Rishivandiyam Ardhanareeswarar Temple, Kallakurichi

Address

Rishivandiyam, Sankarapuram Taluk,

Kallakurichi District – 606 205

Phone: +91 4151 289 243 / 243 289

Moolavar

Sri Ardhanareeswarar

Amman

Sri Mukthambika

Introduction

The Ardhanareeswarar Temple in Rishivandiyam, located in Sankarapuram Taluk of the Kallakurichi District in Tamil Nadu, India, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds several historical and religious significances.

Presiding Deity: The main deity of the temple is known as Ardhanareeswarar, representing the combined form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The Mother Goddess is called Mukthambika.
Construction and Renovation: The temple is believed to have been originally built by Pandyan King Sundara Pandya in 1282 A.D. It has undergone extensive renovations by successive rulers, including the Vijayanagara Kings and Nayak Kings.
Legend of Indra’s Worship: According to legend, Lord Indra used to perform daily worship to Lord Shiva at this temple but would leave without offering prayers to Mother Parvathi. This offended Mother Parvathi, and she complained to Lord Shiva. In response, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Ardhanareeswarar, offering His left side to Mother Parvathi. Hence, Lord Shiva at this temple is known as Ardhanareeswarar. The tradition of Mother Parvathi on the left side of the Lingam can be observed during honey abhishekam to the Lingam.
Sage Agastya’s Visit: It is believed that this temple is one of the places where Sage Agastya received a divine vision of Lord Shiva’s celestial marriage. Lord Shiva requested Sage Agastya to travel south to balance the land when it tilted towards the north during a celestial gathering. He promised that Sage Agastya would witness the divine marriage whenever he desired. Rishivandiyam is considered one such place where Sage Agastya had this divine vision.
Unearthing the Swayambhu Lingam: During the Vijayanagara period, the Veera Vanniyars clan was digging the land for agricultural purposes. They discovered a Swayambhu Lingam with a unique feature: a cut mark from the shovel’s impact. This Lingam is named Ardhanareeswarar.
Kuga Namshivayar’s Miracle: Kuga Namshivayar, a disciple of Guru Namshivayar, was on a pilgrimage to Chidambaram via Rishivandiyam and experienced extreme hunger. He sang a devotional poem to Mother Parvathi, who then appeared before him and offered food in a golden vessel. This event is celebrated at the temple.
Rishivandiyam’s Origin: The name “Rishivandiyam” has its origin in the belief that 5,000 Rishis performed penance on Lord Shiva in the form of bees at this location.
Lord Rama’s Worship: It is believed that Lord Rama worshiped Lord Shiva at this temple and received divine blessings.
Visit by Nalvar: The Nalvar, comprising Appar, Sundarar, Sambandar, and Manickavasagar, are believed to have visited and worshiped at this temple.
Historical Significance: The temple is said to date back to the Dwapara Yuga and is considered a parihara sthalam for marriage. Visiting the temple on Amavasya days and performing archana with abhisheka is suggested for those seeking success in marriage.
Temple Architecture: The temple faces east and features a five-tiered Rajagopuram. There are various mandapams, including Vasantha Mandapam with musical pillars and a Vahana Mandapam with Yazhi pillars.
Deities: The main Lingam within the sanctum sanctorum houses both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. There are also shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Vishnu and Mother Parvathi, as well as Nandi, the bull, in front of her shrine.
Festivals: The temple celebrates various festivals, including the Aani Brahmotsavam, the Third Monday of Karthigai, Shivaratri, and monthly Pradoshams.

The Ardhanareeswarar Temple in Rishivandiyam is not only a significant religious site but also carries historical importance with its unique stories and architectural elements. Devotees visit this temple seeking blessings, especially in matters related to marriage and harmony within the family