Thoothukudi Sri Sankara Rameswarar Temple

Address

Sivan Kovil Street,
Thoothukudi district,

Tamil Nadu
Pin code – 628002

Moolavar

Sri Sankara Rameswarar

Amman

Bagampriyal Udanurai

Introduction

Location: Sankara Rameswarar Temple is located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims traveling to Thiruchendur often stop here for a holy dip at the Vancha Pushkarani tank.
Puranic Significance:
- The temple is associated with the teaching of the Pranava Mantra (Om) by Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati. This event took place in a serene setting that was disturbed by various noises, which Parvati silenced, leading to the place being known as Thirumanthira Nagar.
- Sage Kaasiyappar, Sage Gowthamar, Sage Barathvajar, and Sage Athiri are noted to have worshipped at the temple.
Legend of Sankara Rameswarar:
- King Sankara Rama Pandian, desiring a child, worshipped Lord Shiva here. After bathing in the Vanja Pushkarani and praying, he was blessed with a son. In gratitude, the king built the temple and named the deity Sankara Rameswarar.
Beliefs:
- It is believed that taking a dip in the Vanja Pushkarani and worshiping Lord Shiva at this temple can help devotees achieve their wishes, especially for those desiring children. The temple is considered a place of healing and blessings for childbearing.
Special Features:
- The Sankara Rameswarar Temple is over 1000 years old and is one of the oldest structures in Thoothukudi.
- The temple is renowned for the Prathosam Pooja, which is especially popular in the Thoothukudi region.
- The temple is also notable for the worship of Lord Shiva in the form of a Lingam, and devotees believe that Shiva dissolved himself into the Lingam at this site.
- The town of Thoothukudi is historically linked to saints like Eripathanayanar and Pugazh Chola Nayanar.
Main Festival:
- The key festival of the temple is celebrated in the month of Chitra (April-May), along with the Tamil New Year, both of which attract many pilgrims.