The Vedhapureeswarar Temple, located in Tiruverkkadu, is less recognized compared to the more frequented Devi Karumaari Amman Temple, which attracts visitors year-round. This significant "Paadal Petra Shivasthalam" is situated just 1 kilometer from Devi Karumari Amman Temple. To access Vedhapureeswarar Temple from Thiruverkadu bus terminus, follow 'Sivan Kovil' Road that leads to the temple. The site is named 'Thiruverkaadu' in honor of the four sacred Vedas, which are said to have transformed into four grand trees to pay tribute to the deity.
The temple is characterized by an impressive five-tiered gopuram that faces east. Upon entering, visitors encounter a spacious prakaram that contains the dwajasthambam, balipeetam, and nandi, all aligned with the eastern entrance. To the right, there are two sannidhis dedicated to Saneeshwara and Moorkha Nayanar, both oriented towards the west. An inner gateway leads to the sannidhi of the presiding deity, Vedhapureeswarar, which also faces east. Behind the deity, a striking sculpture of Shiva and Parvati as a bride and groom in their 'Tirumana Kolam' is visible, commemorating their appearance before Sage Agasthya. The inner prakaram encircling the sanctum features significant sannidhis and idols of Agasthya and Surya, the sun god. The southern inner prakaram displays idols of the four primary nayanmars along with a row representing all 63 nayanmars, while the western section includes the idols of Kasi Viswanath, Visalakshi, and the Chola king Anabhaya. The sannidhi of the female deity, Balambikai, is located on the northern side, facing south. Surrounding the sanctum are 'goshta murthas' of Chandikeshwarar, Ganapathy, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma, and Goddess Durga. Notably, Muruga is depicted with a bow and arrow rather than His spear, standing on one leg upon His peacock, symbolizing strength and valor. The temple's 'sthala vruksham' is the White Bark Acacia, known as 'Vell vela maram,' and the sacred water body is referred to as Velayuda theertham.
The temple is associated with the deity Muruga, who detained Brahma for failing to understand the significance of Pranava, thereby disrupting the creation process. In response, Shiva intervened by dispatching His divine bull, Nandi, to free Brahma; however, Muruga remained resolute in his stance. Subsequently, Shiva appeared before Muruga to explain the repercussions of obstructing Brahma's creative role, which led to Brahma's eventual release. To admonish Muruga for his insubordination, Shiva instructed him to travel to Tiruvekadu and worship Him. Following this directive, Muruga went to Tiruvekadu, where he created a water body for the purpose of worshipping Shiva. The Velayutha Theertham, situated near the temple's east entrance, is believed to have been formed by Lord Muruga for this worship. Additionally, a sannidhi dedicated to Muruga is located in the inner prahara to the west of the sanctum, featuring a ShivaLinga in front of Muruga, a unique arrangement not found elsewhere. The saint poet Arunagirinathar has composed two songs in praise of Muruga, included in his Tirupugazh collection.
The Navagrahas are situated on a Padma Peetam, an octagonal pedestal that resembles a lotus, within the temple. This site is regarded as a prariharasthalam, serving as a remedy for those suffering from Navagraha Dosha. Sage Parasara, a prominent figure in astrology, is said to have worshipped the deity here. Consequently, those engaged in astrology, whether as professionals or learners, may benefit from venerating the deity at this revered site.
Moorkha Nayanar - Tiruverkadu is recognized as the birthplace of Moorkha Nayanar, an esteemed member of the 63 Nayanmars. He devoted his life to serving the devotees of Lord Shiva by offering them sustenance. His dedication to this altruistic endeavor was so intense that he depleted all his financial means in the process, exemplifying his selflessness and unwavering devotion. To maintain his charitable activities, Moorkha Nayanar resorted to gambling, utilizing his winnings to persist in feeding 'shivanadiyars' - Shiva devotees.
Tiruvekadu is a significant site where Sage Agasthya witnessed the divine union of Shiva and Parvati, making it a revered location for individuals experiencing delays in marriage. Additionally, it is thought to offer solutions for those impacted by Navagraha Dosha, which refers to the adverse effects of the nine celestial bodies. The veneration of the serpent deity Adisesha towards the main deity at this location has fostered the belief that visitors will be protected from snake bites, further enhancing its spiritual importance and appeal.
See also:- Places visited by Sage Agasthya in his journey to south - 1) Kutralam, 2) Tirupanankattur, 3) Tirukallil, 4) Tiruvotriyur, 5) Tiruvanmiyur, 6) Tiruvanmiyur
Entrance
Dwajasthambam
Balipeetam, dwajasthambam and Nandi
Outer prakaram - South
Vedhapureswarar Sannidhi
Inner prakaram - West
63 saivite saints
Outer prakaram - East
Kasi Viswanath, Visalakshi, Anabhaya Chola - in western inner corridor
Dakshinamurthy