Introduction
The Sri Kalyana
Vikirtheswarar Swamy Temple, located in Venjamangudalur village,
Aravakurichi Taluk, Karur district, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Paadal
Petra Sthalam dedicated to Lord Shiva. With its rich legends, towering
Lingam, and unique blessings, this temple is a spiritual gem of Tamil Nadu.
Deities & Shrines
- Presiding Deity:
Lord Shiva as Vikirtheswarar (Vikirtheeswarar – the Lord who
grants all that is good).
- Consort:
Goddess Vikritambika.
- Lingam:
The main Lingam is 5 feet tall, while the female deity’s image is 2.5
feet.
- Shrines for 63 Nayanmars,
Bhairavar, Panchalingams, and other deities enrich the temple complex.
Architecture
- Built around 1200 years ago in
traditional Tamil style.
- Features a 5‑tier Rajagopuram.
- Sacred water source: Vikrita
Theertham.
Legends
- Hunter King Venchan
worshipped Shiva here, giving the place its name Venchamaakoodal.
- Lord Shiva appeared as an old priest
and blessed Sundarar with gold.
- Indiran,
king of the devas, worshipped the Lingam here to rid himself of sins.
- Worship of Lord Murugan in
this temple is believed to reunite separated couples.
Festivals
- Brahmotsavam
– Celebrated in Maasi (Feb–Mar).
- Tiruvadhirai
– In Margazhi (Dec–Jan).
- Annabishekam
– In Aipasi (Oct–Nov).
- Tirukarthikai
– In Nov–Dec.
- Mahashivratri
– In Feb–Mar.
Temple Timings
- Morning:
6:30 AM – 12:00 Noon
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Why Visit
- To seek blessings from Lord
Vikirtheswarar, known for granting forgiveness and goodness.
- To witness the rare 5‑foot Lingam
and the shrine of Vikritambika.
- To experience the Paadal Petra
Sthalam heritage, praised in Shaivite hymns.
- To participate in vibrant festivals
like Brahmotsavam and Annabishekam.
- To receive blessings for marital
harmony, as worship of Murugan here is believed to reunite separated
couples.
Uniqueness
- Rare Lingam height
– towering at 5 feet, unlike most temples.
- Legends of Sundarar and Indiran
– divine stories of forgiveness and blessings.
- Murugan’s special grace
– unique belief that worship here reunites estranged couples.
- Vikrita Theertham
– sacred water source tied to purification and blessings.
- Paadal Petra Sthalam status
– one of the 275 temples revered in Shaivite hymns.
Getting Here
- From Karur:
25 km (approx. 40 minutes by road).
- From Dindigul:
50 km (approx. 1 hour by road).
- Nearest Railway Station:
Karur Junction (25 km).
- Nearest Airport:
Tiruchirappalli International Airport (90 km).
Tips for Devotees
- Visit during Brahmotsavam or Mahashivratri
for grand celebrations.
- Offer flowers, fruits, and
annabishekam rice during puja.
- Couples seeking harmony should
worship Lord Murugan here.
- Respect temple customs and dress
modestly.
- Explore nearby Paadal Petra
Sthalams in Karur district for a complete pilgrimage.
Conclusion
The Sri Kalyana
Vikirtheswarar Swamy Temple at Venjamangudalur is a sacred destination
blending legend, forgiveness, and marital harmony. With its towering
Lingam, divine stories, and unique blessings, it stands as one of Tamil Nadu’s
most spiritually significant Shiva temples.