Ambasamudram Kasinathaswami Temple- Thirunelveli

Address

Ambasamudram,

Thirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu – 627 401

Phone: +91 – 4634 – 253 921

Mobile: +91 – 98423 31372 / 93658 41179 / 98423 31372

Moolavar

Kasibanathar (Kasinathar)

Amman

Maragathambigai

Introduction

The Kasinathaswami Temple, located at Ambasamudram in the Thirunelveli District of Tamil Nadu, is a prominent shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the northern bank of the Thamirabarani River, the temple is revered for its spiritual significance and architectural beauty. The presiding deity, Kasibanathar (also known as Kasinathar), is worshipped in the form of a Swayambu Linga, and the temple’s Mother deity is Maragathambigai. The temple is surrounded by scenic beauty and is known for its rich history, with the temple’s kumbabishekam (consecration) held on April 29, 2009.

Puranic Significance

Sage Kashyapa’s Darshan of Lord Shiva: According to legend, Sage Kashyapa performed a yagna dedicated to Lord Shiva and received the darshan of the deity. He requested a Shiva Linga for his puja, and his wish was granted. The Linga is now known as Kashyapa Linga, which later evolved into Kasipa Linga.
The Kannadian Canal Legend: A king from Kerala fell ill and could not be cured by the best physicians. A divine voice advised the king to create a doll from black sesame seeds (dhil), transfer his disease to it, and donate it to a Brahmin. The doll came alive and revealed that it would leave the youth if he shared the benefits of the Gayathri mantra chanting with it. The youth agreed and went on a journey to Pothigai Hills, seeking advice from Sage Agasthya. The youth entrusted his valuables to the temple’s priest, but when he returned, the priest denied giving back the original valuables. The dispute reached the king, and when the priest lied before the Lord, Shiva became furious and burnt him. The youth prayed for the priest’s restoration, and the merciful Lord Shiva revived him. This event led to Shiva being named “Erithatkondar” (the one who burnt) and “Erichudayar.” The youth used the wealth he received to dig the Kannadian Canal, which runs between Kallidaikurichi and Ambasamudram. After this, the Lord remained angry, and it was only when Lord Vishnu intervened that Shiva’s anger subsided. Vishnu’s intervention calmed Shiva’s temperament, restoring him to his merciful nature.

Beliefs

Devotees visit this temple seeking relief from material desires and to cultivate a mindset of service to others. People offer special abishekas (rituals) to both Lord Kasibanathar and Goddess Maragathambigai, and they donate silk cloths such as Parivattam (turban) for Lord Shiva and silk sarees for the Goddess.

Special Features

Ancient Temple: The Kasinathaswami Temple is believed to be more than 1500 years old, with Lord Shiva worshipped as Kasibanathar and Mother Maragathambigai.
Unique Temples and Shrines: The temple complex features multiple shrines, including one for Lord Nataraja as Punugu Sabapathy. Lord Vishnu is also enshrined in the temple, as it is believed that he calmed Lord Shiva’s anger.
Architectural Style: The temple follows the ‘maada kovil’ architectural style, with raised platforms. The main shrine of Kasibanathar is located atop a platform, surrounded by a sanctum sanctorum, ardha mandapa, maha mandapa, and a pillared mandapa. Two prakaras (enclosures) surround the temple.
Theerthams: The temple is associated with several sacred water sources, including Devi, Shala, Deepa, Kasiba, Kirumikara, Gokila, and Purushothama. It is believed that the Thamirabarani River itself is a confluence of all seven theerthams.
Sthala Vriksham (Sacred Tree): The holy tree of the temple is Amla (Gooseberry), which is considered a significant part of the worship and rituals.

Festivals

The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including:

Brahmotsavams: Two grand Brahmotsavams are held, one in Aipasi (October-November) and the other in Panguni (March-April).
Shivaratri: This festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is celebrated in February-March.
Tirukarthikai: A special celebration held in November-December to honor Lord Shiva.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com/2017/03/kasinathaswami-temple-ambasamudram_6.html