Sathanur Kailasanathar Temple - Thanjavur

Address

Sathanur Kailasanathar Temple – Thanjavur

Sathanur, Thiruvidaimarudur Taluk,

Thanjavur District,

Tamil Nadu– 612 101

Mobile: +91 96984 07067

Moolavar

Kailasanathar

Amman

Kamakshi

Introduction

Location: Sathanur Village, Aduthurai Town, Thiruvidaimarudur Taluk, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu.
Deity: Presiding deity is Kailasanathar (Lord Shiva), and the goddess is Kamakshi.

Puranic Significance

Thirumoolar and Sathanur:
The temple holds great significance due to its association with Thirumoolar, one of the renowned 18 Tamil Siddhars and a major figure in the Tamil Shaivite tradition. Born as Sundaranathar, Thirumoolar is credited with authoring the Thirumandiram, a key text in Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy. The legend surrounding Thirumoolar’s life intertwines with the region’s spiritual heritage.

Thirumoolar’s journey to spiritual enlightenment led him to this region, where he performed a miraculous act by entering the body of Moolan, a deceased cowherd. This act, known as Parakaya Pravesam, was done to bring the dead Moolan back to life. Following this, Thirumoolar composed the Thirumandiram, a revered work that encapsulates spiritual wisdom and practices, solidifying his place in Tamil Shaiva philosophy. The temple’s association with Thirumoolar makes it a prominent pilgrimage site, with the region gaining recognition as the place where Moolan was transformed into the revered Siddhar, Thirumoolar.

Special Features

Temple Architecture:
The temple, believed to be over 1,800 years old, is dedicated to Lord Kailasanathar, worshipped in the form of a Lingam in the sanctum. The goddess Kamakshi has her own south-facing shrine in the Maha Mandapam. The temple also houses shrines for Alangatti Vinayagar and Muruga. The Navagraha Shrine here uniquely contains only two planets.
Alangatti Vinayagar:
One of the temple’s fascinating features is the Alangatti Vinayagar. This Vinayagar is known for its unique connection to the region’s weather patterns. During times of drought, the water levels around the idol rise when the Gomugam (a special spout) is sealed and water is poured over the idol. When the water level reaches the idol, the Gomugam opens, releasing water, which is believed to summon rain. This miraculous event has earned Vinayagar the title Alangatti Vinayagar, as he is associated with bringing rainfall during times of need.
Thirumoolar Shrine:
A shrine dedicated to Thirumoolar, with his idol, is also present in the temple, marking the site’s spiritual significance.

Festivals

The temple celebrates all major Shiva-related festivals, including Masi Magam, with great enthusiasm and fervor. This festival is particularly important in the temple, drawing large crowds of devotees who come to participate in the celebrations.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com/2020/08/kailasanathar-temple-sathanur-thanjavur.html