Vasudevanpattu Aatkondeeswarar Temple, Thiruvannamalai

Address

Vasudevanpattu, Chengam Taluk,

Thiruvannamalai District – 606 704

Mobile: +91 84890 86309 / 96774 13824

Moolavar

Aatkondeeswarar / Bakthachaleswarar

Amman

Soundarya Nayagi / Baagampriyal / Akilandeswari.

Introduction

The Aatkondeeswarar Temple in Vasudevanpattu Village, Chengam Taluk, Thiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its historical and religious significance. This temple is part of the Saptha Kailaya Sthalams, established and worshipped by Lord Muruga, and is situated on the southern bank of the Cheyyar River. These temples were established by Lord Muruga to seek redemption from the sin of killing the sages while creating the Cheyyar River.

Puranic Significance

Presiding Deity: The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, known as Aatkondeeswarar or Bakthachaleswarar. The goddess is known by various names, including Soundarya Nayagi, Baagampriyal, and Akilandeswari.
Historical Significance: The temple has a rich historical legacy, with roots dating back around 1300 years. It is believed to have been built during the rule of King Vasudevan, whose name is associated with the place.
Saptha Kailaya Sthalams: The temple is part of the Saptha Kailaya Sthalams, a group of fourteen Shiva temples situated on both sides of the Cheyyar River. Lord Muruga established these temples to seek atonement for his actions.
Architectural Features: The temple’s architecture is notable for its absence of a Rajagopuram (main tower). There is a south-side entrance with stucco images of deities, including Vinayaka, Somaskanda, Murugan, and Nandi Devar.
Pillared Halls: Visitors will find a 12-pillared hall with sculpted images of Saptha Kannigal (Seven Goddesses) on the pillars. A 4-pillared hall houses the Dwarapalakas (guardians) and Nandi facing the main deity.
Deity Shrines: Within the temple premises, there are separate shrines for Vinayaga, Murugan, who is depicted with his consorts Valli and Deivanai, and Navagrahas (nine planetary deities).
Chithragupthan and Vichithragupthan: The temple also features shrines dedicated to Chithragupthan and Vichithragupthan in the northeast corner.
Sthala Vriksham: The sacred tree associated with the temple is the Vilvam tree.
Ruined Fort and Additional Temples: In Vasudevanpattu Village, you can also find the remains of a ruined fort, an 8-foot-tall idol of Veera Anjaneyar (Hanuman), and the Veera Narayana Perumal Temple.

Beliefs

Chithragupthan and Vichithragupthan had worshipped Lord Shiva here since they made some mistakes in the birth / death records they keep. By worshipping those devotees are blessed with long and healthy life.