Kadaneri Sri Kozhundeeswarar Temple, Virudhunagar

Address

Kadaneri, Virudhunagar District,

Tamil Nadu – 626149.

Phone: +91 98432 77377

Moolavar

Kozhundeeswarar

Amman

Maragatavalli

Introduction

Location and Deities
Kadaneri Sri Kozhundeeswarar Temple is a revered Shiva temple located in the Kadaneri village, Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Sri Kozhundeeswarar, and the presiding goddess is Maragatavalli. The temple is well-connected with direct bus facilities from Virudhunagar.

Puranic Significance

This temple is believed to be the first Shiva temple in Virudhunagar district, constructed in the 8th century AD.
Situated on a hilltop near Coonoor, in the Moovar Bandhan region, it holds a significant place among the Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu.

Beliefs

Healing Powers: Devotees worship Lord Kozhundeeswarar and Goddess Maragathavalli Ambal to seek cures for various ailments.
Rituals include anointing the deity, offering new clothes, and giving alms as acts of devotion.

Special Features

Arjuna Theertha

Linked to the Mahabharata, it is believed that an arrow shot by Arjuna struck a rock at this location, causing water to flow perpetually. This eternal water source is known as Arjuna Theertha.
A nearby perennial spring, Thiruvotukkeni Theertha, is also believed to possess healing properties. Both these theerthas are considered sacred elixirs for curing diseases.

Temple Architecture

The temple, carved out of rock, features a lingam in the sanctum sanctorum.
Idols and Shrines:
- Right side: Nataraja and Sivakami Ambal.
- Left side: Ganesha and Murugan.
- Additional shrines for Sivakami Ambal, Kalabhairava, and Navagrahas are located outside the sanctum.
The temple underwent Kumbabhishekam (consecration) in 2008 and is maintained by the Hindu Charitable Authority.