Tiruppanantaal Arunajadeswarar Temple – Paadal Petra Sthalam near Kumbakonam

December 02, 2025 , , , , , , ,

 

Location

  • Situated at Tiruppanandal (Thadagaieswaram) in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.
  • Lies on the banks of the Kollidam River, near Kumbakonam.
  • The temple is closely associated with the Thiruppanandal Adheenam, a Saivite monastic institution.

Deities

  • Main Deity (Moolavar): Lord Shiva as Arunajadeswarar.
    • The lingam here is unique, depicted with matted locks (Jata), symbolizing Shiva’s infinite wisdom.
  • Consort (Ambal): Goddess Periya Nayaki.
    • She is positioned with her right ear facing the Lord, signifying her attentive devotion.

Subshrines

  • Shrines for Vinayaka (Ganesha) and Murugan (Kartikeya).
  • Navagraha (nine planetary deities) shrines are present.
  • Other minor shrines dedicated to Saivite saints and guardian deities.
  • The temple complex also houses the Adheenam mutt, making it a hub of spiritual learning and Saivite tradition.

Temple Significance

  • Paadal Petra Sthalam: One of the 275 Shiva temples glorified in the Tevaram hymns by saints like Tirugnanasambandar and Thirunavukkarasar.
  • Spiritual Legend:
    • Goddess Parvati performed penance here in a palm tree grove.
    • Lord Shiva, pleased with her devotion, preached divine wisdom to her, earning the title Gnana Guru (Teacher of Wisdom).
  • Symbolism:
    • The lingam with matted locks represents Shiva’s cosmic knowledge and boundless energy.
  • Cultural Importance:
    • Hymns in praise of this temple were sung not only by Saivite saints but also by Arunagirinathar, linking it to Murugan devotion.
  • Historic Name: The temple is also known as Thadagaieswaram.

History

  • The temple dates back to the early medieval Chola period, with inscriptions pointing to royal patronage.
  • It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, praised in the Tevaram hymns by Tirugnanasambandar and Thirunavukkarasar.
  • The temple has also been sung by Nambiyandar Nambi and Arunagirinathar, linking it to both Saivite and Murugan traditions.
  • The site is historically tied to the Thiruppanandal Adheenam, a Saivite monastic institution that continues to flourish here.

Legends

  • Parvati’s Penance: Goddess Parvati is believed to have performed penance in a palm tree grove at this site.
  • Shiva as Gnana Guru: Lord Shiva appeared before her and imparted divine wisdom, earning the title Gnana Guru (Teacher of Wisdom).
  • Unique Lingam: The lingam here is depicted with matted locks (Jata), symbolizing Shiva’s infinite and complete knowledge.
  • Ambal’s Position: Goddess Periya Nayaki is uniquely placed with her right ear facing Shiva, signifying her attentive devotion.

Architecture

  • The temple lies on the banks of the Kollidam River, near Kumbakonam.
  • Built in Dravidian style, the temple features:
    • A Rajagopuram (main tower) at the entrance.
    • Spacious mandapams (halls) for devotees and rituals.
    • Shrines for Vinayaka, Murugan, Navagrahas, and Saivite saints.
  • The temple complex also integrates the Adheenam mutt, making it not just a place of worship but also a center of Saivite learning.

Rituals

  • Daily Poojas:
    • Conducted in the traditional Saivite Agamic style.
    • Includes Abhishekam (sacred bath), Alankaram (decoration), Naivedyam (food offering), and Deepa Aradhana (lamp worship).
  • Weekly Observances:
    • Mondays are especially auspicious for Shiva worship.
    • Fridays are dedicated to Goddess Periya Nayaki.
  • Special Rituals:
    • Devotees perform archana seeking wisdom and relief from difficulties.
    • Rituals for planetary peace (Navagraha parihara) are also observed.

Festivals

  • Mahashivaratri:
    • The most important festival, marked by night-long abhishekam, chanting of Tevaram hymns, and special darshan.
  • Navaratri:
    • Celebrated for Goddess Periya Nayaki with processions, music, and devotional discourses.
  • Pradosham:
    • Bi-monthly ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to remove karmic burdens.
  • Other Observances:
    • Karthikai Deepam (lighting of lamps).
    • Aadi Pooram for Goddess.
    • Annual temple car festival (Therottam) with community participation.

Beliefs

  • Shiva as Gnana Guru:
    • Devotees believe Lord Arunajadeswarar grants wisdom, clarity, and spiritual knowledge, as he once preached divine truths to Goddess Parvati here.
  • Ambal’s Unique Position:
    • Goddess Periya Nayaki’s right ear faces Shiva, symbolizing attentive devotion and receptivity to divine wisdom.
  • Healing & Blessings:
    • The temple is considered a Parihara Sthalam (remedial shrine) for:
      • Relief from high fever.
      • Couples wishing for a male child.
      • Harmony in married life.
      • Safe childbirth for mothers.
      • Protection from chickenpox.
      • Financial stability.
  • Lingam with Jata:
    • The lingam’s depiction with matted locks is believed to embody Shiva’s complete and infinite knowledge, inspiring devotees to seek enlightenment.

Temple Hours

  • Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Photography and videography are not allowed inside the sanctum.

Getting Here

  • Nearest Town: Kumbakonam (approx. 15 km away).
  • Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road Railway Station.
  • By Road: Well connected by buses and taxis from Kumbakonam, Thanjavur, and nearby towns.
  • By Air: The closest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (around 90 km).

Tips

  • Dress Code: Wear modest, traditional attire. Cotton clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate.
  • Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings for peaceful darshan.
  • Duration: A typical visit takes about 20–30 minutes.
  • Festivals: Plan visits during Mahashivaratri, Navaratri, or Pradosham for vibrant celebrations.
  • Pilgrim Comfort: Carry water and light snacks; temple surroundings are simple and pilgrim-friendly.
  • Nearby Attractions: Combine your trip with visits to other Kumbakonam temples (Navagraha circuit, Mahamaham tank).

Post a Comment

No comments

Subscribe to: Post Comments ( Atom )