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Kannayiranathaar Temple

This place was once a “Kar Akil” trees forest, hence called as “Karakil Vanam”, the same was corrupted to the present name of “Karayil”. In Sanskrit the same was called as “Panasaranyam”, “Kalaakaruvanam” “Thevatharuvanam”, “Kapalapuram”, “Brahma Puram”, “Kapithavanaapuram”, ( Person called Kapithan did service and worshipped Lord Shiva). The Kannayariamudayar Temple, located in Thirukkarayil in the Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Timings

7.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

  1. This place was once a “Kar Akil” trees forest, hence called as “Karakil Vanam”, the same was corrupted to the present name of “Karayil”. 
  2. In Sanskrit the same was called as “Panasaranyam”, “Kalaakaruvanam” “Thevatharuvanam”, “Kapalapuram”, “Brahma Puram”, “Kapithavanaapuram”, ( Person called Kapithan did service and worshipped Lord Shiva). 
  3. The Kannayariamudayar Temple, located in Thirukkarayil in the Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. 
  4. Historically known as Kaarayil or KanRapur during the Thevaram period, it is now referred to as Thirukkaravasal and Koyilkannapur. 
  5. This temple is the 236th Thevaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 119th Sthalam on the south side of the river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Revered in the Devaram hymns of the 7th-century Tamil Saivite poet Sambandar, it is classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam. 
  6. The temple is part of the seven Sapta Vitanka temples, featuring shrines to Thyagaraja and Somaskandar, which are associated with the Muchukunda Chola legend. 
  7. Thirukkarayil is situated approximately 13 kilometres south of Tiruvarur, making it an important site within the series of Thevara Sthalams in the Chola region south of the Cauvery river.


PURANIC SIGNIFICANCE:


In another legend, when the Kumbabishekam was in progress, a blind lady was standing on the banks of “Vellaiyaru” hearing the sounds. 

She felt very sad for not being able to see the Kumbhabhishekam. 

Lord Shiva gave her eyesight 1000 times brighter than the normal. 

The Blind lady was very happy and worshipped Lord Shiva.

Hence Lord Shiva is called as “Kannayiranathar”.  


Saptha Vidanga Sthalams


The Saptha Vidanga Sthalams refer to seven sacred locations housing Vidanga or Swayambu Lingam, which are naturally occurring and do not require sculptor’s tools (Dangam) for their formation.


Legend of Muchukunda


According to legend, Indira, after winning a war against demons with Emperor Muchukunda's assistance, sought to gift Muchukunda a token of gratitude. Muchukunda requested the Vidanga Linga that Indira possessed. 

Reluctant to part with this precious asset, Indira created six additional Lingas using the divine sculptor Maya. 

However, Muchukunda, using his divine powers, discovered the original Linga, marked by the fragrance of the Sengazhuneer flower. Acknowledging the divine play, Indira ultimately presented all seven Lingas-one original and six created-to Muchukunda.


Installation of the Lingas


Muchukunda installed these seven Lingas in various locations, now known as the Saptha Vidanga Sthalas:

  1. Veedhi Vidangar in Tiruvarur
  2. Nagara Vidangar in Thirunallar
  3. Sundara Vidangar in Nagapattinam
  4. Avani Vidangar in Thirukkuvalai
  5. Neela Vidangar in Tiruvaimur
  6. Bhuvani Vidangar in Vedaranyam
  7. Aadhi Vidangar in Thirukkaravasal (where Lord Shiva is believed to perform the Kukkuda dance)


Worship in the Temple


  1. Lord Shiva gave darshan to a Thasi, hence Lord Shiva is called as “Katchi Kodutha Nayagar”. 
  2. It is believed that Musukuntha Chakravarthy and Indra worshipped Lord Shiva of this temple. 
  3. Indra worshipped Lord Shiva on Purattasi Pournami day. 
  4. Hence special poojas are conducted on that day every year.


In this temple, Lord Shiva is worshipped by various devotees, including:



  1. Mother Mahalakshmi
  2. Sages Kabala, Patanjali, and Vyakrapada


Etymology


The name Tirukaravasal derives from its dense growth of Karahil trees during the Puranic period, originally named Tirukarahil.


Kadukkai Vinayaka


This legend is associated with the Vinayagar on the banks of Brahma Theertham. As per the legend, a merchant carried “jathikai” bags for sale and stopped at the temple to take a rest. Vinayagar took the form of a child and asked the merchant what he was carrying ?. The Merchant lied that he was carrying “Kadukkai”. After hearing this, Vinayagar disappeared. The merchant checked and found all the Jathikai had turned to Kadukkai. The merchant begged to pardon him for telling a lie, Vinayagar pardoned him and changed back all the Kadukkai in the “Jathikai”. From then onwards This Vinayagar was called “Kadukkai Vinayagar”. 


Indra’s Worship


It is said that Indra worshipped Shiva here on a full moon night in the month of Virgo.


Different Names


The place is referred to by various names in hymns, including:

  1. Kurumaanakkudi
  2. Kannaarkoyil
  3. Thirukkaaraayil


ADMINISTRATION:


The specific board or trust administering the Kannayiranathaar Temple in Thiruvarur may vary over time and is often appointed by the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Modestly: Wear respectful and modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees.
  2. Follow Temple Protocol: Observe the customs and rituals; ask if unsure about procedures.
  3. Offer Prasad: Participate in offerings and accept prasad with gratitude.
  4. Maintain Cleanliness: Dispose of waste responsibly and keep the temple environment clean.
  5. Be Respectful: Speak softly and maintain a serene demeanour; respect the sanctity of the space.
  6. Participate in Rituals: Join in prayers and rituals if invited or feel comfortable doing so.
  7. Take Photos When Allowed: Only take pictures in designated areas, respecting the rules.


  1. Avoid Loud Noise: Refrain from talking loudly or making disruptive sounds.
  2. Do Not Touch Deities: Avoid touching the idols or sacred objects unless permitted.
  3. Refrain from Eating Inside: Do not bring food or eat within the temple premises unless specifically allowed.
  4. Avoid Unnecessary Distractions: Turn off mobile phones or keep them on silent mode.
  5. Do Not Wear Footwear: Remove shoes at the entrance, as footwear is typically not allowed inside.
  6. Avoid Photography in Sensitive Areas: Respect signs prohibiting photography, especially during rituals.
  7. Don’t Bring Non-Vegetarian Food: It is generally prohibited to bring meat or alcohol into the temple.

Dress Code

Men:

Wear Modest Attire: Long trousers and shirts with sleeves. Traditional dhotis are welcome.

Avoid Shorts: No shorts or sleeveless tops.

Footwear: Remove shoes before entering.


Women:

Dress Modestly: Long skirts or dresses; tops should have sleeves and cover shoulders.

Avoid Revealing Outfits: No shorts or sleeveless blouses.

Footwear: Remove shoes before entering.

How to reach

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BEST TIME TO VISIT:



The best time to visit the Kannayiranathaar Temple in Thiruvarur is during the cooler months from October to March. During this period, the weather is more pleasant, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the temple and participate in rituals.


By Air:

  1. Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), about 90 km from Thiruvarur.
  2. From Airport: You can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach the temple.


By Train:

  1. Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvarur Junction is well-connected by trains from major cities in TamilNadu.
  2. From Station: The temple is approximately 2 km from the railway station, easily accessible by auto-rickshaws or on foot.


By Road:

  1. By Bus: Thiruvarur is connected by state buses from nearby cities like Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, and Tiruchirappalli.
  2. By Car: You can drive to Thiruvarur via National Highways (NH 32 and NH 67), which connect it to major cities in Tamil Nadu.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Nearby Rivers


Cauvery River: 



One of the major rivers in southern India, the Cauvery flows through the region, providing water for agriculture and serving as a cultural lifeline.


Vettaru River: 



A tributary of the Cauvery, it flows near Thiruvarur and is significant for irrigation and local rituals.


Nearby Cities



  1. Thiruvarur: The temple town itself, known for its numerous temples and cultural festivals.
  2. Nagapattinam: Approximately 30 kilometres away, this coastal city is known for its port and proximity to the Bay of Bengal.
  3. Karaikal: About 40 kilometres from Thiruvarur, this town is part of Puducherry and has a rich history and vibrant culture.
  4. Tiruvarur: Located around 20 kilometres away, this city is famous for its temples and agricultural land.
  5. Mayiladuthurai: Approximately 25 kilometres from Thiruvarur, known for its temples and as a hub of cultural activities.