Sri Swaminatha Swamy Temple, Swamimalai

Address

Sri Swaminatha Swamy Temple Thirumanjanaveethi, Swamimalai, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur – 612302. Phone Number : 04352454421

Deity

Swaminathaswamy, Amman: Meenakshi

Introduction

Introduction:

• Location: 5 km from Kumbakonam, 250 km from Chennai; situated atop a 60-foot hillock
• Surroundings: Nestled on the banks of a tributary of the Cauvery River; known for serene and picturesque views
• Significance: Part of the six holy shrines (Arupadaiveedu) dedicated to Lord Murugan; holds immense significance for devotees

Puranic Significance:

• Teaching of Pranava Mantra: Lord Murugan imparted the meaning of the Pranava Mantra (“OM”) to Lord Shiva here.
• Mythological Stories:
  • Saint Bhrugu: Fire from his penance reached the heavens, leading to Lord Shiva regaining knowledge from Murugan.
  • Imprisonment of Brahma: Brahma was imprisoned by Murugan for ignorance of the Pranava Mantra, leading to Lord Shiva becoming Murugan’s disciple to secure Brahma’s release.
• Architectural Beauty: Features a statue of King Karthaveeriyarjunan and is accessible via sixty steps representing the sixty Tamil years.
• Devotees’ Pilgrimage: Popular pilgrimage site for devotees, especially on Kiruthigai days; associated with Kavadi offerings.
• Additional Shrines: Houses shrines for Lord Shiva (Sundareswarar) and goddess Parvathi (Meenakshi), established by Pandiyan King Varaguna.

Special Features:

• Significance: Fourth of the six padai veedu shrines; celebrated in Thiru Murugatrupadai by Nakkeerar and Thirupugazh by Arunagirinathar.
• Sixty Steps: Each step is named after one of the sixty Tamil years.
• Thiru Padi Thiru Vizha: Grandly celebrated on both Tamil and English New Year days.

Festivals:

• Daily Rituals: Six rituals from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Annual Festivals:
  • Vaikasi Visagam: Attracts thousands of devotees
  • Additional Celebrations: Includes Thiru Padi Thiru Vizha and various monthly Kiruthigai festivals

Century/Period/Age

1000 to 2000

Managed By

HRCE

Nearest Bus Station

Kumbakonam

Nearest Railway Station

Kumbakonam

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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