Periyakuruvadi Agatheeswarar Shiva Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Periyakuruvadi Agatheeswarar Shiva Temple, Thiruvarur

Periyakuruvadi, Mannargudi circle,

Thiruvarur District,

Tamil Nadu 614101

Moolavar

Agatheeswarar

Amman

Umaparameshwari

Introduction

• Location:
  The Periyakuruvadi Agatheeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated in Periyakuruvadi village, Mannargudi circle, in the Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu.
• Deity Names:
  • The presiding deity is known as Agatheeswarar.
  • The consort of Lord Shiva is Umaparameshwari, symbolizing divine balance.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Background:
  • Constructed during the late 10th century, the temple is architecturally significant and is built with black stones, typical of ancient Dravidian temple design.
  • The temple derives its name, Agatheeswarar, from Agathiyar (Sage Agastya), who is believed to have liberated the Kaveri River here from his control.
• Unique Features:
  • Behind the Shivalinga Murti in the sanctum (Karuvarai), there is a statue of Lord Shiva as Gangavisarjana, depicting him releasing the sacred Ganga from his hair (Thirumudi) to bless the world.
  • In the Arthamandapam (central corridor), there is an intriguing mural of Bhagiratha standing in reverence, worshipping Lord Agathiyar.

Architectural Layout

• Shrines and Corridors:
  • The temple is east-facing, with a central corridor housing Agatheeswarar and Gangavisarjana.
  • The Mahamandapam, once a grand structure, is now in ruins, leaving a vacant space.
  • The Nandi Mandapam, supported by four pillars, and an altar stand in front of the temple.
• Deities in the Sanctum Area:
  • Ganesha and Murugan are positioned near the gate of the sanctum.
  • The Goshta deities include:
    • Dakshinamurthy in the south, radiating divine wisdom.
    • Lingots (Lingams) in the west.
    • Durga in the north, symbolizing protective energy.
  • The presence of a Jeshta Devi shrine in a copper-shed hall adds unique significance, offering protection from accidents.
• Other Features:
  • A large pond is located to the south of the temple, enhancing the sacred atmosphere.

Spiritual Beliefs and Benefits

• Pitru Dosha Remedies:
  • Devotees believe that praying to Agatheeswarar here can help alleviate Pitru Doshas (ancestral curses or karmic debts).
• Protection from Accidents:
  • Worshiping Jeshta Devi, accompanied by Manthanmanthi, is said to shield devotees from accidents and misfortunes.

Century/Period

1000 Years Old

Nearest Bus Station

Periyakuruvadi

Nearest Railway Station

Mannargudi

Nearest Airport

Trichy

Location on Map

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