Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu

Temple Layout

Sannidhis and Rajagopuram

The temple features a three-tiered Rajagopuram facing east. Upon entering through the gateway, the Balipeetam and Nandi can be seen. Notably, this temple does not have a flagstaff (Kodimaram). In the outer prakaram, there are sannidhis dedicated to Mangala Vinayaka and Subramanya with his consorts Valli and Deivanai. In the front mandapam, there is a sannidhi for the Navagrahas. Beneath the idol of Shani, the name is inscribed as "Sanaicharan." The temple priests state that this is the correct name, meaning "the one who moves slowly," which, over time, evolved into "Saneeswaran." Nearby, there is a large and impressive idol of Thirugnanasambandar, beautifully adorned with a waist cord (arai-gnan kayiru) and a garland around his neck.

Goddess Sannidhi

In the front mandapam, there is a south-facing sannidhi for the Goddess, known as Mangalanayaki. She appears in a graceful standing posture, bestowing blessings with the Abhaya and Varada mudras. Notably, in this temple, the ritual of abhishekam is performed exclusively for the goddess.

Main Sanctum

Proceeding through the front mandapam, one reaches the sanctum where the presiding deity, Sookshmapureeswarar, is enshrined. The Moolavar is a self-manifested (swayambhu) Linga. True to the name Sirukudi Eesar, the Lingam is very small—about the size of a handful. This is the sacred site where Parvati worshipped Shiva by shaping a Lingam from a handful of sand and creating the Mangala Theertham. Since the Lingam is formed of sand, the ritual of abhishekam is not performed to the presiding deity, but for the Goddess Mangalambika. A slight depression can be seen on the top of the linga, along with marks on either side, which are believed to have been formed when the Goddess embraced the deity. The Lingam is always kept covered with a protective kavacham. In the goshtas around the sanctum: Dakshinamurthy is seen on the southern side, Mahavishnu on the western side, and Brahma on the northern side. Unusually, instead of the typical Durga in the northern niche, Ardhanareeswarar is enshrined. There is also a sannidhi for Chandikeswarar. Around the sanctum, sannidhis for Mangala Vinayaka and Muruga with his consorts Valli and Deivanai are also present.

Angaraka Dosha Parihara

Among the utsava murthis, the Santhosha Alingana Murthi is particularly noteworthy. In this beautiful form, Shiva is seen joyfully embracing Ambikai, with his arm placed over her shoulder — a sight that is truly captivating. It is believed that Angaraka (the planet Mars) worshipped Shiva at this sacred site. Accordingly, there is a separate sannidhi for Angaraka in the temple. It is widely held that those afflicted with Sevvai dosham (Mars-related astrological affliction), especially those facing delays in marriage, can find relief by worshipping here. Worship of Angaraka is considered especially significant at this temple. Devotees traditionally bathe in the Mangala Theertham, located directly opposite the temple, before entering and offering prayers to Angaraka. This ritual is believed to help alleviate the effects of Mars-related doshas and bring well-being. Notably, people from other faiths also visit and offer their worship to Angaraka at this temple.