Temple Layout - This particular temple holds historical significance as it was one where Tirunavukkarasar performed 'Uzhavarapani', a form of service involving the cleaning and maintenance of temple premises. Tirunavukkarasar was often spotted carrying an 'Uzhavaram', a tool with a long handle, which he used to clear out weeds and debris from the temple grounds. The temple itself faces east and boasts a stunning five-tier Rajagopuram adorned with intricate sculptures. Adjacent to the temple is the 'Brahma Theertham', also known as 'Mundaka Theertham'. Upon entering through the gateway, visitors are greeted by a Maha Mandapam and an Artha Mandapam, both of which lead to the east-facing sannidhi of the main deity, Shivalokanathar. Surrounding the sanctum are various sannidhis dedicated to different deities. Notable are the ones for Vinayaka and Muruga located behind the main sanctum. Muruga is depicted alongside his consorts Valli and Deivanai. Additionally, there are sannidhis for Bhairava, Surya, and Chandra (the planetary gods for the sun and moon) in the eastern part of the prakaram. One of the unique features of this temple is the depiction of Dakshinamurthy, who is portrayed facing south while seated on a nandi. The 'dwarapalakas' Tindi and Mudi, along with Brahma and Indra, are said to have worshipped the presiding deity Shivalokanathar, adding to the temple's rich history and religious significance.
Goddes SoundaryaNayaki stands grand and beautiful in her own sannidhi.
Temple Legend - During the Dwapara Yuga, A King by the name of Chokkalingam embarked on a hunting expedition and encountered a mesmerizing lotus in a nearby pond. In an attempt to claim the lotus, he instructed his attendants to retrieve it, but their efforts were in vain. Driven by an unwavering determination to obtain the flower, the king himself leaped into the pond, yet despite his earnest efforts, the lotus remained elusive, evading his grasp as it drifted around the pond. Frustrated, the king resorted to shooting an arrow at the flower, causing it to bleed and the water in the pond to take on a deep crimson hue. Overwhelmed by a sense of trepidation, the king approached the lotus, only to make a startling discovery - the lotus was unique, bearing a ShivaLinga. Subsequently, he carefully placed the Linga on the bank of the pond and proceeded to erect a temple in its honor, commemorating the extraordinary encounter. This event marked the inception of this sacred site and the temple. The Linga of the main deity still bears the mark left by the arrow shot by the king and the presiding deity is also known as 'Mudeeswarar.
The pathikam composed by Tirunavukkarasar is in the sixth Tirumarai.
Gopuram
Entrance in the prakaram
Nandi, balipeetam
Entrance to Shivalokanathar sannidhi
The four nayanmars
Inside view
Muruga with his consorts
Siddhi Vinayaka sannidhi
Saptha Matha
Navagraha
Bhairavar