Alangudi Guru Temple
Nagapattinam, India
- Attend the daily rituals and ceremonies
- Explore the temple's intricate carvings
- Offer prayers to Lord Apatsahayesvarar
- Participate in special Guru Peyarchi pooja
- Take a dip in the Amrita Pushkarini
Known for:
Description:
Alangudi Guru Temple, also known as Apatsahayesvarar Temple, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Apatsahayesvarar and his consort Goddess Elavarkuzhali. It is one of the Navagraha temples, specifically associated with Guru (Jupiter), the planet of wisdom and prosperity. The temple is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for good health, wealth, and success in their endeavors. The temple tank, Amrita Pushkarini, is considered sacred, and a dip in its waters is believed to cleanse sins. The temple's peaceful ambiance and spiritual aura make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
History:
The Alangudi Guru Temple has a rich history dating back to the Chola dynasty. Inscriptions within the temple complex indicate contributions from various rulers over the centuries. Legend has it that Lord Shiva appeared before Sage Agastya under a Vilva tree, hence the name Alangudi (grove of banyan trees). The temple's main deity, Apatsahayesvarar, is believed to protect devotees from adversities and grant them relief from sufferings. Over time, the temple has undergone several renovations and expansions, with significant contributions from the Pandya and Vijayanagara empires. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring faith and architectural prowess of ancient South Indian dynasties.