Thirubuvanam Kampaheswarar Temple, Thanjavur
Address
Thirubuvanam Kampaheswarar Temple, Thirubuvanam, Thiruvidaimarudur Taluk, Thanjavur District – 612 103 Phone: +91 435 246 0760
Deity
Kampaheswarar / Kampahareswarar / Nadukkam Theertha Nayagan / Thirubhuvana Eswarar / Thirubhuvana Ma
Introduction
- Kampaheswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located in Thirubhuvanai Town near Kumbakonam, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu.
- Presiding deity: Kampaheswarar / Kampahareswarar / Nadukkam Theertha Nayagan.
- Mother Goddess: Dharmasamvardhini / Aram Valartha Nayaki.
- The temple is also known as Sarabeswarar Temple.
- The architecture resembles other Chola temples such as Brihadeeswarar Temple, Airavatesvara Temple, and Gangai Konda Cholapuram.
- It is a Thevara Vaippu Sthalam, mentioned in Devaram hymns sung by Appar.
Puranic Significance
- Built by Kulottunga Chola III (1176–1218 AD) to commemorate his North Indian campaign victory.
- The temple’s inscriptions reveal its connection with other famous temples, such as the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram.
- The temple has several inscriptions detailing its construction and contributions.
- A legend tells of Pandyan King Varaguna being relieved of the Brahmmahathi Dosham (curse of killing a Brahmin) by Lord Shiva here.
- Kampaheswarar (Nadukkam Theertha Nayakan) saved the king from trembling, leading to the deity’s name.
Beliefs
- Worshiping Lord Kampahareswarar helps cure neurological disorders, fear, and promotes longevity.
- Mother Ambika blesses couples with unity and child boon, and absolves devotees of sins.
- Lord Sarabeswarar aids in resolving marriage obstacles, illness, job promotions, debt recovery, and protection from evil forces.
- Special poojas like Sahasranama archana, Saraba Yajnas, and abishekams with curd and milk are common for blessings.
- Rahukalam pooja on Sundays is believed to bring success.
Special Features
- Temple faces east with a 7-tiered Rajagopuram and spans 5.5 acres.
- Unique for its tall Vimana (126 feet), larger than the gateway tower.
- Lord Sarabeswarar, in a special shrine, is depicted with three legs, four arms, and suppressing Narasimha.
- Sarabeswarar Shrine is considered the first and largest shrine for this deity.
- Mother Dharmasamvardhini blesses devotees with protection and fertility.
- The temple houses shrines for Sapta Matrikas, Lord Murugan, Nataraja, and other deities.
- The temple is known for intricate sculptures and depictions from Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Festivals
- Panguni Brahmotsavam (18 days) in March-April with Saraba Utsav.
- Margazhi Thiruvadhirai, Karthigai Deepam, Puratasi Navaratri, and Masi Shivrathri are major festivals.
- Special poojas for Lord Sarabeswarar on Sundays and Pradosham days.
- Other festivals include Sankatahara Chathurthi, Tamil and English New Year, and Pongal with special rituals.
Century/Period/Age
13th century.
Managed By
Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)
Nearest Bus Station
Thirubuvanam
Nearest Railway Station
Thiruvidaimaruthur
Nearest Airport
Trichy