Sri Sahasra Lakshmeeswarar Temple- Uthirattathi Nakshatra

Address

Sri Sahasra Lakshmeeswarar Temple, Theeyathur – 614 629, Avudayar Koil Taluk, Pudukkottai district. Phone: +91 4371-239 212, 99652 11768,

Diety

Sahasra Lakshmeeswarar Amman: Brihannayaki / Periyanayaki

Introduction

This temple is located near the famous Aavudaiyar temple. The Presiding Deity is Lord Shiva and He is a Suyambu Moorthy and the Goddess is Brahannayaki. Here comes the temple for Uthirattadhi Nakshathitra. Uthiratadhi starrers have oratory skills and good in education. They are fond of dresses and jewels, usually short-tempered. They are pious and good looking.

Puranic Significance

Lord Vishnu was performing Shiva Puja each day with 1000 lotus flowers. When the number was short by one, Lord Vishnu to make up the shortage tried to pluck one of his eyes to offer it to Lord Shiva but was prevented by HIM and granted darshan. Sri Mahalakshmi followed Lord Vishnu with the puja and realized Her wish of Shiva darshan. As Lord Shiva granted Darshan to Mahalakshmi who worshipped Him with 1000 flowers, He is named Sahasra Lakshmeeswarar. Sahasram means 1000.

Beliefs

The temple has special significance attached to Uthiratadhi star. Sages Agir Budhan, Angirasa, Agni Purandhaka and divine sculptor Viswakarama were born in this star. They come here on all monthly star days to worship Sahasra Lakshmeeswarar to perform pujas in their invisible form, according to belief. Hence the starrers are advised to visit the temple as often as they can or at least on their annual star day, perform Homas with a nivedhana of sweet pudding made with cashews, ghee, badam, grapes and honey for relief from problems as debt burden and progress in efforts stalled due to reasons known or unknown. As Fire God and Sun also known as Ayan worshipped here, the place is named Theeyathur. Thee in Tamil means fire. As hot Agni worshipped here, those suffering from heat related diseases worship here.