Periyapalayam Sri Imuktheeswarar Temple, Thiruvallur

Address

Periyapalayam Sri Imuktheeswarar Temple, Periyapalayam Thiruvallur- 601102

Deity

Imuktheeswarar / Agastheeswarar Amman: Annapoorani.

Introduction

Location:

• The Imuktheeswarar Temple is situated at Moongilpattu in Periyapalayam, Thiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, on the banks of the Arani River. Opposite the river is the renowned Periyapalayam Bhavani Amman Temple.

Presiding Deities:

• Imuktheeswarar/Agastheeswarar: The main deity, Lord Shiva, is revered here as Imuktheeswarar due to the worship of the five elements (Pancha Bhoota: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether) within the temple.
• Annapoorani: The consort of Lord Shiva, worshipped as Annapoorani.

Puranic Significance

Historical Background:

• The temple is believed to be around 1000 years old, highlighting its long-standing religious and cultural significance.

Legends:

• Worship by Sage Agasthiar: The temple is named Agastheeswarar, as it is believed that Sage Agasthiar worshipped Lord Shiva here.
• Sage Valmiki’s Presence: It is also said that Sage Valmiki, the revered author of the Ramayana, stayed and worshipped Lord Shiva at this location.
• Temple Orientation: This west-facing temple features a three-tier Rajagopuram (gateway tower) on its western side, which is unique among temples.

Shrines:

• The temple premises include various shrines dedicated to:
  • Navagrahas: The nine celestial bodies in Hindu astrology.
  • Vinayaga: Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
  • Ayyappa: The deity worshipped during the pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
  • Srinivasa Perumal: An incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
  • Lord Murugan: Accompanied by his consorts, Valli and Deivanai.
  • Saneeswara: The deity representing the planet Saturn.
  • Bairavar: A form of Lord Shiva, worshipped for protection.
  • Veerabhadra: A fierce form of Lord Shiva.
  • Suryan and Chandran: The Sun and Moon deities.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Periyapalaiyam

Nearest Railway Station

Thiruvallur

Nearest Airport

Chennai

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