Thirupuvanam Sri Pushpavaneswarar Temple, Sivaganga

Address

Sri Pushpavaneswarar Temple, Tirupuvanam – 623 611, Sivaganga District, Phone: +91 4575 265 082 / 265 084 Mobile: +91 – 94435 01761, (P.RAMESH PATTAR+91 8667438294/ Watsapp number 9962726070)

Deity

Poovananathar, Pushpavaneswarar Amman: Soundara nayagi

Introduction

Pushpavaneswarar temple (also called Poovananathar temple or Thirpoovanam temple) in Thirupuvanam, a village in Sivaganga district in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is believed to have been built during the Cholas period in the 7th century. Shiva is worshipped as Pushpavaneswarar and his consort Parvathi as Soundaranayagi. The presiding deity is revered in the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanmars and classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. A granite wall surrounds the temple, enclosing all its shrines. The temple has a seven-tiered Rajagopuram, the gateway tower. The temple is located on the banks of Vaigai river. Thala Virutcham : Jack tree Theertham : Vaigai, Manikarnikai Agamam / Pooja : Pujas are performed

Puranic Significance

Shiva’s Divine Play (Thiruvilayadal):
- This temple is one of the 64 sacred places where Lord Shiva performed his divine plays (Thiruvilayadal).
The Story of Ponanaial (Ponnaiyal):
- Ponanaial, a devout dancing girl, wished to sculpt an idol of Lord Shiva in pure gold.
- Despite her strong devotion, she lacked the money to fulfill her wish.
Shiva Appears as a Metallurgist (Rasavathi):
- Pleased with her unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva appeared in disguise as a metallurgist named Rasavathi.
- He miraculously transformed iron, bronze, and aluminum into gold, allowing Ponanaial to create the golden idol.
The Divine Embrace & Mark on the Idol:
- Overjoyed by the beauty of the idol, Ponanaial embraced and pinched its cheeks, leaving a mark.
- This mark is still visible on the procession deity of the temple.
Self-Manifested Lingam & Divine Worship:
- The Shiva Lingam at this temple is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu).
- It has been worshipped by several divine beings, including:
  - Surya (Sun God)
  - Dharmaraja (Lord of Dharma)
  - Nala (King from Mahabharata)
  - Chandra (Moon God)
  - Thirasanan (A great sage)
  - Brahma (Creator God)
  - Vishnu (Preserver God)
Significance of the Parijatha Tree:
- Since Lord Shiva appeared under a Parijatha tree, he came to be known as Pushpavaneswarar (meaning Lord of the Flower Garden).
Alchemy Miracle:
- In another version, Shiva appeared as a Siddha and advised Ponnaiyal to melt brass, lead, and copper articles in her house.
- When she followed the instruction, the metals turned into gold through an alchemy miracle, enabling her to create a golden idol of Shiva.
Sacred Relics:
- The procession deity still bears the nail symbol of Ponnaiyal, a reminder of her deep devotion and divine blessings.

Beliefs

Devotees seek happy results in marriage talks, child boon, good education etc.

Special Features

Lord Shiva graces as a Swaymbumurthy. The 36th chapter in the epic Tiruvilayadal Puranam relates to this temple about the alchemy miracle. The place is also known by other names as Pushpavanakasi, Pithurmokshapuram, Bhaskarapuram, Lakshmipuram, Brahmmapuram and Rasavadhapuram. Lord Pushpavaneswarar with His consort Soundaryanayaki had played many miracles. As this is a place with fragrant gardens.

Festivals

Vaikasi Visakam in May-June, Aadi Mulaikottu in July-August, Navarathri in September-October, Aipasi Kolattam in OctoberNovember, Great Deepa in Karthikai (November-December), Margazhi Arudra Darshan in December-January, Masi Shivrathri in February-March, 10 day Panguni Utsav in MarchApril are the festivals celebrated in the temple.