This location is the 148th Thevara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 31st sthalam on the south side of the Kaveri River in Chozha Nadu, known as Thenkurangaduthurai (Then – தென் – meaning "south"). The distinction arises because there are two Paadal Petra Temples named Kurangaduthurai. To differentiate them, this site is referred to as Thenkurang Aduthurai (South), while the other is called Vadakurangaduthurai, also known as Aduthurai Perumal Koil, which is the 49th Paadal Petra Sthalam in Chozha Nadu, situated on the south side of the Kaveri River.
Timings
The temple will be kept open between 07.00 hrs to 12.00 hrs and 16.30 hrs to 20.30 hrs.
Entry Fee
Free of cost
Origin/History :-
The original temple at Thenkurang Aduthurai is believed to have existed before the 7th century, as evidenced by the hymns sung by Saint Thirugnanasambandar in praise of Lord Shiva. This suggests that the temple has ancient roots.
The temple was later reconstructed with stone by the Chola Queen Sembiyan Mahadevi, wife of King Gandaraditya Chola and mother of Uttama Chola. Sembiyan Mahadevi was deeply involved in the renovation and development (Thirupani) of several temples, including this one. Inscriptions from the Chola period, particularly those from the reigns of Rajaraja I and Kulothunga Chola II, further document the expansions and contributions made to the temple.
Chola inscriptions record numerous endowments, including lands, gold, and money, which were gifted to the temple for the maintenance of perpetual lamps, poojas, and daily rituals. The temple also saw contributions from the Pandya dynasty, as inscriptions from the reign of Pandya King Ko Maranjadaiyan mention endowments for burning lamps and supplying oil.
The Vijayanagara kings also contributed to the temple’s development, as they extended the structure during their reign.
In modern history, the temple underwent major restorations, and Maha Kumbhabhishekam (consecration ceremonies) were conducted on April 28, 1955, and April 21, 2000.
In summary, the temple was originally built before the 7th century, reconstructed in stone by Queen Sembiyan Mahadevi, and later expanded by the Cholas and Vijayanagara rulers.
Puranic Significance :-
According to legend, a conflict arose between Vali and Mayavi. When Mayavi hid in a cave, Vali pursued him. Sugriva, waiting outside, mistakenly thought Vali had died and sealed the cave with a rock. Returning to Kishkinta, Sugriva was crowned king. However, Vali eventually emerged and, believing Sugriva had betrayed him, drove his brother out of the kingdom. When Sugriva sought refuge here, he prayed to Lord Shiva for help. Unable to defeat Vali, Lord Shiva transformed Sugriva into a swan and his wife into a Parijata tree, concealing them from Vali. Due to his assistance, Shiva earned the name "Abathsahayeswarar," the rescuer during danger.
There are two locations on the banks of the Cauvery River called Kurangaduthurai. According to tradition, the two Ramayana characters, Sugriva and Vali, worshipped Lord Shiva in these places. Sugriva worshipped here in Then Kurang Aduthurai (South Kurang Aduthurai) on the southern side of the river, while Vali worshipped in Vada Kurang Aduthurai (North Kurang Aduthurai) on the northern side.
Saint Haradatta, born in a Vaishnava family in nearby Kanjanur, later became a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. He would pray at the Saptha Sthanam temples, including Kanjanur, Thirukodikaval, Thiruvavaduthurai, and others. One night, after visiting Aduthurai, Haradatta got lost in the dark due to heavy rain. Praying to Lord Shiva for help, he was guided safely back to his village by an old man with a walking stick. Upon reaching home, the man disappeared, and Haradatta realised it was Lord Abathsahayeswarar who had come to his aid.
A pregnant devotee from Thirumangalakkudi, unable to return home after visiting the temple due to a flood, went into labour. She prayed to Lord Shiva, and he appeared as a lady physician, successfully delivering her baby. He later informed her worried parents, telling them he came from Maruthuvakudi before vanishing.
Once, while Lord Hanuman was singing at Mount Kailash, Sage Narada became so captivated that he lost track of time. Upon realising this, Narada’s veena had become trapped in the snow, and he blamed Hanuman’s divine singing. Narada cursed Hanuman, causing him to forget his music. Hanuman prayed to Lord Shiva at this temple and regained his musical prowess.
As per legend, Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance, or Tandava, here at the request of Sage Agastya and other sages. Hence, the place came to be known as Natarajapuram.
It is believed that Sugriva regained his kingdom by praying to Lord Shiva at this temple. As a result, devotees believe that praying here helps in reclaiming lost possessions or status.
Do's and Don'ts
Conduct Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and repairs.
Engage Experts: Consult historians and conservation specialists.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of history and conservation efforts.
Involve the Community: Encourage local participation in preservation activities.
Promote Education: Organise workshops to raise awareness of the temple's significance.
Use Traditional Materials: Prioritise traditional materials in repairs.
Protect Inscriptions and Artefacts: Document and preserve historical items.
Implement Sustainable Practices: Use eco-friendly materials and methods.
Seek Funding and Support: Apply for grants and donations for preservation.
Stay Informed About Laws: Comply with local heritage preservation laws.
Neglect Structural Issues: Don’t postpone repairs or ignore damage.
Use Modern Materials Indiscriminately: Avoid altering authenticity with modern materials.
Overlook Historical Accuracy: Don’t make changes that disregard the temple's history.
Exclude the Community: Avoid neglecting local engagement.
Compromise on Quality: Don’t cut corners on restoration efforts.
Ignore Local Customs: Respect and maintain local rituals and practices.
Leave Inscriptions Unprotected: Don’t expose artefacts to the elements.
Disregard Financial Planning: Ensure there is a budget for preservation.
Allow Vandalism: Protect the temple from any form of damage.
Rush Restoration Projects: Take time to plan and execute carefully.
Dress Code
Men:
Wear dhoti or lungi.
Shirts or upper garments should be plain and simple.
Pants or trousers are acceptable; avoid shorts.
Remove footwear before entering the temple.
Women:
Wear sarees, salwar kameez, or modest attire.
Avoid sleeveless tops and short or tight-fitting garments.
The best season to visit the temple is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for pilgrimage and outdoor activities. Additionally, many festivals are celebrated during these months, providing a vibrant and enriching experience for visitors.
How to reach :-
By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), located about 80 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kumbakonam.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kumbakonam, which is well connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu. From the station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the temple, approximately 14 km away.
By Road: The temple is located on the Kumbakonam-Mayiladuthurai road, and is accessible by bus or private vehicle. Regular buses connect Kumbakonam to nearby towns and cities.
Nearby Cities and Rivers
Rivers:
Kaveri River: The temple is located on the banks of the Kaveri River, which is one of the most significant rivers in southern India. It is revered in many religious texts and is considered sacred by Hindus.
Palar River: While not immediately adjacent, the Palar River is relatively close to the region and contributes to the area’s irrigation and cultural significance.
Cities:
Kumbakonam: Approximately 14 km away, Kumbakonam is a prominent town known for its numerous temples and cultural heritage.
Mayiladuthurai: Located on the Kumbakonam-Mayiladuthurai road, this town is also significant for its temples and proximity to the Kaveri River.
Thiruvidaimaruthur: Close to the temple, this town is known for its historical significance and other temples.
Thanjavur: A bit further away, Thanjavur is famous for its Brihadeeswarar Temple and rich history related to the Chola dynasty.
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