Sri Sugavaneshwarar Temple, Salem

Address

Sri Sugavaneshwarar Temple, Salem Swarnambikai Agraharam, Salem – 636001 Tamilnadu, India Phone: 0427-2450954, 0427-2254414

Diety

Sri Sugavaneshwarar Amman: Swarnambikai

Introduction

The Sugavaneshwarar Temple, located near the old bus stand in Salem, Tamil Nadu, is a significant pilgrimage site with a rich history and interesting legends. Here are some key details about the temple:

• The Sugavaneshwarar Temple is situated near the old bus stand in Salem, making it a prominent landmark in the city.
• According to legend, Sage Sugha Brahmarishi worshipped and performed penance at this place, adding to its spiritual significance.
• This temple is one of the five Shiva temples built along the banks of the Manimuthar River. These temples have self-manifested (Suyambu) Shiva Lingams. There is a belief that worshipping these five temples in a single day can absolve one’s sins.
• The temple also has historical significance and is believed to have been constructed during the 13th century AD, possibly by Mamannan Sundara Pandiyan, according to some beliefs.

Puranic Significance

Legends:

• A fascinating legend related to the temple’s origin involves Sage Sugha (Sugha Brahmarishi) who was cursed by Lord Brahma to take the form of a parrot (king of parrots). The curse was destined to end when the sage worshipped Lord Shiva at Salem.
• While Sage Sugha, in the form of a parrot, was worshipping Lord Shiva, a hunter named Vachirakanthan killed the parrot and other parrots. In the process, the hunter’s weapon hit the Shiva Lingam, causing it to bleed. Witnessing this event, the hunter took his own life.
• Lord Shiva appeared and blessed both the parrots and the hunter, ending the curse on Sage Sugha. To commemorate this incident, the temple has an Utsava deity and Moolavar of Sage Sugha with a parrot face.
• This temple has various names like Sukha Vanam due to Sage Sukha’s worship, Papanasam for the removal of sins, Patteeswaram in connection with Lord Shiva and Devi Saraswathi, and Nageswaram due to the worship by Adiseshan.

Special Features

Temple Features:

• The temple has a unique slanted main Linga (Shiva Lingam) with a scar caused by the hunter’s weapon.
• In addition to the main deities, there are many other shrines in the temple complex dedicated to various deities, including Lord Murugan, Lord Vinayaka, and more.
• The temple’s entrance features a beautiful “Thiru Nandhi Mandapam” and “Front Mandapam.”
• Two Vinayagar idols, Valampuri Vinayagar and Irattai Vinayagar, are located at the entrance tower.
• The temple’s spacious garden includes a variety of flowers, coconut trees, and Vilwa trees.

The Sugavaneshwarar Temple is not only a place of worship but also a site of historical significance and cultural richness. The legends, unique temple features, and vibrant festivals make it a significant pilgrimage destination in Salem, Tamil Nadu.

Festivals

• The Sugavaneshwarar Temple celebrates several festivals, including the 10-day Vaikasi festival in May-June, Tirukarthikai in November-December, Chithirai festival in April-May, Panniru Thirumurai in October-November, and Ammai Appar festival in September-October.
• Special poojas and abhishegam are performed for the deities every month on Kruthikai and Poora Nakshatra full moon days.

Century/Period/Age

13th century AD

Managed By

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Salem

Nearest Railway Station

Salem

Nearest Airport

Trichy, Coimbatore

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