The Anniyur Abathsahayeswarar Temple is a significant Hindu temple located in Ponnur, Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu, India, historically known as Tiru Anniyur. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, worshipped as Abathsahayeswarar, with his consort Perianayaki by his side. Renowned for its architectural beauty, the temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, revered Shiva shrines celebrated in the early mediaeval Tevaram poems by Tamil Saivite Nayanars Thirugnanasambandar and Tirunavukkarasar, underscoring its rich spiritual heritage and cultural importance.
Timings
The temple is open from 7.00 a.m. to 10,00 a.m. and from 5.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m
Entry Fee
Free of cost
Origin/History :-
The historical names of the village include Vigusaranyam, Bhaskara Kshetram, and Anniyur, but it is currently known as Ponnur. According to “Akanaanuru,” a text from the Sangam period, a local king named Anni is believed to have resided in this area, suggesting that the village may have been named in his honour.
The temple is currently administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).
Puranic Significance :-
The demon Taraka was tormenting the Devas due to a boon he received from Brahma. In their desperation, the Devas sought refuge in Lord Shiva but found him in deep meditation and unable to awaken. To overcome this, they enlisted Cupid, also known as Manmatha, who is the deity responsible for igniting passion, to shoot an arrow of flowers at Lord Shiva. In response, Lord Shiva opened his third eye in anger and reduced Manmatha to ashes.
Manmatha's wife, Rathi, pleaded with Lord Shiva to restore her husband. The Lord assured her that Manmatha would be revived at an appropriate time. Rathi then performed penance devotedly to Lord Shiva. Eventually, Manmatha was brought back to life, and the couple began to worship Lord Shiva together at this temple. In response to their devotion, Lord Shiva appeared to them in the form of a suyambulinga (self-manifested lingam).
Harischandra once suffered from leprosy and sought relief by worshipping the Lord at this temple, offering a neivedyam (offering) of curd rice. Through his devotion, he was cured of his affliction. On the day of Vishakha Nakshatram in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June), it is believed that offering curd rice at this temple can help remove various obstacles faced by devotees.
Additionally, women devotees frequent this temple to pray for the health and longevity of their husbands, aspiring to remain as sumangalis (auspiciously married women). The temple is also regarded as a pitru dosha nivritti sthalam, a place that helps alleviate ancestral curses or doshas.
After Rati lost her husband, Kama, Suryan began to behave inappropriately towards her. Angered by his advances, Rati cursed Suryan, causing him to lose his right hand. Despite this setback, Suryan followed her to this temple, where he witnessed Rati worshipping Lord Shiva. Moved by her devotion, Suryan too began to pray for the restoration of his hand.
With the grace of Lord Shiva, Suryan was able to regain his hand. This story lends significance to the temple as a Surya parikaram sthalam (a place for the worship of the Sun God), and the site is also referred to as Bhaskara Kshetram in recognition of Suryan's devotion and the blessings he received.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress Modestly: Wear appropriate clothing covering shoulders and knees.
Remove Footwear: Take off shoes before entering.
Maintain Silence: Keep noise levels low.
Follow Rituals: Participate respectfully in rituals.
Offer Prayers: Engage sincerely with personal prayers.
Respect the Sanctum: Avoid touching barriers around the sanctum sanctorum.
Contribute Positively: Make donations or offerings willingly.
Engage with the Community: Participate in festivals and events.
Avoid Disrespectful Behaviour: No loud conversations or distractions.
No Food or Drink: Do not eat or drink in the temple.
No Smoking or Alcohol: Refrain from smoking or consuming alcohol.
Do Not Distract the Priests: Avoid interrupting their rituals.
Do Not Touch Deities: Do not touch idols unless permitted.
Avoid Flash Photography: If allowed, do not use flash.
Don't Rush: Take your time to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
Dress Code
For Men :
Traditional Attire: Wearing a dhoti or lungi is encouraged, along with a simple shirt or kurta.
Modest Clothing: Ensure shirts have sleeves and avoid shorts or ripped jeans.
For Women :
Traditional Attire: Women are encouraged to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other modest traditional attire.
Modest Clothing: Clothing should cover shoulders and knees; avoid revealing outfits.
The best season to visit the Anniyur Abathsahayeswarar Temple is from November to February due to:
Pleasant Weather: Temperatures are cooler, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Festivals: Important festivals like Thiru Karthikai and Maha Shivrathri occur during this time.
Reduced Humidity: Lower humidity makes for a more comfortable visit.
How to reach :-
By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), located approximately 100 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ponnur.
By Train: Mayiladuthurai Junction, about 16 km from the temple. Trains from major cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai connect to Mayiladuthurai. From there, you can take a taxi or local transport to reach the temple.
By Bus:
From Chennai: Approximately 290 km. Route: Take NH 45 (Chennai to Kanchipuram) and then NH 136 towards Mayiladuthurai. Follow the signs to Ponnur.
From Thanjavur: About 70 km. Route: Take NH 67 towards Kumbakonam and continue to Mayiladuthurai. From Mayiladuthurai, follow local directions to Ponnur.
From Tiruchirappalli: Approximately 134 km. Route: Take NH 83 towards Thanjavur, then switch to NH 67 to reach Ponnur.
Nearby Cities and Rivers
Nearby Rivers:
Kaveri River: One of the major rivers in Tamil Nadu, located approximately 20 km from the temple. It is significant for its cultural and religious importance.
Vennaru River: A smaller river that flows in proximity to the temple, contributing to the local ecosystem.
Nearby Cities:
Mayiladuthurai: Located about 8 km from the temple, it is the nearest city and serves as a significant cultural and administrative centre in the region.
Thiruvarur: Approximately 30 km away, Thiruvarur is known for its historical temples and rich cultural heritage.
Kuthambakkam: This is another nearby town located around 15 km from the temple, known for its local attractions and community.
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