Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu

Temple Significance & History

Sage Patanjali & Shivapada Kshetra

Sage Patanjali was blessed with the privilege of witnessing the divine dance of Shiva every day and it is believed that he would partake of his food only after witnessing the dance of Nataraja. Along with Sage Vyaghrapada, Patanjali worshipped Shiva and prayed for the eternal vision of His Ajapa dance and Rudra Tandava. They also earnestly sought the blessing of witnessing His sacred feet. At this sacred place, Shiva fulfilled their prayers by performing His celestial dance before them, and they could have the darshan of His divine feet while dancing. Vishnu, Brahma, King Muchukunda and the Devas are also believed to have witnessed this divine vision and rejoiced in the grace of Shiva. The Rudra Pada revealed by Shiva continues to receive special daily worship even today. Hence, this place is revered as Tiruvadi Kshetra and Shivapada Sthala.

Special Significance of the Temple

One of the distinctive features of this temple is the presence of a separate sannidhi for Bhairava. Worshipping Bhairava on Ashtami days during the waning phase of the moon is considered especially auspicious. As Bhairava is believed to be the Kshetrapalaka, or guardian deity of this sacred place, as well as the lord of the Navagrahas, there is no separate sannidhi for the Navagrahas in this temple. Ganesha is depicted holding a Maththaka Mani in His hand. Another remarkable feature is the sacred feet of Shiva adorning the head of Vishnu. Yama and Chandikeswarar are also depicted seated in distinctive postures. It is believed that those seeking the blessing of children, relief from obstacles in marriage, success in education, or relief from long-standing illnesses may bathe in the Agni Theertham, offer cooked rice to Shiva, and worship Him with devotion to receive His grace. Devotees also worship here seeking progress in their profession and excellence in education. As this temple is regarded as the Vidya Peetha among the Shakti Peethas, it is customary for some devotees to offer worship to the Goddess here before admitting their children to school. Those experiencing speech difficulties or stammering are also believed to receive the blessings of Goddess Madthurabhashini Amman through sincere worship. On the day of Mahalaya Amavasya in the month of Purattasi, performing tarpanam for one's ancestors and worshipping the deity Patanjali Manohara at Vilambal is considered particularly auspicious.