Vaitheeswaran Koil
Nagapattinam, India
- Explore the temple architecture and carvings
- Participate in temple rituals and prayers
- Purchase sacred ash (Vibhuti) as prasadam
- Take a dip in the Siddhamirtham tank
- Visit the Angarakan shrine within the temple
Known for:
Description:
Vaitheeswaran Koil, also known as Pullirukkuvelur, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaitheeswaran (the 'God of healing') and his consort Thaiyalnayaki. Located in Tamil Nadu, India, it's one of the nine Navagraha temples and is associated with the planet Mars (Angaraka). The temple is renowned for its healing properties, with devotees believing that a visit can cure various ailments. The holy water tank, Siddhamirtham, is believed to possess medicinal qualities. The temple complex is vast, showcasing Dravidian architecture with towering gopurams and intricate carvings. It's a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees seeking blessings for health and well-being.
History:
The history of Vaitheeswaran Koil is deeply intertwined with Hindu mythology. Legend says that Angaraka (Mars), afflicted with leprosy, prayed to Lord Shiva here and was cured. Another legend involves Jatayu, the eagle who tried to save Sita from Ravana. He was injured in the battle and fell at this place, where Lord Rama performed his last rites. The temple's architecture reflects the Chola, Pandya, and Vijayanagara periods, indicating its evolution over centuries. Inscriptions within the temple provide valuable insights into the patronage it received from various rulers. The temple continues to be a living testament to the rich religious and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.