and linga formed and known as Gowthameswaran. Gowthama muni to get rid of the sin due to killing of a cow he worshipped siva here and made a pond.
   
   
   
10. Koranattu karuppur: Siva temple and Petti kali amman.
    
    
    
    Location: Kumbakonam to Annaikarai 3kms is Karrupur Or patalavanam.
    
    
    
    Main deity is siva Lingam known as Sundareswarar and his consort Abhirami ammi.
    
    
    
    Importance: Petti kali amman came floating shore in this place. She was kept in temple and worshipped. The box is opened only once in a year with all rituals.
    
    

[Siva Devarasthalam][Sakthi Peetam]