30. ACHUDHAMANGALAM SHIVA TEMPLES

The Pancha Pandavas (Pandava Brothers - Yudhishtra (also called Dharma since he stood for justice), Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva) lost their wealth and Kingdom and were into exile (Vana Vasa) along with Panjali. They had to live in hidings such that the place of the existence should not be aware to Dhuryodhana. During their period of their exile they visited many holy places and worshipped lord Shiva. They stayed in camps in many places along the river Cauvery.

Achudhamangalam is situated at a distance of 5kms from Nannilam and 3 kms from Shrivanjiyam of Thiruvarur taluk. When the Pancha Pandavas visited this place they found that the place was very pleasant but there was no water body. Arjuna aimed an arrow which pierced the ground and water began rush from here. Thus a big pond was created here. Since Arjuna was the reason for the water body in the village the village was named as Arjunamangalam now called Achudhamangalam. There was a big Vilva tree under which they stayed in a camp and performed their poojas. The water from the pond was used for Abhisekam and for bathing daily.

SOMANADHAR TEMPLE

Distance: 5kms from Nannilam and 3kms from Shrivanjiyam

Shiva: Somanadhar or Arjuneswarar

Amman: Sowndharyanayaki

Theertham: Arjuna Theertham

Sthala Viruksham: Vilva tree

Speciality:

The Somanadhar temple was worshipped by the Pancha Pandavas and mainly by Arjuna.

This temple is full of stone sculptures which have been carved exquisitely in the Grand Chola Style. Each idol has been carved very keenly and the temple is full of these wonderful sculptures and inscriptions.

Apart from the Narthana Vinayaka, Dhakshinamurthy, Lingothbava, Brahma, Durga and Chandikeswarar we find deities like Gajasamharamurthy, Chandeswara anugrahamurthy (lord who has blessed Chandeswarar), Bhikshdanar, Gangadharar, Arthanareeswarar, Mupuram Erithavar (the lord who burnt the 3 worlds - the Aakash, Bhumi and the Underworld), Urthuva Thandava and Veenadhara Dhakshinamurthy (Dhakshinamurthy with Veena in a standing posture). There is a Kiradhamurthy and Jwarahareswarar Murthy in the Artha Mandapam of this temple.

There is a Rahu Kethu window which is one of the unique feature of this temple. People who are affected by any Naaga Dhosha peoform certain rituals to get relief.

We find the deities of Appar and Sekizhar in this temple. 

When Appar (thirunavukarasar) came to this temple he obtained Dheeksha from Shiva in this temple. There is a place in the wall named as  Thirunavukarasar Thiruvadi Dheekshai which denotes that that should have been the place where Thirunavukarasar obtained Dheekshai from Shiva.

Sekizhar has also visited this temple.

There are no Navargrahas in this temple. Since there are no Navagrahas this temple has been built before the 6th Century.

There is a Dhabas Kamakshi idol whose history is unknown.

There is a Perumal Sannidhi also in this temple.

There is a Kalyana Sundarar Sannidhi made out of Stone which cannot be found in any other temple. The Kalyana Sundharar sannidhi of the very famous temple Thirumanancheri is a Utsava Panchaloga idol. Problems related to marriages are said to be removed entirely for people who worship the Thirumanancheri temple. So people who are affected by problems before and after marriage visit the Thirumanancheri temple and perform rituals and get relieved from their problems. But nobody is aware of the Kalyana Sundharar in the Somasundharar temple of Achudhamangalam. The Shiva and Amman are in the wedding posture (Kalyana Kolam). The Yaaga Kundam kept usually in front of the wedding couple is also present as a small stone idol beside the Kalyana Sundharar. The Shiva and Ambaal are holding hands as the ritual in which the couple come around the Yaaga Kundam. This detail is not known to most of the people.

This temple was built by Kulothunga the first and we can find the idol of the King in the Prahara. Later Kulothunga the third, Rajaraja the third, Koneriraja, Veera Pukkanna Udaiyar, Veera Rjendhran and Ragunadha Nayakkar have contributed generously to the temple. These have been mentioned in the inscriptions found in the temple.

There is an idol of Somanadha Andar who contributed to the temple in the entrance pillar of the temple. The early name of the temple was Arjuneswarar and name Somanadhar has been obtained from Somanadha Andar.

In olden days the income for this temple was yielded from farms and fields, building rents and money collected for rituals but now there is no income for this temple.

PHOTOS

There are 2 other lingas kept in this temple which had been obtained from various parts of the village. It is believed that these 2 lingas should have been worshipped by Nakula and Sahadeva. Unknowning the history people call these lingas by different names.

NAKULESWARAR

SAHADEVAESWARAR

KASI VISWANADHAR TEMPLE

Distance: 5kms from Nannilam and 3kms from Shrivanjiyam

Shiva: Kasi Viswanadhar

Amman: Visalakshi

Speciality:

The Kasi Viswanadhar temple was worshipped by the Pancha Pandavas.

History:

 King Harichandra refused to lie and stood firm that he would speak only truth at any situation of his life. He lost his Kingdom wife and son and became a wanderer. In those days this place was full of Iluppai trees. When he stayed here he found a Shiva linga in the village. He performed Abhishekas and worshipped the lord with Vilva leaves. He had an intuition that this Linga had similar powers as the Viswanadhar of Kasi. He felt by perfoming pooja to this linga he would regain back his lost wealth and family. So even now people believe that they would be relieved of the sins that they had committed in the past births also by worshipping this Shiva. Harichandra named the Lord as Viswanadhar and Amman as Visalakshi.

PHOTOS

There is another Baana Linga in the temple which is said to have worshipped by the Pandavas and mainl by Bheema.

DHARMAESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 5kms from Nannilam and 3kms from Shrivanjiyam

Shiva: Dharmaeswarar

Amman: Dharmapathini

Speciality:

The Dharmeswarar temple was worshipped by Dharma and also by rest of the Pandavas.

The temple is west facing.

The tank created by Arjuna is beside this temple.

It is believed that people who have lost their wealth and health would regain them back by visiting this temple.

29. SIRUKARUMBUR

THIRIPURANDHAGAESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: Sirukarumbur is situated 95kms from Chennai between Ochcheri and Kaveripakkam.

Shiva: Thiripuraandhagaeswarar

Amman: Sundara Kamakshi or Maragadhambal

Sthala Viruksham: Sarkondrai.

Speciality:

In ancient days this place was called Thirukarumbur now the name has been transformed into Sirukarumbur. This temple was known as Kushmeshapuram in Sanskrit. 

This temple was built by the Cholas. 

The sculptures are very unique in this temple.

The Vimaana is in the Gajaprishta form {Thoongaanai Maadam}. 

The idol of Ambaal is made of green stone {emerald}. The whole Karuvarai of Ambaal is built out of green stone. The Ambaal has a smile on her face.

The Sundhara Kamakshi Ambaal is one of the Kaamakshi peetam of Aadhi Shankara. 

There is a Srichakram in front of Ambaal.

The shilpa of Kamadhenu and Karpaga Vriksha is carved with liveliness. 

The shilpas of Lakshmi, Veena Saraswathy, Chandi, Vaishnavi, Kowmari are also amazing. 

The name of Vinayaka is Sundhara Ganapathy. 

There are many inscriptions in the temple. 

The Dhakshinamurthy of this temple carries 63 lingas which denotes 63 nayanmaars on his Jadamudi (hair). This is a very rare and unique feature which could not be found elsewhere. 

We find a Bilva tree and a neem tree together denoting Shiva and Ambaal could not be separated. 

History:

Malik Kafur, an army general of Alauddin Kilji, heard about the speciality of the green stone with which temple has been built. During his invasion he came to attack this temple. The people of this village and the villages nearby brought sand and mud from all the places around and covered the whole temple so that it resembled a great sand hill. When Malik Kafur came with his army he could not find any temple hear. He enquired about the temple but got no answer. so he mercilessly killed the people. As years went by the sand and the mud on the temple gave a destructive look and no one took steps to clear the mud. In 1958, the district collector of Vellore Mr. Baskara Tondaiman heard about this temple and took steps to clear the mud and renovated the temple. The green stone and its speciality stood lasting even after many 100s of years.

28. ETHAPUR

SAMBAMURTHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 37kms from Salem

Shiva: Sambamurtheeswarar

Amman: Manonmani

Theertham: Vasishta Nadhi

Sthala Viruksham: Vilvam

Speciality:

The name Ethapur was earlier known as Vasishtaranyam. 

The name of the Urchavar is Uma Maheswarar.

Sage Vasishtar has worshipped the lord here.

This temple is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalas on Vasishta Nadhi. Since King Vasishta bathed in the river the river was known as Vasishta Nadhi. 

Sambamurtheeswarar is a Suyambhu linga. Chadurvedha Lingas and Pancha Lingas are also found here. Students pray to the Chadurvedha Lingas for achievement in their fields and people pray to the Pancha Lingas to get relieved from family problems.

This is the Appu (land) Sthalam of the Pancha Vaishta Sthalams on the river bank of the Vasishta River.

The Sun's rays fall on Shiva on the first week on the Month of Masi.

The Brahmotsavam Festival is celebrated in the month of Thai.

The Aarumugar is special.

There is a Jyeshta Devi Sannidhi in this temple.

This temple was built by Cholas.

Three tier rajagopuram facing east.

Couples who are separated visit this temple and they get reunited very soon.

History:

Indiran conducted a Yaaga in this place to retain his position as the King of the Devas. Sage Gauthama who had come for the Yagna offered a flower to Indiran's wife Indirani. Indirani was taken away by the flower and she failed to concentrate on the Yagna. The Yagna therefore became a failure. Indira got angry and he cursed Gautama that he would be separated from his wife. His curse became true. Sage Gauthama installed a Shiva linga and worshipped him. The Sun God performs pooja to Shiva on the first week of tamil month Maasi every year at that time Shiva appeared before the Sage and relieved him from his curse. Sage Gauthama and his wife lived to gather. 

Dhakshan (Parvathi's father) conducted a Yagna but did not invite lord Shiva. Parvathi attended the Yagna without the permission of Shiva. Shiva was angry and he came to this place to reduce his anger and to bring peace into him. Parvathi came here with her brother lord Vishnu and performed Thavam, as she realised her mistake.  After a long period Shiva appeared before her under the Vilvam tree and pardoned her. The Vilvam tree is seen in the Prahara.

27. AANOOR

ASTHRAPUREESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 12kms from Chengulpet and 11kms from Thirukkazhukundram

Shiva: Asthrapureeswarar

Amman: Sowndaryanayaki

Speciality:

The old name for Aanoor is Anniyur, Aadhiyur and Sathya Chadhurvedhi Mangalam.

We come to know that this temple existed in the 3rd Century from the inscriptions found to the west of the temple.

Kootruvanayanaar one of the Nayanmars was born in Ponvilaindha Kalathur a village next to Aanoor. He as worshipped this temple.

Poet Pugazhendhi also lived here. 

Arjunan got the Pasupadha Asthram from lord Shiva here. Hence the name of the Shiva is Asthrapureeswarar.

The hills nearby are known as Asthra Hills.

This temple was built by Vijaya Kamba Varma Pallavan in the 7th Century AD. His son Aparajitha Varman was defeated by Aadhithya Chola the first. This marked the end of the Pallava regime and the beginning of the Chola regime. This temple was patronised by Parantaka Chola, Rajaraja Chola, Kulothunga Chola and Nayakers of the Vijayanagara period. 

Rare musical instruments like Padagam, Karadi Kai, Thimilai, Kalam and Sekandi were played during the rituals and festivals of the temple. These instruments belong to the Chola period. We come to know about this from the inscriptions of Rajaraja Chola in the temple. 

The Moolavar Asthrapureeswarar faces east and Amman Sowndaryanayaki faces south. 

The left leg of the Amman is placed a little before the right leg depicting she is ready to help her devotees who worship her. 

Both the Shiva and Amman can be worshipped at the same time from the Arthamandapam. 

Inscriptions have recorded the name of Shiva as Vamban Kaattu Mahadevar.

The Pallavas have contributed to this temple. The Pallava inscription of the year 893AD marks this.

The inscriptions of the 7th and 8th Century Pallavas, the 9th century Cholas and the 16th century Vijayanagaras are seen on the same wall as they were rearranged by the last renovation of the Vijayanagara period. 

Epigraphy evidence says that during Kulothunga Chola-I reign a sale of land occurred at Aadhiyur (the old name of Aanoor) for the offerings at the temple. The Cholas have contributed Vast lands to collect money from the Vegetation from the land for the maintenance of the temple.

The front portion of the temple had been extended by the Vijayanagaras and they had also generously contributed to this temple. This can be found from the inscriptions. 

We can see the sculpture of the Vijayanagara Ruler in the pillar.

History:

26. NANDHIVARAM

NANDHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 14kms from Tambaram

Shiva: Nandheeswarar

Amman: Sowndharyanayaki, Azhagudainayaki

Stale Viruksham: Nagalingam, Vilva

Speciality:

The Nandeeswarar temple is a Devara Vaipusthalam. Sung by Appar in his hymns. Appar wrote that this temple is equal to Rameswaram temple.

This temple was built by Nandhivarma Pallava in the year 750AD. 

Contributed by Cholas and Pandyas.

Square Aavudaiyar.

There is an inscription of Raja Raja Chola I about the grants given to the temple.

This temple was worshipped by Nandhi. 

Since Nandhi has worshipped this temple the Pradhosham of this temple is very special.

The place Nandhivaram gets the name form the temple

Shiva faces east.

There is an old Valampuri Vinayaka in this temple.

In early days there was a big hill beside the temple where Sages performed penance therefore this place was considered very holy.

Ambaal is 4ft high.

Worshipped by Gnana Guru Swamigal whose Jeeva Samadhi is found near the temple.

There is a Vishnu and a Nandhi under the Sthala Viruksha. 

All Prahara and Parivara deites are present.

There is a temple tank to the east of the temple. 

History:

Brahma advised to churn the celestial sea to obtain Amudham. He told the Devas that if they could consume the Amirtham which arises from the Paarkadal, the celestial sea, they would become immortal. Devas were unable to Churn the sea alone. So they sought the help of the Asuras. Assuring them that they would give divide the Amirtham between themselves equally. They started churning the sea with Mandara Mountain as the centre and the snake Vasuki as the rope. Snake Vasuki could not bear the pain of the churn and therefore she spat poison which was consumed by Shiva to save the Devas and Asuras and the Universe. After this incident Dhanvantri appeared and later the Amirtham appeared. A brief quarrel occurred between the devas and asuras. Devas retrieved the Amudham after consuming it. They started dancing forgetting Lord Shiva. After some time they realised their mistake  due to the intoxication of the amirdham they lost their sense and forgot lord Shiva. After some time when they got back to normal they realised their mistake and apologised to the lord. Shiva forgave them. They wanted to watch the dance of Shiva. So Shiva danced on the Nandhi and thereby obtained the name Nandeeswarar.

Once upon a time this place was full of trees like a forest. People went to the forest with their cattle for grazing. A boy took cattle of his owner for grazing into the forest. One of the cows did not give milk daily. The owner doubted the boy and enquired him why the cow did not give milk. The boyhad no answer. He insisted that he was also surprised at this. The owner went behind the boy one day to find out the truth. He saw the cow going into a bush and showering milk there on its own. After the cow left the place he found that the place was a mud hill. He called the village people to help him to remove the mud hill and find out what was inside. When the villagers cleaned the place they heard a noise and a voice was heard saying that there is a linga inside. The villagers feared and they took this note to the king. The King rushed to the place and asked him men to clean the place without any damage to the Linga and the Linga was taken out. The King found a small mark on the head of the Linga which was made when the villagers had tried to clean the place. He cleaned the entire place and he built a temple in the place where the Linga was found. We can still see the mark on the Linga very clearly when the milk Abhishekam is being performed to the Lord.

25. NERGUNAPATTU

SHIVA HILL TEMPLE

Distance: 19kms from Kalpakkam

Shiva: Shiva

Amman: - 

Sthala Viruksham: Neem tree

Speciality:

The Shiva linga and the nandhi are found on top of a small hill called Avvaiyar malai or Sanyasi Malai. This hill is surrounded by 4 hills. There is a sunai (waterfall) from which water is taken for the Abhishekam for the linga. Sidhdhars are believed to exist here.  

24. KIDANGARAI

SHIVA TEMPLE

Distance: 16kms from Chenulpet

Shiva: Shiva

There was an ancient shiva temple in Kidangarai. This temple has been completely ruined without any spot of existence. A Linga was found between 2 tamarind trees just peeping in between the barks. The 2 massive trees were holding the linga very strongly. The remains of the walls were found in pieces in a corner. The Nandhi and the Chandikeswarar were lying half buried under the ground. The villagers.

It was a great task for the villagers to remove the linga from the massive trees. Now the linga and the other 2 deities have been brought out and placed under a shelter. 

23. PACHAMBAKKAM

PASUPATHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 3kms from Pavunjur

Shiva: Pasupatheeswarar

Amman: Parvathavarthini

Theertham: -

Sthala Viruksham: Vilva

It is a neighbouring village of Pavunjur.

Speciality:

The name of the villae has been derived from the name of the Ambaal as Parvadhambakkam now called as Pachambakkam. (Some say that the earlier name was Pasupadhambakkam).

22. THIRUVANDHAVAR

THIRUVANDEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 7kms from Bukkathurai and 17kms from Chengulpet

Shiva: Thiruvandeeswarar 

Amman: Maragadhambigai

From Bukkathurai you reach a village called Natarajapuram. From here u travel 4 kms in the Sirupinayur road.

Speciality:

This temple was built about 2500years ago.

We learn this from the inscriptions.

The left foot of the Ambaal is laid a little in front such that she is ready to bless the devotees who approach her.

The Murugan idol of this temple is made of Single stone. 

The temple is considered to have great medicinal value for people with mental problems. This is a temple for Pariharam. 

The Brahmahathi idol is a special feature here.

There is another Shiva temple about 2kms from this temple. The name of that shiva is also Thiruvandeeswarar.

21. OOTHUKADU

MAHALINGESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 5kms from Walajabad and 20kms from Kanchipuram

Shiva: Mahalingeswarar

Amman: Periyanayaki

Speciality:

It is a stone temple.


Photos

20. PAIYANOOR

ETTEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance:  8kms from Mahabalipuram, 22kms from Chengulpet and 52 kms from Chennai

Shiva: Etteeswarar

Ambaal: Ezhilaarkuzhali

Theertham: Bhairavar Kulam

Speciality:

This temple was built by Vijaya Nandhi Vikrama Varma Pallavan in the year 773AD. He named the Shiva as Paiyanoor Etteswaramudaiyanayanaar.  

The temple was built with had stones.

Paiyanoor was earlier known as Rajakesari Chadurvedhi Mangalam. 

Kangaayan a chieftain of the Kulothunga Chola the first donated lands of the temple.

Idaikattu Sidhdhar of Thiruvannamalai have worshipped lord Etteeswarar. We can see his idol just outside the temple.

The Nandhikeswarar here is an Apoorva Nandhikeswara. The Nandhi is seen with erected ears. People believe that he is listen to everything going around. 

Sarabeswarar is found in a separate shrine.

There are 3 inscriptions about this temple. 

The temple has been built in the Gaja Pradhashta style. 

We find the idols of Vallalar and Agasthya also. Lord Agasthya have worshipped here. The navagrahas are seen with her consorts. 

The ancient sculpture is obviously seen in the temple. The temple is more than 2000years old.

The Etteeswarar temple built by the Pallavas carry historical importance and speak about temple architecture. 

History:

During the days of the Pallavas Mahabalipuram was a commercial capital. One person called Naagan was a tenant of a piece of the temple land. He was a devotee of lord Etteeswarar. He cleaned the Paiyanoor lake at his own cost. Apart from Naagan many villagers were also tenants of the temple land. They paid dues to the temple Properly. They worked for the king and the Grama Saba paid them wages. This incident happened around 8th century. Though Naagan worked sincerely wages were not paid to him properly. He shed tears before Lord Etteeswarar saying about his sufferings. When the wage day came the Grama Saba cheated Naagan again. He pleaded before them and when he was chased out he told the Lord in front of everyone that the Lord should make them pay a heavy price for their injustice. The people around him were afraid to help him. Suddenly a voice spoke that they should pay the wages due to Naagan or they and their families would have to terribly suffer. They turned to the direction of the voice and they found a beam of light slowly disappearing as it entered the shrine of Lord Etteeswarar. The Gramasaba understood their mistake and paid all the dues to Naagan. They requested Naagan to appeal for them to the Lord and pleaded him to pardon them. Naagan expressed his gratitude to the Lord who saved him. 

Recently a Shiva linga has been obtained from near by land and has been kept behind this temple. This Linga should have been a moolavar of some temple in a village near by in those days.  

19. VALLAM

VEDHANTHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 3 kms from Chengulpet

Shiva: Vedhantheeswarar

Amman: Gnanambigai

Theertham: Sivagangai Pushkarani

Speciality:

Vallam Vedhantheeswarar cave temple is a cave temple located in Vallam. 

There are 3 rock cut shrines out of which one is Vedhantheeswarar Shiva temple.

Inscriptions say that the ancient name of this place is Vallanaadu and this referred as Malaikoyil by the local people. 

There are 2 inscriptions in the front top of the Pillars. There are 3 inscriptions in the cave - 2 inscriptions about early tamil Pallavas out of which one is about the titles of Mahendravarman engraved in Pallava Grandha Script and one about later tamil Cholas of the 13th century (about Kperunsingadevan). 

This temple was built by Mahendravarma Pallavan. 

The Vinayaka has been carved on the rock and it is huge in size. 

The name of Muruga is Shri Muthukumarasamy.

Both Shiva and Amman are facing the Eastern direction. 

The Dwarabalagas which have been sculptured in a very big size carry the weapons Soolam and Mazhu which are normally the weapons of Lord Shiva. The posture of the Dwarabalaga is Tribanga posture. They are found with one hand on the waist and with the other resting over his club. The Dwarabalagas found here must have been the best of the Pallava Dwarabalagas.  

In this temple the pradhosha abhishekam and pooja are first performed to Dwarabalagas then to Vedantheeswarar and finally to Nandhikeswarar.

There is a Giri Varadharaja Perumal temple in another cave on the way to this temple.

Durgai is found in the Perumal temple facing South. Normally Durgai is found in the Shiva temple facing north. Durga is standing in the Sambhaga posture. She carries a Shanka and Chakra in 2 upper hands. One lower hand shows Abhaya Muthra and the other hand is on her waist. Normally Durga is an unusual feature of Vishnu temples. But in Pallava caves related to Vishnu we see Durga sannidhi there. The other Vishnu caves where we find Durga are Singavaram cave, Aadhivaraha cave, Varahacave and Trimurti cave all at Mahabalipuram. This cave have been probably excavated at the time of Rajasimha Pallava. 

According to the inscriptions a Pallava King's daughter Kommai installed this Durgai in this temple about 1200years back. 

Water for abishekam is taken from Sivagangai Pushkarani. 

The trunk of the Ganesha is turned to his right. Therefore he is called Valampuri Ganesha. He is seated in the Simhasana and he has 4 hands - the upper left hand carry a broken lotus stalk and the lower right hand is resting on his thigh; what he carries in the upper right hand is not clear and the lower left hand is resting on a small platform by his side. 

There is a worn out image of Jyeshta Devi. Her companions are missing and she is wearing a conical magudam. 

The Nandhi is a later addition only. 

18. NATHANALLUR

AGASTHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 6kms from Walajabad

Shiva: Agastheeswarar

Amman: -

Speciality:

The ancient name of the village was Nallur. The great poet Nathathanar who composed Sirupanatrupadai was born in this village. Therefore the Village was called as Nathanallur.

There is a temple tank near by. 

The main deity was worshipped by Agasthya and the construction of the temple took place during the period of Nathathanar.

17. KATTANKULATHUR

KALAHASTHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 13kms from Chengulpet, 48kms from Chennai and 18kms from Tambaram

Shiva: Kalahastheeswarar

Amman: Gnanambigai

Specialty:

The temple is famous as Rahu Kethu sthalam. It is believed that people who are affected by Sarpa dhosham are relieved from their problems by visiting this temple. The temple does not have navagrahas. Instead we find the Rahu and Kethu only. 

16. VEDAL

VADAVA MUGA AGNEESWARAR TEMPLE'

Distance: 4kms from Kadapakkam, 45kms from Pondichery and 40kms from Kalpakkam

Shiva: Vadava Muga Agneeswarar

Amman: Vasantha Nayaki

Theertham: destroyed

Sthala Viruksham:

This temple is situated near the Vedal lake.

Speciality:

This temple was built during the Raja Raja Chola Period before the Thanjavur Brahadeeswarar Temple (approximately 994AD). The inscriptions of the temple of Raja Raja Chola and Rajendra Chola is seen in the temple.

This temple is on the banks of the Vedaal Eari.

The temple Tank has been destroyed.

There is no Rajagopuram and a compound wall. The temple needs immediate attention.

There are inscriptions found on Nandhi Peetam, pillars and at the entrance.

Shiva faces east.

The village was named as Chola Kerala Chadurvedhimangalam in early days. In tamil records the place had a very big name - Jayam Konda Chola Mandalathu Eendhur Kottathu Vedaal Naattu Vedaal. The other names of this place were Neela Chadhurvedhimangalam and Veera Chola Chadhurvedhimangalam.

The Village was donated to the Brahmins for Vedic chanting and thereby the name Vedal has been obtained. 

In the Chola period the temple was very affluent and was worshipped by Kings, Rich people and devotees.

This is a Thoonganai Mada temple with Gajaprashta Vimanam. 

This is a brick temple but in a very dilapidated condition. 

The main deity Vadava Muga Agneeswarar is 6 feet high facing east on Padmapeedam. 

Since the lord is Agni Swaroopam only sandal abhishekam is performed. The curd rice prasadam is special in this temple.

The Shiva is also called Vada Vaayil Nayagar which means the guarding of the Northern enterance. 

The Ganesha Idol is very different here. instead of his Mushika Vaha his vahana here is an elephant. The trunk of Ganesha does not rest on his arms but found curled up on his tummy. 

The Ayudham of Muruga is Paasa Ayudham (istead of Vajrayudam and Shakthi ayudham) and holds rudhraksha in his other hands. People worship this Muruga for education related boons. 

The ambaal Vasanthanayaki faces south. 

There are 2 Ambaals in the Ambaal Sannidhi.

The nandhi is placed on a 4 feet tall pedestal. 

A huge Jyeshta devi is found half buried in the sand. Jyeshta Devi was a special deity worshipped during the Chola period. She was considered as the wife of Saneeswarar and worshipping her gives relief from all Dhoshas and hurdles in life. The Cholas considered her as Aadhi Pen Dheivam. She was also referred as Mudhevi meaning Muthadhevi. Worshipping her according to the Cholas removes all ill effects thereby providing goodness and prosperity to life. Later the ideology has changed.

There is a huge rock with inscriptions.

The Dhakshinamurthy is seen with his right leg placed on his left leg. 

This is a brick temple.

The Vinaman is so impressive even though in ruins. 

The pillars in front of Shiva contains inscriptions.

History:

In the Late Chola Period Ambaal Statue got damaged (crackes were found on the nose and fingers of the idol). Scholars insisted to replace the statue into a new one. The Goddess appeared in the form of a woman in the Kings dream and questioned him if he would send his mother away if she became disabled. The king suddenly woke up. He realised his mistake and ordered to place both the old and new idols in the same sannidhi for worship.

15. ANAIKATTU

ARAMVALARTHAESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 23kms from Kalpakkam

Shiva: Aramvalarthaeswarar or Dharumeswarar

Amman: Aramvalarthanayaki Or Dharmeswari or Dharmasamvarthini

Theertham: Selva Vinayaka Kulam

Sthala Viruksham: Vilva

Speciality:

The name of Shiva was earlier called Darmaeswarar and amman Darmeswari.

Nandhikeswarar is very big in size. The neck of the Nandhi has been engraved with artistic touch. We can see the figures of Rudhrakshmala, many decorative chains, salangai and bell sculpted on the Nandhi.

Both the Shiva and Amman faces east.

The idols of Vanadurgai and Jyeshtadevi are found in this temple.

The Murugan Sannidhi is found between the Shiva and Amman Sannidhi. This represents the Somaskandha form.

In early days the temple built in Chola Style and later as renovation took place many time many changes have been made to the structure of this temple. Chola inscriptions are found in the temple.

There are inscriptions in the pillars of the temple. The inscriptions mention that the temple was built by Nirpadhunga Varma Pallava.

There are many broken deities in the corner of the temple.

Some later inscriptions are installed upside down in the temple.

This place is a parihara sthalam for Marriages.

The temple is more than 1000years old. The temple was built by the Pallavas.


History:

The eldest of the Pandavas Yudhishtra (Dharumar) lost all his wealth when he played the gambling game with Saguni the uncle of Duryodhana. He became a pauper. He came to this temple and obtained the blessings of Lord Shiva here. He felt that he was assured of getting back all his wealth fame and kingdoms after worshipping the lord. Lord Shiva appeared with his consort Parvathi and told him that Daruma wins (truth wins) and he obtained the name Dharumar here. Therefore the Lord and the goddess were name as Dharmeswarar and Dharmasamvarthini (meaning the lord who promotes Dharuma) since he was worshipped by Dharuma.

14. NEDUMARAM

VIGNANESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 12kms from Kalpakkam

Shiva: Vignaneswarar 

Amman: Thiripurasundari

Sthala Viruksham: Vilva

Speciality:

A Jyeshta Devi idol is in a half buried state outside the temple. The temple was built by the Cholas. There is a temple pond nearby.   

13. SEMBAKKAM

JAMBUKESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 45kms from Chennai and 7kms from Thiruporur

Shiva: Jambukeswarar

Amman: Azhagambigai or Sundarambal

Theertham: Amudha theetham and Agazhi theertham

Sthala Viruksham: Naval tree (jambu means Naaval)

Speciality:


This temple was worshipped by Indiran, Naradhar, Agasthyar, Navagrahas, Naga kings like Aadhiseshan, Anandhan, Vasuki, Karkodakan, 32 Naga kannigal and Sidhdhars.

It is believed that Sidhdhars gather here on Pournami to offer their prayers. This place had 32 streets, 32 ponds and 32 Vinayaka temples but now there are only about 23 streets, 23 Vinayaka temples and 7 ponds. In addition to these there are many other temples here.

It is believed that Sages secretly worship Shiva here. The villagers say that the Pooja sound could be heard during midnights even now. 

The temple was built by the Chola king Kochenganan. Later contributions were done by Parantaka Chola the first, Kandaradhitha Cholan, Sundara Cholan and Vikrama Cholan. Kandaradhithta Cholan converted the construction of this temple from Mud to stone. Inside the temple in the Shrine of the sun god we can see King Kandaradhithan and his wife Sembiyanmadevi in the pillars sculptures. Sundara Cholan built the Ambaal Shrine and name her as Sundarambal (Azhagambigai in tamil).

The references about this temple are found in Machapuranam, Koormapuranam, Vamanapuranam, Pavushiyapuranam, and Lingapuranam.

Lord Nataraja in this temple is said to represent his 5 avatars in the 5 sabhas.

Lord Muruga here is said to represent the Murugas of the Arupadai Veedu.

Lord Jambukeswarar represents the Jambukeswarar of Thiruvanikka.

The temple is surrounded by the lake (temple tank) on the north, paddy field on the east, small hill on the west and divine mut on the south.

The special feature of this temple is that King Kochenganan who built this temple had also built the Thiruvanaikka Jambukeswarar temple.

The temple was originally built in such a way that the water from the temple pond will always percolate inside the sanctum to keep the deity always in water. But recently the temple has been risen from the ground level and the water remains in the pond.

In the Uthira Jambukeswarar Sthala Puranam it is referred as this Puranam was released in Naimicharanyam in the court where 20000 sages were present. This Puranam has 32 Parts. This Place Sembakkam is referred as Uthira Jambukeswaram of Jambu Kandam.

The sthala viruskha and the naga sandhi is found in the south east (agni) corner of this temple.

The Nava Veerargal Sannidhi is a special feature of this temple.

The Lord Jambugeswarar faces eat and Azhagambigai faces south.

It is believed that Lord Shiva gave the power of 72000 crores of Mantras to Azhagambigai to be given to the devotees.

it is believed that doing Kundalini Yoga and other Yogas under this tree is good for one Spiritual outfit due to the presence of many sidhdhars here.

The Agazhi theertham is in the form of a pond to the north west of the temple.

The Amudha theertham is in the form of a well inside the temple which was created by the goddess herself. The water for the Abhishegam is taken from this well only.

The Ponnabala Swamigal and the Thirumeni Linga Swamigal lived in Sembakkam. They were called twin Sidhdhars as they were seen together always. When Ponnambala Swamigal attained Samadhi the very next day Thirumeni Linga swamigal also attained Samadhi. Both the samadhis are present in from of the temple near the Agazhi theertham.

History:


When Lord Muruga killed Soorapadhman (soorasamharam) The head of the demon is believed to have fallen here. So this place was called Sirambakkam (Siram means head) later the name has been changed to Sembakkam. The flag hoisting ceremony of Thiruporur Kandaswamy temple is done by the inhabitants of Sembakkam even today.

When Sage Naradha was telling about the sanctity of Uthira Jambukeswarar Indiran did not play attention in listening to the story. Later he worshipped the lord Shiva here after he realised his mistake.

King Kochenganan was childless. He worshipped Shiva at various places across his regime. When he reached Sembakkam the axle of his chariot broke down so he had to stay here that night. Shiva appeared in his dreams and asked him to build a temple here and suggested his name should be Jambukeswarar along with Azhagambigai. The King built the temple and then he was blessed with a child.

Vasuki the snake spat poison during the churning of the milk ocean (Thirupparkadal). Unable to withstand the pressure of the churn she came to this temple to clear her sin and this sculpture is seen in the shrine.


Photos

12. CHEYYUR

VAALMIGANADHAR TEMPLE

Distance: 38kms from Madurantakam and 36kms from Kalpakkam

Shiva: Vaalmiginaadhar 

Amman: Mukthambigai

Sthala Viruksham: Vilvam

Speciality:

2000years old Temple. Worshipped by Saint Valmiki. There are many inscriptions on the temple walls. The Amman has Lotus and blue lily in her hands which is a rare feature. There are sculptures of Manu Needhi Chola, Siruthondanayanar, Maharishi Gautama, Raasi Chakra, Mahameru and many more. There is a famous Murugan temple and Kailasanadhar temple in this village. There was a Vedhagireeswarar temple here during the Chola Period. Due to invasions the temple had been destroyed and the Moolavar Vedhagireeswarar is placed inside the Valmikinadhar temple.This temple is a parihara temple for People who were born in star Uthiram.  There is a pond nearby.

11. SALAVAKKAM

SWARNAPUREESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 20kms from Chengulpet

Shiva: Swarnapureeswarar

Amman: Aanandhavalli

History:

The 2 Asuras Sumban and Nisumban performed thavam for the blessings pf Lord Brahma. When Brahma appeared before them they wanted him to bless them with a boon that they should die only by a virgin appearing from Mother Parvathi. When there wish was sanctioned they became arrogant and tortured the Devas. The Devas prayed to Lord Shiva to relieve them from these sufferings. When Lord Shiva was aware of the boon granted by Brahma he ordered Mother Parvathi to take care of the situation. Se transformed herself into a dark coloured Kaali and came to the banks of the river Paalar. She established a Shiva Linga, created a holy pond and started performing Thavam there. Shiva appeared before her and transformed her dark colour into a golden one. The dark colour transformed into a virgin and destroyed the Asuras. Since Lord Shiva transformed the dark colour into a golden one he was named as Swarnapureeswarar (Swarnam means gold). This place was earlier called as Swarnapuri. After the invasions of the Vijayanagara rulers the name became Chalavakkam (Chala means auspicious and Pakkam - place). Before destroying the Asuras Kaali worshipped the Vinayaka of this temple. This Vinayaka is now called as Shakthi Vinayaka.
Goddess Lakshmi was very proud of her beauty. Vishnu cursed her and thereby she lost her beauty. She was advised to come to Swarnapuri to regain her appearance. So with the help of Kubera she created a pond which grew golden lotus flowers. She prayed to Lord Swarnapureeswarar by performing pooja with these Golden lotus flowers. She regained her beauty and Kubera was made the lord of wealth.
An ardent devotee of this Shiva named Sivanesan was granted with the dharshan of Lord Shiva. He was transformed to 2 lingas, as he wished. These 2 lingas are now known as Uthiranadhar and Dhakshnanadhar.

10. THINNALUR

HIRUDAYALEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 17 kms from Tindivanam

Shiva: Hirudayaleeswarar

Amman: Maragadhambigai

The moolavar along with Nandhi was obtained from a farm.

Speciality:

The lord is said to cure heart diseases.

9. KADALUR

AGNEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 22 kms from Mahabalipuram

Shiva: Agneeswarar

Amman: Sokkanayaki

Theertham: Brahma Theertham

Speciality:

The temple was built by the Pallavas in the 2nd century CE. Records say that there is a Pathway underground (surangapadhai) from the temple to Fort St. George Chennai. 

8. KOOVATHUR

CHIDAMBARAESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 20 kms from Mahabalipuram

Shiva: Chidambaraeswarar

Amman: Sivagamasundari

Speciality:

The Lord Chidambaraeswarar faces east and amman faces south. We find the Sculpture of Ashta Dhik Balagargal on the pillars. This temple was built by the Pallavas.

7. THIRUKAZHUKUNDRAM

THEERTHAGIREESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 13 kms from Chengulpet

Shiva: Theerthagireeswarar

Amman: Prabhambigai

Theertham: Sangu Theertham

This temple is situated on the west banks of the pond known as Sangu Theertham.

Speciality:

We can find the Sculptures of Sage Agazsthya, Bringi and the Gods of the 8 directions (Astha dhik balagargal) on the pillars of the temple.  

History:

Markandeya Maharishi established this temple. When he came to Thirukkazhukundram he stayed here and worshipped Bakthavachalaeswarar and Vedhagireeswarar ( big temple below and the hill temple). One day when he bathed in the Sangu theertham a conch appeared in the pond. He used the Sangu (conch) and performed abishekam to lord Shiva. When he was in his yoga he realised that the conch would appear only once in 12 years in the pond. So he established Theerthagireeswarar on the western banks of the Pond and performed pooja to Theerthagireeswarar. Since, a conch appears once in this pond once in 12 years this pond is known as Sangu Theertham. If the water level of the pond rises and the Theerthgireeswarar gets immersed into the water and only after the water level lowers we can get the dharshan of the lord. The conch appeared in the pond in September 2011. 

6. THIRUKAZHUKUNDRAM

RUDHRAKOTEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 13 kms from Chengulpet

Shiva: Rudhrakoteeswarar

Amman: Pennin Nallal or Abirami

Sthala Viruksham: Vilva tree

Theertham: Rudhra Theertham

Speciality:

The main deity is a suyambhu Murthy. This temple was built about 2500 years ago. Thirunavukarasa Nayanar has referred about this temple in his songs. The Adhikaranandhi is seen with his consort Suyaprabhadevi. We can see the Ambaal in a slightly tilted position.

History:

The Rudhras have worshipped lord Shiva and got relieved of their curses. Thereby Shiva obtained the name as Rudrakoteeswarar. Kaali was so angry and no one could control her. The Ambaal of this temple pacified her and Kaali became calm. So we can see the Ambaal in a slightly tilted position. The Garuda Bagavan was filled with ego and he did not respect any of the Devas. So, the devas approached Lord Shiva to solve the problem. So, Shiva gave the job of removing the ego of Garudan to Nandhi. He obeyed and executed Shiva's order and appeared before Devas along with his consorts.

5. VAYALAKKAVUR

VAASEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 26 kms from Uthiramerur

Shiva: Vaaseeswarar

Amman: Elavarkuzhali

Sthala Viruksham: Vilavam

Speciality:

There are many inscriptions in this temple. From these we learn that the temple is about 2000years old. King Nandhi Varma Pallava had built this temple. There is a holy pond near the temple.

4. EDAMICHI

ATHCHEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 17kms from Chengulpet

Shiva: Atcheeswarar or Thaazhpaleeswarar

Amman: No Amman

Sthala Viruksham: Vilvam

Speciality:

A few years back an old Shiva linga was found in the farm of the village. The people built a small temple for this linga. There is an old Vinayaka temple whose Mooshika (mouse) which is quite big in size. The Vilva tree of this temple has 5 leaves. There is a big Shiva temple named Muktheeswarar in this village.

3. KONERIKUPPAM

RUDHRAKOTEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 2kms from Kanchipuram

Shiva: Rudhrakoteeswarar

Amman: No Amman

Speciality:

There are 2 separate Shiva lingas in this temple. One of them was worshipped by Arjuna and One by Indra. It is believed that Kodi rudras perform daily Poojas here. Some of the villagers say that they have seen a saint during night time in the temple. They also say that a snake comes and surrounds the linga often.

2. PERUMPERKANDIGAI

THANTHONDREESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 26 kms from Tindivanam on the way to Chennai.

Shiva: Thanthondreeswarar

Amman: Thaduthatkondanayaki

Sthala Viruksham: Athi

Speciality:

Thanthondreeswarar is a suyambhu linga made of sand. Thereore the Shiv is covered with a copper Kavasam.

This temple was renovated by Pallavas and Cholas.

There is a Kanaga Durga sannidhi is in a different posture seated over Maan (deer) Vahana with the bulls head under her leg. Around her there is patti, parrot and Vethal. She carries Changu, Chakram and Gadayudham in her hands. People worshipping her get rid of Pithru Dhoshas.

There is a Chamundeeswari Sannidhi who was established by King Vikramaditya who was an ardent devotee of this devi.

After visiting this temple only Vikramaditya went to Woraiyur.

There is a special Kaali called Ranabadhra Kali Sannidhi here. She killed Sandan and Mundan here.

Below the Sthala Viruksham we find Sage Agasthya in the form of a linga. There are 4 Nandhis around the Viruksham. The 4 nandhis are said to be the 4 Sanagadhi Munivars - Sanagar, Snandhar, Sanaadhanar and SanathKumarar.

The Ambaal Thaduthatkondanayaki is believed to perform Abhisheka to lord Shiva using the 'Gomadi Sangu' (this rare conch is found in this temple ). This Komadi Sangu appears only one out of a crore Sangu. This Sangu found here is more than 2000years old.

Inscriptions:

The inscriptions found in the temple state that the temple is more than 5000 years old.

There are inscriptions on the west wall of the Mandapam of the Thanthondreeswarar temple mentions the ancient name of Shiva was Shree Karaneeswarar and the name of the Village was Perumperur.

The inscriptions of the Period of Kulothunga Chola I gives account of the King's achievements and the defeat of Vikkalan and the conquest of Gangamandalam and Singanam. It also records the grant of Land to the Thiru Thanthndri Maha Shree Karaneeswarar Temple at Perumperur also called Thiribhuvananallur.

King Veera Rajendhra Chola I dispelled the dark Kali, took the head of Pandya King, levied tribute from Chera King and subdued the Sinhala country. He gave back Kadaram to the lost King as he fell on the feet of Veera Rajendhra. Raja Kesari Varman Vikramadhevan Veera Rajendhra Chola I seated on the throne after all victories with his queen Ulagamuzhudhudaiyal. He granted lands free of taxes to the temple. Three Padagam which had been lying without being leveled had been dug up and given to the temple. Paddy producing red rice was grown here and the yield was provided to the temple.

History:

Agasthya was sent to the south to balance the weight which was immense in Kailash due to Shiva Parvathi wedding and the whole universe attended the wedding. Agasthya told Shiva that Shiva shound before him in the wedding form with Parvathi whenever he wanted. Shiva assured him that he would do so. On his journey he found a very place for him to perform penance. He also found a Linga made of Sand. He started performing penance. The Chitra Pournami day came. On that day he wanted to see Shiva and Parvathi in the wedding posture. Lord Shiva appeared before him as Uma Maheswarar. Since the linga was formed on its own Lord Shiva obtained the nameThanthondreesarar. Now Shiva is called by this name only. Since Agasthya worshipped the Linga it was earlier called AGASTHEESWARAR in ancient days.

1. THIRUMUKKADU

THIRUMUKKATTEESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 3 kms from Acharapakkam 

Shiva: Thirumukkaatteeswarar

Amman: Mukthambigai

Thirumukkatteeswarar is a suyambhu linga. 

Sthala Viruksham: Vilva tree.

Temple Pond: Kalla Kulam

Speciality:

Constructed before 8th Century.

The Navagraha Sannidhi is between Shiva and Amman Sannidhi.

Amman is in a posture with 1 leg in front which appears as though she is ready to help her devotees.

We find the Saptha Madhar, Nagakrishna and Garuda wearing Naagabarana.

We find Subramanya with his consorts sitting on a peacock which has been carved beautifully and elephant Vahana in front of the Sannidhi.

There are Sannidhis for Bharavar, Suriyan and Chandran.

History:

The story say that Lord Shiva had borrowed a sum of wealth from Kubera. Since he could not repay the debt Kubera was in search of Shiva. Shiva came to this village in the form of a villager. When Kubera came here he covered his face with a cloth (mukkadu) and he pretended to work in the farm. Kubera left the place since he could not identify lord Shiva. Therefore Shiva came to be known as Mukkatteeswarar.

Due to invasions the temple had been destroyed to a certain extent. There was no worship in the temple and the gates were always closed. A person in the village had a dream as though a snake was creeping on him. He had this dream repeatedly. He told about his dream to his villagers. A fortuner told that since the temple was not worshipped and was closed this dream indicated that this temple should be renovated and should be worshipped. The Villager started cleaning the temple and the construction was stopped in the miiddle. Again the same man had a dream that the snake strangled his neck. He was frightened and he told the villagers about the intensity of the dream. This time the villagers took steps and built the temple and started worshipping the Lord.