For Normal Delivery-Akhilandeshwari Temple Karuvalarcheri

                                          Akhilandeshwari Temple Karuvalarcheri Kumbakonam

This temple is devoted to Mother Akhilandeshwari in Karuvalarcheri. From conception to birth, this Goddess is the giver and protector of life. For those who want to have children and those who are worried about the birthing process, this is an important temple, just like the famous Garbharakshambika temple.

 Maha Guru Agasthiar and his consort Mother Lopamudra Devi (Lobha Matha) offer worship here on Maha Shivratri and Navratri days. Karuvalarcheri is home to one of the most important temples of the Agasthiar Siddha Lineage – the Agasthiar Guru Padhuka Shakti Temple of Mother Sri Akilandeswari and Lord Agastheesvara Shiva. Adjacent to this temple is the temple of Lord Sri Lakshmi Narayana, making Karuvalarcheri a wonderful Siva-Vishnu sacred spot.

Mother Sri Akilandeswari here is known as Karu Valarkkum Nayagi – the Goddess who blesses the foetus with growth. In other words, the Universal Mother in this temple gives the blessing of development to the foetus. Thus this temple complements the famous temple of Garbha Rakshambika which is some miles from here. Mother GarbhaRakshambika is Karu Kaakkum Nayaki – the Goddess who protects the foetus. The Universal Mother in that temple gives the blessing of protection to the foetus. Thus pregnant women get the blessing of growth at one sacred spot and the blessing of protection at the other.

Meditate on these two specific blessings that these two sacred spots give to expectant mothers. Just thinking about this, one should bow down in gratitude to the Universal Mother’s compassion for us and Her meticulous attention to our varied needs.

Things To Buy:

1) Ghee

2) Beetlenut and leaves(vetrilai paaku)

3) Turmeric

4) Kumkum

5) 7 turmeric pods

6) Agarbatti

7) Camphor

8 )Flowers.

Procedure :

It is suyambhu i.e formed by its own.and it is in the form of puttu, so is very powerful.Those who want children go to this temple and clean the steps with ghee and put a kolam and she helps them to form the baby.There is no abhishekam for amman only oil bath.Also this amman only face will be shown to the devotees.We can have the darshan of the full amman only on Sivarathri and Navarathri 9 days.All archana is done only to the moola sri chakra maha meru and sri chakram.

Steps To Follow in Karuvalarcheri Temple:

Devotee needs to bring 7 Vangala Manjal(Bengali Manjal) and a lemon for the padi pooja. The pooja procedures will be explained in details by the temple authorities.

Famous Hindu festival of Mahamaham-Adhi Kumbeswarar Temple Kumbakonam

                                              Adhi Kumbeswarar Temple Kumbakonam

The Kumbheswara temple in Kumbakonam is considered to be the 26th in the series of Thevara Stalams in the Chola kingdom located south of the river Kaveri. This temple is situated at the center of the town which is 38 km north east of the neighbouring big town Thanjavur and 35 km. west of Mayiladuturai.

During the great deluge, it is believed that Shiva caused the Amritakalasam  to stall here. This shrine is said to  have been established built and consecrated by Bhrama. Amirthakalasam - The pot holding the divine nectar. The Saivaite Saint Tirugnana Sambandar and Tirunavukkarasar  praised this kshetra as Kudamookku and among the Alwars Periyalwar, Sri Andal  and  Tirumalisai Alwar called this as Kudanthai while Boodhathazhwar, called this  as Kudamukku.

As Arunagirinathar points  out this kshetra as Kumbakonam, we can safely conclude that kudamukku turned into kumbakonam during the intervening period of the Azhwars and  Arunagirinathar.

The 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.

The Saptastanams of Kumbeswarar are Kalayanallur, Valanjuzhi, Darasuram, Swamimalai, Kottiayur, Melaikkaveri and Kumbakonam.

Festivals

Six worship services are offered each day here. The annual festival in the month of Masi (February 15 to march 15) is well attended. The Mahamaham tank is the center of great festivity once every 12 years - when Jupiter is positioned in the zodiac sign of Leo, and the sun is positioned in Aquarius and the moon is in the asterism of Magam - when Kumbeswarar is taken in procession there. Thousands of pilgrims converge for a dip in the Mahamagam tank during that time. Several other minor      festivals are celebrated each month here.

During Vaikasi the Thirukkalyana Utsava of Sri Mangalambhigai with Sri  Adi Kumbheswara is celebrated. Moreover festivals of different months  are celebrated on a grand scale, namely Ani Tirumanjanam, Dakshinayana,  Adi Perukku, Adi pooram, Avani Mulam, Vinayaka Chathurthi, Navaratri,  Kandashasthi, Kadaimukham, Kartigai Somavaram, Kartigai Deepam, Tiru  Adirai, Mahaditi padam, Sankranti, Sivaratri, and Amudhu Padayal.

For financial stability and good luck-Yoganandeswarar Temple Thiruvisanallur

                                Yoganandeswarar Temple Thiruvisanallur Kumbakonam

Yoganandeswarar Temple at Thiruvisanallur is a very ancient temple.  The presiding deity of this temple, Yoganandeswarar is also known as Sivayoginathar. Eight Shiva yogis after severe penance on Lord Shiva, merged with the Lingam and hence the name Sivayoginathar.   This place was a vilva forest at one time and hence He is also called Vilvaranyeswarar. He is also known as Puradhaneswarar.  His consort here is known as Soundaryanayaki or Shantha Nayaki.  The sthala vriksham is Arasa maram and the Theertham Jatayu Theertham.Chatur Kala Bhairavar is famous here. The four Bhairavars with Saneeswara Bhagawan and Sivalingam on their sides denote different periods of life and praying here will solve our problems for our entire lifespan.The four Bhairavars, (Chatur Kala Bhairavars) each representing the four phases or four Ashramas in the lifespan of a human being are as follows:Gnana Bhairavar :The Brahmacharya phase of the human life is dominated by his quest for knowledge. Gnana Bhairavar bestows good education and good employment on his devotees.Swarna akarshana Bhairavar:In the Grahasta phase, Swarna akarshana Bhairavar blesses his devotees with excellent growth in career and material gains.Unmattha Bhairavar:In the Vanaprastha phase, His devotees are blessed with good health, financial stability and good luck.

Yoga Bhairavar:

In the Sanyasa stage of life, a man is supposed to be totally devoted to God. By praying to Yoga Bhairavar and the Kailash Lingam beside the Yoga Bhairavar, man attains salvation. The objective of existence is to try to merge the jivatma with the paramatma. This is known as moksham or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The four ashrams prepare a person to undertake the process in a controlled but directed manner.
Devotees who worship Chatur Kala Bhairavar during the 8th day of the waxing period (ashtami of Sukla paksham or valarpirai) gain in prosperity and advancement in business and career. Devotees worship during the 8th day of the waning period (ashtami of Krishna paksham or theipirai) to get cured of their diseases, peaceful family life, protection from evil spirits and envy.

Lighting oil lamps with black pepper on eight consecutive Sundays during Rahu kalam 4.30PM to 6.00 PM at Bhairavar’s sannidhi results in getting back lost property and wealth. Kala Bhairava Gayatri Mantra Om Kaalakaalaaya vidhmahey Kaalaatheethaaya dheemahi Thanno Kaala Bhairava Prachodhayaath.Once a man who was a habitual sinner was about to be taken away by Yama.  This man had only indulged in evil deeds and had not not anything good to anybody all his life.  This man came running into the temple to escape from Yama and was shouting and pleading to Lord Shiva to save him.  Nandi trained his ears towards the entrance of the temple to hear the cry of the man and informed Lord Shiva about the same.  Though, this man was a habitual sinner, Lord Shiva blessed him with papa vimochanam (absolution of sin) and Mukthi because he had come to Shiva with total devotion.  It is to be noted that you can see the idol of Nandi with its head turning to a side. It is believed that those who pray to Him here during the Pradosham (Twilight period in the evening on the 13th day of every Lunar fortnight) will be absolved of all their past sins.

There is also a sannadhi for Lakshmi and Narayanan which is a rare.  Vishnu and Lakshmi are supposed to have got the blessing of Shiva here for their marriage.  Worshiping Lakshmi Narayanan on shravan nakshatra, ekadasi and Saturdays is considered special.  Devotees who light 6 oil lamps and offer Tulasi garland to this deity for six consecutive weeks are blessed with progeny, peaceful family life, removal of obstacles in marriage and general prosperity.

There is a Sun Dial in the periphery wall of this temple opposite to Ambal’s Sannidhi, which is a symbol of the scientific advancement during the Chola period.  This is the temple for Rishabha Rasi.  People born under Rishabha rasi are recommended to visit and pray at this temple regularly.

Sridhara Ayyavals ashram is in this village.  There are few miracles about his life. Devas and Pithrus are believed to have partaken in a meal when he conducted Shraddham for his father, although the local Brahmins refused to attend.

Once on a New Moon day, he brought Ganges to the well in his house for purification.  He is also credited with restoring life to a young man, out of compassion for his parents.

Sridhara Ayyaval is reported to have vanished after entering the Sanctum Sanctorum of Madhyarjuna Siva temple at Thiruvidaimaruthur. From Thiruvidaimarudhur this is at a distance of about 6 kms across the Cauvery.  Thiruvisanallur is on the Suryanar - Thirumangalakudi - Swamimalai Road.

Tamil poet Ottakkoothar of Chola era attained his Jeeva Samadhi-Veerabhathirar Temple

                                                 Veerabhathirar Temple Kumbakonam

Near the Amman temple, one could see the ruined Veerabhathirar temple which is believed to be built even before the Airavateshvara temple. The Raja gopuram of this temple is constructed with mortar and bricks. It is also believed that the great Tamil poet Ottakkoothar of Chola era attained his Jeeva Samadhi at this Veerabhathirar temple.

Ganesha made of Sea Foam-Swetha Vinayagar Thiruvalanchuzhi

                                                      Thiruvalanchuzhi Kumbakonam

Thiruvalanchuzhi,(Another temple near Swamimalai) as the name indicates (thiru-sacred, valanchuzhi-right handed curve), is a holy place where the river Kaveri takes a gentle curve hugging the divine sthala to her bosom. Adding glory to the place is the age old temple dedicated to the leader of ganas, revered in this sthala as Swetha Vinayagar or the Pure White one.

Mein deity: Lord shiva and ambal. Shiva is called as Sri Kabardeeshwarar (Kadaimudi nathar) and Ambal is called as Sri Prahan nayaki (Periyanaki Ambal). But this temple is famous for the sri vellai vinayagar.
Sri Vellai Pillaiyar (Swetha Vinayakar or Nuraippillaiyaar) Temple is situated at Thiruvalanchuzhi, a village located just 6 kms near Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India.

When Durvasa Muni came to visit Indra, he brought with him a garland obtained from Lakshmi. Seeing Indra riding on his Airavatha, he offered the garland as a fitting gift to the king of devas. Indra, who was in one of his proud moods, carelessly took the garland and placed it on airavatha’s head. The elephant in its playful mood dragged it down and stamped on the holy garland. Anger burst through Durvasa who cursed Indra “Oh foolish proud King, You have just shown disrespect to Lakshmi herself. May all your prosperity melt away. May your strength disappear and may you rot in disrespect.”. Cursing thus he left the place, the devas all shivering in fear.

Seeing no other go they rush to MahaVishnu and seek his help. “Divine Protector,” they pleaded, “please show us a way out”. The ever benevolent Vishnu cast his eyes on them and said “Oh Devas, you have but one way left. Churn the Milk Ocean to obtain amrutha. Intake of this divine nectar will free you from all the curse and restore you back to power”. The devas prostrated before him and left. The churning would require a huge churn support and a humongously long rope. Vasuki, the king of snakes offered himself as the rope and the devas decided to use the meru mountain as the churn. All preparations done they still couldnt begin, their strength all gone with the curse. Having been weakened by the curse, they alone couldnt churn the ocean.

After prolonged consideration, Indra sent a missive to his step brothers, the asuras, asking them to join in this effort, promising a portion of the nectar. With the assent of the asuras, the churning was to begin.

According to the legend, when the Devas and asuras were churning the ocean, they forgot to worship Ganesha. They realized their error when the poison came out, and Indra immediately made an image of Ganesha out of the sea foam which had collected as a result of the churning of the ocean. Ganesha was pleased, and the Devas were able to obtain nectar. This is the Ganesha present in the temple. Swetha Vinayakar, a Ganesha made of Sea Foam.

Indra continued to worship the cream idol and took it with him when he went on a pilgrimage to absolve his sins. When he reached the banks of the kaveri, he placed the idol down to take a bath and perform the ritual poojas. Returning back, he saw that the idol had firmly attached itself to the ground and refused to budge. Understanding the divine will of the lord he prostrated in front of the idol. “Who am I to take you around when your desire is to stay here. All I ask is one boon. May I be allowed to perform pooja to you everyday?”, he asked. Vinayagar gave his approval, and happy with this Indra returns back to Amaravathi leaving the cream white idol to be worshipped by generations of devotees in what is now Thiruvalanchuzhi.

The cream idol, adored as Vella Pillayar, Swetha vinayagar or Nurai Pillayar, in the sanctum is pure white and is protected very fiercely by silver and gold frames. No abhisheka or pushpa are offered to the deity, lest the cream is washed away. Every decoration and splendour is for the surrounding frames alone. The only offering is Pacha-Karpooram (a fine edible form of camphor), which is finely crushed and sprinkled over the image on a basis. This alone is the main offering by the devotees to the temple.

Miracle of a Cobra doing Archana for Siva Lingam with Vilvam leaves-Thepperumanallur Shiva Temple

                                        Thepperumanallur Shiva Temple Kumbakonam

Thepperumalnallur Sivan Temple is situated near Thirunageswaram railway station near to Kumbakonam on Kumbakonam-Mayavaram route. This temple is more than 500 years old. Here Vedhanthanayagi [Sakthi] with Viswanathaswamy [Siva] are the main Deities.

Speciality of the Temple

• There is a siva linga in whose Avudiyar a maragada is fixed inside on which sunlight falls everyday. The Power of this linga is said to be the combination of all the 12 jothirlingas in India and therefore unique.
• The Dakshinamurthy Idol is unique and is considered more powerful and boon bestowing than Alangudi or anywherelse.
• A huge serpent visits the temple almost every day wounds round the Bhairavar statue inside the temple and also on the Linga and two shedded skins of the cobras have been collected and kept safely.
• The Ambal is called Vedantanayaki and swami as Viswanathar. There is a rudraksha kavacha on the sivalinga.
• This is the only temple where archana to siva is done with rudraksha – archana with eka mukha to 12 mukha rudrakshas provides boons and purusharthas as the devotees require.
• There is vigneswara, Shanmuga, navagraha sannathis and also a temple tank on the eastern side.
• The power of the temple is such that Rahu/Kethu doshas are removed, childless couples bestowed with divine child and there are many more plus to benefit the devotee

Miracle in the Temple

Large numbers of devotees also have witnessed a miracle of a Cobra doing Archana for Siva Lingam with Vilvam leaves. In this Temple, it has been customary to do archana with Rudhraksha only. On 15th January 2010 morning, just before Solar Eclipse, at about 10:30 AM Sivachariar, priest of the Temple, noticed a Cobra lying on top of the Siva Linga. The snake slowly descended from there and went towards the Vilvam tree which is the Sthala Viruksham- Holy tree of the temple. It climbed the tree and picked a Vilvam leaf and came back and entered the Sannadhi. It hissed at any devotee trying to get near it. It climbed onto the Siva Linga and opened it hood and dropped the Vilvam Leaf. This miracle was witnessed by all devotees who were presnt there. Then the Cobra went again and again to do the same repeated two or three times. As the news spread all over the village, hundreds of villagers rushed to the Temple to have the Dharshan of this event of Cobra with Siva. The Priest explained "It is doing the archana during the Solar Eclipse time to wash off its sins". 

 

This incident has also been published in local dailies. It worth visiting the temple which has such an enormous religious power.

Biggest & Tallest Temple for Lord Sri Vittal and Rukmini Devi in the entire World-Sri Vittal Rukmani Mandir Govindapuram

                            Sri Vittal Rukmani Mandir Govindapuram Kumbakonam

Govindapuram has embarked upon the holy project of constructing a first ever Maharashtrian style temple in typical Hemandapanthi for Sri Rukmini sametha Sri Vittal at Govindapuram near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. Once completed, this upcoming Temple will be the Biggest & Tallest Temple for Lord Sri Vittal and Rukmini Devi in the entire World.

The Gopuram (main tower) of the Temple is 132 ft tall. The sight of the huge Gopuram is a divine treat to watch. A huge Kalash (Kalasam) crowns the Maha Gopuram. The Kalash itself is 18 ft high. Mahamandapam, where Swamy’s Palli Arai (Sayana Mandapam) is constructed - is an unique structure, as it has an Artistic Dome, which is visible from inside too. The Dome is of South Indian architectural design. Vasantha Mandapam is a piller less huge hall, where Namasankeerthanam, Bhajans, Upanyasams and various uthsavams like Radha Kalyanam etc., will be held. can accommodate more than 2000 Bakthas at a time . The ceiling of the vasantha Mandapm is decorated with fiber class Printing. The Mahadhwar (main entrance) of the Temple is of Maharashtrian style and is a 80 ft tall structural beauty, with a width of 62 ft.Large size of decorative depictions of 16 various Leelas (divine actions) of Lord Sri Krishna, sculptured in high quality wood are fixed inside the premises .The ground floor of the Temple has a Library and Meditation Halls.The Temple has a Pond ( Chandrabaga ).

For Accurate Knowledge-Sri Saranathan Perumal Temple Thirucherai

                              Sri Saranathan Perumal Temple Thirucherai Kumbakonam

Thirucherai is situated near Kumbakonam, Thanjavur. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Thirucherai is known variedly as Udayaar Koil, Sen-neriyappar Koil and Arul migu Gnanavalli-samedha-Sara Parmeswarar Koil, to mention a few. The Tamil word Udayaar means, 'one who owns, possesses, or one who is the Master’. The Lord is called Udayaar in the sense that He is the Master of the entire universe and His Consort is known as Udayaal. As He is the one who enables the minds of men to follow the path of rectitude, He is known as sen-neri-appan. The Lord who is the path himself.

Lord Saranathan as Vishnu is named here, stands regally in the main sanctum at Tirucherai surrounded by Pancha Lakshmis- Sri Devi, Bhoo Devi, Neela Devi, Maha Lakshmi and Saranayagi Thaayar.

The Vaishnavites of Thirucherai use the attribute 'Sara’ (quintessence, core, soul, etc.) to denote the Perumal enshrined here. The kshetra is known as Sara-kshetra. The Moorthi is known as Sara-nathan, His Consort as Sara-nayaki, the temple tower as sara-vimanam and the temple tank as sara-pushkarani. It is therefore that the Saivites have also chosen to call their Lord as Sara-Parameswarar. The Lord who is the core of all beings. The temple is popularly known as Arul migu Gnanavalli-samedha-Sara Parmeswarar Koil.

Temple

This temple has two prakarams. The temple is 116 meters in length and 72 meters width with 22 meters high Raja Gopuram. There are shrines for Yoga Narasimhar and Raja Gopalaswamy with his consorts Rukmani and satyabama. It is also believed that Anjaneya blesses the devotees from the west end of Pushkarini and Ganesh from northeastern side.

Naayak King of Thanjavur, who was attached to Vishnu temples, sent construction materials to Mannargudi for the construction of the Rajagopalaswamy temple. A minister of the king decided to bring a few bricks on every trip to Thiru Cherai for the renovation of this temple.

Suspecting this, the king decided on a sudden inspection. A worried minister prayed to Rajagopalaswamy and to the surprise of the Nayak King, the Mannargudi Lord is said to have appeared before the king at Thirucherai, at the time of the inspection. A delighted king immediately allocated funds towards the construction and renovation of the Thirucherai temple.

In the inner samnctum, River Kaveri has been personified as a mother holding a child on her lap.! The importance given to forces of nature – i.e. the sun, moon, planets, stars, and every aspect of the universe like , rivers, trees, etc in our religion is indeed remarkable. Every temple honours the stala vruksham- a tree, a mount--- e.g. Garudan or Nandi ( i.e. an animal); and at Tirucherai we can see the river Kaveri in her maternal status as a life- giver.

Legend

Markandeya and Kaveri Amman meditated upon Lord Vishnu. It is also believed that brahma made a clay plot to rescue and preserve the Vedas during pralaya, but none of the pots made by Brahma whenever he tried. There upon he was directed by Lord Vishnu to proceed to Thirucherai (Saara Kshetram) and make a pot out of the clay on the banks of kaveri, and thus the Vedas were protected in a pot made out of tough mud at this place.

Once Ganga, Cauvery and other big rivers were playing at the foot of the Vindhya Hills. A Gandharva, who was passing by, waited for a minute and saluted them. Peculiar to know who he looked at, they approached the Gandharva who answered that his salute was addressed at the senior most among them.

While the rest of them gave way, Ganga and Cauvery got into an argument as to who was senior among the two and went to Brahmma for the decision. Brahma pronounced that the water he used for the special pooja of Lord Vishnu flowed down as the Ganges and hence she was the most sacred.

Depressed by this, Cauvery was eager to get herself a similar stature. Brahmma asked her to undertake penance at ThiruCherai and invoke Vishnu’s blessings as he was the only one who could provide her with a solution.

Cauvery requested the Lord to stay at Thirucherai in the same form and he accepted her wish. Also, she wanted to achieve the status of the "sacred water". After more than 1000 years of thapus, Lord appeared before Goddess Kaveri and blessed her with following:
1. She will be equal to ganga in southern part of vindya.
2. He will stay at this Kshethram for ever and bless all those who visit this place.

Temple Timings
The temple is open from 7am to 12 noon in the mornings and from 4 pm to 7 pm in the evenings.

Removes the effect of black magic & problems due to enemies-Sri Durgaamman temple Patteeswaram

                                              Sri Durgaamman temple Patteeswaram

Patteeswaram, near Kumbakonam is famous for its Durga temple. This temple is fairly big and well-maintained one.  There are five majestic gopurams (towers).  The temple seems to have been built and rebuilt several times with additions made to the original temple at various times.  The evidence of this is in the temple’s architecture which has the styles of the Pallavas, Cholas and the Nayaks. The presiding deity at this temple is Dhenupureeswarar and his consort is Gyanambigai. Patteeswaram is one of the Parivara Sthalam.  

Legend has it that Rama had installed a Shivalingam here to get rid of his sin or dosham.  Rama was afflicted by three Doshams or sins for killing Ravana.  He could get rid of these sins by installing a Shivalingam and do penance.  Though, Rama was an incarnation of Vishnu, He had taken the birth as an ordinary human being to show people the way and be a role model.  He was an Avatara Purushan or one who sets an example. He had to undergo all the trials and tribulations that a normal human being undergoes and demonstrate the virtues of righteousness while surmounting the problems.  Like any other mortal, He had to face the consequences of His actions and had to perform the necessary pariharam (remedial poojas) to attain papa vimochanam (absolution of the sin).  The first of his three sins was Brahmahatti dosham, because he had killed Ravana who was a Brahmin.  He was absolved of the sin by installing a Shiva Lingam at Rameswaram.  His second sin was Verrahatti dosham, because Ravana was also a great warrior.  Rama installed another Shiva Lingam at Vedaranyam to be absolved of this sin.  His third sin was Chaya Hatti dosham because Ravana was a great exponent of fine arts and an ardent devotee of Shiva.  He was absolved of this sin when he installed yet another Shiva Lingam at Patteeswaram.  These three Lingams are known as Ramalingam.   Rama created a well here to perform ablutions or abhishegam to the Shiva Lingam that he had installed here.  The well thus created by him is said to have brought the holy waters of Dhanushkodi here. Near this well is a niche of Anjaneyar.

Kamadhenu’s daughter Patti, worshipped Lord Shiva here.  She used to perform abhishegam or ablution to the Shiva Lingam with her milk, hence the name Patteeswaram.

As in Thirupungur, the Nandi has shifted to a side here.  The reason attributed goes thus.  On a hot summer day, Thirugnanasambandar, a child poet, was on his way to Patteeswaram to worship the Lord.  Since Sambandar was a small child and the intense heat could make him weak, Dhenupureeswarar had a canopy of pearls erected along the way to make it cool and comfortable for his young devotee.  Dhenupureeswarar could not wait for Sambandar to come to His Sanctum to see him.  He asked Nandi to move aside so that He could see His devotee as he entered the temple. There is an annual festival in the tamil month of Ani to commemorate this incident.  This special festival is called 'Muthupandal’.  A palanquin of pearls is lifted in a procession that starts at noon from Sakthimutram and concludes at Patteswaram.

There is a tank in front of the temple.  The Pillayar installed near the tank is known as Agnya Ganapathy.

Though the temple here is a Shiva temple, the temple is known for the Durga here.  Durga is considered to be the combined force of all the Gods to destroy the evil forces. Durga in Sanskrit means a fortified or well protected place. Durga protects the mankind from the evil forces.  She removes the negative thoughts such as selfishness, envy, hatred anger and ego. The shrine for Durga is near the Northern entrance of the temple.  Cholas are believed to have originally installed this deity in their fort.  The idol was removed and installed here at this temple after the fall of the Chola dynasty.  Along with the idol of Durga, the idols of Swarnaganapthy, Shanmuga and Bhairavar were also shifted to this temple from the fort.  These four deities were guarding the four entrances of the fort. The Cholas were ardent devotees of Durga and always worshipped Durga before going to war or when they were faced with making an important decision.

The Durga here is a Shanta Swarupi (calm or peaceful looking). She is seated on her vehicle Lion and is seen with here foot on Mahishasura.  The Goddess appears in Tribanga (three curved) posture. Durga here is ashtabhuja or with eight hands.  She is seen holding conch, discuss, bow, arrow, sword, shield and a parrot in Her hands.

She has three eyes and jewels adorn her ears.  An unusual aspect of this Durga is that her vehicle – the lion – is seen facing the left side instead of the right side, which is usually the case.  Goddess Durga here is considered to be very divine and powerful who showers Her blessings on Her devotees.  People afflicted with Rahu and Kethu Doshas worship at this temple during Rahu Kalam; for, it is believed that during the Rahu Kalam, Rahu worships the Goddess everyday.  Worshipping Her on Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays, New Moon days and Full Moon days and Ashtami and Navami (8th and 9th day from the new moon or full moon day) is considered special.  People throng this temple to seek the blessings of Durga in finding suitable match for their daughters.  Locals vouch that the prayers are always answered.

Worship of Durga is considered very important in Kaliyuga.  The worship of Goddess Durga removes the effect of all types of black magic, unfavourable effect of negative planets, Bad luck, health problems, problems due to enemies etc. Offerings of Sarees and garland of lemon are made to the Goddess.  Offering red floral garland alleviates Chevvai Dosham (the adverse effect of Mars). The Bhairavar here blesses his devotees with protection from enemies, good health, and cure from any venomous bite.  Lord Patteeswarar blesses His devotees with peace of mind and career advancement.

Sun worships the Lord with his rays falling on the Lord from 21st to 27th of chiththirai-Sree Lalithambigai Temple Thirumeeyachur

                                      Sree Lalithambigai Temple Thirumeeyachur 

This temple is located in Thiruvarur District Nannilam circle, one and half kilometres west of Peralam village.The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Meghanatha. Rajendra Chola and Sembian Maadevi are said to have renovated this ancient temple. The consort of Lord Meghanatha is Goddess Lalitambika. Her shrine on the right has got a 5-tiered Rajagopuram. The imposing five feet idol of Sri Lalitambika is installed over Sri Chakra in the sanctum sanctorum. The deity is seated resting her folded right leg on the seat. Her left leg is in Sukhasana posture. She is said to be in Manonmani Swaroopa and hence is also known as Santanayaki. This is supposed to be an Ilam Kovil (temple within temple).  Since there are two temples side by side, a unique feature of this temple is that you can see Shiva (present as Lingothbhavar) Vishnu and Brahma simultaneously.

History

Karththuru, vinathai are the two wives of kashyapa maharishi. They had a fight in between them about the black spot on the tail of uchchaisiravas – indra’s horse. Repenting they came to thirumiyachur and worshiped the Lord. The Lord blessed then and gave them an egg each, asked to preserve for an year to get splendid sons. They got garudan, arunan respectively. When arunan took the form of mohini (charming girl) sun despoilt her. When arunan pleaded to the Lord, He cursed sun to get darkened. As per His advise, sun worshiped the Lord at thirumiyachur for seven months.

Surya Bhagavan is believed to have workshipped Lord Siva as Gajaaruda seated on an elephant among thick clouds. Hence the Gajruda Vimana still as his darkness did not change, he cried in grief, ”he migura”.

Hayagrivar conveyed to sage agasthiyar lalita sahasranamam.

The Goddess got angry at the sun for shouting in Their abode. The God pacified her saying sun was looking for relief. (This Pacifying scene is depicted by the sculpture ) One of the key attraction of this temple is this sculpture where Lord Shiva is holding parvati’s cheeks. Its said that Lord is pacifying the mother of universe. In one angle the sculpture goddess appears to be in anger on the other angle she looks romantic. By His Grace sun was cured. The pacified Goddess does austerities getting the name shantanayaki.

As told by him agasthiyar came to this temple and worshiped the God in the “Amla phaladi krana puja” as done by the sun and saluted “sri lalitambika”. yama dharma raja worshiped the Lord here. Sage Agastya is believed to have sung Lalita Navaratnamala in praise of the Goddess. He has also composed a hymn named Rahasyanamasahasram. Saivite saints Tirugnana Sambandar and Tirunavukkarasar have sung in praise.

Specialites

• Sun worships the Lord with his rays falling on the Lord from 21st to 27th of chiththirai.
• Auspicious place to chant lalita sahasranamam
• Gajaprishta vimanam
• Glorious durga
• Beautiful artworks – service by choza kings

God of planet Jupiter -Someshwarar Temple

                                                   Someshwarar Temple Kumbakonam

This temple is known as Kudanthai Karonam and located near Potramarai Kulam. The Sikkam (threads) around the Amirthakalasam (the nectar pot) fallen here and took a shape of Linga and hence known as Sikkeshwarar. Once Chandran (Moon god) due to Guru's (Brahaspathi) curse arrived Kumbakonam and worshipped the Lord Shiva Sikkeshwarar, he created a holy water source for the worship, this tank was known as Chandrapushkarani (does not exist now). Thirumalanavar worshipped Somanathar and received the boon to get victory over Asuras. He also built a shrine for Maleeswarar (a Linga) and Mangala Nayagi amman.

Paranthaka Chola king constructed a shrine for Choleeswara and Tripurasundari amman for wanted of a child. One among the Navagraha - Guru (God of planet Jupiter) worshipped the main deity Someshwarar and hence the Lingam is also known as Vyazha Someshwarar (Guru's Sikkeshwarar). Shivagami and Nataraja can be seen. Kodipanchagraha temple is also present.

Sambandar's beautiful idol is seen. Thirupathigam (hymn's of Nalvar) in the form of epigraph is found in this temple. The main deity is in Linga form and the Banam ( prominent cylindrical structure of Linga) is of special type known as Narmadhai banam.

The Murugan is in the form of Arumugan (6 faces and 12 hands) in a sitting pose over his vaghana (ambassador) a Mayil (peacock), his legs were decorated with Patharatchai (shoe). Saint Arunagirinathar has sung a hymn about this Arumugan of this temple in his work Thirupugal. Thirugnana sambandar has sung a hymn about this temple deity.

For Rahu and Ketu bad times- Seshampadi

                                                           Seshampadi Kumbakonam

Seshambadi/Seshampadi is a village that is half a mile from Tippirajapuram on the Kumbakonam – Alangudi. The temple mentioned in this post is the Sri Seshasayee Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Seshampadi near Kumbakonam. Mothers Bhoo Devi, Neela Devi and Lord Sri Seshasayee Varadaraja Perumal are the divinities established in this temple. Tharpanam for our ancestors, plants, trees, animals is an expression of gratitude and Compassion. Seshambadi/Seshampadi Is One Of The Most Important Places For Kaarunya Tharpanam.

The Shesampadi/Shesambadi temple is in fact a Vaishnav (Iyengar) temple of Adi Sesha(the resting abode of Lord Vishnu) and it is well known that Adi Sesha or Ananta Sesha is the 1000 headed Snake god. He is the Supreme amongst all snakes, he is the eldest brother of Vasuki, who was used to wrap around the mountain during the churning of the ocean – Samudra Manthan. Hence the entire Snake clan- Adi Sesha, Vasuki are devotees to Lord Vishnu-who also incidentally decapitated Rahu-Ketu while they stole a sip of the Nectar/Ambrosia from Mohini. It is also written in our scriptures that Adi Sesha from time to time has accompanied Lord Vishnu in his Dashavtaar or the 10 reincarnations. During the Ram Avataar, Adi Sesha was reborn as Lakshman the younger brother of Lord Rama and during the Krishna Avataar, he was reborn as Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. So you see, the image of Adi Sesha is basically a protector, a shield, a kavach against evil.

Hence the worship of the ever powerful Adi- Sesha is also a potent panacea for people undergoing the Rahu and Ketu bad times. The worship of Lord Vishnu, the Master of Adi- Sesha is also an effective panacea. Chanting of “Om Namoh Narayanaya” atleast 108 times in a day gives relief against the malefic and stagnating effects of the Shadowy planets.

Ganesha idol absorbing honey-Satchinathar Temple -Thirupurambiyam

                                                      Satchinathar Temple -Thirupurambiyam 

God Satchinathar
Goddess Karumbanna Sollammai
Holy Water Brahma and Saptha Sahara Theertham
Holy Tree Punnai
Festivals Thenabishekam

Thirupurambiyam  is  situated on the river side of Kollidam 11Kms away from Kumbakonam. During the great deluge, flood stopped away from the village. Hence it is known as Thirupurambiyam. For a lady merchant, this temple Lord Siva went to Madurai and reported as an evidence against her case. Hence the name of the god  is known as Satchinathar. Pralayam Katha Vinayakar Temple, literally translated as the Ganesha Who Saved the World from Pralaya (Great Deluge). The Ganesha at this temple is unique from all others and his importance is paramount. During the Krita Yuga, Lord Siva asked Lord Ganesha to save the world from the Great Deluge caused during the gestation period of Rahu. Lord Ganesha created a well on the east side of the temple tank and channeled all the 7 seas into that well and controlled the deluge and saved the world.

This well is known as Yezhu Kadal Kinaru. Lord Varuna  created an idol of Lord Ganesha from sea shells and other materials obtained from the sea and worshipped Him as Pralayam Katha Vinayakar.This Idol of Ganesha is still worshipped in this temple. On the night before Ganesha's Birthday, a special abishekam is being performed for this Ganesha idol only with honey. This (Thenabishekam) abishekam with honey is performed all through the night. During the abishekam it is a wonderful experience to watch that all the honey that is being poured on the idol is being drawn into the idol. At the end of the abishekam the Ganesha deity turns a crimson color. No abishekam is performed during the rest of the year. Hence in order to save the world from destructions and protect, Astroved is performing the Ganesha Birthday in this temple.The place is sung in the Thevaram hymns of Thirugnanasambandar, Sundarar and Thirunavukkarasar.The temple theertham are known as Brahma Theertham, Saptha Sahara Theertham, River Manniyaru and River Kollidam. Agathiyar, Pulasthiyar, Sanahar, Sanandhanar and Viswamithrar are said to have worshipped here Lord Siva and got grace.

Southern Ayodhya-Ramasamy Temple

Ramasamy Temple Kumbakonam

The temple town of Kumbakonam is the abode of several deities each unique and distinct. The temple of Lord Rama situated in the centre of the town is a connoisseurs' delight. The temple is replete with puranic lore. King Raghunayak ruled Tanjore from 1614-1640. He was an ardent devotee of Rama . His lieutenant Govinda Dikshitar called Govinda Ayyan was also devout and looked after the temple works.

King Raghunayak dug a holy tank in Darasuram near Kumbakonam . while the work was in progress they found icons of Rama and Sita in the tank. The King's joy knew no bounds. Thus he built a temple for Rama and called it Ramaswamy temple.

This temple is unique as Rama and Sita are in a Pattabishekam posture-Coronation scene . Rama and Sita are surrounded by lakshmana, shatrugna, Bharatha and the ever obedient Hanuman with Veena in one hand and the holy book of Ramayana in the other hand in a sitting posture. This coronation scene attracts people from far off places who are awe struck at the divine sight of the celestial confluence. A separate sanctum sanctorum is dedicated to Srinivasa with Sreedevi and Bhoodevi .

There are separate shrines for Azhwars and acharyas. The temple looks majestic with a mammoth Gopuram which seem to beckon the devotees to propitiate the lord inside. There is a sprawling Mantap which is a treasure trove of sculpture


Chitra Ramayana:
On the walls of the Prakarams(inclosed precincts of a temple), Ramayanam is depicted in pictorial format in three segments. So essentially a person can read through Ramayana pictorially whilst taking 3 pradakshinams(rounds).

This temple, known as the southern Ayodhya, has beautiful idols of Rama and Seethadepicted in coronation posture. Lakshmana stands next to Rama, holding a bow and arrows; they are flanked by Bharatha holding an Umbrella and Shatrughna holding a fan. This is the only temple where we can see idols of Rama, Seetha and Lakshmana along with Bharatha and Shatrughna.

The 62 pillars in the front mandapam are great works of art. Scenes from Ramayana are painted on the walls of the prakaram.

The walls of the temple are decorated with beautiful paintings depicting the Ramayana. Every scene is painted, right from the birth of Rama to his coronation. I wish I had time to study each and every painting in detail, but failing that, I succumbed to temptation, and clicked a couple of photographs of the paintings. They will remind me to make another trip to this beautiful temple, at leisure.

For Deerga Sumangali Bagyam-Prananadeswarar Temple-Thirumangalakudi

Prananadeswarar Temple-Thirumangalakudi 

Details:

Devotees set to Suriyanar Temple to worship the Sun God should visit this place for relief of adverse effects of the nine planets (Navagrahas). Women are blessed with full marital prosperity (Deerga Sumangali Bagyam), getting the Mangal Sutra from the blessingful hands of Mother Goddess are the glories of the temple. Relief from are the boons the devotees achieve by their prayers to the Lord and the Goddess in the temple.

This place is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the name of the Shiva here is “Prananatheswarar”. Of course Sakthi is also there in the temple without her there is no power for Shiva as per our mythology. The name of the Ambal here is “Mangalambikai”.

The Sthalapuranam for this temple goes like this In the Ancient age there was a King who was ruling this area near Tanjore-Kumbakonam-Mayiladuthurai(Mayavaram). The Minister of the King is a very devotional man and he was more than a regular devotee of Lord Shiva. He wants to construct a temple for Lord Shiva, but he doesn’t have money, so he took the money from the Tax which has been paid by the people and started the construction of the Lord Shiva Temple in Tirumangalakudi.when the contruction is in progress, King comes to know that he has taken the money from the Tax. So he ordered his man to kill the minister (He ordered his man to do SiraSedham for the minister – Cutting of Head). Before the SiraSedham, the minister requested the persons to do his last rituals in the village where the temple is under construction. They agreed and the minister’s head has been cut off.

Upon hearing this news, Ministers wife urged to the temple in Tirumangalakudi, cried and prayed in front of Shakthi. She cried in front of Ambal sannidhi and told that the minister has taken the money for your temple construction and he is no more, and prayed to get her husband back. Lord Shakthi requested her husband Lord Shiva to bring him back as he was doing good things with the money and he has not used for himself. Lord Shiva and Lord Shakthi has been pleased with the immense devotion from the minister and his wife and they gave the life back to the Minister.
Since Lord Shiva has given the “Pranan”, which is the basis for life, to the Minister, he has been called as “Prananatheswarar” and since Ambal has given the TiruMangalyam back to the minister’s wife, she has been called as “Mangalambikai”.
Prayer commitment:

The devotee, seeking relief from various problems, should offer Curd Rice for 11 Sundays continuously on the Vellerukku leaf and partake in the puja proceedings of the temple devotionally. This relieves him/her from all planetary afflictions. Girls awaiting for marriges but delayed should pray Mangalambika for five Fridays continuously are relieved of afflictions by the planets, Rahu, Ketu and Saturn paving way for early and happy settlement of an alliance. Here, the devotees offer Sarees, Mangal Sutra to the Goddess and also Vasthras to the God. They also offer Blouse bits, bangles, Kumkum, flowers, betel nuts, comb and Mangal Sutra thread to Five women seeking their blessings. The devotees offer Abishek (bathing) to Lord Prananadeswarar with gingely oil, sweet powders, turmeric powder, panchamirta, honey, curd, fruits juices, tender coconut, sandal, sacred ash and also offer abishek to Kalasas and feed the devotees visiting the temple.

Thirumangalakudi is known as Panchamangala Kshetra. The name of the place is Mangalakudi. The Goddess is Mangalambika. The tower is Mangala Vimanam. The Holy Water is Mangala Theertham. The Vinayaka is Mangala Vinayaka. Everything in the temple is but Mangala – Prosperity.
Lord Prananadeswara is a Swayambu exsisting of His own. Goddess is all blessingful. There is no special place for the Navagrahas here.

It is believed that the the planets in the Suriyanar Temple are the ones belonging to this temple. It is in Thirumangalakudi temple that even the Planets got relieved of their curses. The Lord has three faces representing human, animal and birdis own forms, a rare one not found in other temples. Here, Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Protector, Sage Agasthya, Sun, Akashvani, Mother Earth worshipped the Lord. There are two holy waters here called Chandra theertham and Suriya Theertham. There are two Nataraja Sannidhis here. This was renovated by Kualothunga Chozha in the 5th Century. The temple is administered by Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam.

Panguni Uthiram 10 days – Thirukalyanam on the second day of Brahmmotsavam is grandly celebrated. This is the most important festival of this temple. Sankatahara Chaturthi and Kruthikas are also observed. Bairava worship on the Astami (8th day from the full moon) is also observed. There will be huge crowd in the temple during the Pradosha days. Deepavali, Pongal, Tamil and English New year days also are observed.

The speciality here is Curd Rice Annadhanam which has been made to the people with Diseases like Venkustam and other Nervous problems. People will eat the prasadham which is the Curd Rice here in the Yerukkam Leaf. This will cure the peoples diseases.