Pattamangalam Dakshinamurthy Temple, Sivaganga

Address

Pattamangalam Dakshinamurthy Temple, Sivaganga

Pattamangalam,

Sivaganga district,

Tamilnadu – 630204

Phone: + 91- 4577 – 262 023

Moolavar

Dakshinamurthy

Amman

Dakshinamurthy

Introduction

Pattamangalam Dakshinamurthy Temple, dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy, is one of the most renowned temples in South India. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped as Sundareswarar, with Goddess Umadevi gracing as Navayadi Kali. Located 8 km from Sivaganga and 9 km south of Thiruppathur, this temple is among Tamil Nadu’s key Guru temples. A separate shrine for Goddess Parvathi is situated a few hundred meters away. The temple is celebrated as the site of the 33rd Thiruvilayadal (holy play) of Lord Shiva.

Accessibility

• By Bus: Regular buses are available every 30 minutes from Thiruppathur.
• By Train: Nearest railway station: Sivaganga.
• By Air: Nearest airport: Madurai.

Puranic Significance

1. Historical Origins:
   Originally constructed by the Pandya dynasty, the temple was rebuilt in the 19th century CE by the Nagarathar community.
2. Legend:
   Lord Shiva narrated divine stories to Sage Brungi and Nandi Deva here. The Kruthika maidens, who sought the boon of Ashtama Siddhi, were cursed by Lord Shiva for their lack of attention. Transformed into rocks, they were later blessed and redeemed by the Lord at Pattamangalam.
   • Mother Umadevi, who had recommended the maidens, was also temporarily cursed and now graces devotees as Navayadi Kali.
3. Kadamba Rishi and the Legend of Hiranyakashipu:
   Kadamba Rishi, who had his ashram here, cursed the demon Hiranyakashipu, leading to his eventual demise. The Rishi, revered as Adaikalam Katha Ayyanar, resides in a separate shrine under the Erazhinjil tree, protecting devotees.

Unique Features

1. Dakshinamurthy Facing East:
   The temple’s primary distinction is Lord Dakshinamurthy facing east instead of the traditional south-facing posture, making it a rare and unique shrine.
2. Sacred Banyan Tree:
   A massive banyan tree with hanging roots is located behind the Dakshinamurthy shrine. Devotees perform 108 circumambulations around the tree for blessings.
3. Thiruvilayadal Connection:
   This temple is the site of one of Shiva’s Thiruvilayadal miracles, underscoring its spiritual significance.
4. Subramanyar Shrine:
   Lord Subramanya (Thayumanavar) appears here as Ashtamaa Siddhi Subramanyar, accompanied by his consorts Valli and Deivanai.
5. Pottramarai Tank:
   The sacred temple tank, similar to Madurai Meenakshi Temple’s Pottramarai, adds to the sanctity of the location.

Beliefs and Worship

• Circumambulation Rituals:
  Devotees walk around the Dakshinamurthy shrine and the banyan tree in specific counts for various blessings:
  • 3 times: Wish fulfillment.
  • 5 times: Success in endeavors.
  • 7 times: Peace of mind and noble ideals.
  • 9 times: Blessings for children.
  • 11 times: Longevity.
  • 15 times: Prosperity.
  • 1008 times: Success in love and personal life.
• Special Puja Offerings:
  Devotees offer abhishekams, vastras, and perform circumambulations for various personal and spiritual benefits.

Festivals

The temple follows the Aaru Kala Puja system (six daily rituals). Major festivals include:

• Vinayaka Chathurthi (August-September).
• Navaratri (September-October).
• Karthigai Deepam (November-December).
• Masi Magam and Mahashivratri (February-March).
• Pradosham (bi-monthly).

This has been extracted from,

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com

Century/Period

19th century

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Pattamangalam

Nearest Railway Station

Sivaganga junction

Nearest Airport

Madurai

Location on Map

lightuptemple