Revathi Nakshatra : Gurumurthy Temple - Omampuliyur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Revathi Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Fish or a pair of fish, drum
Deity : Pushan, nourisher, the protective deity

Shani resides in Dakshinamurthy.

People's whose Birth star sign is Revathi Nakshatra have to visit Gurumurthy Temple - Omampuliyur 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 Revathi Nakshatra

Gurumurthy Temple - Omampuliyur

The Gopuram of the Omampuliyur temple. THE GURUMURTHI kshetram in Omampuliyur has special significance because at the Dakshinamurthi Mahamandapam here, He is seated between Lord Siva, Sri Pranavavyaghrapureeswarar and Parvathi, Goddess Pushpathalambigai. According to sthalapuranam, Goddess Pushpathalambigai prayed Lord Siva to teach her Pranava Mantram. Siva assumed the form of Lord Dakshinamurti and performed the upadesam of Pranava mantram to Goddess Parvathi. Lord Dakshinamurthi who, legend says, does the upadesam to His disciples silently through mudras, is said to have taught the same verbally for the first time to Goddess Pushpathalambigai at Omampuliyur. This enhances the significance of the place. And Lord Dakshinamurthi is enshrined in a Mahamandapam, again a special feature. It is said that Vyaghrapada Rishi wished to see the Ananda Thandava dance of Lord Nataraja. But the Lord directed him to go to Chidambaram where his desire would be fulfilled. The idol of Lord Nataraja (in granite) worshipped by the saint can be seen here. The Moolavar of Lord Nataraja is in granite, found in few Siva temples. Hence the name Pranavavyaghrapureeswarar for the Lord. Omampuliyur is one of the five important Puliyur Siva kshetrams, visited by Vyaghrapada Rishi. The village is also known as Pranavapuram.


Lord Dakshinamurthi The idol of Goddess Saraswathi here (very rarely seen in the Siva temples) is said to have been worshipped by Goddess Parvathi before she commenced her prayers. We also find here the idol of Gajalakshmi. Thus in Omampuliyur temple, we find shrines for the three Goddesses, Parvathi, Lakshmi and Saraswathi — a rare feature in Siva temples. A unique practice followed in the procedure of abhishekam draws one's attention. Generally in all Siva temples, the abhishekam, archana etc. are performed to the presiding deities, viz., Siva and Parvathi — followed by the pragara deities which may include Natarajar, Dakshinamurthi, Subramaniar, Durga and Navagraha. But in this temple after performing the abhishekam, archana, etc., to Lord Pranavavyaghrapureeswarar, the scene shifts to the shrine of Lord Dakshinamurthi (in the Mahamandapam) and then only to Goddess Pushpathalambigai. Here Lord Dakshinamurthi takes precedence as guru.


Goddess Saraswathi Among the navagrahas, only Sani and Sun are found. Another important aspect of Omampuliyur is it is a "Peeda Parihara Kshetram" for those born under the birth star Revati. Omampuliyur is on the northern bank of river Kollidam (Uttara Cauvery) about 32 kilometres from Chidambaram, and 7 kilometres south of Kattumannarkoil, well connected by bus service with Chennai, Cuddalore, Chidambaram, Mayiladuthurai, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur and other places. The temple is believed to have been built about 1,300 years ago by the Chola kings and renovated by Pallava kings. Appar and Sambandar have sung in praise of the main deity and His consort.

Location:
Omampuliyur village lies on the northern bank of Kollidam River (Uttara Cauvery) in Cuddalore District. It is about 32 km from Chidambaram and is 7 km south of Kattumannarkoil.

Uttarabhadrapada Nakshatra : Panchanatheswara Temple - Thiruvaiyaru

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Uttarabhadrapada Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Twins, back legs of funeral cot, snake in the water
Deity : Ahir Budhyana, serpent or dragon of the deep

Shani resides with chaya devi in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Uttarabhadrapada Nakshatra have to visit Panchanatheswara Temple - Thiruvaiyaru 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 Uttarabhadrapada Nakshatra

Location:
Thiruvaiyaru: 13 Kms from Thanjavur, where the famous saint Thyagaraja lived and attained samadhi. The famous temple at Thiruvaiyaru is dedicated to Shiva, and is known as Panchanatheswara. An eight day music festival is held here, every January, in honour of the saint.

Poorvabhadrapada Nakshatra : Adisesha Perumal Temple - Kanchipuram

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Poorvabhadrapada Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Ketu (south lunar node)
Symbol : Swords or two front legs of funeral cot, man with two faces
Deity : Ajikapada, an ancient fire dragon

Ketu resides in Adisesha.

People's whose Birth star sign is Poorvabhadrapada Nakshatra have to visit Adisesha Perumal Temple - Kanchipuram 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 Poorvabhadrapada Nakshatra

Kanchipuram is 75 kms away from Chennai.

Satabisha Nakshatra : Ardhanareeswarar Temple - Tiruchengode

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Satabisha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Empty circle, 1,000 flowers or stars
Deity : Varuna, god of cosmic waters, sky and earth

Shani resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Satabisha Nakshatra have to visit Ardhanareeswarar Temple - Tiruchengode 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 Satabisha Nakshatra

Ardhanareeswarar Temple - Tiruchengode

Tiruchengode (also known as "Thirukodi mada chengundroor " in vedic times) has many references in puranas, like Thevaram and Silapathikaram. In Silapathikaram, Ilango adigal referred Tiruchengode as "Chengodu " and that "it has numerous holy ponds and enjoys popularity and prosperity".

This temple has been praised by the Nayanmar Thirugnanasambandhar in his devotional hyman Devaram. Great poets and saints like Arunagirinathar, Ilango adigal, Kaviraja pandithar amongst others have enlogised this holy place in their divine poems. The idols of Birungi Munivar and Arunagirinathar are found inside the temple.

This ancient hill temple according to the inscriptions on the walls must have been built about 2000 years ago. Many renovation works and additions were done by the kings and chieftains ruled over Tamilnadu in the past.

The town has a hill, which is about 650 ft. height . The hill is referred in many names like Chemmalai, Nagamalai, Nandhimalai and many more.

Lord Arthanareeswarar is giving salvation to all souls, from the hill top temple. Lord Sengottuvelavar and Lord Adhikesava Perumal in separate shrines as presiding deities.

Lord Arthanareeswarar has a unique form here, which combines half male and half female form. The lord is also known as Madhorubagan and Ammayappan. It is claimed that this rare posture of the Lord as prime deity can be found only in this temple in the whole of Asia. The hill top temple can be reached by climbing up 1206 steps, made of stone.

Tiruchengode taluk is located in Namakkal district, south of Salem district and east of Erode district.

Legends

Adi Kesava Perumal, enshrined here, instructed Gowri on the Kedara Gowri Vratam which she performed to unite with Shiva as Ardhanareeswarar. One of the 64 manifestations of Shiva - the man-woman form with Parvati constituting the left half of Shiva.

A battle of strength between Adi Seshan and Vayu, saw the former clinging tightly to Mount Meru and Vayu using his might to blow it away. The latter succeeded in blowing it away to Tiruchengode and the blood spilled by Adiseshan colored it red. Kamadhenu is said to have obtained 5 hills from Shiva, of which this was one; hence this hill with 2 stories of its origin,with rocks colored both red and yellow represents the masculine and feminine aspects of the Ardhanareeswara manifestation of Shiva.

The Temple
Ancient walls, mandapams and sculptured pillars (now in a state of disrepair) add to the awe that this temple perpetuates, on top of the hill. The motorway and the renovated Rajagopuram are of recent origin. True to the name Nagagiri, there is a 60 ft long snake carved on the hill.

Although the sanctum faces the West, entrance to it is from the South. A majestic image of Ardanareeswarar adorns the sanctum.There is a water spring at the foot of the image which is said to have been divinely manifested (Uli Padaa Uruvam). There are inscriptions here from the times of Parantaka Chola, Gangaikonda Chola, the Vijayanagar & Mysore Kings and the Nayaks.

The Tiruchengottuvelavar shrine (to Subramanyar) attracts a number of pilgrims.
Sambandar composed the Tiruneela kandapatikam here, to help rid fellow travellers of an affliction. Muthuswamy Deekshitar has sung of this shrine in Ardhanareeswaram in Kumudakriya.

Location:
Tiruchengode is located in Namakkal district (35 kms from Namakkal city-eastern side) and in the vicinity of Salem (around 40 kms-northern side) and Erode (20 kms-western side) and Karur (35 kms-southern side).

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Dhanishtha Nakshatra : Arulmigu Magudeshwarar And Veeranarayana Temple – Kodumudi

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Dhanishtha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Drum or flute
Deity : Eight vasus, deities of earthly abundance

Shani resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Dhanishtha Nakshatra have to visit Arulmigu Magudeshwarar And Veeranarayana Temple – Kodumudi 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 Dhanishtha Nakshatra

Arulmigu Magudeshwarar And Veeranarayana Temple – Kodumudi

Bhrama ( With the Vanni tree without Flourishing and ripening is the Miraculous event of this temple.) and Vishnu, named as "Veeranarayana perumal" ( As in the Srirangam temple) who are enshrined here, are said to have worshipped Shiva ( Magudeshwarar), hence the name Trimurthy Kovil. Agasthyar is said to have worshipped here. In a test of strength between Adiseshan and Vayu, 5 gems are said to have gotten scattered from the head of Adisesha. A red stone landed at Tiruvannamalai, an emerald at Eengoimalai, a blue diamond at Potikai, a manikkam at Vaatpoki and a diamond here. This temple is regarded as the 6th of the 7 Tevara Stalams in the Kongu Region of Tamilnadu.

The Lord Vishnu here is in the same position as in the Srirangam temple. That is the first time i was looking the Lord Vishnu very closer. That was a pleasant experience. And the day we were there was Thiruveethi ula ( The statue of the lord will be brought to the roads and it will be carried to all the streets in the village). Even though i am from Trichy, i have never seen the Lord Vishnu in this much closer view. It was just 3 to 4 feet distance.

The vinayagar here is named as "Kaviri Kanda Vinayagar". The cauvery river here in this town is meeting two other rivers in few kilometers.We completed our pooja there at about 10.45. The temple was not so big as Srirangam. But still it covers a good area.

When coming back i was having a doubt about the occupation of the people survive there. A localite told me that there are about 500 to 600 families here , in which almost 90% of them are doing the Parikaram(parikarama) works. Kodumudi is very famous for the Dosha parikaramas. Here Sevvai Dosha, Raghu Dosha, Kethu Dosha, Kalathira Dosha and lot more Dosha parikaramas are carried out.

In almost all the places of the temple, the hindu temple architecture attracts the eyes of the viewers. You can take bath in the river itself. Dress changing rooms are available just opposite to the river bank. They collect 2 rupees for a person.

Individualities of this Temple:

1. The 3000 year old Vanni tree (As i have mentioned above).

2.The last week of Aavani Tamil Month and 1st week of Panguni Tamil Month are the days of Special Dharsan During this periods the sunlight enters through the apeture of the Rajagopuram (Entrance Tower) and reaches the Swayambulingam i.e. the Lord Surya who mingles with Lord Magudeshwara. So this event happens two times, and Lord Magudeshwara blesses the Surya.

Another important info about this village is, this is the birth place of Mrs.K.B.Sundarambal ( In almost all the shops you cen see her photgraph)

How To Reach Kodumudi:
This sthala is situated in the main route of Erode-Trichy, Madurai highways and with source of confluent Train facilities. And so Trains from Erode towards Trichy, Madurai, Kaniyakumari, Thirunelveli, Tuticorin are at the benefit for the devotees. Erode District Headquarters is situated at 38 km from Kodumudi. Karur District Headquarters s situated at 26 km destnations. Both Train and Bus facilities are available to reach Kodumudi.

From Karur:(26 Kms)
Any bus that goes to Erode passes through Kodumudi, apart from Kodumudi buses.

From Erode: (38 Kms)
Any bus that goes to Karur passes through Kodumudi

Air Services:
Chennai to Trichy Airport – Karur – Kodumudi, Chennai to Coimbatore Airport – Erode – Kodumudi Distance between Trichy- Kodumudi is 100 km Distance between Coimbatore to Kodumudi is 120 km.

Boarding & Lodging:
Lodging and Boarding accommodations available only in Erode, Karur cities. There is no proper lodging facilities in the Kodumudi Sthala. Food Accommodations of ordinary class is available.

Address:
Arulmigu Magudeshwarar & Veeranarayana Perumal Temple,
Kodumudi, Erode Taluk & District.
Tamilnadu – 638 151
Phone :+91-04204-222375

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Sravana Nakshatra : Sethupattu Rajakaliammal - Chennai

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Sravana Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Ear or Three Footprints
Deity : Vishnu, preserver of universe

Rahu resides in Raja Kaliamman

People's whose Birth star sign is Sravana Nakshatra have to visit Sethupattu Rajakaliammal - Chennai 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 Sravana Nakshatra

Uttarashadha Nakshatra : Dharmapuram Durga Temple - Mayiladuthurai

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Uttarashadha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Elephant tusk, small bed
Deity : Vishvedas, universal gods

Rahu resides in durga devi’s throat.

People's whose Birth star sign is Uttarashadha Nakshatra have to visit Dharmapuram Durga Temple - Mayiladuthurai 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 Uttarashadha Nakshatra

Senthangudi Durga Temple - Durga Temple is also famous and is 2 km from Mayiladuthurai. Mayiladuthurai is 36 Kms from Kumbakonam.

Poorvashada Nakshatra : Sri Bhakthajaneswarar Temple – Thirunavalur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Poorvashada Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Elephant tusk, fan, winnowing basket
Deity : Apah, god of Water

Rahu resides in Dakshinamurthy

People's whose Birth star sign is Poorvashada Nakshatra have to visit Sri Bhakthajaneswarar Temple – Thirunavalur 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 Poorvashada Nakshatra

Sri Bhakthajaneswarar Temple – Thirunavalur

Thirunavalur shrine is devotionally revered by those closely attached to Saivism. It is here planet Sukra (Venus) got relieved from retrograde effects. People awaiting marriage, expecting trade development, elevation in jobs, health visit this temple for fulfillment of their desires. Those worshipping the Lord here get mental peace, oratory skill, educational recognition and above all the very blessing of the Lord.

It is noteworthy that Sukra (Venus) installed a Shivalinga here and performed the pujas as per rules and was blessed by the Lord. This Linga is near the Navagraha (9 planets) in the temple. Special pujas are performed to this Linga on Fridays as Friday belongs to Sukra.



Prayer commitment:
Devotees worship the Lord with white lotus, white silk dhoti, do the lighting with white ghee and achieve their boons from the Lord. Their endeavours progress without any obstacle. Archana (worshipping the Lord chanting his names) with 3 limes and 3 turmeric bring happy events to the family.

Abishek is done with oil, turmeric powder, flour powder, milk, curd, fruits, sugarcane juice, honey, panchamirtham, sandal, rosewater, sacred ashes and cloths offered. Annadhanam is undertaken by the wealthy to the visitors.

Speciality of the temple – Sundaramurthy Nayanar

Thirunavalur is the holy soil where Sundaramurthy Nayanar, the hero of the celebrated epic Periapuranam was born. He was born to the Sivachariar (priest of the temple) in charge of the daily pujas of the temple.

Sundarar as Alalasundarar was a close associate of Lord Shiva in Kailash. He loved two virgins there Anindhai and Kamalini. Understanding his mind, Lord Shiva ordered him to be born on Earth as the son of Sadayanar and Isaignaniyar in Thirunavalur in Nadu Naadu. The two virgins also were born on Earth in the names of Paravayar and Sangiliar. Sundarar wedded Paravayar in Tiruvarur and Sangiliar in Tiruvottriyur. Sundarar is the author of Thiruthondathogai, the basis for the later Periapuranam penned by Sekkilar. In Thiruthondathogai, Sundarar had mentioned that he was the disciple all Nayanars whom he had mentioned reverentially by name. He later took up the mission of spreading Saivism and did the miracle of reclaiming a boy from a crocodile that swallowed him years back. This miracle took place in Avinashi.
On the day of his marriage in Thirunavalur, Lord Shiva, in the guise of an old man and relieved Sundarar from the bonds he was likely to be tied in then. There is still a Mutt in Thirunavalur in his name. There is a separate shrine for him in the temple. Sundarar appears here with his consorts Paravayar and Sangiliar.

Reputation:
Thirunavalur is the holy soil that gave birth to Sundarar. The Bhaktajaneswarar temple is ageless. Goddess is seen with unfurled hair performing penance. The Iravadam elephant sent by Lord Himself to take Sundarar back to Kaialash can be seen in the inner roundway of temple.

Dakshinamurthy in the temple is on the Rishab Vahana (bull vehicle). He is the deity for the Poorada star. He gave darshan to Sundarar. Planet Sukra (Venus) worshipped Goddess Manonmani and as directed by the Goddess, he worshipped Bhaktajaneswarar then.

This is the shrine worshipped by Brahmma, Vishnu, Chandikeswara, Saptha Rishis (Seven sages), Garuda, Sundarar, Sadaya Nayanar, Isai Gnaniyar, Narasinghamunaiarayar. Sun did worship here. The Shivalinga, worshipped by Sukra also known as Barghava is installed near the Navagrahas in the name of Bhargaveeswara Linga.

The Sun is facing the West here. During the month of Panguni (March-April) from 23 to 27, Sun rays fall on the presiding deity.

Of the Shiva shrines of Nadu Naadu region, Thirunavalur is the eighth.

History:
When the milk ocean was churned, the alakala poison came out which Lord Shiva consumed to protect the lives of all creatures. The drops that fell on earth were grown into Jumbo fruit trees and came to be known as Jumbo forest. The Lord decended on this spot and the antiquity of the place is said to be earlier the Yugas began. There was only a sanctum Sanatorium and no other buildings for the temple. Later the temple was extended with more structures by the Chera, Chola, Pandya and Pallava kings. The Sanskrit Jambunatheswarar was later mentioned as Thirunavaleesan in Chaste Tamil by Sundarar. He also named the place as Thirunamanallur. Thirunavalur is a Shiva Shrine that no Saivite can afford to miss to see in his lifetime.

Festivals:
Temple Pujas are followed in accordance with the Kamika Agamam.

One day festival in the month of Avani (August-September) on Uthra star day is celebrated with all splendour. Sundarar Guru Puja day takes place in the month of Adi (July-August) on Swathi Star day.

Chithirai Car Festival (April-May) 15 days. Chitra new Year day is very grandly celebrated with the assistance of donors. Pujas are performed to Panchamurthis and Sundarar.

Pooram Star day in Adi month (July-August) is the festival for Goddess Manonmani. Special pujas are performed to Goddess Manonmani and Durga on Tuesdays, Fridays. Rahukala puja is observed on Tuesdays for Goddess Durga between 3.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. Women gather in large numbers for this Rahukala Puja.

Special Puja is performed on Fridays for the Linga installed by Sukra with butter, white ghee, beans, white silk.

Thursday Puja is performed to Lord Dakshninamurthy with yellow clothing, yellow flowers, yellow pulse. Every religious day will be a festival in Thirunavalur temple and on Pradosha days drawing huge crowd of devotees.

The presiding deity is also known as Jambunatheswarar, Thirunavaleeswarar and Thiruthandeeswarar. Goddess is also known as Navalambikai, Sundarambikai and Rakshambikai.

Vinayaka in the temple is known as Sundaravinayakar, Muruga as Shanmuganathan.. The holy springs are Gomukhi theertham and Garuda river. Thirunavalur is highly praised by Sekkizhar in his celebrated epic Periapuranam also known as Thiruthondar Puranam. Saint Arunagiriar has Muruga in his Thirupugazh.

Location:
Thirunavalur is 16 kms from Panruti, 35 from Cuddalore, 22 from Villupuram. 56 from Pondicherry. Lodging facilities are available conveniently in Panruti. The temple lies on the Ulundurpet Panruti route. Bus facilities are comfortably available from Panruti.

Source

Moola Nakshatra : Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar ThiruKovil - Madurai

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Moola Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Guru (Jupiter)
Symbol : Bunch of roots tied together, elephant goad
Deity : Nirrti, god of dissolution and destruction

Guru resides in his own idol Dakshinamurthy

People's whose Birth star sign is Moola Nakshatra have to visit Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar ThiruKovil - Madurai 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 Moola Nakshatra

Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar ThiruKovil - Madurai

The Meenakshi temple complex at Madurai is a city temple. It has eminent and exquisitely carved towers enveloping the temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakashi in Madurai. Considered as the south gateway, the Meenakshi temple consists of the twin temples of God Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, each one as high as about nine storeys.

The exact time of temple's origin is not confirmed but the structures that are standing today date mostly from the 12th to the 18th century. The present temple standing today was built in the 17th century A.D. by th Nayak rulers. The temple is superb example of sculpture and magnificent architecture.

The Meenakshi temple has majestic stonewalls and towers rising out of the swarming streets of the city center. The image of Goddess Meenakshi is said to be carved out of a single emerald. This exotic temple was renovated by various kings, adding coiled corridors and larger-than-life sculptures. According to the legend of this temple the marriage of the goddess Meenakshi to Shiva actually took place in Madurai and is still celebrated every summer with great enthusiasm and gaiety.

¤ Special Features of the Temple
The Temple Towers or The Gopurams
The temple has 12 temple towers also known as the Gopurams. The outer towers of the temple work as landmarks of Madurai.

Gopura
The Gopuras or the Pyramidal gates have an enormous height of more than 50m. The entrance to the temple complex is indicated by towering gateways at the four cardinal points, while lesser gopuras lead to the sanctums of the main deities.

Stucco Work
After every 12 years, the figures of deities on the tower are reconditioned, repainted and ritually reconsecrated.

Ashta Shakthi Mandapam
To enter the temple through the eastern gateway, one has to first enter the Asta Shakti Mandapam (Hall). Built by Thirumalai Nayakar's wives Rudrapathi Ammal and Tholimamai. Next to this hall is the Meenakshi Nayaka Mandapa, a spacious columned hall used for shops and stores. This hall has a dedicated lamp-holder with 1,008 lamps, which are lit and decorated on festive occasions. The sculptures on the pillars tell us about some of the miracles of Lord Shiva and also the story of Meenakshi's birth and her life as the princess of Madurai.

Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam
Adjacent to the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam, this big hall consists of 110 pillars carrying the figures of a queer animal with a lion's body and an elephant's head called Yalli.

Potramaraikulam (Golden Lotus Tank)
The Potramaraikulam temple tank is an ancient tank where devotees take bath in the holy water. It is believed that the area around this tank was the meeting place of the TamilSangam - the ancient academy of poets. The tank is encircled by a pillared corridor. There are steps that lead down to the tank, enabling worshippers to take bathe in it.

Oonjal Mandapam
The Oonjal (swing) Mandapam and Killikoontu (parrot cage) Mandapam are situated on the western side of the tank. The golden idols of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are seated on the swing in the Oonjal Madapam every Friday and hymns are sung as the deities swing to and fro. There many parrots in the Kilikoontu Mandapam who have been trained to repeat Goddess Meenakshi's name. The 28 pillars of the Mandapam are the most interesting parts, exhibiting some excellent Sculptures of figures from Hindu mythology.

Swami Sundareswarar Shrine
The Shrine of Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) the consort of Goddess Meenakshi is to the north of Kilikoontu Mandapam . There's a gigantic idol of Sri Ganesh called Mukkurini Pillaiyar on the way. There's a stump of a Kadamba tree, in the outer pragaram (corridor outside the main shrine), which is said to be a part of the same tree under which Indra worshiped Shiva linga. There's also Kadambathadi Mandapam in the outer corridor and big hall called 'Velli Ambalam'. There's also an idol of Nataraja (Shiva as the Lord of Dance), covered with silver leaves. Thus this hall is named as Velli Ambalam (Silver Hall).

The Thousand Pillar Mandapam
The thousand pillar mandapam is regared as the 'wonder of the palace'. There are around 985 beautifully decorated columns. Each pillar is beautifully sculptured and presents the glory of the Dravidan sculpture. This hall also houses a Temple Art Museum, where you can see icons, photographs, drawings, etc., exhibiting the 1200 years old history. Other than this mandapam there many smaller and bigger mandapams in the temple.

Vasantha Mandapam
Built by Thirumalai Nayakkar, the mandapam is the venue of the Vasanthosavam - the Spring festival, celebrated in Vaikasi (April/May). The pillars present at the mandapam has elaborate sculptures of Lord Shiva, Goddess Meenakshi. There are scenes from their wedding as well as the figures of ten of the Nayak Kings and their consorts. The Vasantha Mandapam is also called Pudhu Mandapam.

Swamy Sannidhi(sanctum sanctrom) - Dhakshinamoorthy,Lingothpavar,Durga Mandapams:
On the walls of the sanctum sanctorum of the Lord are the Dhakshinamoorthy Mandam with a pinnacle, the Lingothpavar mandapam has sculptures of Maal and Ayan unable to find the feet and crown of the Lord and the Durga mandapam.

There are 4 Dakshinamurthy idol’s in Meenakshi Amman temple the actual Dakshinamurthy idol is in between Meenakshi amman and Sundareswarar murti.(there is also kalasarpa dosha details sculpted on the wall next to the idol)

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Jyeshtha Nakshatra : Angalaparameswari Amman Temple - Palladam

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Jyeshtha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : circular amulet, umbrella, earring
Deity : Indra, chief of the gods

Rahu resides in amman's eyes

People's whose Birth star sign is Jyeshtha Nakshatra have to visit Angalaparameswari Amman Temple - Palladam 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 Jyeshtha Nakshatra

Location:
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore about 35 km away from Palladam.
There is no rail transport to the town.
The nearest Railway Station is at Tirupur and about 16 km away from Palladam.
The main transport fo this people has BUS service only .

Anuradha Nakshatra : Mahalinga Swamy Temple - Thiruvidaimarudur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Anuradha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Ketu (south lunar node)
Symbol : Triumphal archway, lotus
Deity : Mitra, one of Adityas of friendship and partnership

Ketu resides in mookambika devi’s garland made out of bones

People's whose Birth star sign is Anuradha Nakshatra have to visit Mahalinga Swamy Temple - Thiruvidaimarudur 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 Anuradha Nakshatra

Mahalinga Swamy Temple - Thiruvidaimarudur

Thiruvidaimarudur Mahalinga Swamy Temple is one of the Panchakrosha Sthalas. The Ammbal Shrine is one of the Sakthi Bheetas. Chakkara Maha Meru is installed here. Uma, Vinayaka Muruga, Thirumal, Lakshimi, Saraswati, (Deities), Vashista, Agasthya, Pattinathar, Badragiriyar, Romarishi, Kapila, Markandiya rishi, (Saints). Sivavakiya (Siddhar) Varagunadeva, Sukeerthi, Veerasena, Chitrakeerthi, Uvanasuvan, Maandada, Vasuman., Anjatthuvasan (Kings), Nandagan (Brahmin), Vedas, Airawatha (Elephant vehicle of Indra) and others are bestowed with grace by the Lord. The below saints were visited and praised the lord:
Appar
Sundarar
Manikkavasakar
Sambandar
Also Pattinathar and Karuvoor Thevar Sung Psalms about the Deity.

This place is named as Idaimarudur as it is in between Srisailam and Ambasamudram. It is also called Shanbagaranya, Saktipura, Tapovana, Muktipura etc. The presiding Deity is Mahalinga (Great Linga) because Siva worshipped Himself. Her consort is Perunalamamulaiammai. She is Bruhatsundara Gujamabika. In her Shrine is a cell facing north. This is the temple of Mookaambika (in North Indian style). The Goddess is in the pose of doing penance. She is mentioned as Pidari Parameeswari in inscripitions. There are many Lingas in the Shrine. Agasthiya Linga, Kasyapa Linga, Chola Linga , Chera Linga, Sahasara Linga, Panchabhuta Linga, a cluster of 27 Lingas behind Chokkanatha are some.

Brahmahathi Dosam:
Brahmahathi (Hathi- sin caused by a murder – Brahminicide) is found in the south wall (south torana vayil) with head disheveled and face immersed betwixt the knees. Varaguna Pandiya’s horse accidentally crushed a Brahmin and killed him. The sin followed wherever he went. The king came to this temple. The Brahmahathi could not enter and waited outside. The king went out by another entrance. The Brahmahathi is waiting outside still. The king was relieved of his melody. People inflicted with mental disorders go round the circumambulatory path and get redress.

There are two Puranam
Sthala purana written by Sivakkolundu Deshika of Kottaiyar Marudavana Puranam. There is an Ula written by Mahavidvan Meenakshi Sundaram Pillai. The Thevaram, Thiruvasagam, Thiruvidaimarudur Mummanikkovai, Thiruppazh, Thiruvidaimaurudur Pathirruppathanthathi, Thiruvidaimaurudur Kalambakam, Thiruvidaimarudur Nondi Natakam contain sufficient information about the temple. Kandapuranam, Lingapurana, Brahmavaivartham and Sivarahasya mention the glory of the Lord.

This temple is maintained by Thiruvavadudurai Adheenam. His Holiness Seervalarseer Sivaprakasha Deshika Swamigal (23rd Gurumagasannidhanam), adorns the throne of the Adheena and doing all kinds of spiritual (Sivatthondu and Tamilthondu) and social service.

Location:
Thiruvidaimarudur is located around 8 k.m north of Kumbakonam city on the road to Mayiladuthurai. All the buses pass via this route with a stop closer to the temple at Thiruvidaimarudur. The distance from Mayiladuthurai (Mayuram) is around 32 km. Autos / Taxies from Kumbakonam are available.

There is a small Railway station at Thiruvidaimarudur. Only the passenger trains stop there. The nearest convenient railway station is located at Kumbakonam with connectivity to Chennai (via Trichy), Thirunelveli (via Dindugal, Madurai), Coimbatore (Satapthi), Mysore(Via Erode - Salem - Bangalore).

Contact Info of Mahalinga Swamy Temple - Thiruvidaimarudur:
Sri Mahalinga Swamy Temple
Thiruvidaimarudur – 612 104.
Phone: 0435 – 2460660
Visit Thiruvidaimarudur website

Vishakha Nakshatra : Cholavandhan

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Vishakha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Triumphal arch, potter's wheel
Deity : Indira, chief of the gods; Agni, god of Fire

Shani resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Vishakha Nakshatra have to visit Cholavandhan 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 Vishakha Nakshatra

There are 2 shani idols in Cholavandhan the actual idol is next to kalyani.Cholavandhan is 28 kms NW to Madurai.

More Details

Swaati Nakshatra : Sri Akhilandeshwari Jambukeshwarar Temple - Thiruvanaikaval

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Swaati Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Shoot of plant, coral
Deity : Vayu, the Wind god

Shani resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Swaati Nakshatra have to visit Sri Akhilandeshwari Jambukeshwarar - Thiruvanaikaval 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 Swaati Nakshatra

Sri Akhilandeshwari Jambukeshwarar Temple- Thiruvanaikaval

Thiruvanaikoil is a beautiful small urban village at Tiruchirappalli district ('Trichy', 'Thiruchirapalli', 'Tiruchinopoly', 'Tiruchi') in Tamil Nadu of Southern India. Thiruvanaikoil is also familiarly known as Tiruvanaikoil, Tiruvanaikaval, Thiruvanaikaval, Thiruvanaika, Thiruanaikaa.

Thiruvanaikoil is around 3 Kms away from the heart of Trichy city and adjacent to Srirangam another small historic town and one of the holy places in India. Thiruvanaikoil and Srirangam are in the banks of river Cauvery. Literally these two places form an island, surrounded by river Cauvery and river Coleroon.

This ancient temple dedicated to Shiva (Jambukeswara) and Parvati (Akhilandeswari) is one of the foremost Saivite shrines in Tamilnadu. This large temple celebrates Shiva as Jambukeswara, an embodiment of the element water and is often referred to as Appustalam and is hence one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams the other four being Tiruvannamalai (fire), Chidambaram (Space), Kanchipuram (Earth) and Kalahasti (Air) respectively.

The Sri Jambukeshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and has five concentric walls and seven gopurams. It is built around a Siva lingam partly submerged in water that comes from a spring in the sanctum sanctorum. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple. The complex was built in the same time when Sri Ranganathaswamy temple was also built.

The presiding deity is Lord Siva as Kalahasteeswarar. The Siva Linga here is one of the five supreme Lingas representing the five elements (Panchabutha Lingams): water (appu), fire (tejas), air (vayu), ether (akash) and earth (prithivi). The Linga form in Kalahasti is believed to represent vayu. Even today the flame placed in Garbhagraha inside the temple flickers indicating the presence of the wind while there is no entry of wind to disturb the flame. The air is just sufficient to breathe in. This according to a belief is the existence of Shiva in the temple.

According to the legend there was once a forest of jambu trees in the place of modern Tiruvanaikka. Nearby was a tank called Chandratheertha which was filled by water from the river Cauvery. Lord shiva appeared as a Lingam under one of the trees. The lingam came to be called the Jambulingam. Due to a curse, two of the shiva ganas Pushpadanta and Malyava, were born in the forest as a white elephant and as a spider. The elephant worshipped the Lingam with flowers and with water brought in its trunk. The spider too worshipped the Lingam, spinning out a web over the Lingam to prevent leaves of the tree from falling on it. The spider's web appeared to be unclean for the elephant and it destroyed the web.

This lead to big clash between the two and ultimately resulted in their death. Lord shiva granted Mokshaa (salvation) to both. The spider was born in a royal Chola family as the great king Ko Chenkannan who built about 70 temples (Maadakovils) including the temple of Jambukeswarar at Tiruvanaika. Because the king remembered about his earlier birth, he built the temples in a such way that no elephant can enter the sanctum sancotrum and come near the Sivalingam.

The temple at Tiruvanaikaval is a big one covering an area of about 18 acres with high walls and gopurams on all the 4 sides. The temple has 5 prakarams. The main sanctum sancotrum (the 5th prakaram) can be reached by entering a series of Gopurams (Towers). The shrine for female deity Akilandeswari is situated in the 4th prakaram.

Thiruvanaikaval is one of the very few temples where you can find a separate sannadhi for Sanniswarar ( in Cave) which is between Akilandeshwari and Eshwaran .

Chitra Nakshatra : Sri Thiyagaraja Temple - Thiruvarur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Chitra Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Bright jewel or pearl
Deity : Tvastar or Vishvakarman, the celestial architect

Rahu resides in Vishnu Durga idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Chitra Nakshatra have to visit Hasta Nakshatra : Sri Thiyagaraja Temple - Thiruvarur 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 Chitra Nakshatra and worship vishnu durga separate shrine inside the temple next to raja durga

Sri Thiyagaraja Temple - Thiruvarur

The Thiyagaraja temple at Thiruvarur is one of the ancient heritage sites of India and is a representation of the religio-socio-cultural history of the Tamil region for a period spanning over a millennium and a half. Little is known about this shrine to much of India. The vast temple complex today is truly a standing monument to centuries of history and tradition.
Located near Thanjavur in Tamilnadu, Thiruvarur is an ancient shrine steeped in mysticism. It is rich in legend, history and tradition...

History
The temple of Thiyagaraja became all the more famous by the visit of a galaxy of Gods and Angels from heaven, like Brahma, Dasharatha, Rama, Arjuna, Dharmaputra, Kings Nala and Haris- chandra, and Maharshis like Vasishtha and Vishwamitra. Each installed a Siva linga. In the temple for worship.

The legend goes that once Lord Siva took his abode with Devi Parvati in a garden at the foot of Mount Kailas. Then a monkey dropped some Bilva leaves on the Lord. Siva was very much pleased by this act of the monkey and blessed it. The monkey in the next birth was born as a king in the Manu dynasty, named Muchukunda. Muchukunda was a good and kind ruler. He built many temples and encouraged pandits and scholars. Everybody lived a life of happiness in his time. He was also a great warrior and ruled the country with his capital at Karuvur.

After many years, an Asuranamed Vala again attacked the Devas. The Devas was defeated in the battle. Thereupon Indra. Sent for his friend Muchukunda, for help and King Muchukunda readily agreed to save the Devas from, the attack of the Asura.

A fierce battle took place between the King and the Asura in which the latter was defeated and finally killed by Indra. After the battle, King Muchukunda. Offered prayer and pujas to Lord Siva. The Lord appeared before him and asked him to build a temple for Him at Thiruvarur. When the King was about to return to his capital, he requested Indra to give him the Somaskandamurti that he was keeping with him and worshipping daily. Indra, not willing to part with this idol, decided to present to the King six other idols similar to the Somaskandamurti and placed them before the King with the real Murti amongst them, for selection. Then Lord Siva, without the knowledge of anybody, helped the King to select the real Murti. Indra gave the other six idols also. Muchukunda then returned to his capital with the idols.

A big temple was, constructed at Thiruvarur by Viswakarma. Then the King installed a Siva Lingam (now known as Achaleeswar) in a portion of the temple and worshipped it for many years. The peculiar feature about this Lingam is that its shadow can be seen only in the eastern direction and it is also said that this shadow will not be visible to a man who is going to die within a period of six months.

Once there was a king named Amsa. He was childless. He conducted many yagas to be blessed with a child. At last he came to Thiruvarur, installed a Siva Lingam in the temple and conducted penance for many years. Then Siva gave darsan to the King and blessed him. So the Lingam came to be known as Siddheesar (Siddhi means success and Eesar means God). By worshipping this Lingam one can- get what all one desires in this world.

One day King Kulisa while feeding Durvasa Maharshi mixed meat in the meal by mistake. The Maharshi, enraged by this act of the King, cursed him to turn into a tiger. But soon the Rishi cooled down and told the King: "After some years you will see the divine cow Kamadhenu when you will get moksham."

The tiger roamed in the forests and at last came to a place near Thiruvarur where it happened to meet Kamadhenu with her calf. The cow used to go to the temple of Lord Thiyagaraja daily and worship, Vanesa Lingam bathing it with its own milk. On seeing the cow Kamadhenu, the tiger rushed towards her. Thereupon the cow replied: "I don't worry about being killed by you, but the thing is I have not the Siva Lingam today. So kindly permit me to finish my duties first. I shall certainly come back here when you can kill me." The tiger was not willing to miss the, chance; yet, believing the words of the cow, he permitted her to do so.

Kamadhenu returned promptly after finishing her ' duties. The tiger was touched by the exemplary behavior of the cow and had no mind to kill her. Then the tiger came to know about its past life. It went to Thiyagaraja's temple, worshipped the Lingam and attained Moksham.In this temple there is the Marakata Lingam obtained by King Muchukunda. From Indra along with the idol of Thiyagaraja. 'The palanquin of Thiyagaraja is made of gold. The Prabha is decorated with diamonds. The Goddess is known as Padampiriyal (who would not leave the feet of God). Another name of the Goddess is Neelotpalavalli. In the shrine of Neelotpalavalli, there are painted pictures narrating some incidents, which happened in the past. One of them is that a king known as Somaji Nayanar was performing a sacrifice to propitiate Lord Thiyagaraja. Somaji Nayanar expressed his desire to Sundaramurti Nayanar that Lord Thiyagaraja should appear himself and receive the havis (oblation of raw rice cooked in orthodox manner).

Sundaramurti Nayanar conveyed the request to Lord Thiyagaraja. Lord Thiyagaraja consented to the same saying, "If I could be recognized I don't mind receiving it." This test the depth of devotion, Siva came as an outcaste (Paraya), with Parvati carrying a pitcher of fermented palm juice and holding two sons, and himself having a drum and four dogs representing the four Vedas. Only Somaji was able to recognise him. Others shouted, "Don't come near, don't come near." As Somaji was able to recognise God even in the form of an outcaste, Siva received the havis and gave darsan. Another legend current in this part and represented in the fresco painted in the temple wall of Neelotpalavalli Sannidhi is as follows:

Once upon a time a harlot by name Manicka Nachiyar, according to her established tradition, used to receive only a person who was wearing Rudraksham. One day Siva, disguised as an old man with Rudraksham, entered her house. She received him also with equal respect as he was having a Rudraksham. During the course of the night he gave her a lot of worries and at last died at her house. According to tradition, she played the part of the wife in true Hindu custom. When the old man passed away in her house, she had to perform Sati by following him in the funeral pyre.

The old man was taken in a bier followed by the harlot and a funeral pyre was set up. When it was about to be lit, the old man transformed himself into his original form of Lord Siva and gave liberation to the harlot who had dutifully followed him even to the funeral pyre. She was true to her tradition and devotion. As such she deserved liberation.

Thiruvarur became very famous in the last century for the birth of three great Carnatic musicians, viz., Muthuswami Dikshitar, Syama Sastri and Thiyagaraja. Thiyagaraja composed his songs in Telugu, and they are considered to be gems of Carnatic music,highly honoured even now.

Routhra Durgai


Location:
Sri Thyagarajar Temple, is situated at Thiruvarur, a town which comes under older thanjavur district of Tamilnadu, India. Thiruvarur is 38 Kms from Kumbakonam.

Temple's Official Website

Hasta Nakshatra : Sri Thiyagaraja Temple - Thiruvarur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Hasta Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Hand or fist
Deity : Saviti or Surya, the Sun god

Rahu resides in Raja Durga (Routhra Durgai) idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Hasta Nakshatra have to visit Hasta Nakshatra : Sri Thiyagaraja Temple - Thiruvarur 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 Hasta Nakshatra and worship Raja durga which has separate shrine inside the temple the fierce form of durga

Sri Thiyagaraja Temple - Thiruvarur

The Thiyagaraja temple at Thiruvarur is one of the ancient heritage sites of India and is a representation of the religio-socio-cultural history of the Tamil region for a period spanning over a millennium and a half. Little is known about this shrine to much of India. The vast temple complex today is truly a standing monument to centuries of history and tradition.
Located near Thanjavur in Tamilnadu, Thiruvarur is an ancient shrine steeped in mysticism. It is rich in legend, history and tradition...

History
The temple of Thiyagaraja became all the more famous by the visit of a galaxy of Gods and Angels from heaven, like Brahma, Dasharatha, Rama, Arjuna, Dharmaputra, Kings Nala and Haris- chandra, and Maharshis like Vasishtha and Vishwamitra. Each installed a Siva linga. In the temple for worship.

The legend goes that once Lord Siva took his abode with Devi Parvati in a garden at the foot of Mount Kailas. Then a monkey dropped some Bilva leaves on the Lord. Siva was very much pleased by this act of the monkey and blessed it. The monkey in the next birth was born as a king in the Manu dynasty, named Muchukunda. Muchukunda was a good and kind ruler. He built many temples and encouraged pandits and scholars. Everybody lived a life of happiness in his time. He was also a great warrior and ruled the country with his capital at Karuvur.

After many years, an Asuranamed Vala again attacked the Devas. The Devas was defeated in the battle. Thereupon Indra. Sent for his friend Muchukunda, for help and King Muchukunda readily agreed to save the Devas from, the attack of the Asura.

A fierce battle took place between the King and the Asura in which the latter was defeated and finally killed by Indra. After the battle, King Muchukunda. Offered prayer and pujas to Lord Siva. The Lord appeared before him and asked him to build a temple for Him at Thiruvarur. When the King was about to return to his capital, he requested Indra to give him the Somaskandamurti that he was keeping with him and worshipping daily. Indra, not willing to part with this idol, decided to present to the King six other idols similar to the Somaskandamurti and placed them before the King with the real Murti amongst them, for selection. Then Lord Siva, without the knowledge of anybody, helped the King to select the real Murti. Indra gave the other six idols also. Muchukunda then returned to his capital with the idols.

A big temple was, constructed at Thiruvarur by Viswakarma. Then the King installed a Siva Lingam (now known as Achaleeswar) in a portion of the temple and worshipped it for many years. The peculiar feature about this Lingam is that its shadow can be seen only in the eastern direction and it is also said that this shadow will not be visible to a man who is going to die within a period of six months.

Once there was a king named Amsa. He was childless. He conducted many yagas to be blessed with a child. At last he came to Thiruvarur, installed a Siva Lingam in the temple and conducted penance for many years. Then Siva gave darsan to the King and blessed him. So the Lingam came to be known as Siddheesar (Siddhi means success and Eesar means God). By worshipping this Lingam one can- get what all one desires in this world.

One day King Kulisa while feeding Durvasa Maharshi mixed meat in the meal by mistake. The Maharshi, enraged by this act of the King, cursed him to turn into a tiger. But soon the Rishi cooled down and told the King: "After some years you will see the divine cow Kamadhenu when you will get moksham."

The tiger roamed in the forests and at last came to a place near Thiruvarur where it happened to meet Kamadhenu with her calf. The cow used to go to the temple of Lord Thiyagaraja daily and worship, Vanesa Lingam bathing it with its own milk. On seeing the cow Kamadhenu, the tiger rushed towards her. Thereupon the cow replied: "I don't worry about being killed by you, but the thing is I have not the Siva Lingam today. So kindly permit me to finish my duties first. I shall certainly come back here when you can kill me." The tiger was not willing to miss the, chance; yet, believing the words of the cow, he permitted her to do so.

Kamadhenu returned promptly after finishing her ' duties. The tiger was touched by the exemplary behavior of the cow and had no mind to kill her. Then the tiger came to know about its past life. It went to Thiyagaraja's temple, worshipped the Lingam and attained Moksham.In this temple there is the Marakata Lingam obtained by King Muchukunda. From Indra along with the idol of Thiyagaraja. 'The palanquin of Thiyagaraja is made of gold. The Prabha is decorated with diamonds. The Goddess is known as Padampiriyal (who would not leave the feet of God). Another name of the Goddess is Neelotpalavalli. In the shrine of Neelotpalavalli, there are painted pictures narrating some incidents, which happened in the past. One of them is that a king known as Somaji Nayanar was performing a sacrifice to propitiate Lord Thiyagaraja. Somaji Nayanar expressed his desire to Sundaramurti Nayanar that Lord Thiyagaraja should appear himself and receive the havis (oblation of raw rice cooked in orthodox manner).

Sundaramurti Nayanar conveyed the request to Lord Thiyagaraja. Lord Thiyagaraja consented to the same saying, "If I could be recognized I don't mind receiving it." This test the depth of devotion, Siva came as an outcaste (Paraya), with Parvati carrying a pitcher of fermented palm juice and holding two sons, and himself having a drum and four dogs representing the four Vedas. Only Somaji was able to recognise him. Others shouted, "Don't come near, don't come near." As Somaji was able to recognise God even in the form of an outcaste, Siva received the havis and gave darsan. Another legend current in this part and represented in the fresco painted in the temple wall of Neelotpalavalli Sannidhi is as follows:

Once upon a time a harlot by name Manicka Nachiyar, according to her established tradition, used to receive only a person who was wearing Rudraksham. One day Siva, disguised as an old man with Rudraksham, entered her house. She received him also with equal respect as he was having a Rudraksham. During the course of the night he gave her a lot of worries and at last died at her house. According to tradition, she played the part of the wife in true Hindu custom. When the old man passed away in her house, she had to perform Sati by following him in the funeral pyre.

The old man was taken in a bier followed by the harlot and a funeral pyre was set up. When it was about to be lit, the old man transformed himself into his original form of Lord Siva and gave liberation to the harlot who had dutifully followed him even to the funeral pyre. She was true to her tradition and devotion. As such she deserved liberation.

Thiruvarur became very famous in the last century for the birth of three great Carnatic musicians, viz., Muthuswami Dikshitar, Syama Sastri and Thiyagaraja. Thiyagaraja composed his songs in Telugu, and they are considered to be gems of Carnatic music,highly honoured even now.

Routhra Durgai


Location:
Sri Thyagarajar Temple, is situated at Thiruvarur, a town which comes under older thanjavur district of Tamilnadu, India. Thiruvarur is 38 Kms from Kumbakonam.

Temple's Official Website

Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra : Kucchiamman Temple – Poovalur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Uttar Phalguni Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Four legs of bed, hammock
Deity : Aryaman, god of patronage and favours

Rahu resides in Kucchiamman.

People's whose Birth star sign is Uttar Phalguni Nakshatra have to visit Kucchiamman Temple – Poovalur 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 Uttar Phalguni Nakshatra

Location: 20 kms from Trichy; 3 kms north of Lalgudi in the Trichy-Ariyalur road.
Rathi devi got back Manmadhan by worshipping Shiva here. Manmadhan threw flower arrow on Lord Shiva in this place. So the place is called Poovalur. It is also known as Manmadha puram.

Purva Phalguni Nakshatra : Sri Kalyanasundara Swamy Temple - Thirumanancheri

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Purva Phalguni Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Front legs of bed, hammock, fig tree
Deity : Bhaga, god of marital bliss and prosperity

Rahu resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Purva Phalguni Nakshatra have to visit Sri Kalyanasundara Swamy Temple - Thirumanancheri 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 Purva Phalguni Nakshatra

Sri Kalyanasundara Swamy Temple - Thirumanancheri

Thirumananjeri is located 3 kilometer to the west of Kuthalam, Thanjavur district in the state of Tamilnadu. This place is 15 kilometer from Mayiladuthurai.

HISTORICAL / RELIGIOUS IMPORTANCE:
Once upon a time, Parvathy wanted to marry Shiva in an earthly marriage with all religious rites on the earth; Brahma, Vishnu and Indira came to earth as acharya in Thiruvaduthurai; while playing chokkattan (similar to Thaayam), Vishnu won and his sister Parvathy laughed aloud; Lord Shiva was angry and said “Ada pasuve!” and Parvathy was born as a cow on earth; Vishnu became her herder at Therazhundur; Barathamuni had no children and he prayed the Lord; he was given permission to remove her curse and so he converted her cow shape to a feminine figure at Thiruvavaduthurai; she grew up at Kuthalam alias Thiruthuruthi in Bharathamuni’s house; Lord Shiva came to marry her as promised earlier and Barathamuni received him at Ethirkolpadi; Shiva performed all the marriage rites / velvi at Velvikkudi before marriage; then he married Parvathy at Thirumanancheri. Shiva hence gets the name ‘Pasupathy’.

The following story also keeps floating around: Two girls promised each other that their son and daughter would marry in future; one got a beautiful girl while the other gave birth to a turtle-shaped boy; former refused the marriage; the latter appealed to the Lord; he converted the turtle to a handsome young man; marriage went off well; so goes the story; hence the belief is that the physical disabilities of the spouse will be either corrected by the Lord or overlooked by the other spouse; hence the marriage obstacles would be removed once you come and pray here.

To bless the devout multitude on earth Lord Shiva and Parvathi got married in five different types. The celestial wedding that took place in this sacred spot was performed according to the sastras followed by human beings.

The wedding of Shiva and Parvathi
When Shiva and Parvathi were in a happy mood in their abode in MT Kailash a strange idea struck Parvathi. Instead of the usual fight that separates the couple after which they unite in wedlock , Parvathi thought it correct and logical to request Shiva to marry her another time.

Parvathi requests Shiva to marry her
Parvathi requested Shiva to marry her again which he accepted with joy and also informed the time of their wedding. Parvathi became impatient as there was a fairly long time for the marriage. She became callous and cold shouldered Shiva.

Shiva gets angry
Shiva watched her behavior and in a fit of anger cursed her to be separated from him and take the form of a cow. Parvathi incarnated as a cow and roamed in the jungle. She was always thinking of her spouse while loitering in Asukadau( forest) he divine cow -Parvathi spotted a Lingam and showered it with milk from its udder. Shiva was overjoyed to see the devotion of his consort.

Mukti at Thruvavadurai
Shiva happy with Parvathi’s (cow)deeds and granted Mukthi to her Thiruvavaduthurai. He was contemplating as to how Parvathi could be born on earth so that he can marry her quickly.

Bharatha Maharishi was conducting a yaga and Shiva thought it apt to make Parvathi appear from the yaga kundam. Thus a divine damsel emerged from the yaga kundam and the sage Bharatha was happy to see her and considered as a holy girl. He was worried about finding a suitable groom for her. The Lord appeared in his dream and assured him that he -Shiva would marry her as she is none other than Parvathi. Shiva also wished that the sage should perform the wedding in a grand manner

Lord Shiva appeared in the dream of Sage Bharatha, that he will enter into wedlock with the celestial who appeared from Sage Kundam.

Thus the Sage meticulously looked after the wedding arrangements. The divine wedding took place in Thirumananjeri which was witnessed by celestial beings. Since the Thirumanam (Wedding) took place at Thirumananjeri, this place is called Thirumananjeri.

Praying For Marriage
There is a popular belief that unmarried men and women will get married by worshipping the Lord and his consort. All the pooja items which is required to propitiate the deities are available inside the temple. But there are shops adjoining the temple who sell the pooja items.

There are many unmarried men and women who are grouped to propitiate the deities. The priests conduct the rituals precisely and the pooja with the reverence. Rathi and Manmadhan were united in wedlock in Thirumananjeri.

One should visit Thirumananjeri only after completing their visits to other places. This temple should be the last leg in their tour. Faith can move mountains. Reposing faith in the deities will do wonders. Unmaried men and women who prayed for their wedding should compulsorily visit Thirumanajeri after their wedding and follow the ritual as ordained by the priests.

There is a separate shrine for Rahu of the Navagraha. The childless will get a progeny if they worship him thus called Mangale Rahu and worshipping him consecutively on three New Moon days will remove the malefice effects of Navagraha.

TEMPLE PROCEDURES:

Before entering temple:

Car Parking is available in front of the gopuram on normal days; on weekends it is difficult to get parking.

Leave chappals in the car itself, if possible.

Buy archana thattu/bag INSIDE the temple, not in the outside shops though shopkeepers will keep pestering you.

Buy Archana tickets inside the temple in the counter:

Buy ghee dheepam thattu near the archana counter, not outside. If possible, take original ghee from home since ghee sold there may be dalda. Clay lamps are available there (or we can take from home).

Step-1: Go into the temple; Selva Ganapathy is on the left of sanctum sanctorum: pray before him first.

Step-2: Pray Lord Shiva (Sri Uthvaganatha Swami) next and go to Amman Sannithi on the right. Meenakshi Amman here appears as a 13-year old Kokilambal, head slanted to her right, with three bends (”naanikkoni’). This kolam is before her marriage.

Step-3: On the left of this mandapam is the important Kalyana Sundareswarar sannithi and mandapam. Light the ghee deepams first, right opposite to the Kalyana sundareswarar sannithi (except for mangala raagu which has separate place for ghee dheepams); here the deities are in marriage kolam; Meenakshi is on his right looking at the floor in kalyana kolam; hence married girls should always stand on the right hand side of the groom during all auspicious functions; the priests perform the rituals here to remove our marriage obstacles. Details are given below.

Thirumanjeri Temple - Godess Gohkila

Marriage delay Pariharam:
Unmarried spouse should buy one set of archanai thattu/bag; there are two places where you can buy this thattu; there are ten shops just outside the temple which sell this thattu at Rs.80 for boys and Rs.90 for girls [because manjal kayiru is added] containing 2 garlands, 2 coconuts, one lemon, vetrilai paaku, kalkandu; the same thattu is available inside the temple also at Govt (HR&CE Dept)-fixed price of Rs.40 & 45 sold by an HR&CE employee; always buy it inside the temple in Tanjore temples.

As soon as you enter the Kalyanasundareswarar sannithi, light the dheepams first and then wait for the next batch; only girls and boys concerned are seated inside the enclosure and those accompanying should sit around this enclosure; couples who come after marriage to complete the rituals and the parents (of boys/girls who are unable to come in person) also can sit inside the enclosure; if you are parent(s) inform the priest as soon as you enter the enclosure.

The priests brief you first regarding the Do’s and Don’ts; then collect all the garlands and the archana tickets first; they keep all garlands at the feet of the god, return one garland each to the spouse to be worn, parents must keep it in their hands; sangalpam is done and the thattu is taken away; parents should tell the boy/girl’s gothram/name/star and not theirs; archana follows, coconuts are broken, thattus are returned after aarthi as usual; drop Rs.10 or so in the thattu for the priests.

Do’s and Don’ts:

Vibuthi, kumkum (plus manjal for girls) are to be used, after prayers, for one mandalam (45 days or till they last) by the boys/girls only and NOT by others in the family.

Lemon should be drunk, without adding salt or sugar, by the boys/girls only and NOT by others; the next morning after bathing the boy/girl should pray wearing this garland and then drink the lemon juice with a little water.

Then retain the garland in a cloth bag (manjal pai), not in plastic bag, till marriage is over and come again with spouse; the same garland is finally put in the temple tank here.

Coconuts can be used by the entire family for cooking.

Step-4: After these rituals at the Kalyana sundareswarar sannithi, go and pray Shiva again. Normally no separate archana is done here.

Step-5: The kalyana melam/Nadhaswaram party collects Rs.10/boy or girl while coming out of the sanctum sanctorum, though not compulsory.

Step-6: Pray Raagu. Mangala Raagu here in the north of inner praharam is special for puthira dosha nivarthi; normal ghee dheepam (5 for Rs.10) available near Raagu, should be lit only by the boy or the girl or one of the parents if the boy/girl has not come;

Full procedure for Puthira dosha pariharam:: take bath in the thirukkulam nearby on amavasai day and take paal payasam for puthira bagyam; childless couple should offer ghee which is returned as prasadam which is to be taken at night for 48 days by both.

How to Get there:
From Kumbakonam : Take SH64 towards Mayuram, go 16km to Aduthurai, 11 km to Kuthalam, take left 8km to Thirumananjeri = 35 km approx. Faster route but cannot visit Suryanar Temple if you want to.

Another route from Kumbakonam : Take SH64 towards Mayuram, go 16km to Aduthurai, take left 4 km to Suryanar kovil, 6 km to Kanchanur, 9km to Thirumanancheri = 35 km approx.

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Magha Nakshatra : Arulmigu Thillai Kali Amman Temple - Chidambaram

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Magha Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Rahu (north lunar node)
Symbol : Royal Throne
Deity : Pitrs, 'The Fathers', family ancestors

Rahu resides in Thillai Kali Amman idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Magha Nakshatra have to visit Arulmigu Thillai Kali Amman Temple - Chidambaram 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 Magha Nakshatra

Arulmigu Thillai Kali Amman Temple - Chidambaram

This holy temple is situated towards the North side of world famous Sri Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram. It is 1.5 Km from Railway Station in the Chennai - Tanjore main Line of the Southern Railway. We have the facility to come here both by train and Raod ways.

There is an interesting story that my granddad shared with me about the erection of this temple in the outskirt of the town. It seems there was an argument that who is superior among Lord Siva and his wife Shakthi.In order to clear this doubt, Shiva decided to perform a dance at Chidambaram, infront of Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. Both Siva and Sakthi were performing and when Siva was about to get defeated, he did "Oorthava Thandava" (one of the position in dance where one raises their leg above their head). This couldnt be performed by Sakthi due to shyness and awkwardness. Since she couldnt do it, she accepted her defeat and in anger went to the extreme end of the town. Her deity at Thillai Kali Temple is a deity in anger and has four faces. It seems that the anger was pacified by Brahma's chanting and singing in praise of her.

'Thillai Kali' is a deity in anger. This anger was pacified by Bhahma by Chenting Veda and also praising her. Because of the penance of Lord Brahma 'Kali' became Cool. So that Goddess 'Thillai Amman' in this temple seems with four faces. Stone Inscripts : The Hindu 'Shoza' periods are represented in the inscriptions in this temple. This temple about construction in the regime of 'Kopperunsingan'

Ashlesha Nakshatra : Tirupparankundram

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Āshleshā Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Serpent
Deity : Sarpas or Nagas, deified snakes

Shani resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Āshleshā Nakshatra have to visit Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple Tirupparankundram 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 Āshleshā Nakshatra

Thiruparankundram, which is one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga.
This rock cut temple has separate shrine for saneeswaran. Thiruparankundram is 10km south from Madurai.

The 6th century rock-cut temple is dedicated to Lord Subramanaya. It is one of the six abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of the Lord. Here, Subramanaya married Deivayanai, daughter of Indra, after the victory over Surapadman. The main shrine is an early cave temple situated at a height of 1050 feet. At the entrance to this shrine, there are 48 pillars with artistic carvings. In the central shrines, Muruga, Durga and Vinayaka are worshipped. A special feature of Vinayaka is that He is holding only fruits and sugarcane. Muruga is in sitting posture with Deivayanai. To Her right is sage Narada. Vinayaka. Brahma, Indra, Surya and Chandra are depicted above these images. In the two cells facing each other, there are images of Vishnu with Sridevi and Bhoodevi and a Lingam respectively. At the top of the hill, there is a shrine dedicated to Kasi Viswanatha. The image of Nakkeerar, the Tamil poet, is seen here standing in reverence.

For More Details Visit : Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple - Thiruparankundram

Pushya Nakshatra : Sri Saneeswara Baghwan Temple – Kuchanur

Nakshatra/Birth Star : Pushya Nakshatra
Adidevatha / Adipathi of Nakshatra : Shani (Saturn)
Symbol : Cow's udder, lotus, arrow and circle
Deity : Bṛhaspati, priest of the gods

Shani resides in his own idol.

People's whose Birth star sign is Pushya Nakshatra have to visit Sri Saneeswara Baghwan Temple – Kuchanur 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 Pushya Nakshatra

Sri Saneeswara Baghwan Temple – Kuchanur

Saturn is a powerful planet among the nine and subject people to good or bad effects and therefore gains importance in the life of the humans. Hence, it is a planet to be worshipped very devotionally for their wellbeing. They get relieved of the intensity of its effect and follow their professions peacefully and run the family in peace. People throng this shrine naturally.


Prayer commitments:
Devotees light lamps with pure gingely oil and feed the crows. They also undertake feeding the visiting devotees. Donate for the maintenance and renovation of the temple.

Reputation:
Though there is a shrine for Saturn in almost all temples, Kuchanur temple is exclusively for Sani Baghwan next to Thirunallar. Moreover, He exists of himself.

It is said that this is the place where Sani Baghwan himself got relieved of the Brahmmahathi dosha – a sin that affects a person for committing some serious crime.
A Shivalinga was growing upwards here and the growth was controlled by applying turmeric on the Linga. A very sacred place for relief from the adverse effects of Saturn. A large number of devotees visit Kuchanur to worship Sani Baghwan from Northern states too.


Festivals:
Adi festival (July-August) celebrated for five weeks. Also the Sani (Saturn) transit day is observed very devotionally occurring in every two and half years.

History:
King Dhinakaran prayed to God for a child. He heard a voice that a Brahmin boy would visit him and he would get a child then. The boy came and was named Chandravadanan. The queen also became pregnant and delivered a male child. He was named Sadhagan. As the Brahmin boy was wise and good natured, he was crowned the king of the land. It was during this time, the king had to face and undergo the Saturn period (seven and half years Saturn). To save the adopted father king from the consequences of the Saturn period, Chandravadhana made a Saturn idol made of iron and worshipped Him on the banks of Surabi river.

He prayed to Lord Saturn to protect his adopted father from the effects of his period. Saturn, responding to the prayers of Chandravadhana, got the King only for seven and half hours, instead of seven and half years. He also assured Chandravadhana that he would not harm people of just nature and reduce his effects to the most minimum. Chandravadhana built a temple for Sani with Kuchu grasses here, hence the name Kuchanur.

How to get there:
Kuchanur is 30 kms from Theni, and 100 from Madurai. There are lodgings in Theni Town, the charges ranging from Rs. 200 to Rs. 500.

Bus facilities are available from Theni. The nearest railway stations are Theni, Dindigul and Madurai. Nearest Airport Madurai.

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