Navagraha temples are temples devoted to Navagraha - the nine (nava) major celestial bodies (Grahas) of Hindu astronomy. These celestial bodies are named Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangala (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu (North Lunar Node) and Ketu (South Lunar Node). The term Navagraha temples refers to a cluster of nine separate temples, each an abode of one of the Navagrahas.
Location and Place
Sooriyanar Temple is in East of Kumbakonam, Kumbakonam – Mayiladuthurai road. It is exactly 2Km to the north of Aduthurai and the temple is well connected from lower Anicut and Thiruppanandal.
All the Passengers have to alight at Thirumangalagudi Kaliamman Koil bus stop and walk for two for long north east to reach the temple.
This temple is in the banks of Cauvery in Thiruvidaimarudur Talulk which falls under Tanjore district known as Head Quarters of King Chola.
Rail Route : Piligrims have to get down at Aduthurai Railway Station and catch the bus bound for Lower Anicut to visit the temple.
Two kilometers north of Aaduthurai lies Suryanayanar Koil. It is situated on the road between Kumbakonam and Kadhiramangalam and 15 km to the east of Kumbakonam. There are two other holy places near Suryanar Koil – Thirumangalakudi and Kanjanur. Of the nine grahas, the primary position is given to Lord Surya which is why the first day of the week is said to be Sunday. The seven days of the week refer to the seven grahas, including the Sani Bhagawan.
Location:
Mode of Worship
Thirumangaladudi :
Sooriyanar Koil and Thirumanagalakudi are closely related. Navanayakars did their meditation and offered worship to pranavaradeshvarar and Mangalanayaki.
People who offer worship at Sooriyanar temple have to go to Thirumangaladudi to offer worship there. In early days both places were same and it was called ‘Argavamam’ before dividing. Both the temples have Erukan plant as ‘Thalavirukcha’
Thirumangalakudi Temple is a famous temple. Both Thirunavukkarasar and Thiruganasambandar had rendered songs of lord Siva. Mangalakudi, Mangala Vinayagar, Mangala Nayahar, MangalaNayaki and Mangala Theertham are five auspicious ones in Thirumangalakudi.
There is a marked difference of worshipping in this temple from other temples, one has to follow the custom of worshipping.
To offer worship at Sooriyanar Temple, one has to reach the Rajagopuram (Main Entrance) and more towards North where Pushkarani of temple is located. One can take bath in the tank or sprinkle holy water in the head as purification.
Next after the bath one has to offer prayers at the RajaGopuram before entering the temple. After entering the temple, one has to turn towards Southeren side where Koltheertha Vinayagar is placed. One has to do the Sankalpam and Archana as Hindus find Vinayagar as turnover of all obstacles.
After worshipping Vinayagar, one has to Climb steps to reach ‘Narthana Mandapam’ at Northern Side and then more towards ‘Sabanayakar Mandapam’ where one can offer prayers to ‘Urchava Moorthi’.
After Sabanayakar Mandapam one can reach ‘Main Mandapam’ and offer prayers to SriKasivisvanathar and Smt. Visalakshi.
Next to Main Mandapam, there is Maha Mandapam where Sannathi to Sun-God, there is Guru Bhavan(lord Jupitee) stands there. People do the Archana for Guru and offer prayers to lord Sun. One has to move South wards to come out of Sanctum to reach the lord Saturn (Sani). Lord Kuja, lord Mars are placed separately then more northwards to offer prayers to lord Moon and Kethu. Next movement would be towards west where lord Sukra and Raghu are placed. Finally one has to offer prayers to Sandikeswarar.
After finishing prayers at Sandikeswarar, one has to come clockwise to reach the vinayakar to give final prayers,After all the prayers are over, one would reach the ThothaSampatnam (flag post) and prostrate before it. Then nine rounds of the temple is a must. After nine rounds again one has to prostrate and mediatate on the nine planets for some times.
The eighth graha is Raaghu. Of the seven days in a week, 10 hours are reserved for Raaghu, i.e., one-and-a-half hours per day. This one-and-a-half hour is what we call as ‘Raaghu kalam’.
The ninth graha is called Kedhu. Like for Raaghu, the same amount of time is reserved for Kedhu also. These one-and-a-half hours is called ‘Yama kandam’.
Raaghu kalam and Yama kandam are believed to be inappropriate for performing auspicious deeds.
History:
Lord Siva, pleased with their devotion absolved them of their sins and decried that there will be nine sannadhis for the navagrahas in the Suryanar temple (this is the only temple where all the navagrahas are present with separate sannadhis) and those who pray here will get relief from their problems.
Those who suffer the ill effects of Kalathara Dosham, Vivaha Paribandha Dosham, Puthra Dosham, Puthra Paribandha Dosham, Vidhya Paribandha Dosham, Udyoga Padhibandha Dosham, Surya dasai, Surya bukthi would benefit from worshipping at this temple. Father, Athma, physical strength, right eye, governmental largesse are the beneficial aspects of this planet.
If one bathes in the nine ghats in this place continuously for 12 Sundays, they will be saved from sufferings and blessed with a happy and peaceful life.
Sree Surya Puranam When the world came into existence, the first sound that reverberated was ‘Ohm’. Surya was born from this ‘Omkara naadham’. Sree Markandeya Puranam has explained this factor. Suryan was the son of Sage Kashyap and was the grandson of Sage Maarisi. Surya married Soorvarsala, the daughter of Viswakarma. Vaivasvatha Manu and Yamadharmarajan were his sons and Yamuna, his daughter. It should be mentioned here that the chariot of Surya has only one wheel. It is drawn by seven horses in seven colors. Lord Surya, who is the chief of the grahams, appears with a lotus in his divine hands. Surya Bhagawan blesses his devotees with good health, fame and efficient management.
The presiding deities are Puranavaradheeswarar and his consort Mangalanayaki. Surya is the Lord of Simma Rasi and occupies the central place amongst the navagrahas. The adidevatha is Agni, prathyutha Devatha – Rudran. His color is red and his vahana is a chariot drawn by seven horses. The grain associated with his is wheat; the flower – lotus, yerukku; fabric – red clothes; gem – ruby; food – wheat, rava, chakkara pongal.Suryanaar Koyil was built by the Chola kings.
Build
Inscriptions from the period of Kulottunga Chola I (1075-1120) refer to this temple as the Kulottunga Chola Martanda Alayam. Kulottunga Chola is said to have had a good relationship with the Gahadwal dynasty of Kanauj (1090 – 1194), whose rulers were Sun worshippers, and hence Suryanar Koyil, is considered to be an expression of their influence in South India.
The temple the tower of the temple is 15.5 meter in height and consists of three tiers. At the top of the tower are five domes. To the north of the rajagopuram lies the sacred bathing ghat, called Surya Pushkarni. It is important to bathe in this ghat before offering worship at the temple. If not, one should at least sprinkle its water on one’s head.
Special features of the temple All the grahams face Surya Bhagawan in this temple. As soon as one enters the temple, there is a sacrificial platform (Bali peetam). To its east lies a mandap where one can see an idol of a horse. The Lord’s vehicle is the horse (vaahanam) which goes by the name ‘Saptha, meaning seven in Sanskrit. The one-wheeled chariot is drawn by seven horses.
Timing
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According to Atharvana Veda, one who worships Surya Bhagawan will be relieved from diseases pertaining to the eyes and heart. This temple is open from 6 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on all days.
Festivals
Requirements for worshipping the Lord Flower – Senthamarai (Red Lotus)
Samith (sacrificial fuel ) – Erukku ( madar plant )
Dhaniyam (grain) – Wheat
Vasthram – Lotus red
Neivedhyam – Sakkarai pongal
Ratha Saptami in the Tamil month of Thai, and the first Sundays in the months of Aavani (Leo) and Kartikai(Scorpio) and Vijaya Dasami are celebrated in this temple.
Mantra for Sun - Aum hrim hrim suriyaye namah Aum
Temple Timings - 6 A.M. to 12.30 P.M. and 4 P.M. to 8 P.M.
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About Temple:
This is the second significant temple of navagrahangal situated at thingaloor near thiruvayaru of tanjore district., The chandra bagavan temple is inpregenated in arul migu Kailasanadhar swamy temple and situated 33kms away from kumbakonam.
This temple will remain opened from 7.00AM to 1.00PM and 4.00PM to 9.00PM. Abishegam and arathanai can be done at the rate of Rs.300/-.
History
Chandran is also hailed as Thingal and his abode is Thingalur. it is here that Chandran prayed to Lord Siva and got his blessings. As Chandran is held in the locks of Lord Siva, all devotees who worship Easwaran have also to worship this planet. The Devas and asuras were churning the paarkadal using Mandira Malai and the snake Vasuki. The asuras held the head portion of the snake and the devas, the tail portion. The poison emitted by Vasuki was consumed by Lord Siva to save the devas, but the toxicity of venom affected the Devas who swooned on its impact. Alongwith the nectar (amirtham), Chandran emerged and it was he who revived the Devas.
Apputhi Adigal was born in Thingalur. he was an ardent follower of Thirunavukkarasar, without ever laying his eyes on the great soul. He did a lot of welfare activity in his hometown in the name of Thirunavukkarasar. During his visit to this holytown Thirunavukkarasar heard about Apputhi Adigal and visited his abode and consented to partake in the meal offered in his honour. To serve food for Thirunavukkarasar, Apputhi Adigal sent his son to the garden to fetch a plantain leaf. When on this errand, a snake bit him and the lad passed away. Not wishing to disappoint his guest, Apputhi Adigal covered the corpse of his son and tried to serve his mentor. But realising the situation, Thirunavukkarasar carried the corpse to the temple of Lord siva in Thingalur and revived the boy singing and imploring the Lord with Thirupadigam.
Dosham to mother, mental retardation, skin and nerve problems, jaundice, fluid accumalation are the diseases caused because of Chandra dosham. By praying to Lord Chandran, the above afflictions can be overcome. Wealth, mother’s/wife’s happiness, Govt’s help, ownership of vehicle, marriage, offsprings, prosperity, foreign travel will be bestowed on his devotees.
The sthalam of Chandran is Thingalur, which is located 36kms from Kumbakonam, enroute to Thiruvaiyaru. Chandran’s wife is Rohini. The presiding deity are Kailasanathar and his consort Periyanayakiamman. Chandran is the Lord of Kadaga Rasi and he faces the South-East direction. The Adi Devatha is water; prathyathi Devatha is Gowri; his colour is white and his vahana is white horse. The grain associated with him is paddy, rice; the folwer – white arali; fabric – white cloth; gem – pearl; food – curd rice.
Mantra for moon – Aum som somaye namah Aum
Or Aum Shrim krim cham chandeaye namah Aum
About Temple:
This temple is situated 16Kms away from mayiladuthurai and 52 Kms away from kumbakonam.During the tamil month of thai a grand festival will held for 10 days and for pankuni bramotchavam abishegam and arathannai will be done for 28days.During Aaypasi Kandasheasti festival will be celebrated for 6 days. Moreover during other important yearly festivals lke deepavali, pongal and new year special abishegam and Aarathanai will be done.
History:
Chevvai Bhagavan is worshipped in the town of Vaideeswaran Koil which is also called Thirupullirukku Velur. Sambathi, Jadayu, Lord Muruga, Suriyan are also reputed to have worshipped in this sthalam. Even diseases that could not get cured by Mani Manthira Aushathangal got cured at this place and the presiding deity came to be called Vaidyanathar. His consort who was the chief of women of both worlds is hailed as Thayal Nayagi. Selva Muthukumarasami of this temple is lovingly called Muthiah. Kumaragurubarasami wrote the book “Muthukumarasami Pillai Thamizh”.
Once, when Lord Shiva was in deep meditation, perspiration from his third eye fell on earth. The male child that was born of this sweat drop was Angaragan (Chevvai). Angaragan married Sakthi Devi of Avanti town and had a son called Sumarasan. Problems from wife/children/brothers, enimity with friends, loss of wealth, quarrels, problems with Govt., lasting poverty, anger, bad friendship, Kalathira Dosham are because of Chevvai. By praying to him, a person can offset the problems arising out of his afflictions. Brothers and sisters, physical strength, victory, valour are the beneficial aspects of this planet.
The sthalam of Chevvai Bhagavan is Vaideeswaran koil, which is located 6kms from Sirgazhi en route to Mayavaram. His wives are Malini, Susilini. The presiding deity are Vaidyanathan and his consort Thaiyal Nayaki.
Chevvai is the Lord of Mesha and Vrichika Rasi and he faces South direction. The Adi Devatha is Boomidevi; Prathyathi Devatha is Kshetra Balagan; his colour is red and his vahana is the ram. The grain associated with him is thuvarai; the flowers – shenbagam and red arali; fabric – red cloth; gem – coral; food- rice mixed with toor dhal powder.
Vaitheswaran Koil, With the Vaitheswaran Koil, there is a special shrine dedicated to Ankarakan or Sevvai or Mars. The belief is that if prayers are offered to Ankarakan, he will bestow valour, victory and strength to the person. Upon entering the temple, devotees first go the Siddamrita tank. The water is said to have curative properties for various skin ailments. There ia also a widespread belief that a visit here would remove obstacles that delay marriage. Mars is regarded as a God of martial character, red in every aspect. Even the Romans held him as their Guru. He is the Son of Earth and is ruled by Lord Subramanya. This town is also called as Pull-irukku-Veloor. Jadayu – the eagle who made a gallant attempt to stop. Ravana from proceeding to Lanka with Sita, got relieved of his wings by Ravana, fell down here and eventually got Moksha. Even today we can see the place where Jadayu was cremated – ‘Jadayu Kundam’.
Vaidheeswaran koil is a crowd puller for many reasons along with the Angarakan. Vaidyanadha Swamy ( shiva ) is believed to cure illness of the ardent devotees. Lot of people throng here everyday, offer their prayers for regaining their health with the grace of the deity. Ambal is called Valambika alias Thaiyal Nayaki.
Festivals:
Kiruthigai is an auspicious day here with special poojas performed for SelvaMuthuKumara Swamy ( Murugan ). Nayanmars, Arunagiri Nadar, kumaraguruparar, kalamega pulavar have visited this temple and sung in praise of the deity. Separate sanctorum for Angaraka is a speciality out here as you cannot find it elsewhere.
Mantra for Mars - Aum namo hanumate hung Aum
Temple Timings - 6 A.M. to 1 P.M. and 4P.M. to 9 P.M
About Temple:
Thiruvenkadu, is a reference to the temple in Valmiki’s Ramayana. Therefore it is said that the oldest part of the temple is more than 3000 years old. Dedicated to Budhan or Mercury this temple in Thiruvenkadu makes up the last of the Navagraha Temples. Budhan is said to bestow wisdom and intellect. Budha or Mercury is considered as the greatest among the wise. This Devata bestows wisdom and wealth on his devotees. He is ruled by Lord Maha Vishnu. This temple is referred in ‘Saiva Thirumurais’ and Sastras. This place is similar to Kasi with all the Snana Ghats.
One can do all the karmas here, that is supposed to be done in kasi. We can find a separate sanctum sanctorum for bhudan. Bhudan holds the portfolio of Education and Arts and it is the next popular place students prefer to go after Tuition centers.
This temple is situated at thiruvenkadu 59Kms away from kumbakonam and 23 Kms away from mayiladuthurai.Bus root from sirkali – Bus No 5a, 5b to poombukar to sirkazhi and from Mayiladuthurai to perunthottam 34,Anantha Nangoor 28,Mangai Madam 12, Illaya Madhu Koodam 4. Rest rooms are also available in this temple.
Also known as Aadi Chidambaram, Natarajar’s dance here is known as Hasti Natanam. Tiruvenkadu is considered to be on par with Benares and is located on the road linking Sirkazhi & Poompuhaar. Nearby Shivastalams include KeezhtirukkattuppalliTiruvalampuram, TiruchaaikaaduPallavaneeswaram and Tirukkalikkaamur.
Meikandar
Acchuthagapanar bathed in the three tanks, worshipped Thiruvengadar and he was blessed with a child. This child came to be known as Meikandar and became the chief of Chandanakuravars.
Pattinathuadigal
Thiruvengadar, the son of Sivanesan and Gnanambigai, with the blessings of a Siva Muni received Siva Ditchai and a Siva Linga and came to be called Pattinathu Adigal.
Indran
Indran to make remedies for his sin of having killed Virudhasuran, worshipped Lord Thiruvengadar & was absolved of his sins.
Iravadam
Sage Durvasar gifted a mala to Indran. Indran, in his vanity threw it on his white elephant Iravadam which stamped the mala under its feet. Durvasar cursed Indran to turn into a wild elephant. Indran realising his folly formed a tank (Thadagam) in Thiruvengadu and worshipped a Siva Linga. He was blessed by Lord Siva and absolved of his sins and reached Indralogam again.
Vedarasi
Vedarasi, a brahmin had placed his bundle of food in the hollow of a tree. A snake residing in the hollow, spewed poison on the food. Unaware of this, Vedarasi gave this food to a vedic priest, who died of the poison. This brahmin was absolved of his Brahmahathi Dosham by worshipping Lord Siva of Thiruvengadu.
Suwedakedu
Suwedakedu on realising that he was destined to die in his eighth year, reached Thiruvengadu and performed Siva pooja. As soon as he saw Yama, he held on to the Siva Linga tightly. Yama on seeing Thiruvengadar, ran away in fear and died. On the request of the Devas, the Lord brought Yama back to life.
Those who visit Thiruvengadu will find relief from puthira dosham, poor studies, mental instability, nervous disorders. Knowledge, music, astrology, maths, sculpting, medicine, language skills are the beneficial aspects of Budan. The sthalam of Budan is Thiruvengadu, which is located 15kms from Sirgazhi enroute to Poompuhar. Budan’s wife is Ilai. The presiding deities are Swedharanyeshwarar and his consort Ambal. Budan is the Lord of Mithunam and Kanni Rasi and he faces the North-East direction. The Adi Devatha is Vishnu and the Prathyathi Devatha Narayanan; his colour is light green; his vahana – the horse; the grain associated with him is full green moong dhal; the flower – white kanthal flower; fabric- green cloth; gem – maragadam; food – rice mixed with moong dhal powder.
Mantra for Marcury
Aum Mahalakshmaye vidmahe
Vishnu Priyaye dhi mahi
Tanno Lakshmi Prachodayat
Navagraha Planets And Color:
| Planet | Color | Gem | Grain | Metal |
| Sun | Red | Ruby | Wheat | Bronze |
| Moon | White | Pearl | Paddy/Rice | Lead |
| Mars | Red | Coral | Bengal Gram - Red Lentil Gram | Copper |
| Mercury | Green | Emerald | Green Gram | Mercury |
| Jupiter | Yellow | Sapphire | Indian Yellow Split Peas (split Gram Lentil) Chana Dal | Gold |
| Venus | White | Diamond | Soya Gram | Silver |
| Saturn | Blue | Blue Sapphire | Sesame (Gingili) | Iron & Steel |
| Rahu | Black | Zircon | Black Gram | Rocks-Blackstone |
| Ketu | Multi-color | Cat's Eye | Horse gram | Red stones |
About Temple:
People's whose Birth star sign is Punarvasu Nakshatra have to visit Arulmigu Abathsagayeswarar temple - Alangudi in Tamil Nadu twice in an year or atleast once in an year. Should stay in the temple or premises for two and half hours. Visit the Temple in your Birth star or Nakshatra i.e visit the temple on Punarvasu Nakshatra
Arulmigu Abathsagayeswarar Temple - Alangudi
Punarvasu Nakshatra : Arulmigu Abathsagayeswarar temple - Alangudi Lord Guru Bhagavan or Lord Dakshinamurthy is one of the "Navagrahas" and is referred to the planet Jupiter, and Alangudi is the "Guru Stalam" dedicated to the planet Jupiter. Thursday is an auspisious day for Lord Guru Bhagavan. The temple here is known as the "Arulmigu Abathsagayeswarar temple" where the main deity is Lord Shiva. The presiding diety's are, Lord Ganesha/Vinayagar known here as "Sri Kalangamar Katha Vinayagar". Lord Shiva (Shiva is in the form of a lingam and known as "Sri Abathsagayeshwarar"). The lingam is the 'Suyambu' Lingam. Lord DakshinaMurthy also known as "Sri Guru Bhagavan" or "Brahaspati". Goddess "Sri Elavarkuzhali Ammai" (Umayammai). There are also diety's of Lord Murugan (Subramanyam) with his consorts; and Goddess Lakshmi.
History of the Temple:
Legend has it that Alangudi is the place where Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison as emitted during the churning of the 'paarkadal' (Sea of milk). Hence the place is known as Alangudi, which literally mean ‘the place where Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison’. The Devas, when churning the paarkadal for nectar, were hindered by the poisonous fumes from the snake Vasuki and prayed to Lord Siva for deliverance. Lord Siva consumed the deadly poison (Ala Visham) , thus giving rise to the name Alangudi to this sthalam and the Lord was known as "Aabathsagayeshwarar" (One who defends from the danger). Devas also had a horrid time by Gajamuha suran and Lord Ganesha subdued Gajamuhasuran, and hence Lord Ganesha is worshipped in this sthalam as 'Kalangaamal kaatha Vinayagar'.
Goddess Parvati undertook severe penance to marry Lord Siva and then married Lord Siva and hence this place is also hailed as Thirumana Mangalam. Lord Siva as a ferryman (boatman) helped Sundaramurthy Swamigal to cross the river Vettaru, a branch of river cauvery, 3 km away from Alangudi, which was in spate, to reach this place.
The boat capsized hitting a rock, on the way. Lord Siva seated on his Rishaba Vahana helped him reach the sthala safely. Sundarar received his Gnana upadesam after his darshanam of Dakshinamurthy at this sthalam. This sthalam is the Parivara sthalam for Madhyarjuna Mahalinga Peruman. This is the fourth amongst the Panchavarunya Sthalas. Vishwamithrar, Thirumal, Brahma, Lakshmi, Garuda, Ashta Thikku Balagas, Ayyanar, Veera Badrar, Mukunda Chakravarthy, Suvasanan, Sundarar have worshipped at this sthala.
Thiru Gnanasambandar has sung in praise of the Lord here and is the 98th temple among the 127 temples located on the southern bank of Cauvery. It is one among the 274 "Padal Petra Sthalams" in Chola Dynasty.
Poojas and Worship for Lord Guru
Legend has it that Lord Dakshinamurthy is said to have preached the Devas who were swooned under the impact of the poison that came out of the churning of the milky ocean. He is called as Brahaspathi or Brihaspati for his excellence in education and fine arts.
Thursday is auspicious to him. Yellow color garment and chick pea (konda kadalai) are offered to bring happiness to a Guru devotee. It is believed that students, in order to excel in education, can offer kondakadalai garland (chick pea is soaked in water and made as a garland) to Lord Guru. Large numbers of devotees throng here during Guru Peyarchi, that is when Jupiter transits between zodiac signs.
New Moon Day (Ammavasai), Full Moon Day (pournami), Guruhorai, Days falling on stars like punarpoosam, Visagam and Pooratathi are very auspicious for Sri Guru Bhagavan. Offering prayers on these days are more special.
Four worship services are offered daily. The temple opens daily from 5:30 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 8 pm.
Temple Festivals
Annual Bhrammotsavam is celebrated in the Tamil month of Chittirai. Also Hindu festival including Navaratri, Skanda Sashti, Aadi Puram, Arudra Darisanam, Kartikai Deepam, Thai Poosam and Pankuni Uththiram are celebrated here with much religious fervor. Guru Peyarchi, the transit of Guru (Planet Jupiter) from one zodiac sign to another, is another major festival celebrated in the temple.
How to reach there:
Alangudi is a small town in the Cauvery delta region, situated in the Tiruvarur district of TN, around 17 km south of Kumbakonam, enroute to Mannargudi, and 7 km north of Needamangalam. Kumbakonam is nearest major town to reach Alangudi.
By Road
There are many buses plying from Kumbakonam to Mannargudi which stops at Alangudi. There are also plenty of taxi's available from Kumbakonam which can be hired for half a day.
By Rail
Needamangalam Railway Station, on the Thanjavur - Thiruvarur rail route, is the nearest railhead, which is 7 km from Alangudi. Other than that Kumbakonam is another major railway station. One has to however reach Alangudi by road from either Needamangalam or Kumbakonam.
Reaching Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam is well connected by rail and road from Chennai and Bangalore, and all the major cities in TN.
About Temple:
This temple is situated 16KM away from kumbakonam and this temple belongs to madurai Sri Thirugnanasambantha Swamigal Aatheenam.
This temple will remain opened from 6.30AM to 12.30PM and 4.00PM to 8.30PM.
Kanchanur,the Shiva Sthalam is associated with Sukran or Venus and is maintained by the Madurai Adinam. It is Located in a quite hamlet of Thiruvaaduturai.This Shrine is also referred to as Palaasavanam, Brahmapurai and Agnisthalam. Brahma is said to have had a vision here of Shiva’s wedding with Parvati.Men visit to pray for the well being of their wives. Sukra or Venus is the bestower of long life, wealth, happiness, children, property and good education. He is ruled by Goddess Mahalakshmi.
The presiding deity Agneeswarar is the embodiment of Sukran. Sukrachariar was the Guru of asuras. He had got the blessings from Lord Siva after severe penances. In the Vamana Avataram of Lord Vishnu, Vamana sought three foot steps of land from Mahabali, an asura king. Realising Vamana to be no mere mortal, Sukrachariyar assumed the form of a bee and tried to block the flow of water from the kamandalam. Vamana picking up a pavithram blinds Sukracharya in one eye while trying to unclog the hole in the kamandalam.
Sukracharyar has the prowess to bring the dead to living by virtue of his knowledge of Amirtha Sanjeevini Mantra. Using this mantra, in the asura war against the devas, he revived the slain asuras. This helped the asura army swell. The devas prayed to Lord Siva for help, who swallowed up Sukracharya in a fit of rage. After residing in Lord SIva’s stomach in a siddha state, he emerged from Lord Siva’s stomach.
Sukra endows those who pray to him with wealth, pleasure, wife, prosperity, vehicles. He is the next most beneficial planet after Guru. If in a person’s horoscope, Sukra is well placed, then the person will enjoy pleasure, beautiful wife, wealth, house, vehicle, good food, fame, love, affection, marraige, siblings, governmental help, chance to govern the country/state and hold influential status.
If in a bad position, the ward will experience a family devoid of love and ties, bad life, enimity amongst family and friends, Kalathira dosham. By praying to Sukra these problems could be mitigated. Wife, arts, sculpture, love, vehicles are the beneficial aspects of Sukra.
The sthalam of Sukra Bhagavan is Kanjanur, which is located Agneeswarar, enroute to Mayavaram. His wives are Subakirthi, Sundari and Sringini. The presiding deity are Agneeswarar and his consort Iswari. He is the Lord of Rishaba and Thula Rasi and faces East direction. The Adi Devatha is Indra’s physician. His colour is white; his vahana is the crocodile; the grain associated with him is mochai; the flower – white lotus; fabric – white cloth; gem – diamond; food – rice mixed with mochai powder.
Festivals: Six worship services are offered each day here. A festival commemorating Haradatta Sivacharyar is celebrated in the Tamil month of Thai each year. Mahasivaratri, Arudra Darisanam, Navaratri and Aadi Pooram are celebrated here.
Mantra for Venus – Aum jung, hang sa bhur bhuvan swa kartike namah
swa bhuvan bhur sa hang jung aum
Temple Timings – 7 A.M. to 12.30 P.M. and 4P.M. to 8 P.M.
The name “TIRUNALLARU” is said to represent the association of Nala of the Nishadha country who got his deliverance from the evil effects of Shani (Saturn) by invoking the Lord’s mercy here. (Nala+Aru-Nallaru). The word “Aru” also conveys the meaning “to heel” and the two words taken together will mean Nala’s place of redemption or the pace where Nala secured his redemption from the hold of Saturn through the Lord’s Grace. Others are inclined to read the meaning ‘between rivers’ in the name Nal-Aru, as this place is situated in the midst of two rivers in the north i.e. Noolaru and Vanchiaru, and one in the south, Arasalaru.
And this name as such occurs in the earlier padikam as wel as in the Inscriptions. Besides, the name of Nallaru this sacred plaee has also other name such as Adipuri, Darbharanyam, Nagavidangapuram, Naleswaram etc
History:
As per the history of the temple, the great King Nala of Puranic fame was relieved of the affliction of Lord Saturn or Lord Saneeswaran after worshipping the Lord consecreted in this temple.Whoever visits this temple and prays before Lord Saneeswaran is believed to have been relieved of all the curses and sufferings and get the blessings of Lord for a happy and prosperous life.
When the Planet Saturn transits between zodiac signs, literally millions throng this shrine. The Legendary King Nala is said to have been relieved of his affictions, which were due to the malefic influence of Saturn, after worships in this temple.
The moolavar of Dharbarenyeswarar is Swayambu Lingam.Poojas are performed 6 times(6 kalams) by the Brahmin priests.Poojas like Ashtothra Archana, Abhishegam, Sahasranama Archana and Navagraha Shanthi Homam are performed daily but Homams are not accepted on Saturdays.Facilities are also available to perform the following poojas on behalf of devotees and to send the prasadam (viboothy and kumkum) by post who wish to pay the prescribed amount.The Important festivals celebrated in the temple are the following :-
Adi Pooram festival for one day for Ambal in July-August.
Vinayaga Chathurthi festival for Vinayagar for one day in August-September.
Navarathri Kolu, Ambu festival in September-October.
Soorasamharam festival for seven days for Subramanyar in October-November.
Thiruvathirai festival for ten days in December-January.
Festivals:
Sivarathri festival for Chandrasekarar and Ambal in February March.
The Brahmortsavam festival in Vaikasi.
Sanipeyarchi festival for two days once in two and half years when “Sani” changes his gruha or place.
Apart from these festivals, Special Abhishegam are also held in the Temple throughout the year on important occassions.
Among the Navagrahas, Lord Saturn (Saneeswarar) occupies an important place.
A malefic Saturn in one’s horoscope is believed to cause miseries and hardships which can be mitigated by worshipping him.According to astrology, Saneeswaran moves from one sign (house) to the next in the Zodiac once in 2-1/2 years and the day of his transit is observed as a festival in Thirunallar.
On the day previous to the day of transit, religious discourses and entertainments are arranged.On the festival day, Thiruppavai and Thiruvembavai are chanted at 5.00 a.m. An Abhishegam on a grant scale is performed for the Lord Saneeswara Baghavan.Oil, Milk, Curd, Rose-Water, Tender Coconut water, Fruit juice etc., are used for the Abhishegam.
The place was originally a forest of Dharba grass and it is stated that the Lingam even now has impressions left by the Dharba weeds within which it was situated.The Lord here is also known as “ADHIMOORTHY or NALLARAR”.The great Saivite saints Thirugnanasambhandar, Sundaramurthy Swamigal, Thirunavukkarasar and Arunagirinadhar have worshipped at this shrine and sung about the glory of the Lord.
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“PACHAI PADHIGAM” sung by the great saint Thirugnanasambhandar is very famous one.
Of the numerous tanks theertams, the Nala theertam is the important one. By bathing here, it is belived that one washes off all kinds of misfortune , afflictions and to escape from the woes of sani. Saniswara or Saturn, is generally known to affect one adversely on occasions when he occupies certain positions in one’s
horoscope.A prayer to him, especially on Saturdays, is said to mitigate the hardships one will have to face during these periods. Saniswara is considered equally a bestower of all benefits to the devotees who pray sincerely to him. He is ruled by Lord Yama.
Mantra for Saturn – Aum aing hring shring shung shanaishcharaye namah aum
How To Reach Thirunallar Temple:
Air : The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli, 168 Kms. away
Rail : The nearest Railway Station is Nagore, 10 Kms. away from here.
Road: Karaikal is connected directly from Chidambaram, Mayiladurai, Kumbakonam,
Thanjavur, Thiruchirappalli, Thiruvarur, Velankanni, Nagappattinam.
Kumbakonam – 64 Kms.(Towards West)
Thanjavur - 103 Kms.(Towards West)
Tiruchirapalli – 168 Kms.( Towards West)
Nagore – 10 Kms. (Towards South)
Nagappattinam – 19 Kms. (Towards South)
Velankanni – 26 Kms. (Towards South : via – Nagore, Nagappattinam)
Chidambaram – 57 Kms. (Towards North on East Coast)
Pondicherry - 135 Kms. (Towards North on East Coast)
Chennai – 294 Kms. (Towards North on East Coast)
Bus Service : Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation, Pondicherry Tourism & Transport
Development Corporation and other private buses are available.
About Temple:
Thirunageshwaram is one of the 127 temples on the southern banks of river Cauvery. It is one of the Panchakrosa Sthalas. The presiding Deity is Arulmigu Giri Gujambika Sametha Naganathaswamy. The Raaghu Sannathi (Nagaraja Shrine) is on the South-West direction of the second prakara. ThiruJnana Sambandar, Thiru navukarasu Nayanar, ThiruSundramoorthi Nayanar, and Arunagiri Swamigal have praised the glory of the Lord. The Thirunagechurappuranam which was written by Singaravelu pillai contains sufficient information about the temple. The Chola KingKandaraathithya (950AD-957AD) changed it into a granite edifice. The inner Mantapa was built by Seikkizhar, as it was a favourite place to him. Govinda Dikshitar (17th century A.D.) a minister to Acchuthappa nayak, constructed the outer mantapa. Sambumali, a King built the beautifulSurya Puskarani beautifully. The roof and other renovation work were done by Arimalazham Annamalai Chettiar. Gnaniyar Swamigal, the great saiva scholar, who was the pontiff at the Mutt at Thiruppapuliyur, was born here
Siva , hence this place is named ‘Thirunageshwaram’. Further Raaghu had received a boon from Siva for bestowing grace and prosperity to those who worship Him with devotion. He took His abode as God with His two consorts. As per the Sthalapuranam, there are two Shrines (Sannidhis) for the Presiding Deity (Moorthi)
1. Naganatha Shrine
2. Arthanareeswara Shrine
There are two Shrines for the Goddess also.
1. Piraiyanivanudalumai Shrine
2. GiriGujambika Shrine
The Jothisha Sastra (Astrololgy) states that if Raaghu is in good position in one’s horoscope He will bestow all prosperity (including Raja Yoga) to him and that person becomes a Kubera . If he is not in a good position and guilty (Dhosha) a person gets worst results and his life will be miserable. Therefore one should satisfy Raaghu (one of the 9 planets) by worshipping Him. One’s marriage will be delayed if Raaghu is in the 7th place in a horoscope. If he is in the 5th place, the Jaathaka (person) will not beget a child. In order to nullify Kalasthra dhosha, Naga dhosa and Putra dhosha one should worship Raaghu. People afflicted with Nagadhosa should perform oblations.
Literature:
Sculpture :
There are some ancient sculptures in the Mantapas. The horse and lion figures on the pillars, Adhikaranandi, Seikkilar,Balaravoyar,his brother and their mother, Sambandar, Appar, Sundarar, Manikkavasagar, Bairava, Nataraja, and others are very beautiful. The thousand pillared mantapa is designed like a chariot having artistic stone wheels.
Some special features:
Thirumal, Brahma, Indra, Surya, Chandra, (Devas), Gautama, Markanteya, Parasara, (saints), Nala, Bageeratha, Chandravarma, andSambumali (Kings) worshipped and got rid of their afflictions.
There is a separate shrine to Goddess Girigujambika. Lakshimi and Saraswathi are standing on either side of Her. There is no daily Abhiseka(oblation) to the Goddess, as it is a stucco Indra was cursed by Gautama Rishi. He got deliverance by worshipping the Goddess by adorning Her with civet. From that day onwards the Goddess has been bedecked with unguent, especially civet (punugu) in a particular day once in a year.
The milk poured (Abhiseka) to Raaghu changes into light blue color.
Pathirruppatthandathi written by Swaminatha Mudaliar, Piraiyani Vanuthalumaiyaval Maalai written by Sonachala Mudaliar,Kundrumamulaiammai Thotthiram written by Vetta Veli Swamigal are the important books about the temple. The following books are not available at present for reprint. They are Naganatha Venba, Kundrumulaianthathi, Kompanai Maalai .
Temple (Holy) Tree (Sthalavirutsha):- Sambaka tree (Champak),
Sacred Tank (Theertham):- There are 12 Theerthams
1. Surya 2. Yama 3. Brahma
4. Chandra 5. Agni 6. Durga
7. Gowthama 8. Paraasara 9. Indra
10. Bruhu 11. Kanva 12.Vashista
Poojas and Festivals:
Five kala poojas (5times worship) are being done everyday. Special Abhisekas are performed between 4.30 to 6 p.m. (Raaghu Kala) in all Sundays.
Tirunageswaram,Raaghu is the king of snakes and since he worshiped lord shiva the place was named as Thirunageshwaram. This temple is situated 6kms away from kumbakonam
Offering worship at (Nageswarar temple) in the morning, at noon and at in the evening on a given day is considered to be of special significance.
Legend has it that the mythological serpents Aadi Seshan, Dakshan and Kaarkotakan worshipped Shiva here. Legend also has it that Nala worshipped Shiva here as in Gowtama muni, Paraasarar and Bhageerata are also associated with legends related to this temple.The king of the nagas, Rahu prayed to Lord Siva and hence this place got the name Thirunageswaram. Here Rahu Bhagavan has manifested with both his consorts. At this sthala, the colour of milk changes from white to blue during Abhishekam. On 16.2.86, a snake had shed off its outer skin on Rahu Bhagavan, which is preserved and worshipped to date.
The abode of Uppiliappan, which is also hailed as ‘South Tirupathi’, is situated very close to this temple. Of the 127 temples located to the South of river Cauvery, this temple is amongst the most prominent.
Suryan, Vinayagar, Gautamar, Nalan, Parasarar, Pandavas, Vasishtar, Indran, Brahma, Bageerathan, Chandrasenan, Adiseshan, Kakkan Karkodagan, Sounagar, Nargunan have prayed and benefited at this sthala.
King Sambumali who had incurred the wrath of sage Kaalangiri, attained moksha after bathing in the temple tank and praying to the Lord and Ambal of this temple.
The devas and asuras churned the Paarkadal to obtain amirtham that would free them from death, keeping them alive for ever. When the amirtham emerged, Lord Vishnu in the guise of Mohini was distributing the amirtham only to the devas. He was worried that the evil deeds of the asuras will increase multifold if they consumed amirtham. Realising this, one of the asuras with the help of the asura guru Sukrachariyar, took the form of a deva and consumed the nectar. Suryan and Chandran who noticed this, complained to Lord Narayana. In anger, Lord Narayana hit the asura on the head with the spoon in his hand. The head was cut off and fell on the ground. But because the asura had consumed amirtham, his head and body continued to live. The body of a snake got attached to the head to become Rahu Bhagavan. Rahu prayed to Lord Vishnu (Narayana) and got the position of a Sayagraham. Rahu takes his revenge on Suryan and Chandran, whenever he gets a chance by devouring them. This is commonly called as eclipse.
Relief From Doshams:
Rahu is the source of plenty. Kalathra dosham, puthira dosham, communicable diseases, mental disorders, leprosy, fall in grace are caused by Rahu dosham.
Praying to Rahu at this sthala helps rids a person from these factors and also saves the person from all poisonous life forms. Trips to holy places, Gnanamarkam are his beneficial aspects.
Festivals:
The annual Bhramotsavam is observed in the month of Kartikai while the Sekkizhaar festival is celebrated in the month of Vaikasi.
Mantra for Rahu
Aum rang rahuve namah aum
The temple conducts six pujas daily
Ushakkala Pooja (6 am),
Kalasandhi Pooja (9 am),
Uchikkala Pooja (1 pm),
Sayaratchai Pooja (5 pm),
Irandam Kala Pooja (7 pm) and
Arthajama Pooja (9 pm).
Rahu kalam
| Day of the week | Rahukala |
| Sunday | 04:30 pm – 06:00 pm |
| Monday | 07:30 am – 09:00 am |
| Tuesday | 03:00 pm – 04:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 12:00 noon – 01:30 pm |
| Thursday | 01:30 pm – 03:00 pm |
| Friday | 10:30 am – 12:00 noon |
| Saturday | 09:00 am – 10:30 am |
| Day | Morning | Evening | |||
| Sunday | 9.30Am | 11.30 Am | *4.30 - 6.00 Pm | ||
| Monday | *7.30 am -9.00 am | - | 5.30 PM | ||
| Tuesday | 9.30 am | *3.00 - 4.30 PM | 5.30 PM | ||
| Wednesday | 9.30 am | - | 5.30 PM | ||
| Thursday | 9.30 am | *1.30 -3.00 PM | 5.30 PM | ||
| Friday | 10.30 am - 12.00 am | - | 5.30 PM | ||
| Saturday | 9.00 - 10.30 | 11.30 AM | - | 5.30 PM | |
Reputation of the place:
There are six holy places equal to Kashi. Thiruvengadu is one among them. Here everything is three – the presiding deity, holy water and the holy tree. Of the nine planets, Thiruvengadu belongs to Mercury. This is one among the 51 Sakthi Peethas. Thiruvengadu has the pride of being sung by the Great Four, Thirugnanasambandar, Thirunavukkarasar (Appar), Sundarar and Manickavasagar. Of the 64 Murthas of Lord Shiva, the Agoramurthy form is here. Here the Lord performed Six dances. This is also called Adhi Chidambaram. The Chidambara Rahasya is also here. Vishnu has a place near the Nataraja here as in Chidambaram. Indira, Iravadha (the white elephant) Vishnu, Sun, Moon, Agni (fire) worshipped the Lord. It is in Thiruvengadu Pattinathar had Sivadiksha, ascesticism.
This temple is situated 57Kms away from kumbakonam and 3kms from poombukar.
This temple will remain open from 6.00AM to 12.00PM and 3.30PM to 8.30PM and also be kept opened during Raaghu kalam and Emakandam.
Separate Sannidhi for Mercury:
Of the nine planets, Mercury is the lord to bless with good education, knowledge, eloquence, music, astrology, mathematics, sculpture, medicine, scholarship in languages. A temple for Chandra (moon) the father of Mercury is just opposite to the Mercury with Chandra Pushkarani theertha. If mercury is not favourably placed in a horoscope, the native may not have children. Also he/she will have nervous debility and lack of knowledge. They have to propitiate Lord Mercury. Musicologists and film makers worship Mercury.
This is an ancient Saivite shrine where legend has it that Kethu, one of the 9 celestial bodies central to astrological beliefs worshipped Shiva.
Keezhperumpallam, is an ancient Shaivite temple and legend has it that Kethu, the other planetary node of the nine celestial bodies worshipped Shiva here. Rahu and Kethu are associated with legend of the serpent that helped Lord Shiva churn the milky ocean. There is a Shrine dedicated to Kethu in this temple. Ketu brings prosperity to the devotee’s family. He grants good health, wealth, cattle and all round prosperity. He is ruled by Lord Ganesha and Indra. . Those who are affected by Kethu dosha come here for rectification.
This place is also called Vanagiri. Kethu prayed to Naaganaadhaswami and was blessed and rid of his sins by Lord Siva. It is rare to find Kethu with his head. At this sthala, he can be seen worshipping Naaganaadhaswami with his folded hands held high.
The devas and asuras churned the Paarkadal to obtain amirtham that would free them from death, keeping them alive for ever. When the amirtham emerged, Lord Vishnu in the guise of Mohini was distributing the amirtham only to the devas. He was worried that the evil deeds of the asuras will increase multifold if they consumed amirtham. Realising this, one of the asuras with the help of the asura guru Sukrachariyar, took the form of a deva and consumed the nectar. Suryan and Chandran who noticed this, complained to Lord Narayana. In anger, Lord Narayana hit the asura on the head with the spoon in his hand. The head was cut off and fell on the ground. But because the asura had consumed amirtham, his head and body continued to live.
The head portion of the asura attached itself to a snake body to become Rahu Bhagavan. The body portion that was thrown away fell in Pothigai mountain region. This was found and preserved by a Brahmin. The head of a snake got attached to the asura body to become Kethu.
Persons afflicted by Kethu dosham are stricken with fears of dacoity, bad habits, loss of property, loss of face, putra dosham. By praying to Kethu Bhagavan, one can be rid of the doshams. Motcham, sight, property, land, gold, vehicle, fame, wife, children, happiness, unexpected property gains are the beneficial aspects of Kethu Bhagavan.
Iravadam
Sage Durvasar gifted a mala to Indran. Indran, in his vanity threw it on his white elephant Iravadam which stamped the mala under its feet. Durvasar cursed Indran to turn into a wild elephant. Indran realising his folly formed a tank (Thadagam) in Thiruvengadu and worshipped a Siva Linga. He was blessed by Lord Siva and absolved of his sins and reached Indralogam again.
Knowledge, business, leprosy, poisonous bites are the aspects of this planet.
Suwedakedu
Suwedakedu on realising that he was destined to die in his eighth year, reached Thiruvengadu and performed Siva pooja. As soon as he saw Yama, he held on to the Siva Linga tightly. Yama on seeing Thiruvengadar, ran away in fear and died. On the request of the Devas, the Lord brought Yama back to life.
The sthalam of Kethu is Keezhperumpallam, which is located 6 kms from Thiruvengaadu, enroute to Poompuhar. His wife is Chitralekha. The presiding deities are Naaganaadaswamy and his consort Ambal. He faces the North-West direction. The Adi Devatha is Chitraguptan and the Prathyathi Devatha is Brahma; his colour is red and his vahana is the eagle; the grain associated with him is khollu; the flower – red alli (lily); fabric – multi coloured cloth; gem – Vaidooriyam (cat’s eye); food – rice mixed with khollu powder.
Mantra for Ketu – Aum nring nring nring narsinghaye (Nrisimhaye) namah aum
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