Thiruvakkarai Vakrakaliamman Temple, Villupuram

Address

Tiruvakkarai Post, Vanur Taluk,
Villupuram District,
Tamil Nadu-604 304.

Amman

Vakrakaliamman

Introduction

The Thiruvakkarai Vakrakaliamman Temple, located in Thiruvakkarai near Thindivanam in Villupuram district, is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Maa Kali. Though the temple hosts multiple shrines for various deities, it is most famous for the Vakrakaliamman Devi shrine, making it a significant destination for devotees.

Puranic Significance

The temple, built in the 12th century, features a unique idol of Maa Kali, slightly bent to one side, with eight hands, adorned with a baby in her ear ornament and a skull crown.
The temple is associated with the Demon Vakrasuran and his sister Tunmuki:
- Vakrasuran was slain by Lord Vishnu in his Varadaraja Perumal avatar.
- Tunmuki, who was pregnant, was destroyed by Vakrakaliamman. Following Dharma Shastra, the fetus was transformed into a Kundalini ornament in the Goddess’s ear before Tunmuki was annihilated.
After the annihilation, Goddess Vakrakaliamman, still filled with anger, was calmed by Adi Shankara, who consecrated a Sri Chakra on her left foot.

Beliefs and Worship Practices

Lord Shiva at the temple is revered for:
- Removing Navagraha Doshas.
- Resolving Putra Doshas, sin Doshas, and obstacles to success.
Vakrakaliamman Devi is worshipped for:
- Alleviating Vakra Doshas and Horoscope Doshas.
- Blessings for marriage and progeny.
Devotees follow unique rituals, such as:
- Tying a Thirumangalyam rope and lighting a lemon lamp in front of Goddess Deepalakshmi for resolving marriage delays.
- Writing prayers on paper and tying them to the scepter (Soolam) of Vakrakaliamman to seek divine intervention.
Special worship during noon on full moon and new moon days is believed to resolve life’s problems and bring peace.

Special Features

The temple houses rare and awe-inspiring elements:
- Sahasra Lingam: A giant Shiva Linga with 1,008 smaller Lingas carved into it.
- Lord Shiva with three faces, signifying unique divine characteristics.
- The background theme of fire enhances the dramatic beauty of the Vakrakaliamman statue.
Central Location: Unlike traditional Kali temples situated on the outskirts, this temple is uniquely located at the center of the town, near the royal tower entrance.
Devotees believe that visiting Maa Kali for three consecutive weeks and offering prayers fulfills their wishes.

Festivals and Rituals

The temple observes special poojas on full moon days, drawing large crowds.
Pancha Kannika Dosha: A unique ritual for women seeking a suitable husband and a happy marital life.
Continuous three-week prayer rituals are a common practice for devotees wishing to fulfill their desires.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com