Aikudi Devaraja Maha Sastha Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Aikudi Devaraja Maha Sastha Temple, Mukundanur Post, Kudavasal Taluk, Aikudi, Thiruvarur district – 613 70 Mobile: +91 94884 15137 / 94439 46137

Deity

Devaraja Maha Sastha Amman: Poornaa and Pushkala

Introduction

• Location: Devaraja Maha Sastha Temple is situated at Aikudi in the Thiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu.
• Presiding Deity: The temple is dedicated to Devaraja Maha Sastha, along with two consorts, Poornaa and Pushkala.
• Sthala Vriksham: The Neem Tree (Vembu) is the sacred tree of the temple.
• Theertham: The temple features a holy water body known as Deva Theertham.
• Antiquity: This temple is believed to be 1,000 years old and is managed by the HR & CE (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments) of the Tamil Nadu government. Notably, it was constructed using funds contributed by devotees who regard Sastha as their family deity, or Kuladevatha.

Puranic Significance

• Divine Worship: According to legend, 48 evil deities worshipped Sastha at this temple to be freed from the consequences of their malevolent actions.
• Three Lords: The temple holds significance as the great lords Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva also performed pujas here, enhancing its spiritual stature.
• Custodian Deity: Veeran serves as the custodian deity of the area.
• Deity and Shrine: The presiding deity, Devaraja Sastha, is housed in a shrine with a Vimana featuring three Kalasas, facing west. The holy tree is located centrally, with various deities and shrines positioned around the temple.

Beliefs

• Relief from Black Magic: Devotees pray to Sastha on every Poornima day for relief from the effects of black magic.
• Chithirai Month Puja: Participation in pujas during the Chithirai month (April-May) is believed to bring prosperity and fulfill devotees’ wishes. Offerings of corns, grains, and even live animals (goats, cattle, cocks) are made to the temple as acts of devotion.

Festivals

The temple celebrates several significant festivals, including:

• Purattasi Brahmotsavam
• Panguni Uthiram
• Masi Makam
• Vaikasi Visakam
• Thiru Karthikai
• Vaikunda Ekadashi
• Sravana Deepam

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Aikudi

Nearest Railway Station

Thiruvarur

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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