Nathanallur Agastheeshwarar Temple, Kanchipuram

Address

Nathanallur Agastheeshwarar Temple, Nathanallur village, Kanchipuram district, Tamilnadu-631605

Deity

Agastheeshwarar

Introduction

The Agastheeshwarar Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Nathanallur, a serene village near Walajabad in Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu. The temple’s presiding deity, Lord Agastheeshwarar, attracts devotees with its spiritual and historical significance.

History and Significance

Village History:
Nathanallur was originally known as Nallur. It is named after the great Sangam-era poet Nathathanar, composer of Sirupanatrupadai, who was born in this village.
Temple’s Origins:
The temple is believed to be 1,000 years old and was constructed during the period when Nathathanar lived. Despite its ancient history, the temple has undergone recent renovations.
Present Condition:
The villagers have been actively restoring the temple and are preparing for its Kumbabhishekam (consecration ceremony). A temple tank is located nearby, enhancing the sacredness of the site.

Deities and Features

Presiding Deity:
- Lord Shiva is worshipped as Agastheeshwarar.
Other Deities:
- Shrines for Vinayaka, Ambal, Murugan, and Navagrahas, which were recently installed (Noodhana Pradistai).
Daily Worship:
- A one-kala pooja is performed every day, with villagers regularly conducting bhajans to maintain the temple’s vibrant spiritual atmosphere.

Connectivity

Location:
- Nathanallur is situated 6 km from Walajabad, 21 km from Kanchipuram, and approximately 67 km from Chennai.
- The Tamil Nadu State Highway 48 passes through Nathanallur, ensuring good connectivity to nearby towns and cities.

Festivals

The temple celebrates various important festivals with enthusiasm:

Pradosham: A bi-monthly event dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Maha Shivaratri: Celebrating Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance.
Annabishekam: Offering of cooked rice to the deity.
Karthigai Deepam: Festival of lights, dedicated to Lord Murugan and Lord Shiva.