Sogathur Yoga Narasimhar Temple, Thiruvannamalai
Address
Sogathur Yoga Narasimhar Temple, Thiruvannamalai
Oothavadai St, Sogathur,
Thiruvannamalai district,
Tamil Nadu 604408
Moolavar
Yoga Narasimhar
Amman
Amirthavalli
Introduction
Location:
- Yoga Narasimhar Temple is located in Sogathur Village, Thiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu.
- The temple is about 7 km south of Vandavasi and lies on the old road connecting Vandavasi to Thindivanam.
- The temple is more than 1500 years old and is under the control of Ahobila Mutt.
- Theertham (Holy Water): Lakshmi Saras Theertham.
Deity:
- Presiding Deity: Yoga Narasimhar.
- Consort: Amirthavalli (the goddess).
- The Lord is depicted in a small idol, offering Nithya Garuda Seva (eternal service), showing his grace to the devotees.
Puranic Significance:
According to the Sthala Purana, the temple is historically significant:
- Brahma’s Penitence:
After losing all the Vedas to demons, Lord Brahma came to this place and bathed in the Lakshmi Saras Theertham. He performed intense penance to seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings and restore the Vedas.- Vishnu appeared to Brahma and granted him back the Vedas.
- This event marked the end of Brahma’s sorrow (known as “Shogam”), which led the place to be known as Soha Bagat Roopam. Over time, this name evolved into Sogathur.
Beliefs and Devotional Practices:
- Marriage Prayers:
Devotees facing delays or obstacles in marriage proposals offer saris to Mother Amirthavalli and pray for an early and successful marriage. - Blessings from Sri Anjaneya:
Devotees pray to Sri Anjaneya (Hanuman) for courage, mental strength, and protection from enemies. They often offer betel leaves or Vada Malas on Wednesdays and Saturdays and perform 11 rounds around the shrine for relief. - Business and Academic Success:
On Swati Star days, special prayers are offered to Lord Yoga Narasimha for success in business, gaining wisdom, and building reputation in academic fields. - Dosha Removal:
Devotees facing doshas (flaws) or delays in wedding matters take a bath in Lakshmi Saras Theertham and offer Panaka Nivedhana (a sweet drink offering) to Lord Narasimha for divine intervention.
Special Features:
- Deity Representation:
Lord Yoga Narasimha appears as a Shanta Narasimha (peaceful Narasimha) in this temple, representing both his fierce and calm aspects.- The Lord is seen facing east in a serene posture, contrary to his usual wrathful form, showing a gentle, compassionate side to his devotees.
- Age and History:
The temple is over 1500 years old, with a deep-rooted tradition and connection to the divine.
Festivals Celebrated:
- Swathi Thiru Nakshatram:
- Celebrated monthly in grand manner, with Tirumanjanam (holy bath) and Homam (ritual fire offerings) performed early in the morning.
- A significant occasion for devotees to witness the divine darshan (viewing) of Divyadampatis (Lord Yoga Narasimha and Goddess Amirthavalli).
- Sri Narasimha Jayanthi:
- The birthday of Lord Narasimha is celebrated with special rituals and prayers.
- Purattasi Saturdays:
- Observed during September-October, these Saturdays are significant for performing rituals and worshipping Lord Narasimha.
- Margazhi Vaikunda Ekadasi:
- Celebrated in December-January, it marks the auspicious day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, observed with fasting and prayers.
- Hanuman Jayanthi:
- The birthday of Sri Anjaneya is celebrated with fervor and devotion.
References
https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com/2017/02/yoga-narasimhar-temple-sogathur.html
Century/Period
1500 Years Old
Managed By
Ahobila Mutt control
Nearest Bus Station
Sogathur
Nearest Railway Station
Ahobila Mutt control
Nearest Airport
Puducherry