Azhagapuram Azhakeswarar Temple, Ariyalur

Address

Azhagapuram Azhakeswarar Temple, Ariyalur

Azhagapuram town,

Udayarpalayam Taluk, Ariyalur District,

Tamil Nadu

Moolavar

Azhakeswarar

Amman

Azhagammai

Introduction

The Azhakeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Azhagapuram Village near Andimadam in Udayarpalayam Taluk, Ariyalur District, Tamil Nadu.

Pancha Bhooda Sthalam: This temple is considered one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalams located around Andimadam. According to tradition, Sage Agastya is believed to have installed and worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple. Sage Agastya is said to have constructed five Shiva temples around Andimadam, each representing one of the Pancha Bhootas (five prime elements of nature). This temple is one among those Pancha Bootha Sthalams.

Temple Orientation: The temple is facing east.

Temple Architecture: Similar to the Vishwanatha Swamy Temple, the Azhakeswarar Temple is also constructed with laterite stones.

Age: The temple is believed to be around 1,000 years old.

Deities:

The presiding deity of the temple is Azhakeswarar, a form of Lord Shiva. The main deity faces east and is represented in the form of a Lingam.
The goddess of the temple is known as Azhagammai. Her shrine is situated in a separate south-facing shrine located in the Maha Mandapam.

Other Structures: The temple premises also include a Mandapam with a Nandi (the bull associated with Lord Shiva) and a Balipeedam. Additionally, there is a shrine for Lord Vinayaga located in the northeast corner of the temple premises.

Kosha Idols: Various Kosha idols, including Dakshinamoorthy, Brahma, Lingodbhava, Brahma, and Durga, can be found around the walls of the sanctum.

The Azhakeswarar Temple, like the other Pancha Bootha Sthalams in the region, has a historical and religious significance, particularly due to its association with Sage Agastya and its representation of the Pancha Bhootas. Efforts to maintain and preserve such ancient temples are crucial for preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of the area.