Tenponparappi Sri Swarnapureeswarar Temple, Villupuram

Address

Tenponparappi Sri Swarnapureeswarar Temple, Then Pon Parappi, Villupuram district. Phone: +91-4151- 257057, 94432 40127.

Deity

Sri Swarnapureeswarar Amman: Umayal, Swarnambikal

Introduction

• Location: Ponparappi village, Ariyalur district, Tamil Nadu.
• Age: Dates back to the 10th century.
• Presiding Deity: Lord Swarnapureeswarar, represented as a linga made of Suryakandha (solar magnetic stone) with Navapashana powers.
• Linga Height: 5.5 feet, mounted on the peetas of Brahma and Vishnu, symbolizing the unity of the three deities—Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
• Special Feature: A Navagraha Yantra is installed under the feet of the presiding deity.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Context: About 1300 years ago, Kakanda Bhunagar, the head of the Siddhas, performed severe penance on Lord Shiva for 16 years to gain the darshan of Lord Shiva with 16 faces. He wished for future generations to also experience this blessing.
• Shivaling Creation: The Shivaling with 16 stripes was created and installed by him, with the temple constructed by King Vanakovarayan, featuring all the temple’s traditional characteristics.
• Unique Sound: The Shiva Linga produces a bronze-like sound when tapped, a distinctive feature of the temple.
• Nandi Idol: The Nandi (sacred bull) in this temple is a “Balanandhi” (calf-sized), allowing a clear view of the Lord, especially during Pradosha days.
• Solar Phenomenon: On the full moon days of Aavani (August-September) and Panguni Uthiram (March-April), devotees can witness sunlight shining through the Nandi’s horns, illuminating the sanctum sanctorum.
• Dynamic Sanctum: The sanctum has a hot nature due to the presence of Vayu (wind) and Panchaboodha (five elements). The lamp (Dheep) in the sanctum is always oscillating, as noted in the palm leaves of Kakanda Bhujangar.
• Special Abhishekam: The abhishekam (ritual bathing) involves 16 items, including honey, milk, and ghee, which flow separately down the Shivalinga in distinct tracks, converging at the base.

Beliefs

• Devotional Practices:
  • People pray for good agricultural yields, relief from debts, and obstacles in marriage proposals.
  • Individuals affected by the adverse aspects of Rahu-Ketu and Saturn are encouraged to pray at the Balanandhi during Rahukalam (inauspicious time) on their birth star days.
  • During abhishekam with milk, honey, and sandal, devotees observe a light blue line forming on the Balanandhi, believed to be a good omen.
  • Students perform abhishekam with milk mixed with pepper to achieve academic success, especially those born under the Avittam star.

Special Features

• Shodasa Linga: The Shiva Linga has 16 stripes, symbolizing its Shodasa (16) aspect.
• Solar Alignment: The rays of the sun fall on the Lord during specific times on Panguni Uthiram day, creating a divine spectacle.
• Materials: The linga’s material (Suryakandha) enhances its spiritual power and connection to the sun.

Century/Period/Age

1300 Years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Tenponparappi

Nearest Railway Station

Kallakkurichi

Nearest Airport

Puducherry

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