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.