114. THENNERI

AABATHSAHAYAESWARAR TEMPLE

Distance: 22kms from Kanchipuram

Shiva: Aabathsahayaeswarar or Anandheeswarar

Amman: Aanandhavalli

Sthala Viruksham: Vilvam

Speciality:

The name of the Shiva was earlier known as Anandheeswarar.

This temple was built by Kulothunga Chola the first in 1090AD. 

We find inscriptions on the walls.

Normally the Ambaal of Shiva temples holds Paasam on one hand and Angus on the other. But in this temple Ambaal holds Paasam on both hands.

There is a temple tank nearby.

History:

Once upon a time Elavetti, a village in Karnataka, was full of drought and misery. The Villagers started leaving the place and did not know what to do for their living. A pious saint told the villagers about this temple and asked them to go to Thenneri and perform to Vibhuti Abhishekam to Lord Aabathsahayaeswarar and take back that Vibhuti and spray it through out the Elavetti village. The villagers combinely came here and performed the pooja as they were instructed. They took back the Abhishekavibhuthi to their village and sprayed it throughout the village. The misery of the village disappeared and it became fertile thereafter.

A King who was ruling Kanchipuram was in great crisis when his region was attacked by an enemy ruler. He approached the Shiva of this temple for rescue and the lord blessed him and gave him support. Therefore Lord Shiva got the name Aabhathsahayaeswarar (the lord who helps during hard times).