Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple is a historic temple located in the town of Thiruvadhigai, Panruti, Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Sri Shiva and is one of the most important and sacred places of worship for Hindus in the region. The temple is believed to have been built during the 9th century AD and has a rich history and cultural significance. The presiding Deity is called Veeratteswarar / Veerattaneswarar / Athigai Nathar / Tirukedilavanar. Mother is called as Thiripurasundari / Umayammai / Periya Nayaki. This is the 39th Devaram Padal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 7th Sthalam of Nadu Naadu. The temple complex is one of the largest in the state and it houses two gateway towers known as gopurams and has six daily rituals.
According to legend, Thirugnana Sambanthar was glorified by the cosmic dance of Sri Shiva in this holy place. Appar’s sister, Thilakavathiyar, settled here in her later years and devoted her life to the service of Shiva. Notable saints Thirunavukkarasar and Arunagirinathar also visited and wrote many hymns about the Lord. Afflicted with a painful illness, Thirunavukkarasar prayed for relief at this temple where his sister Thilagavathiyar served and was healed.
This temple is where Lord Shiva destroyed three rakshashas (demons) and the three cities created by them. Saranarayana Perumal, another name of Lord Vishnu, is the one who gave the saram (arrow) to Lord Shiva for killing the demons.
Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple Timings:
Morning:6:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Veerattaneswarar Temple History:
Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple has a rich history that dates back to the 9th century AD. According to Hindu mythology, the temple is associated with several important legends and stories, which have contributed to its cultural significance and religious importance.
One of the most well-known legends associated with the temple is the story of Sage Durvasa. According to the legend, Sage Durvasa was passing through Thiruvadhigai when he came across a group of cows that belonged to a local farmer. The sage, who was known for his short temper, became angry with the farmer for not showing him proper respect and cursed him and his cows. The farmer, who was a devotee of Lord Shiva, prayed to the Lord for help and was able to get rid of the curse with the Lord’s blessings. As a result, the farmer built the Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple to honor Lord Shiva and thank him for his blessings.
Another legend associated with the temple is the story of Goddess Parvati. According to the legend, Goddess Parvati visited Thiruvadhigai to perform penance and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The goddess meditated for several years and was eventually blessed by Lord Shiva, who appeared before her as a lingam. The lingam is believed to be the main idol of the temple and is worshipped by devotees as a symbol of Lord Shiva’s blessings and grace.
Over the centuries, the Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple has undergone several renovations and restorations and has been maintained by various dynasties and rulers. Today, the temple is considered to be one of the most important and sacred places of worship for Hindus in Tamil Nadu and continues to attract thousands of devotees and visitors every year.
Architecture and Design:
The Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple is known for its intricate and stunning architecture, which is a testament to the creativity and skill of the artisans who built it. The temple has a grand entrance, with a towering gopuram that is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a beautiful statue of Lord Shiva, which is the main attraction for visitors.
One of the unique features of the temple is the presence of a separate shrine for Lord Vishnu, which is not common in Shiva temples. The temple also has a large water tank, known as the Kalyani, which is believed to have medicinal properties and is used for various rituals and ceremonies.
Religious Significance:
The Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple is considered to be one of the most sacred places of worship for Hindus in Tamil Nadu. The temple is believed to be associated with several important Hindu legends and mythologies and is considered to be a powerful source of spiritual energy and blessings.
The temple is particularly important for devotees who seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and is believed to be a place where wishes are granted and prayers are answered. Many devotees visit the temple to seek relief from various ailments and to receive blessings for their families and loved ones.
Festivals and Celebrations:
The Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple is also known for its vibrant and colorful festivals and celebrations. The temple celebrates several important Hindu festivals throughout the year, including Maha Shivaratri, Navaratri, and the Tamil New Year.
During these festivals, the temple is adorned with colorful decorations and is filled with the sound of music and chanting. Devotees gather in large numbers to participate in the festivities and seek the blessings of the Lord.
Visiting the Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple
The Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hindu culture and spirituality. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year and welcomes devotees from all over the world.
Visitors are advised to dress modestly and remove their footwear before entering the temple. It is also recommended to avoid visiting the temple during peak hours, as it can get crowded and busy.
How to reach the Temple:
Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple is located in the town of Thiruvadhigai, which is approximately 45 kilometers from Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. Here are some ways to reach the temple:
By Road: Thiruvadhigai is well-connected to Chennai by road, and there are several buses and taxis that run between the two cities. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Chennai to Thiruvadhigai and then walk or take a rickshaw to the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Thiruvadhigai is in Chennai. Visitors can take a train from Chennai to Chengalpattu Junction, which is the nearest major railway station to Thiruvadhigai. From there, visitors can take a bus or taxi to reach the temple.
By Air: The nearest airport to Thiruvadhigai is Chennai International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. Visitors can take a flight to Chennai and then travel to Thiruvadhigai by road or train.
Once visitors reach Thiruvadhigai, they can easily find the temple as it is located in the center of the town and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year and offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone interested in Hindu culture and spirituality.
Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneswarar Temple Address:
Thiruvadhigai,
Panruti,
Cuddalore District
Tamil Nadu – 607106.