Paramathi Velur Sri Bhimeshwarar Temple, Salem

Address

Paramathi Velur Sri Bhimeshwarar Temple, Paramathi Velur, Mavureddi, Salem district

Diety

Sri Bhimeshwarar Amman: Vedhanayagi

Introduction

The Bhimeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated in Paramathi Velur, Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu.Paramathi Velur is located approximately 28 kilometers from Karur, 18 kilometers from Namakkal, and 30 kilometers from Thiruchengodu in Tamil Nadu.

Presiding Deities:

Lord Shiva: The main deity of the temple is Lord Bhimeshwarar, facing east.
Goddess Parvathi: The consort of Lord Shiva is known as Vedhanayagi.

Puranic Significance

The temple was built during the reign of the Pandya dynasty and is believed to be around 1000 years old.
It is one of the five temples associated with the Pandava Bhima. This is the temple where Bhima is said to have installed and worshipped a Shivalinga during his travels.
The presence of a fish symbol on the temple’s ceiling is believed to confirm its connection to the Pandavas.

This temple holds a special place as it is one of the few places where a Shiva temple, a river (Manimuthar River), and a cremation ground are situated in close proximity.
The temple is associated with a story of the Pandavas invoking the Divine Sparrow to bring fertility to their land. As a result, Bhima installed a Shivalinga in this region.

Beliefs

Devotees pray for removal of obstacles in marriage alliances, for child boon and excellence in education. Devotees perform abishek and offer vastras to the Lord.

Special Features

There are four other Shiva temples on the banks of the Manimuthar River: Sukavaneswarar Temple in Salem, Karapuranathar Temple in Uthamachozhapuram, Veeratteeswarar Temple in Pilloor, and Tiruveneeswarar Temple in Nanjai Idayaru.

Local Beliefs:

People in the region believe that worshipping Lord Bhimeswara, especially during times of drought, can bring much-needed rainfall and fertility to the land.
It is considered auspicious to worship all five temples along the banks of the Manimuthar River together to bring blessings and prosperity.