Sri Enthira Saneeswarar Temple, Thiruvannamalai

Address

Sri Enthira Saneeswarar Temple, Tiruerikuppam – 606 903. Kalambur Post, Tiruvannamalai district

Deity

Endhira Saneeswarar

Introduction

• Deity: Sri Saneeswara (Saturn)
• Temple Features: The deity is represented as a 6.5 feet tall Shivalinga, placed on a 2.5 feet wide pedestal. The Shivalinga includes Moon and Sun on its head, with a crow (Sani Bhagwan’s vehicle) in the middle. The Linga is inscribed with the six-faced yantra (Shatkona) and mantras like Namashivaya, Beejakshara, and Mahalakshmi mantras.
• Temple Environment: Located amidst green fields, the temple is open-roofed, allowing sunlight, wind, and rain to directly affect it. The entrance features a sculpture of Sani Bhagwan in a chariot drawn by five crows and paintings of planets with their vahans (vehicles).
• Special Practices: Abishek is performed on Saturdays between 6:00-7:30 a.m. during Sani Hora time, with additional pujas in the Yagasala. On Mattu Pongal, abishek is performed with 108 pots of milk. The sacred spring, Bhaskara Theertham, provides water for abishek, which is then offered as Prasad to devotees.

Puranic Significance:

• Historical Context: The temple originally had no shrine and was open to the elements. It was later rebuilt by devotees. The deity, Sri Sani Bhagwan, is worshipped as a Shivalinga with yantras. This form of worship reflects the deity’s association with the planet Saturn and its influence.
• Special Title: Sri Saneeswara Bhagwan, also known as Enthira Saneeswara, is honored in this temple. The temple includes a shrine for Lord Varasiddhi Vimayaka in the prakara (corridor).

Beliefs:

• Astrological Impact: Devotees facing adverse effects due to Saturn’s transit or placement in their horoscopes seek relief through prayers to Sani Bhagwan. The transition of Saturn, known as Sani Peyarchi, is observed with five days of pujas and homas.
• Prayers and Offerings: People pray for relief, child boon, marriage, and success in legal matters. Saturn is believed to influence longevity and professional success. Devotees light lamps with black sesame oil (Ellu Ennai) in His shrine.

Special Features:

• Unique Representation: Unlike most temples where Sani Bhagwan is worshipped in idol form, this temple features Him as a Shivalinga with a yantra. The yantra symbolizes the deity’s power and presence.

This temple stands out for its unique representation of Sani Bhagwan and its distinctive practices and beliefs associated with Saturn.

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 years old

Nearest Bus Station

Tiruerikuppam

Nearest Railway Station

Arani

Nearest Airport

Chennai

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