Introduction
The Sri Kadamba
Vaneswarar Temple, located in Kulithalai, Karur district, Tamil Nadu,
is one of the revered Paadal Petra Sthalams. Here, Lord Shiva is
worshipped as Kadamba Vaneswarar, with his consort Mutrila Mulaiammai.
The temple is steeped in mythology, particularly the tale of the Saptha
Kannikas and their penance under the Kadamba tree.
Legends &
Significance
- Battle with Demon Doomralochana:
Devas appealed to Mother Ambica to protect them. She took the form of Durga
and fought the demon.
- Saptha Kannikas:
When Durga weakened, Lord Shiva deputed seven virgins to fight. Mistaking
Maharshi Kathyayana for the demon, they killed him, incurring Brahmmahathi
dosha.
- Relief from Sin:
On Ambica’s advice, they performed penance on Lord Shiva and were relieved
when the Lord granted darshan from the Kadamba tree, giving the
temple its name.
Temple Features
- Architecture:
The temple has a five‑tier Rajagopuram.
- Deity Orientation:
Lord Shiva faces north, while Dakshinamurthy faces south.
- Shrines:
Includes a separate shrine for Shani Bhagawan.
- Special Poojas:
Performed to Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga during Rahukala time.
Festivals
- Masi Brahmmotsavam (Feb–Mar)
– 13‑day grand celebration.
- Thai Poosam (Jan–Feb)
– Devotees gather for special rituals.
- Vaikasi Visakam (May–Jun)
– Celebrated with processions and poojas.
- Aipasi Skanda Sashti (Oct–Nov)
– Dedicated to Lord Murugan.
- Panguni Uthiram (Mar–Apr)
– Festival of divine marriages.
Temple Timings
- Morning:
6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening:
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Getting Here
- Location:
Kulithalai, Karur district, Tamil Nadu.
- By Road:
Accessible via buses and taxis from Karur and Trichy.
- By Rail:
Nearest station – Kulithalai Railway Station (~2 km).
- By Air:
Trichy International Airport (~40 km).
Tips for Devotees
- Visit during Masi Brahmmotsavam
for the grandest celebrations.
- Participate in Rahukala poojas
for special blessings.
- Explore nearby Paadal Petra Sthalams
for a complete spiritual circuit.
- Respect temple traditions and dress
modestly.
Why Visit Sri Kadamba
Vaneswarar Temple?
- One of the Paadal Petra Sthalams.
- Unique legend of the Saptha
Kannikas.
- Majestic five‑tier Rajagopuram.
- Rich festival calendar throughout the
year.
- Spiritual significance tied to Kadamba
tree darshan.