Kanjanur Sri Agniswarar (Sukran Navagrahastalam) Temple (Venus) – Kanjanur
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Address
Sri Agneeswarar Shukran Temple (Venus) Aduthurai-Kuthalam Road, Kanjanur, Tamil Nadu 609804
Deity
Agneeswarar, Amman: Karpagambigai
Introduction
The Agniswarar Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in Kanjanur, 18 kilometers northeast of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Agniswarar, while Sukra (Venus) is also venerated as the Navagraha deity of the shrine. In accordance with Shaivite beliefs, Sukra is believed to reside within the stomach of Lord Shiva, symbolizing His all-pervading presence.
The temple was originally built by the Medieval Cholas and later renovated by the Vijayanagar kings. It features a five-tier Rajagopuram (tower) and is enclosed by two prakarams (temple precincts). This temple is highly revered in Tamil Saivite literature, particularly in the hymns of Appar (one of the Nayanars), earning it the status of a Paadal Petra Sthalam. It is also classified as one of the Vaippu Sthalams sung by Appar.
The temple’s sacred theerthams (holy water sources) include:
- Agni Theertham
- Parasara Theertham
Puranic Significance
1. Haradatta Sivacharyar’s Devotion
The temple is closely linked to Haradatta Sivacharyar, a saint of Vaishnava origins, originally named Sudarshanar. He is believed to have undergone various spiritual ordeals to prove his unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva. His spiritual journey and contributions are deeply associated with this temple.
- Images of Agniswarar (Shiva) and Karpagambal (Parvati) are also found in the Varadaraja Perumal Temple at Kanjanur.
- Several stone inscriptions and carvings in the temple depict Haradatta Sivacharyar’s life and miracles.
- The temple has shrines dedicated to Maanakkanjaarar Nayanar and Kalikkaamar, two revered Shaivite saints.
2. The Mukti Tandavam (Dance of Liberation)
The Nataraja Sabha, also known as the Mukti Mandapam, houses beautiful stone images of Lord Nataraja (the dancing form of Shiva) and Goddess Sivakami.
- The Shivatandavam (cosmic dance of Shiva) performed here is called Mukti Tandavam (Dance of Liberation).
- It is believed that Lord Shiva granted Sage Parasara a divine vision of this cosmic dance at this very site.
Special Features
The Agniswarar Temple is one of the nine Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu and is part of the Navagraha pilgrimage circuit, which is highly significant for devotees seeking relief from planetary doshas (afflictions).
It is believed that Lord Shiva Himself appeared in the form of Sukra (Venus) at this temple to neutralize Sukra’s dosha (planetary affliction).
Festivals
The temple follows a rich tradition of six daily worship services. Major festivals celebrated here include:
- Haradatta Sivacharyar Festival (held in the Tamil month of Thai)
- Maha Shivaratri
- Arudra Darisanam (celebration of Lord Nataraja’s cosmic dance)
- Navaratri
- Aadi Pooram
Century/Period/Age
1000-2000 years
Managed By
Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)
Nearest Bus Station
Kanjanur
Nearest Railway Station
Thanjavur
Nearest Airport
Trichy