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Chakravageswarar Temple

Chakravageswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Chakkarapalli, Papanasam Taluk, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is known as Chakravageswarar, while the goddess is revered as Devanayaki. Locally, the area is referred to as Ayyampettai, specifically Thanjavur Ayyampettai to distinguish it from other places with the same name.

Timings

08.00 a.m. to 09.00 a.m. and 05.00 p.m. to 07.00 p.m.

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

Chakravageswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Chakkarapalli, Papanasam Taluk, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is known as Chakravageswarar, while the goddess is revered as Devanayaki. Locally, the area is referred to as Ayyampettai, specifically Thanjavur Ayyampettai to distinguish it from other places with the same name.

This temple is one of the seven shrines associated with the Saptha Matrikas (Mother Goddesses) in the Ayyampettai and Pasupathi Koil region along the Thanjavur–Papanasam (Kumbakonam) route. It holds a special significance connected to Mother Abhirami and is celebrated in the hymns of Thevaram, a significant body of 7th-century Tamil literature. Classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, it is the 134th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 17th such site on the southern bank of the Cauvery River in Chozha Nadu.

The temple is notable for the hymns composed by the saint Tirugnanasambandar in praise of Lord Shiva, as well as the verses dedicated to Lord Muruga, which were sung by Saint Arunagirinathar in Thirupugazh. Currently, the temple is managed by the Swamimalai Murugan Temple.


PURANIC SIGNIFICANCE:


Lord Vishnu and His Discus


According to legend, Lord Vishnu obtained his discus (Chakram) by worshipping Lord Shiva at this site, leading to the name Chakkarapalli. This narrative is akin to stories from Tirumalper near Kanchipuram and Thiruveezhimizhalai near Tiruvirkudi Veerattam.


Worship by Deities


The temple was revered by various deities, including the Saptha Mathas, Indra (the King of Devas), and his son Jayantha, all of whom worshipped Lord Shiva here.


Etymology


The name Chakkarapalli arises from two significant elements: Vishnu’s receipt of the discus and the worship performed by the chakravaha bird. This temple is recognized as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, celebrated in the hymns of Sambandar, and is part of the Chakrapalli Sapta Sthanam temples, where the Saptha Matrikas worship Shiva at seven different locations. Notably, Brahmi (or Abhirami) is said to have worshipped Shiva’s third eye (netra darsanam), an event commemorated on the first day of Navratri.


Sthala Puranams


Puranam of Vishnu


One prominent sthala puranam recounts how Vishnu worshipped Shiva and was granted the Chakram, thus naming the place Chakrapalli. Shiva declared that Vishnu would possess the Chakrayudham, leading to the name Chakra-vak-easwarar. This tale is also reflected in Sambandar’s pathigam dedicated to the temple. An alternative version suggests that Vishnu worshipped Parvati to receive the chakram.


Puranam of the Chakravaka Bird


Another puranam focuses on the chakravaka bird, which is believed to have performed penance and worship at this temple, earning Shiva the name Chakravak-easwarar. A bas relief depicting the bird worshipping Shiva can be found on one of the temple walls. A variation of this story mentions Brahma worshipping here after lying about finding the top of a pillar of fire while disguised as a swan (loosely referred to as the chakravaka bird). Additionally, Indra’s son Jayanta is said to have worshipped at this temple.


Literary Significance


Saint Arunagirinathar praised Lord Murugan of this temple in his work, Tiruppugazh. The temple’s mention in Sambandar’s pathigam indicates its historical significance, suggesting that it has existed in some form since the late 6th or early 7th century CE.


ADMINISTRATION:


The Chakravageswarar Temple in Chakkarapalli is currently managed by the Swamimalai Murugan Temple administration. This management oversees the temple's daily operations, rituals, and maintenance, ensuring that the temple continues to serve its community and uphold its traditions. For specific details about the current trustees or administrative members, you may need to check directly with the temple or relevant local authorities.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Modestly:Wear traditional or modest clothing to show respect.
  2. Remove Footwear:Take off your shoes before entering the temple premises.
  3. Observe Silence:Maintain a respectful silence, especially in the sanctum and during prayers.
  4. Participate in Rituals:Engage in prayers and offerings if you wish to, but follow the guidance of temple authorities.
  5. Respect the Deities:Bow or prostrate when in front of the deities.
  6. Use Cleanliness Practices:Wash your hands before partaking in offerings.
  1. Avoid Loud Behaviour:Refrain from talking loudly or making disruptive noises.
  2. Don't Take Photos in Sanctum:Photography may not be allowed in certain areas, so check for signs.
  3. Don't Touch the Deities:Respect the sanctity of the idols; do not touch them unless permitted.
  4. Avoid Commercial Activities:Refrain from selling or promoting items within the temple area.
  5. Don't Enter if Unwell:If you are feeling unwell, it’s best to refrain from visiting to maintain the temple's sanctity.


Dress Code

For Men:

Traditional Attire: Dhoti or lungi paired with a simple shirt or kurta is preferred.

Modest Clothing: Avoid shorts, sleeveless shirts, and overly casual outfits.


For Women:

Traditional Wear: Sarees, salwar kameez, or churidars are recommended.

Modest Clothing: Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and tight-fitting clothing. Opt for long skirts or dresses that cover the shoulders and knees.

How to reach

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BEST TIME TO VISIT:



Winter (November to February):

This is the ideal time to visit, as the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities and temple visits.


By Air:

  1. Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) is about 80 km away.
  2. From Airport:Hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thanjavur, then follow the road directions to Chakkarapalli (approx. 40 km).


By Train:

  1. Nearest Railway Station: Thanjavur Railway Station (TJ) is about 20 km from Chakkarapalli.
  2. From Station: Take a taxi or local bus from the railway station to reach the temple.


By Road:

From Thanjavur:

Distance: Approximately 40 km.

Route: Take the NH 36 towards Kumbakonam, following signs for Ayyampettai/Chakkarapalli.

Travel Time: About 1 hour by car.


Public Transport:

Regular buses operate between Thanjavur and Kumbakonam, stopping at Chakkarapalli.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers Near the Chakravageswarar Temple


Kudamurutti River:



A tributary of the Cauvery River, the temple is situated on its banks.


Cauvery River:



Located nearby, it is one of the major rivers in Tamil Nadu and holds significant cultural and religious importance.


Cities Near the Temple


Kumbakonam:

Approximately 27 km away, known for its numerous temples and cultural heritage.


Tiruvayyaru:

About 9 km from the temple, famous for its association with Saint Thyagaraja.


Thanjavur:

Located around 40 km from the temple, known for the Brihadeeswarar Temple and its historical significance.