Periyakulam Rajendra Chozheeswarar (Balasubramaniar Temple), Theni

Address

Periyakulam village,

Theni district– 625 601

Phone: +91 94885 53077

Moolavar

Rajendra Chozheeswarar, Balasubramaniar

Amman

Aram Valartha Nayaki

Introduction

The Rajendra Chozheeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Periyakulam Town, Theni District, Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity of the temple is Rajendra Chozheeswarar (a form of Lord Shiva), while the goddess is Aram Valartha Nayaki. Despite being dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is more popularly known as the Balasubramaniar Temple because of its association with Lord Murugan. The temple is situated on the banks of the Varaha River, and it is believed to be around 1500 years old, making it one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the Theni district. The great Saint Arunagirinathar composed Thirupugazh Hymns dedicated to Lord Murugan here.

Puranic Significance

The temple is closely tied to several mythological stories and events:

The Salvation of the Pig:
According to the legend, during the 10th century, Chola Emperor Rajendra Chozhan visited the Agamalai forest on a hunting expedition. During the hunt, the king killed a wild pig that was nursing its piglets. Out of mercy, Lord Murugan caused the piglets to receive milk from their deceased mother. Moved by this divine act, the king built a temple for Lord Balamurugan and established a city nearby, named Kulandhai Managaram. The temple showcases sculptures depicting this miraculous event. As a result of Lord Murugan’s mercy, the dead wild pig was granted a place in heaven.
The Sacredness of the River:
The Varaha River, which flows by the temple, is considered extremely sacred. The water in this river is believed to have healing powers, particularly for those suffering from incurable diseases. It is said that a dip in the river’s waters can cure ailments, much like the sacred waters of Kasi.
Etymology of Periyakulam:
The name Periyakulam is derived from the Tamil words “Periya” meaning “Big” and “Kulam” meaning “Pond”, reflecting the large lake in the area. Historically, the town was known as Kulandhai Managaram, which is also referenced in Tamil literature.

Beliefs

Healing Waters: Devotees believe that bathing in the sacred spring near the temple and praying to Lord Murugan can provide relief from various health problems.
Abishek and Offerings: Devotees perform abishek (ritual bathing of the deity with sacred water or oil) and offer vastras (clothes) to Lord Murugan to seek blessings for good health and prosperity.

Special Features

Rajendra Chozheeswarar Temple:
The temple is sometimes referred to as the Big Temple, as it was constructed by Emperor Rajendra Chozhan. It features a five-tiered Rajagopuram (gateway tower). The main deity, Rajendra Chozheeswarar, and the goddess Aram Valartha Nayaki have separate shrines, each with its own flagpost (Kodimaram).
Lord Murugan’s Shrine:
The temple is particularly famous for its association with Lord Murugan (Balasubramaniar), who is depicted with six faces, accompanied by his consorts Valli and Deivanai. The temple also features a Peacock Mandapam opposite the Murugan shrine, showcasing the 27 stars and 12 zodiac signs on its roof.
Other Deities:
Several other shrines are located within the temple complex, including those for:
- Lord Nataraja
- Lord Ekambareswarar
- Lord Jambukeswarar
- Lord Dakshinamurthy
- Goddess Durga
- Lord Kanni Moola Ganapathy
- Lord Bhairava
- Lord Vishnu
- Sun and Moon with their consorts
- Saptha Kannikas
- Planets Rahu and Ketu
Chola Architecture:
The temple’s architecture is a fine example of Chola craftsmanship. The pillars of the temple feature sculpted depictions of Agora Veerabhadra, Rudra Thandava Murthi, Manmatha, and Mother Durga. One of the most notable sculptures is of Lord Rudra Thandava Moorthy.
Lord Mrityunjaya Shrine:
The temple also has a shrine dedicated to Lord Mrityunjaya, with many devotees choosing this location to celebrate significant life milestones, such as their 60th or 80th birthdays.
Nearby Temples and Sacred Spots:
- A small temple dedicated to Azhagu Natchiamman, surrounded by a beautiful garden, is located near the temple.
- The Varaha River is considered as sacred as the Ganga, with two Marudha trees (one male and one female) found on its banks. The river is also called Brahmma Theertham.