Akkaraivattam Somanatha Shiva Temple, Karaikal

Address

Akkaraivattam Somanatha Shiva Temple, Karaikal

Akkaraivattam,

Karaikal District,

Tamil Nadu 609602

Moolavar

Somanatha Shiva

Amman

Soundaravalli

Introduction

• Location: Akkaraivattam Village, Karaikal District, Tamil Nadu
• Distance: Situated on the road from Karaikal to Nagore, 2 km after crossing the bridge, with a small road turning to the left. The temple is located on the eastern bank of a large lake in the village.
• Presiding Deity: Lord Somanatha (in the form of a Lingam)
• Mother Deity: Soundaravalli

Architectural Features

• Lingamurthi of Somanatha: The main deity, Lord Somanatha, is represented by a large Lingamurthi.
• Other Shrines:
  • Vinayaka (Lord Ganesha) and Muruga (Lord Kartikeya) have separate sanctums near the front hall of the temple, facing Lord Soundaravalli to the south.
  • Durga and Dakshinamurti are enshrined at the north and south respectively, along with the Karurai Kothams (pillars).
  • Navagraha (Nine Planets) are placed in the northeast of the temple.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Significance: The temple is believed to be over 500 years old. It is thought to have been built by Thirumalairayan, who is credited with constructing one of the 108 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Siddhartha Connection: The temple holds historical importance due to the association with Siddanandaswamy, a Siddhartha from the 18th century, who was enshrined at the Soundaryavalli and Somanatha temples. His Siddha Samadhi temple was later established in the village, reinforcing the temple’s ancient legacy.
• Temple’s Origins: This Shiva temple may have originally been a larger structure but is now a smaller temple situated in the village, reflecting its ancient heritage.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

• Lord Somanatha: The deity, Somanatha, represents the supreme form of Lord Shiva and is revered for blessings of prosperity and spiritual growth.
• Siddhartha Influence: The presence of Siddanandaswamy’s Samadhi further adds spiritual significance to the temple, making it a place of deep meditation and reverence for devotees seeking peace and blessings.

Current Status and Worship

• Though the temple is now smaller than it once was, it remains an important site for local worship and annual festivals.
• Devotees visit to seek blessings for prosperity, peace, and fulfillment of wishes, especially related to spiritual growth and material well-being.

Century/Period

500 years old

Nearest Bus Station

Akkaraivattam

Nearest Railway Station

Karaikal

Nearest Airport

Puducherry

Location on Map

lightuptemple