Navakurichi Sri Vaitheeswaran Shiva Temple, Salem

Address

Navakurichi Sri Vaitheeswaran Shiva Temple, Navakurichi Village, Salem District, Tamil Nadu 636112

Diety

Vaitheeswaran Amman: Thayyalnayaki

Introduction

The Navakurichi Sri Vaitheeswaran Shiva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Navakurichi Village, Salem District, Tamil Nadu.

Deities: The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Vaitheeswaran (Shiva), and the goddess is known as Thayyalnayaki.

Location: The temple is situated in Navakurichi Village, which is in the Salem District of Tamil Nadu.

Temple Condition: The temple is described as being in poor shape and is largely dilapidated. The single Prakaram (temple precincts) is overrun with weeds. A separate shrine is dedicated to the goddess, who is placed in front of the sanctum sanctorum. There are idols and Nandi in the temple complex, but some are kept in the open.

Historical Significance: The temple may date back to the 12th century CE, based on the recovery of Panchaloha idols from an underground chamber in the nearby Perumal Temple. It is believed that the temple could have been built or developed by various dynasties, including the Bana dynasty, who ruled under the Cholas, as well as the Pandyas and Vijayanagar Kings.

Location: Vaitheeswaran Navakurichi is located approximately 75 kilometers to the east of Salem. To reach the temple, you can take the road going to Kallakurichi, and then head north at Thalaivasal.

The temple is a part of the region’s cultural and religious heritage, and while it may be in a state of disrepair, its historical significance and the worship of Lord Shiva continue to hold importance for the local community and devotees.