Surutapalli: Where Lord Shiva Reclines and Parvati Heals – The Temple of Pallikondeshwara

 

The Cosmic Churning – Samudra Manthan

One of the most iconic episodes from the Puranas, the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), is referenced across ancient Hindu regions, where Devas and Asuras pull Vasuki around Mount Meru.

• The mouth of the Paalar river, where it meets the Bay of Bengal, is believed to be the site of the churning.
• Tirukazhukundram, identified with Mount Meru, is where Lord Shiva manifests as Vedagireeshwarar.

The Emergence of Halahala and Shiva’s Compassion

Before Amrita emerged, the deadly poison Halahala surfaced. Lord Shiva consumed it to protect the universe, earning the name Pashupati. Adi Shankara’s Dashashloki Stuti beautifully captures this moment:

“Yo Raksha Dardhakshanaat” – He who protects all beings.

Surutapalli – The Reclining Shiva

After drinking the poison, Shiva is said to have rested on Parvati’s lap at Surutapalli.

• Here, he is worshipped as Pallikondeshwara Swami – a rare reclining form of Shiva.
• Devi Parvati is revered as Sarvamangalambika, the one who held Shiva’s throat and offered healing.

Dampatya Dakshinamurthy – A Unique Icon

• Unlike typical Dakshinamurthy depictions, Surutapalli features Dakshinamurthy with Parvati, symbolizing Guru-Shukra harmony.
• This form blesses devotees with marital bliss and progeny.
• Some interpret it as Brihaspati with Tara, others as Shiva with Parvati.

Valmikeshwara Swami – The Original Deity

• The temple’s Moolamurthy is Valmikeshwara, a triangular Swayambhu Lingam worshipped by Valmiki before composing the Ramayana.
• Dwarapalakas here are Kubera’s companions – Shankanidhi and Padmanidhi.
• His consort is Marakathambika Devi; opposite her is Vinayaka made of Shaligrama, flanked by Riddhi and Siddhi.
• Subramanya Swamy faces south, dispelling Maranabhayam (fear of death).

Pradosham and Cosmic Timelines

• Dashami: Emergence of poison
• Ekadashi: Shiva drinks Halahala
• Dwadashi: Churning concludes
• Trayodashi: Devas visit Shiva at Surutapalli
• Chaturdashi: Celebrated as Maha Shivaratri
• Ekadashi before Shivaratri: Known as Vijaya Ekadashi, marking divine victory

These events form the basis of Pradosha observance and the cessation of Vedic studies during this period.

Kumbha Month – Divine Mercy

The four days of the Kumbha solar month are considered the most auspicious, symbolizing Shiva’s infinite compassion in consuming poison and preserving life.