Temples in Tamilnadu-India: Temple photo

Holly Places in Tamilnadu

Places to visit in Tamilnadu:

List of Famous Temples

Adhi Kamakshi temple, Kanchipuram
Mariamman temple, Samayapuram
PunnaiNallur Mariamman temple, Thanjavur
Narayani temple,vellore
Srivaikunthanthor Temple, Tirunelveli
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
Ramalinga Temple, Chidambaram
Kumari Amman Temple, KanyaKumari
Kapaleshwarar temple, Mylapore
Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunelveli
Vivekananda Memorial, KanyaKumari
Nagaraja temple, Nagercoil
Varadaraja temple, Kanchipuram
Thanumalayam Temple, Suchindram

Temples of Lord Anjaneyar

Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple
Tirukkatikai Yoga Anjaneyar Temple, Sholingar
Veera Anjaneya Swami Temple, Mylapore, Chennai
Veera Anjaneya Swami Temple, Chengalpattu
Veera Anjaneya Swami Temple, Ananthamangalam
Sri SanjeeviRayan Temple,Iyengar Kulam, Kanchipuram
Sri Viswaroopa Panchamukha Anjaneya Swami Temple,Tiruvallur
Sri Jaya Anjaneya Swami Temple, Karur
Sri Anuvavi Anjaneya Temple, Coimbatore
Sri Anjaneyar Temple, Ambur

Temples of Lord Vishnu

The Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam.
The Yoga Narasimha temple at sholingur.
The Narasimha temple at Namakkal.
The Narasimha temple at Tindivanam.
The Yoga Narasimha temple at velachery,Chennai.
The Uppiliappan Temple at Mayavaram.
The chakrapani temple at kumbakonam.
The sarangapani temple at kumbakonam.
The Ramaswami temple at kumbakonam.
The Oppliappan temple at kumbakonam.
The Saranathan temple at Tirucherai,kumbakonam.
The Kripasamudra Perumal (Arulmakadal) temple at Mayavaram.
The Thanjai Mamani Koil, Thanjavur.
The parimala Rangantha temple at Mayavaram.
The Ugra Narasimha temple at Singaperumal Koil,Chennai.
The Ari Katha Rama temple at Maduranthakam,Chennai.
The Hayagreeva temple at Chettipunyam,Chennai.
The Hayagreeva temple at Cuddalore,Chennai.
The Varaha temple (Nithya kalyana Perumal) atTiruvidanthai,Chennai.
The Varaha temple (Bhoovaraha) at Simushnam.
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple at Kancheepuram.
The Parthasarathy Temple at Chennai.
The LakshmiNarasimhar Temple at Tindivanam.
The Kesavaperumal Temple at Chennai.
The Madhavaperumal Temple at Chennai.
The Azhagar temple, Alagar Koil, Madurai.
The Koodalazhagar temple,Madurai.
The Devaraja Swami temple at Cuddalore.
Sri Mayakoothar Devasthanams, Perungulam.

Temples of God Shiva

The Patteeswaran Temple at Coimbatore(built by karikala Cholan)
The Brihadeeshwara Temple at Thanjavur.
The Vaitheeshwaran Temple at Mayavaram
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple at Chennai.
The Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameshwaram.
The Jambukeshwarar Temple at Tirucharapalli
The Arunachaleshwarar Temple at Thiruvannamalai
The Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram
The Ekambaranathar Temple at Kancheepuram
Naethraarppanaeswarar koil , Thiruveezhimizhalai
Agneeswarar koil , Thirukkaattuppalli
Brahmapureeswarar koil , Sirkaazhi
Sornapureeswarar koil , Azhagaarppuththoor
Yoothikaa Paramaeswarar koil , Thirumullaivaasal ( South )
Thaayumaanavar koil , Trichy
Veerattaaneswarar koil , Korukkai
Koenaeswarar koil , Kudavaasal
Maeganaathar koil , Thirumeeyachur
Seshapureeswarar koil , ThirupPaamburam
Sangameswarar koil , Bhavani
Ligusaranyeswarar koil , Ponnur
Amirthakalasanaathar koil , Sakkottai
Hayavandheeswarar koil , Seeyaaththamangai
Maanikkavannar koil , Thirumarugal
Sookshmapureeswarar koil , Sirukudi
Uthraapatheeswarar koil ,Thiruchchengaattaangudi
Uchiravanaesar koil ,Vilanagar
Panchanadheeswarar koil , Thiruvaiyaru
Pasupatheeswarar koil , Aavoor
Agastheeswarar koil , Agasthiyampalli
SriThiyagaraja Temple , Tiruvarur
ThiruMayinaswar Temple , Tiruvarur
Brammapureeswarar koil , Ambal
AmudhaGataeswarar koil , Kodikkarai
Kailasanathar temple, Kanchipuram
Vazhakarutheeswarar temple, kanchipuram

Temples of Lord Murugan

The Arupadai Veedu

1. Tirupparankundram Temple at Tirupparankundram (Madurai)

2. Sri Subramanya Swami Temple at Tiruchendur (Tirunelveli)

3. Tiruvavinankudi Temple at Pazhani (Dindigul)

4. Swamimalai Murugan Temple at Swamimalai (Tanjavur)

5. Tiruttanikai Murugan Temple at Tiruttani (Chennai)

6. Pazhamudhircholai Temple at Pazhamudhircholai (Madurai)

Others

Sri Navaneethaswara Swamy Temple at Sikkal (Tanjavur)

Marudamalai Subramanya Swamy Temple at Marudamalai (Coimbatore)

Kumarakkottam Subramanya Swamy Temple at (Kanchipuram)

Valliyur Subramanya Swamy Temple at Valliyur (Tirunelveli)

Vallakkottai Murugan Temple at Vallakkottai (Chennai)

Kanda Swamy Temple at Tirupporur (Chennai)

Shanmuganathan Temple at Viralimalai (Tiruchirappalli)

Mayilam Murugan Temple at Mayilam (Villupuram)

Vadapazhani Aandavar Temple at Chennai

Sri Vetri Velayudhaswami Temple, Uttukuli at Chennai

Temples of Lord Vinayagar

· Karpaga Vinayagar Temple at Pillayarpatti , KaraiKudi

· Uchhi Pillayar Temple at Tiruchirappalli

· Mukkuruni Vinayagar ( Meenakshi Amman Temple) at Madurai

· Abhishtavaradha Ganapathi Temple at Tiruvaiyaru (Tanjavur)

· Naramuga Vinayagar Temple at Chidambaram (Cuddalore)

· Ganapatheeswarar Temple at Tiruchenkattankudi (Tanjavur)

· Khabartheesar Karpaga Nathar Temple at Tiruvalanchuzhi
(Tanjavur)

Places to visit in Tiruvarur

1. Sri Thiayagaraja Temple at Tiruvarur

2. Famous Temples in Kumbakonam

3. Tanjore Big Temple (60 Km from Tiruvarur)

4. Sri Murugan Temple at Aaittukudi

5. Sri Kothandaramar Temple in Tiruthuraipoondi Taluk

6. Sri Saraswathi Temple at Koothanur

7. Jambavanodai Dharga in Tiruthuraipoondi Taluk

8. Sivan Temple at Alangudi

9. Bird Sanctuaries at Udayamarthandapuram

10.Navagraha temple around Tiruvarur District

11. Sri Rajagopalaswamy Temple at Mannargudi

12.Vailankanni Church

13. Nagore ( Muslim Pligrim center)

Details of Tiruvarur Big Temple

Details about Sri Thiayagaraja Temple:

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE: Sri Thyagarajar Temple, is situated at Thiruvarur, district of Tamilnadu, India. The Thyagarajaswami Temple here has the biggest temple chariot in Tamil Nadu. This is the birth place of Saint Thyagaraja - One of the musical trinity.
Sri Thiayagaraja Temple is situated at Tiruvarur. A Function called "AZHAZHI THER" will be celebrated every year during the month of April. It is the birth place of great three Carnatic Musicians - THIAYAGARAJA SWAMIGAL, MUTHUSAMY DHISHITHAR, SIYAMA SASTRIGAL.

HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE: The origin of the shrine at Tiruvarur is steeped in antiquity. Of the two major shrines in the temple, dedicated to Vanmikanathar and Tyagarajar the Vanmikanathar shrine is the older one. It enshrines a Shivalingam - prithvi lingam made of earth. Two of the major legends surrounding the temple are associated with Manu Needi Cholan and Muchukunda Cholan respectively.Anecdotes referring to the lives of these legendary rulers (not attributable directly to any of the Cholas of the Sangam period or the Vijayalaya line of Cholas) are referred to in ancient Tamil literature such as Manimekalai and Silappadikaram. The temple of Thiyagaraja became all the more famous by the visit of a galaxy of Gods and Angels from heaven, like Brahma, Dasharatha, Rama, Arjuna, Dharmaputra, Kings Nala and Haris- chandra, and Maharshis like Vasishtha and Vishwamitra. Each installed a Siva linga. In the temple for worship. The legend goes that once Lord Siva took his abode with Devi Parvati in a garden at the foot of Mount Kailas. Then a monkey dropped some Bilva leaves on the Lord. Siva was very much pleased by this act of the monkey and blessed it. The monkey in the next birth was born as a king in the Manu dynasty, named Muchukunda. Muchukunda was a good and kind ruler. He built many temples and encouraged pandits and scholars. Everybody lived a life of happiness in his time. He was also a great warrior and ruled the country with his capital at Karuvur. After many years, an Asura named Vala again attacked the Devas. The Devas was defeated in the battle. Thereupon Indra. Sent for his friend Muchukunda, for help and King Muchukunda readily agreed to save the Devas from, the attack of the Asura. A fierce battle took place between the King and the Asura in which the latter was defeated and finally killed by Indra. After the battle, King Muchukunda. Offered prayer and pujas to Lord Siva. The Lord appeared before him and asked him to build a temple for Him at Thiruvarur. When the King was about to return to his capital, he requested Indra to give him the Somaskandamurti that he was keeping with him and worshipping daily. Indra, not willing to part with this idol, decided to present to the King six other idols similar to the Somaskandamurti and placed them before the King with the real Murti amongst them, for selection. Then Lord Siva, without the knowledge of anybody, helped the King to select the real Murti. Indra gave the other six idols also. Muchukunda then returned to his capital with the idols.A big temple was, constructed at Thiruvarur by Viswakarma. Then the King installed a Siva Lingam (now known as Achaleeswar) in a portion of the temple and worshipped it for many years. The peculiar feature about this Lingam is that its shadow can be seen only in the eastern direction and it is also said that this shadow will not be visible to a man who is going to die within a period of six months. Once there was a king named Amsa. He was childless. He conducted many yagas to be blessed with a child. At last he came to Thiruvarur, installed a Siva Lingam in the temple and conducted penance for many years. Then Siva gave darsan to the King and blessed him. So the Lingam came to be known as Siddheesar (Siddhi means success and Eesar means God). By worshipping this Lingam one can- get what all one desires in this world. One day King Kulisa while feeding Durvasa Maharshi mixed meat in the meal by mistake. The Maharshi, enraged by this act of the King, cursed him to turn into a tiger. But soon the Rishi cooled down and told the King: 'After some years you will see the divine cow Kamadhenu when you will get moksham.' The tiger roamed in the forests and at last came to a place near Thiruvarur where it happened to meet Kamadhenu with her calf. The cow used to go to the temple of Lord Thiyagaraja daily and worship, Vanesa Lingam bathing it with its own milk. On seeing the cow Kamadhenu, the tiger rushed towards her. Thereupon the cow replied: 'I don't worry about being killed by you, but the thing is I have not the Siva Lingam today. So kindly permit me to finish my duties first. I shall certainly come back here when you can kill me.' The tiger was not willing to miss the, chance; yet, believing the words of the cow, he permitted her to do so. Kamadhenu returned promptly after finishing her ' duties. The tiger was touched by the exemplary behavior of the cow and had no mind to kill her. Then the tiger came to know about its past life. It went to Thiyagaraja's temple, worshipped the Lingam and attained Moksham.In this temple there is the Marakata Lingam obtained by King Muchukunda. From Indra along with the idol of Thiyagaraja. 'The palanquin of Thiyagaraja is made of gold. The Prabha is decorated with diamonds. The Goddess is known as Padampiriyal (who would not leave the feet of God). Another name of the Goddess is Neelotpalavalli. In the shrine of Neelotpalavalli, there are painted pictures narrating some incidents, which happened in the past. One of them is that a king known as Somaji Nayanar was performing a sacrifice to propitiate Lord Thiyagaraja. Somaji Nayanar expressed his desire to Sundaramurti Nayanar that Lord Thiyagaraja should appear himself and receive the havis (oblation of raw rice cooked in orthodox manner). Sundaramurti Nayanar conveyed the request to Lord Thiyagaraja. Lord Thiyagaraja consented to the same saying, 'If I could be recognized I don't mind receiving it.' This test the depth of devotion, Siva came as an outcaste (Paraya), with Parvati carrying a pitcher of fermented palm juice and holding two sons, and himself having a drum and four dogs representing the four Vedas. Only Somaji was able to recognise him. Others shouted, 'Don't come near, don't come near.' As Somaji was able to recognise God even in the form of an outcaste, Siva received the havis and gave darsan. Another legend current in this part and represented in the fresco painted in the temple wall of Neelotpalavalli Sannidhi is as follows: Once upon a time a harlot by name Manicka Nachiyar, according to her established tradition, used to receive only a person who was wearing Rudraksham. One day Siva, disguised as an old man with Rudraksham, entered her house. She received him also with equal respect as he was having a Rudraksham. During the course of the night he gave her a lot of worries and at last died at her house. According to tradition, she played the part of the wife in true Hindu custom. When the old man passed away in her house, she had to perform Sati by following him in the funeral pyre. The old man was taken in a bier followed by the harlot and a funeral pyre was set up. When it was about to be lit, the old man transformed himself into his original form of Lord Siva and gave liberation to the harlot who had dutifully followed him even to the funeral pyre. She was true to her tradition and devotion. As such she deserved liberation.Thiruvarur became very famous in the last century for the birth of three great Carnatic musicians, viz., Muthuswami Dikshitar, Syama Sastri and Thiyagaraja. Thiyagaraja composed his songs in Telugu, and they are considered to be gems of Carnatic music, highly honoured even now.

Details about temple specialty

The temple is gigantic in structure. From a distance of miles the gopurams are visible. It is a great pilgrim centre, through out the year, particularly in the month of Chittirai when the most important festival, the annual festival of Sri Thiyagaraja is performed. There are four gopurams on four sides. The tower on the west is particularly noteworthy for the fine sculpture in brick and mortar. The colossal structure of the temple could be well imagined from its length of 846 feet with breadth of 666 feet.There are several tanks attached as an adjunct to the temple wherein devout pilgrims take their bath before entering into the precincts of the temple. Lord Thiagaraja is special and a sculptural wonder. He is fully decorated with the flowers especially sengazhuneer Poo grown from a dedicated sengazhuneer odai.His dance is Ajaba nadanam and is really a fantasic one when viewing.

Details about Kamalalayam Big Tank:
Kamalalayam is the holy tank situated just opposite to the Big temple with equal dimension of the Big temple.
On the western side of the temple there is a famous tank known as Kamalalayam where Goddess Kamala (Lakshmi) took her birth. It is considered to be the biggest tank in the whole of South India, having an island temple in the middle dedicated to the Goddess. She was born with the nectar during the course of churning of the Milky Ocean by the Devas and the Asuras. Varuna, the God of Water brought up Kamala, and after devoted penance she was married to Vishnu at Thiruvarur. Hence the name Kamalalayam.Besides the tank, a peculiar musical instrument called Panchamukha Vadya and Sivalingam made of sapphire and called Marakatalingam are worth seeing. The musical instrument has got five faces and is ornamented with the snake, the swastika and the lotus on three. The fourth face is plain without decorations. The central face shows the face of a deer. It is said that Nandi played on this when Siva danced. The circumference of the instrument is fifty-six inches. Thiruvarur is one of the seven sacred places of Lord Thiyagaraja. The others are Tirumaraikkadu (Vedaranyam), Tirunagai (Nagapattinam.), Tirukkolili, Tirukkaramayil, Tiruvanmiyoor and Tirunallar. In this temple where Thiyagaraja's idol is worshipped, the Navagrahas are placed in a line looking at the shrine. It is a peculiar feature.When you visit the temple, you can really feel about the eternal life. I'm damn sure about it. Here, a great siddha named Kamalamuni came and worshipped Kamalambal.

Details of Kumbakonam Temples

Details about famous temples in Kumbakonam:

Mahamaham Tank

If there is a tank held to be more sacred than Ganges, it is only
Mahamaham Tank at Kudandai. As Kumbamelas are celebrated in this Tank.
The Mahamaham Tank of Kumbakonam is Located near the Head Post office.
This Tank covers an area of 6.2 acers and is in a shape of a pot.
The Tank is surrounded by 16 small Mandapams and a "Nava Kannika temple in the Eastern side

Kumbesvarar Temple

Adi Kumbeswarar temple is the major one among the
Saivaite temples and located in the centre of Kumbakonam at Big Bazaar Street. This temple covers an area of 30181 sq.ft. With a length and breadth of 750 feet, and 252 feet respectively. This temple comprises fo three Praharas and three Gopurams in the eastern, northern and western directions. It is belived that Govinda Theeksithan, the Chieftain of Achutha Nayakar of Thanjavur, renovated this oldest temple during 16th century.

Nagesvarar Temple
Nageswaran Temple otherwise known as "koothandavar Kovil", is locatd near the old bus stand area and Adithya Cholan of Chola dynasty constructed this temple during 12th century. This temple stands as a great marvel of chola's architecture, building technology and astronomy. The design and orientation are structured in such a way that it allows the sun rays inside the temple only during the month of Chithirai, therefore, it bears another name called "Soorya Kotatm" or "Keel Kottam". The Karuvarai of Nageswaran temple has similarity with that of Sarangapani temple, as it is made in the form of a chariot. The temple consists of two Gopurams in the easteren and western directions.

Somesvara Temple
Someswara temple is situated in the southren portion of Sri Sarangapani Temple. This temple is facing the northren side with a small Gopuram at the eastern portion near the entrance. The architectural style and element of this temple resembles the Dravidian Architecture of 13th century of chola period. Arumugam and thenar Mozhi Ammal are the other deities located in this temple complex.

Sarangapani Temple
Sri Sarangapani temple is located near to Uchipilliar Kovil junction at Sarangapani East Street. This temple is considered one among the three major shrines of lord Vishnu and it was renovated during the period of Nayaka Kingdom fo 16th century. Sarangapani temple consists of the biggest Gopuram (150ft), and five Praharas and one holy tank, known as "Porthamarai Kulam", which is located behind the temple. The Karuvarai and Vimanam are made with 12 - sculptured columns shaped llike a chariot.

Chakarapani Temple
Chakkarapani Temple is located in the northern portion of BIg Bazaar Street near the river Cauvery and secong biggest Vaishnavite temple in Kumbakonam town.

Ramaswamy Temple
Ramasamy Temple Achutha Nayaka of Thanjavur constructed the Ramasamy temple during 16th century. This temple is Located on the southeastern portion of "Porthamarai Kulam" and southern side of "Uchipillaiyar Kovil" junction. This temple consists of one Gopuram, One Maha Mandapam and Karuvarai.

Details of Navagraha Temples in South Tamilnadu

Navagraha temples

When planets move from one direction to another it brings about changes in certain people's well-being and fortune. By worshipping the planets we get immense benefits. Indian Astrology believes that the planetary positions of nine planets in a geo centric orbit determine the way a person will live, progress and exemplify ones life to others before death. Nava means nine and graha means planet. There are nine temples located in TamilNadu representing each planet in the Navagraha. All nine of them are located with in a 65 km radius around Kumbakonam.

Navagraha-the nine planets could give harmony or misery to the individual as per its movements. One has to do shanthis or parikaras; for the particular planet(s) and its lords; such direct appeals to the concerned planets and their lords will give quick and timely results.

Surya (Sun)
Direction : East
Flower : Lotus
His day: Sunday
Color : Red

Suryanar Koil, situated 21 kms from Kumbakonam is built by King Kulothunga Chola I in the year 1100 AD. This temple is dedicated to Sun God Surya who is known as the giver of health, sucess and prosperity. Every year in mid January, the harvest festival is celebrated in thanks giving and to honour, Surya or Sun Surya is the most powerful living God - whom everyone can see, perceive and pray. Though he is visible, he also has been presented in a variety of forms. Lord of this planet is God Siva Surya resides with his wives Chaya and Suvarcha in this holy place. With Surya at the centre, temples of the other Grahas are around Surya

Rahu
Flower : Mandarai
Color : Black
His Day: sunday

Tirunageswaram, This vast temple known for its shrine to Rahu, one of the nine celestial bodies in the Navagraha situated 8kms from Kumbakonam. A legend has it that the mythological serpents Adiseshan, Dakshan and Kaarkotakan worshipped Shiva here. Legend also has it that King Nala worshipped Shiva here as in Thirunallar. Rahu is instrumental in strengthening one's power and converting even an enemy into a friend. He is ruled by Goddess Durga. The main deity's name is Nageshwarar and Ambal's name is Girigujambikai. She is decorated as a small girl in the Mornings, as young lady in Noons and as lady in evenings.. Here Ragu resides with his wife and everyday, during Rahu kalam, when Milk is poured over Rahu idol, it miraculously changes to blue colour. People having Ragu dosha come here during Rahu kalam and perform Abishekas. During 1986, the molted skin of a 5-foot-long snake was found draped over the Rahu Bhagwan idol. It is still preserved and worshipped in temple. Those having Naaga doshas do pariharams in the Navagraha sthala by donating a stone Naaga idol. If Rahu is in a good position in one's horoscope, then the man will get a good wife, good servant and acquire great wealth. He will succeed in politics and may get a chance to rule. Praying during Raahu Kaalam on Sundays can ensure a good life and prosperity. Also a person with Raahu dosham can pray to Durgai and Naagaraja. Rahu takes one-&-a-half years to move from one graham to another, those afflicted with leprosy, diseases of the intestines, cough, boils can get relief by praying to Rahu

Chandran (Moon)
Flower : White Arali
Color : Light green
His day : Monday

Thingaloor, Though there is a question about when this temple was built, historians agree that it must have been in existence since before the beginning of the Bhakti period, which was well before the seventh century A.D. Dedicated to the Moon or Chandran in Sanskrit and Thingai in Tamil, a visit to this temple is said to grant a confortable and long lilfe. In astrology, Chandran is the planet that removes stress and sorrow. Chandra or Moon is a lovable God - Pleasing to the children as well as elders, universally appealing to everyone whatever may be the religion. Goddess Parvathi rules the planet. This temple is situated at 30kms from Kumbakonam.

Sani(Saturn)
Direction : West Color : Black
Flower : Vanni
His day: Saturday

Thirunallar, 55kms from Kumbakonam is the only temple that is dedicated to Lord Sani Or Saturn. When the Planet Saturn transits between zodiac signs, literally millions throng this shrine. The Legendary King Nala is said to have been relieved of his afflictions, which were due to the malefic influence of Saturn, after worships in this temple. Of the numerous tanks theertams, the Nala theertam is the important one. By bathing here, it is belived that one washes off all kinds of misfortune , afflictions and to escape from the woes of sani. Saniswara or Saturn, is generally known to affect one adversely on occasions when he occupies certain positions in one's horoscope. A prayer to him, especially on Saturdays, is said to mitigate the hardships one will have to face during these periods. Saniswara is considered equally a bestower of all benefits to the devotees who pray sincerely to him. He is ruled by Lord Yama.

Sukran (Venus)
Direction : SoutheastColor
Pure white
His Day: Friday

Kanchanur, 22kms from Kumbakonam.This Shiva Sthalam is associated with Sukran or Venus and is maintained by the Madurai Adinam. It is Located in a quite hamlet of Thiruvaaduturai.This Shrine is also referred to as Palaasavanam, Brahmapurai and Agnisthalam. Brahma is said to have had a vision here of Shiva's wedding with Parvati.Men visit to pray for the well being of their wives. Sukra or Venus is the bestower of long life, wealth, happiness, children, property and good education. He is ruled by Goddess Mahalakshmi. It is idea to pray Lord Shukran by giving away white clothes, white lotus, diamond for betterment in lifestyles, work, it is widely believed the unemployed gets job if He is worshipped.

Kethu
Direction : North-West
Flower : Red Lilly
Color :Multi color
His Day : Sunday
Keezhperumpallam, 57kms from Kumbakonam, is an ancient Shaivite temple and legend has it that Kethu, the other planetary node of the nine celestial bodies worshipped Shiva here. Rahu and Kethu are associated with legend of the serpent that helped Lord Shiva churn the milky ocean. There is a Shrine dedicated to Kethu in this temple. Ketu brings prosperity to the devotee's family. He grants good health, wealth, cattle and all round prosperity. He is ruled by Lord Ganesha and Indra. . Those who are affected by Kethu dosha come here for rectification. Lord Shiva blessed the snake to be enshrined in a temple in the bamboo forest and relieve devotees from the ill-effects of 'Kethu', one of the Navagrahas. In this temple, Lord Kethu faces west in the north praharam, He appears with the body in divine form, His head as a five-headed snake and hands folded in Prayer. Both Kethu and Rahu planets are known as "Chaaya Grahams'. Kethu's blessing is needed to reach the heavenly abode, if it is strong in horo, he will be spiritually inclined and indulge in religious activities after middle age. The stars that fall under Kethu are Ashwini, Maham and Moolam. Lord Vinaayaka is associated with Kethu and performing Archanai to Lord Vinayaka would relieve the sufferings.

Guru (Jupiter)
Direction : North
Flower : White mullai
colour: Yellow
His Day : Thursday
Alangudi, 19kms from Kumbakonam is regarded as a Guru Sthalam or Jupiter where Lord Dakshinamurthy is held in great revernce. The Shrine attracts a large number of devotees when Jupiter transits between zodiac signs. Parvathi, the consort of Lord Shiva, is said to have been reborn on the banks of the Amrita Pushkarini within the temple precincts before being reunited with siva. He results in a cure from ailments and helps one to ward off his/her sins and gives strength, valour, longevity, etc. He grants the boon of fatherhood to the childless, good education (Vidya). The speciality here is that Lord Guru is engraved on the wall and is not in the form of separate idol reunited with Shiva. Lord Guru is called Brahaspathi for his excellence in education and fine arts. Besides Alangudi, Tiruchandur is also worshipped as Guru Sthalam. Alangudi temple is near Needamangalam in Tiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu. The main deity here is Abathsahayeswarar and His Consort Ezhavaar Kuzhali. Purana refers to Lord Guru as Saint Angirasa's son. The colour appropriate for him is yellow garment and chick pea as' offering' brings happiness to Him.

Budhan (Mercury)
Direction : North-East
Color :Light Green
Flower : White kanti
His day : Wednesday

Puranas says Budhan (mercury) is the son of Chandran (Moon).Onewill get what one wishes for if prayed to Lord Mercury.
Thiruvenkadu, is 60kms from Kumbakonam.There is a reference to this temple in Valmiki's Ramayana. Therefore it is said that the oldest part of the temple is more than 3000 years old. Dedicated to Budhan or Mercury this temple in Thiruvenkadu makes up the last of the Navagraha Temples. Budhan is said to bestow wisdom and intellect. Budha or Mercury is considered as the greatest among the wise. This Devata bestows wisdom and wealth on his devotees. He is ruled by Lord Maha Vishnu. This temple is referred in 'Saiva Thirumurais' and Sastras. This place is similar to Kasi with all the Snana Ghats. One can do all the karmas here, that is supposed to be done in kasi.

Details of Vailankanni town

About Vailankanni
Vailankanni is fondly known as the 'Lourdes of the East' because like Lourdes in France, millions of pilgrims visit the Shrine throughout the year, praying to Our Lady for various needs and thanking her for the favors received through her intercession.
Tradition recounts that Mother Mary appeared with the Infant Jesus in this small hamlet at the end of the 16th or in the early 17th century. Ever since, Vailankanni is the most important destination and almost the synthesis of all Marian Sanctuaries for the pilgrims of the world. The crowds of pilgrims come here regardless of creeds and languages.
Our Lady of Vailankanni devotions down through the centuries have proved the Shrine to be of divine origin and has assumed international character. Mary, the focus of unity at Vailankanni, is a clear proof of international, multicultural, and religious harmony.

Location
Vailankanni, a hamlet on the sandy shores of the Bay of Bengal, is located 350 kilometers south of Chennai (Madras) and 12kilometers south of Nagappatinam. Nagapattinam, a town on the coast of Bay of Bengal, was referred by early writers and the Portuguese as "the city of Coramandel' (Imperial Gazetteer of India, XIX, 3). Vellayar river, a minor branch of the river Cauvery, runs on the south of the village and flows into the sea.
Readers may be startled to learn that Vailankanni was once a port and there is evidence to prove this. Historical notes reveal that people in this area traded with Rome and Greece, the ancient commercial centers of the western world. In the course of time, Nagapattinam expanded and this tiny commercial center (Vailankanni) gradually lost its importance. The canal that had been dug once for navigation between Nagapattinam and Vedaranyam still lies to the west of Vailankanni

Growth As days passed on, the number of devout pilgrims visiting the Shrine increased. The fame of Vailankanni spread gradually. The wonderful but inexplicable events that occurred in the Shrine excited awe and wonder. People who witnessed the eventsor heard first-hand information about them, and related them to their family and friends. Thus the fame and glory of the gracious Mother of Health of Vailankanni spread like wildfire throughout the land. Year by year the number of devout pilgrims increased. Many came with eager and earnest prayers for favors, and immediate help; many more came with hearts filled with gratitude to show thanks to the miraculous Mother for favors granted.
The numerous poor who came to Vailankanni on foot from afar, returned to their homes, singing from door to door the glories and favors of Our Lady, very much in the style and manner of the troubadours of the Middle Ages in Europe. These poor singers of Marian praise also helped in their own humble way, in spreading the devotion to "Our Lady of Health Vailankanni." In fact the press, did very little to spread the devotion of Our Lady.
In the meanwhile, by the introduction of quicker and more convenient means of transport, such as steamships, and trains, the number of pilgrims to the Shrine increased and the Shrine correspondingly expanded.
Fr. Rozario, a Franciscan priest, expanded the small church of 24 ft. x 12 ft. built by the Portuguese sailors, to 70 ft. x 22 ft. by extending the nave of the Church. But the ancient little sanctuary and the Altar were preserved intact. As the years passed by, the Catholic faith was strengthened by ardent missionaries working at Vailankanni.
Very soon, even this extension was found to be inadequate. In 1917 Fr. Sebastio Xavier de Noronha expanded the Church by an another 20 ft. from the nave of the Church.
In addition, two gothic domes of 82 ft. each on either side of the entrance facing the sea were also constructed. About the same time a two-story Parochial building with facility for pilgrims was also built.

History The first person to refer to Vailankanni in historical documents is Fr. Paulo de Trinidad an OFM priest. In hischronicle in the year 1630, he writes:
" And two leagues (about six miles) from Nagapattinam in the direction of Mannar (i.e. towards South), we have another Christian settlement, of which one of our Religious has charge and the Church is under the Patronage of our Lady of Health.In 1771 Fr. Antonio de Rozario, the last Parish Priest of the church of the Immaculate Conception, was appointed as the first Parish Priest of Vailankanni, which was then raised to the status of an independent parish. Till then, the parish of Vailankanni was a substation of the parish of Nagapattinam, and Nagapattinam had always been under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Bishop of the Diocese of Mylapore. During that period the Diocese of Mylapore was administered under the Portuguese 'Padroado' (patronage). Under the Padroado system, the king of Portugal in Europe met all the expenses incurred by the Diocese of Mylapore, which remained under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Roman Pontiffs.
Until 1847 the priests of St. Franciscan Missionaries who had looked after the province of Goa and Mylapore also looked after Nagapattinam and Vailankanni. The Franciscan origin and ownership of the Shrine was also perpetuated, by giving the place of honor to two Franciscan saints, St. Anthony of Lisbon and St. Francis of Assisi, on either side of the miraculous image of 'Our Lady', on the High Altar until 1961. Besides the last parish priest, Miguel Francisco Fernandez, who was of the Franciscan order, controlled the parish of Vailankanni till 1889.
In the year 1949 this dual system came to an end: the Portuguese patronage of the Diocese of Mylapore was ended and placed under the direct control of the Roman Pontiff.
The Diocese of Mylapore was in charge of the mission in this area until 1952. It was in that year that Thanjavur, a Cauvery-fed basin, became a new and independent Diocese called the "Diocese of Thanjavur." Thanjavur town was chosen to be the headquarters of the new Diocese. In November 1952, when the new Diocese of Thanjavur came into being, the Diocesan Priests of Thanjavur became the custodians of the Shrine Vailankanni. The administration of the new Diocese was temporarily placed under the apostolic administration of the Rt. Rev. Dr. Louis Mathias, S.D.B., who was then the Archbishop of the new Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore.
On March 19, 1953, His Excellency the Rev. Dr. R. Arokiasamy Sundaram, a priest of Mylapore Archdiocese was appointed as the first Bishop of the new Diocese of Thanjavur. He assumed charge of his Diocese on March 24, 1953.
Vailankanni being situated in the Thanjavur District came under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Thanjavur. The Rev. Dr. R. Arokiasamy Sundaram showed keen interest in the development of Vailankanni Shrine and granted special spiritual privileges. 'Our Lady of Health Vailankanni' became the second patroness of our newly erected Diocese.

Details of Nagore

Nagore
Nagore (sometimes spelled Nagoor) is a town in the Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India. It is located approximately 4 km north of the city of Nagapattinam.

Nagore has a population of approximately 30,000. A prominent five-acre dargah (Muslim shrine) dedicated to the 16th century saint Nagore Andavar (literally "the Lord (aandavar) of Nagore"; also popularly called Meeran Sahib or Qadir Wali) is located there, and serves as a pilgrim center. The 14-day Kandhuri Urs (also spelled Kandoori or Kandhoori) festival, dedicated to the saint, is held there annually.

Although dedicated to a Muslim saint, the dargah's rituals and architecture are influenced by Hinduism, and the area is characterized by largely peaceful coexistence between its Muslim and Hindu populations. In the immediate aftermath of the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the dargah sheltered and fed thousands of Hindu tsunami survivors, and buried the bodies of more than 300 Hindus killed in the tsunami in its graveyard