Kripapureeswarar Temple, Tiruvennainallur

Location: Tiruvennainallur

Deity known as: Krupapureeswarar, Thaduthu Aatkondanathar

Female Deity: Verkkanni Ammai, Mangalaambikai

Pathikam: Sundarar - 1

Gallery - Kripapureeswarar Temple

Temple View

Mandapam where Sundarar's court case was held

The hall of court trial

Muruga with His Consorts

How to Reach

Tiruvennainallur is on the Panruti – Arasur – Tirukkovilur road. The temple is situated on the southern bank of river 'Pennai'.

Nearby Temples

1	Tirukkovilur - 23 kms
2	Tiruvidaiyaru - 5 kms
3	Tirumundeeswaram - 5 kms

Temple Address

Arulmighu Thaduthu Aatkondanathar Temple
Tiruvennainallur
Tiruvennainallur Post
Tirukkovilur Taluk
Villupuram District
PIN 607203

Temple Layout

Temple Structure and Main Sanctum

This ancient Shiva temple sprawls over an area of about 10 acres and features an impressive Rajagopuram and double prakarams. The gateway opens into a spacious mandapam, which is believed to be the site of a significant courtroom episode involving Saint Sundarar. Nearby are the Dwajasthambam, the shrine of ‘Kodimara Vinayaka’, and the Balipeetam. At an elevated level stands the Vimana, where Shiva is said to have appeared as Rishabharudar to bless Sundarar. Directly opposite this is a sannidhi for Sundarar, depicted holding a palm-leaf manuscript, symbolizing his divine compositions in praise of the deity.

The Presiding Deity

The presiding deity, Kripapureeswarar, is a self-manifested (Swayambhoo) Shiva Linga facing east. The sanctum of Goddess Mangalambikai, who also faces east, complements the main deity with her divine grace. On the southern side of the temple lies the sacred Danda Theertham, known for its spiritual significance. The inner prakaram surrounding the sanctum houses sannidhis for Polla Pillaiyar, Muruga, and Sundarar, enhancing the temple’s sanctity and devotional atmosphere.

Goshta Murthas and Other Sannidhis

Around the sanctum, the Goshta Murthas—Bhikshadanar, Dakshinamurthy, Lingodhbavar, Mahavishnu, and Durga—are beautifully panelled on the walls. Chandikeshwarar has a separate sannidhi within the complex. In the outer prakaram, one can find the idols of the Sixty-three Nayanmars, Saptha Mathas, Thirugnana Sambandar, Mahavishnu, Arunandisivam, and Meikanda Thevar, each adding to the temple’s divine aura. The pillars inside the temple are adorned with intricate sculptures of Bhairavar and Dakshinamurthy, showcasing fine workmanship and devotional artistry.

Temple Significance

Parvathy's Penance

During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), a deadly poison emerged, threatening to destroy the universe. To save all beings, Shiva consumed the poison and held it in His throat, earning the name Neelakanda. To shield Him from the poison’s effects, Goddess Parvathi performed a rigorous penance, standing amidst the Pancha Agni (five sacred fires) within a fort constructed of cow butter. This divine act led to the town being called Vennainallur—literally meaning “the place of butter.”

Sundarar's Court Case - The Temple Legend

According to the legend, as Sundarar was about to enter into marriage at Tirukkovilur, he was stopped by an elderly man who confronted him with an old document. The man claimed that Sundarar was indebted to him and must serve him for the rest of his life. Sundarar, bewildered by the accusation, dismissed the old man as insane and sought justice from the village elders. Upon examining the document, the elders confirmed its authenticity and advised Sundarar to fulfil his obligation to the old man.

Reluctantly, Sundarar agreed to serve the old man in his household. Deeply moved by Sundarar’s humility and devotion, the old man revealed himself as Lord Shiva. Overcome with remorse for his earlier accusations, Sundarar sought forgiveness, which was graciously granted. Shiva then instructed him to compose hymns beginning with the word “Pitha”, symbolizing divine ecstasy. At this sacred temple, Sundarar began his first Tirumurai hymn, the celebrated Pathikam “Pitha Piraisudi”, marking the start of his divine journey as one of the four revered Nayanmar of Shaivism. Since Shiva took Sundarar into His divine service, He came to be known as Aatkonda Nathar, the Lord who claimed His devotee. In Sundarar’s hymn, this place is lovingly mentioned as Tiruvennainallur, and the temple as Arutturai.

Arunagirinathar's Vision

Arunagirinathar the 14th-century saint poet, was blessed with a vision of Muruga dancing on his peacock at this temple. Arunagirinathar has sung one song in praise of Lord Muruga here.