Thiruvidaimarudur Rishipuriswarar Temple, Thanjavur

Address

Thiruvidaimarudur,

Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu 612 104

Phone: +91 98400 53289 / 99528 05744

Moolavar

Rishipuriswarar

Amman

Gnanambigai

Introduction

The Rishipuriswarar Temple in Thiruvidaimarudur, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds spiritual significance. The Rishipuriswarar Temple is situated in the west street of the Mahalingeswarar Temple in Thiruvidaimarudur.

Puranic Significance

Historical Significance: This temple is believed to be more than 1500 years old and was in existence even before the Mahalingeswarar Temple. It underwent extensive renovations by notable figures like Pattinathar, Badragiriyaar, Varaguna Pandya, and Vikrama Chola. After being in a dilapidated condition for many years, the consecration of the temple was performed on March 4, 2012, restoring it to its former glory.
Rishipuriswarar and Gnanambigai: According to legend, sages Bharadhwaja, Agasthya, Kashyapa, Romesa, Gowthama, and Koushika performed penance at this sacred location, seeking knowledge and spiritual wisdom. Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati appeared before them, imparting divine wisdom. As a result, Lord Shiva came to be known as Rishipuriswarar, and the Mother became Gnanambigai.
Kaga Theertham: The sacred Kanaga Theertham, also known as Kaga Theertham, is believed to have originated from the eyes of Lord Shiva. The name Kaga Theertham is derived from a story of a crow attaining salvation by bathing in this sacred pond.
Pandya King Chitra Keerthi: Pandya King Chitra Keerthi and his wife Suguna visited the temple, took a holy dip in Kanaga Theertham, and prayed to Lord Shiva for the blessing of a child. Their prayers were answered by Lord Shiva.
Worship and Benefits: Worshipping by lighting four lamps in the Rishaba Rasi Vinayagar shrine on Fridays is believed to fulfill one’s desires. Praying to Lord Kubera is said to clear debts and bestow wealth. Taking a bath in Kanaga Theertham and worshipping Rishipuriswarar is believed to provide blessings for child boon and relief from curses and diseases. This temple is considered a parihara sthalam (remedial place) for individuals born under the Rishabam, Mithunam, and Simmam star signs. People associated with Kashyapa Godhra, Gowsika Godhra, and Bharadhwaja Godhra also benefit from worshipping here.
Temple Details: The temple faces east and features an entrance arch. The presiding deity, Rishipuriswarar, is in the form of a Lingam. A notable feature is that an unidentified liquid oozes from the ears of the Nandi, the sacred bull, facing the sanctum. Mother Gnanambigai has a separate south-facing shrine. Other shrines within the temple complex include Bhairavar, Chandikeswarar, Rishaba Rasi Vinayagar, Murugan, Maha Lakshmi, and Kubera.
Sthala Vriksham and Theertham: The sacred Vilwam Tree is the Sthala Vriksham (temple tree). The temple is associated with Kanaga Theertham (Kaga Theertham), which holds religious significance.