Explore Neyyadiappar Temple: Saptasthanam Marvel and Paadal Petra Heritage

Location

Village: Tillaistanam (also known as Thiruneithanam)
District: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Situated near Thiruvaiyaru, this temple is part of the Saptasthanam circuit, a group of seven sacred temples linked to the Aiyarappar Temple.

Presiding Deities

Main Deity (Moolavar): Neyyadiappar (a form of Lord Shiva), also known as Kruthapureeswarar
Consort (Amman): Piraisoodi Amman, also referred to as Balambikai or Ilamangai Ammai
Urchavar (Processional Deity): Kruthapureeswarar

Sub Shrines and Features

Temple Significance

Paadal Petra Sthalam: Celebrated in the hymns of Saivite saints Appar and Tirugnana Sambandar, marking it as one of the 276 sacred Shiva temples.
Saptasthanam Link: Neyyadiappar Temple is one of the seven temples that participate in the annual Saptasthanam festival, symbolizing divine marriage and community unity.
Historical Name: Tiruneithanam, indicating its ancient spiritual heritage

Historical Background

The temple is believed to be 1000–2000 years old, with strong architectural and devotional ties to the Chola dynasty.
It is one of the Paadal Petra Sthalams, sanctified by the hymns of Appar and Tirugnana Sambandar, two of the most revered Tamil Saivite saints.
Historically known as Tiruneithanam, the temple is part of the Saptasthanam circuit of Thiruvaiyaru, which celebrates divine marriage and community unity through annual festivals.

Legend of Kamadhenu and Ghee

A divine cow, later revealed to be Kamadhenu, used to pour milk daily at a specific spot in the village.
Due to exposure to sun and rain, the milk turned into ghee (ney)—hence the name Neyyadiappar (Lord of Ghee).
When a shepherd tried to catch the cow, it vanished. Locals discovered a Shivalinga at the spot.
The king, upon hearing the miracle, built the temple and instituted daily abhishekam with ghee, honoring the divine event.

Architectural Features

The temple follows Dravidian architecture, with a modest yet spiritually resonant layout.
Key features include:

Sanctum (Garbhagriha) housing the lingam of Neyyadiappar
Separate shrine for Piraisoodi Amman (Balambikai), the consort of Shiva
Vilwa tree as the Thala Virutcham and Cauvery Theertham as the sacred tank
Karana Agama tradition governs the temple rituals

Though not as grand as larger Chola temples, its spiritual significance and historical depth make it a vital heritage site.

Daily Rituals and Worship

Rituals include abhishekam, alankaram, naivedyam, and deepa aradhana to the main deity Neyyadiappar and consort Piraisoodi Amman.
A unique tradition involves abhishekam with ghee, commemorating the legend of Kamadhenu and the miraculous transformation of milk into ghee.

Festivals Celebrated

Maha Shivaratri – Observed with night-long worship, special abhishekams, and devotional music.
Thiruvadhirai – Celebrates Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance, with rituals and processions.
Saptasthanam Festival – Neyyadiappar Temple is one of the seven temples participating in this grand event linked to Thiruvaiyaru Aiyarappar Temple, symbolizing divine marriage and village unity.
Monthly Pradosham – Special pujas during twilight on Trayodashi days.
Navaratri and Panguni Uthiram – Celebrated with rituals for the goddess Piraisoodi Amman.

Beliefs and Devotional Significance

Devotees believe that worshipping Neyyadiappar here removes sins and grants spiritual clarity, especially through the ghee abhishekam.
The temple is considered a Paadal Petra Sthalam, sanctified by the hymns of Appar and Tirugnana Sambandar, enhancing its spiritual prestige.
The legend of Kamadhenu reinforces the belief in divine intervention and purity, making the temple a site for prayers related to health, prosperity, and forgiveness.

Temple Hours

Getting Here

Nearest Town: Thiruvaiyaru (approx. 5 km)
Nearest City: Thanjavur (approx. 15 km)
By Road: Tillaistanam is well-connected via local buses and taxis from Thanjavur and Tiruvaiyaru.
By Train: Thanjavur Railway Station is the closest major railhead.
By Air: Tiruchirapalli International Airport (approx. 60 km) is the nearest airport.

Tips

Visit during early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan and cooler weather.
Combine your visit with other Saptasthanam temples like Thiruvaiyaru, Thirupazhanam, and Thiruchotruthurai for a circuit experience.
Carry water and light snacks, as local shops may be limited.
Photography may be restricted inside sanctum areas—check with temple staff.
If visiting during Saptasthanam festival or Shivaratri, expect crowds and plan accommodation in advance.