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Amirthakadeswarar Temple

Thirukadaiyur is located approximately 22 kilometres from Mayiladuthurai along the Mayiladuthurai to Karaikal route. Renowned as one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams, it is the 47th Shiva Sthalam situated on the southern bank of the River Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). The temple is home to a Swayambhu Murti (self-manifested) form of Lord Shiva and is recognized as one of the Atta Veeratta Sthalams as well as one of the Shakti Peethas. Thirukadaiyur holds a special place among the 44 Paadal Petra Sthalams, where the three revered saints—Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukkarasar (Appar), and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar)—composed their Pathigams. This sacred site is also significant as the birthplace of two celebrated Saivite Nayanmars, Kaari Nayanar and Kungiliakalaya Nayanar, both of whom attained salvation here. Additionally, it is known as the birthplace of Abhirami Bhattar, the composer of the famous "Abhirami Andhathi." The temple is particularly famous for its celebrations of 60th and 80th birth anniversaries, attracting numerous devotees who come to mark these auspicious occasions.

Timings

Morning: 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM & Evening: 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free of charge

According to legend, Lord Brahma travelled to Mount Kailash to seek the teachings of wisdom (Gnana Upadesa) from Lord Shiva. Shiva gifted Brahma the seeds of the Vilwa tree, instructing him to sow them in various locations. Wherever the seeds sprouted into a tree within one hour would become the site of his teachings. This miraculous event occurred in Thirukadaiyur, where Shiva is worshipped as Adhi Vilwa Vana Nather, with a dedicated shrine in the temple.

The Devas, in their eagerness to consume the nectar, neglected to pray to Lord Vinayaka, who then concealed the pot. Realising their mistake, they prayed to Vinayaka, retrieved the pot, and offered it to Lord Shiva in Thirukadaiyur. When they opened it, a Shiva Linga emerged, leading to Shiva being worshipped as Amirtha Kadeswarar.


Legends of Thirukadaiyur :


Thirukadaiyur, known by several names in ancient times such as Thirukadavur Veerattam, Kadapuri, Vilvaranyam, Brahmanthira Thalam, Paba Vimosanam, and Pinchilarayanyam (a now-extinct plant), holds significant historical and spiritual importance. It is revered as the 108th Shiva Sthalam, where Markandeya worshipped Lord Shiva. The 107th Sthalam is Thirukadaiyur Mayanam. This temple is also the 8th among the Atta Veerattanam (Veeratta Temples), where Lord Shiva intervened to save Markandeya from Yama.

The Atta Veerattanam Temples

The Atta Veerattanam temples include:

  1. Thiru Kandiyur - where Lord Shiva plucked Brahma's fifth head.
  2. Thirukkovilur - where Andhakasuran was vanquished.
  3. Thiruvadhigai - where Lord Shiva burned the Thirupuram and Thiripura Samharar.
  4. Thiru Pariyalur - where Lord Shiva, as Veerabhadra, destroyed Daksha's yagna.
  5. Thiruvirkudi - where the demon Jalandaran, formed from Lord Shiva's eye drop, was killed.
  6. Thiru Vazhuvur - where Lord Shiva tore Gajamugasuran.
  7. Thiru Korukkai - where Lord Shiva burned Kaman (Manmadhan) and later revived him.
  8. Thirukadaiyur - where Lord Shiva kicked Yama to save Markandeya and blessed him with eternal youth.

It is believed that life will be extended for those who celebrate significant milestones such as Sashtiapthapoorthi (60th anniversary), Bheema Ratha Shanthi (70th), Sathabhishekam (80th), Kanakabhishekam (90th), and Poornabhishekam (100th birthday).

Amirthakadeswarar : According to legend, the Amirtha that emerged from the Thiruparkadal was manifested in the temple tank by Lord Shiva. When the Devas neglected to worship Vinayagar before taking the pot of nectar, Vinayagar, angered, hid the pot in Patala Loka, where it transformed into a Shiva Linga. This Linga is revered as the embodiment of Amrita, leading to Lord Shiva being known as Amirthakadeswarar. Another story involves Brahma’s journey to Mount Kailash to receive Gnana Upadesa from Lord Shiva. Shiva instructed Brahma to sow Vilwa (Vila) seeds across the Earth, promising to grant Upadesa where the first seed germinated. Thirukadaiyur is where the seed sprouted first, earning it the title Adhi Vilva Vana Nathar.

The Sage Markandeya : The legend of Markandeya begins with Mrigandu Maharishi and his wife, Maruthuvathi, who prayed for a child. After much penance, Lord Shiva appeared, offering them a choice: a wise and noble child with a lifespan of 16 years, or a long-lived but less distinguished child. They chose the wise child, and Markandeya was born. As Markandeya approached his 16th year, he learned of his impending death. Seeking to defy fate, he visited various Shiva temples and finally arrived at Thirukadaiyur, the 108th temple, where he worshipped fervently. When Yama attempted to claim him, Markandeya embraced the Shiva Linga. In a furious response to Yama's approach, Lord Shiva manifested as “Kala Samhara Moorthy,” kicked Yama, and granted Markandeya eternal youth, leading to Shiva being revered as “Mrityunjaya Murthy.”

Abirami Bhattar : One of the legends features Abirami Bhattar, a devoted priest and ardent follower of Ambal Abirami. One day, when deep in meditation, the Thanjavur Maratha King Sarabhoji-II visited the temple and asked about the day’s thithi. Without thinking, Abirami Bhattar mistakenly replied that it was Pournami (full moon day). When the mistake was pointed out, the angry king threatened to kill him unless he proved otherwise. Desperate for help, Abirami Bhattar surrendered to Ambal and composed hymns in her praise, known as Abirami Andhadhi. As he completed his hymns, Ambal threw her ear ring (Thadangam) into the sky, which shone like the full moon. The king, witnessing this miracle, fell at the feet of the priest and begged for forgiveness. From that day, he was known as Abirami Bhattar.

Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar : Another legend revolves around Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars. A devoted follower of Lord Shiva, Kalayan worshipped by burning Kungiliyam (a fragrant material). As he exhausted his wealth, he and his wife faced starvation. His wife offered her mangalsutra for rice, but instead, Kalayan found a merchant selling Kungiliyam. He exchanged the mangalsutra for it and returned to worship Lord Shiva. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva filled Kalayan’s home with wealth, food, and grains, later appearing in a dream to his wife to inform her. When Kalayan returned, he discovered his house had been transformed. Henceforth, he was known as Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar and later played a role in straightening the Shiva Linga at Thiruppanandal.


Religious Significance :



Ashta Veeratta Sthalams: According to legend, Lord Shiva vanquished demons and evil forces at eight different locations, exhibiting acts of bravery. These sites are known as the Ashta Veeratta Sthalams or Atta Veerattana Sthalams. Thirukkadaiyur is significant as the place where Lord Yama was believed to have been punished to save Markandeya. The eight temples associated with this legend are:

  1. Thiruvathigai Veerattaneswarar Temple
  2. Thirukoyilur Veeratteswarar Temple
  3. Thirukadaiyur Amritaghateswarar Temple
  4. Vazhuvur Veeratteswarar Temple
  5. Korukkai Veeratteswarar Temple
  6. Keelaparasalur Veeratteswarar Temple
  7. Thirukkandiyur Kandeeswarar Temple
  8. Thiruvirkudi Veerataneswarar Temple

Avathara & Mukthi Sthalams of Nayanmars: Thirukkadaiyur is recognized as the birthplace of Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar and Kaari Nayanar, both esteemed figures among the 63 Nayanmars of Shaivism. It is believed that both attained salvation (mukthi) at this sacred site.

Birthplace of Abhirami Bhattar: This temple is also noted as the birthplace of Abhirami Bhattar, the revered author of Abhirami Andhathi.

Six Sthalams for Relief from the Fear of Yama: There are six sacred places where devotees can find relief from the fear of Lord Yama. These are:

  1. Thirukkadaiyur
  2. Thiruveezhimizhalai
  3. Thiruvaiyaru
  4. Thiruvenkadu
  5. Thiruvaikavur
  6. Srivanchiyam

Special Temple for Marriage Rituals: Thirukkadaiyur is considered a unique temple for conducting marriage rituals during significant life milestones, including:

  1. Age 60 - Ukradha Shanthi
  2. Age 61 - Sashtiaptha Poorthy
  3. Age 70 - Bhima Ratha Shanthi
  4. Age 75 - Vijayaratha Shanthi
  5. Age 80 - Sadhabishegam
  6. Age 85 - Roudhri Shanthi
  7. Age 90 - Kaala Swaroopa Showri Shanthi
  8. Age 95 - Triambaka Mahaarathy Shanthi
  9. Age 100 - Maha Mrityunjaya Shanthi

108 Temples Worshipped by Sage Markandeya: Sage Markandeya is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva in 108 temples for longevity, with Thirukkadaiyur regarded as the 108th Shiva Sthalam where he offered his prayers.


Administration History :


The administration of the temple has historically been under various dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers, who contributed to its expansion and maintenance. Later, the Nattukottai Nagarathars played a significant role in its upkeep and renovation. In modern times, the temple is under the administrative control of the Dharmapuram Adheenam, a Saivite monastic institution. Major renovations, including Maha Kumbhabhishekams, were conducted in 1997 and subsequent years.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Do Involve the Community: Engage local residents and devotees in preservation efforts. Their involvement fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the temple.
  2. Do Educate Visitors: Provide information about the temple’s history, architecture, and significance through guided tours, pamphlets, or workshops to promote appreciation and respect.
  3. Do Conduct Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and maintenance of the temple structure, including cleaning, painting, and repairs to prevent deterioration.
  4. Do Use Traditional Materials: When restoring or renovating, utilise traditional materials and methods that are consistent with the original construction to maintain authenticity.
  5. Do Organise Fundraising Events: Host events to raise funds for preservation projects. These can include cultural programs, art exhibitions, and community gatherings that also promote awareness of the temple's significance.
  6. Do Collaborate with Experts: Work with conservation specialists, architects, and historians for guidance on preservation techniques and to ensure best practices are followed.
  7. Do Promote Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly practices in temple operations, such as waste management and water conservation, to protect the environment.
  8. Do Respect Rituals and Practices: Ensure that all maintenance and preservation activities respect the religious practices and rituals of the temple community.
  1. Don't Neglect Repairs: Avoid postponing necessary repairs or maintenance, as this can lead to further damage and higher costs in the future.
  2. Don't Use Non-Traditional Materials: Refrain from using modern materials that do not align with the original construction, as this can alter the temple's aesthetic and historical integrity.
  3. Don't Ignore Local Regulations: Do not overlook local heritage preservation laws and guidelines. Always seek necessary permissions and comply with regulations.
  4. Don't Disregard Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid any actions that could offend the religious sentiments of devotees. Always consult with the temple community before making changes.
  5. Don't Limit Participation: Do not exclude any community members from preservation efforts. Ensure inclusivity in planning and executing projects.
  6. Don't Overlook Documentation: Avoid neglecting to document the history, renovations, and maintenance of the temple, as this information is crucial for future preservation efforts.
  7. Don't Allow Vandalism: Take steps to prevent vandalism and disrespectful behaviour by educating visitors and establishing rules of conduct within temple premises.
  8. Don't Forget to Promote Awareness: Avoid keeping the temple's significance hidden. Use social media and local platforms to share its history and cultural relevance.

Dress Code

For Men : The dress code requires wearing a shirt and trouser, dhoti, or pyjamas with an upper cloth. Shorts, low-waist jeans, and sleeveless tops are not permitted. These rules apply to all visitors, including foreigners.

For Women : The preferred attire includes a saree or half-saree with a blouse, or a chudidhar with a pyjama and upper cloth. Attire such as shorts, mini-skirts, middies, sleeveless tops, and short-length T-shirts is not allowed. These rules apply to all visitors, including foreigners.

How to reach

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Best Season to visit :

The ideal time to visit this temple is during the winter season, specifically from September to March.


By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy Airport, located approximately 157 km from the temple.

By Rail: The closest railway station is Mayiladuthurai Junction, which is about 23.5 km away.

By Road: The temple is about 19 kms from the Mayiladuthurai New Bus Stand.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Kollidam River: This river is located near the temple and plays a significant role in the region's irrigation and agricultural activities.
  2. Vadavaaru River: Flowing close to the temple, it is another important water body contributing to the local ecosystem.
  3. Arasalar River: This river is also in proximity to the temple and is part of the landscape that enhances the spiritual ambiance of the area.


Cities:

  1. Thiruvarur: Located nearby, Thiruvarur is a significant city known for its temples and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for the Thyagaraja Temple and is an important pilgrimage centre.
  2. Kumbakonam: This city is renowned for its numerous temples and is often referred to as the "Temple City." It is a major hub for devotees and tourists visiting the surrounding temples.
  3. Tanjore (Thanjavur): A historic city known for its Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tanjore is not far from the temple and holds great significance in Tamil Nadu's cultural and historical landscape.
  4. Nannilam: A smaller town in the vicinity, Nannilam is known for its agricultural activities and local temples, contributing to the rural charm of the region.