Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu

Temple Legends

Muruga and Brahma

According to temple tradition, Muruga once detained Brahma because Brahma was unable to explain the true meaning of the sacred Pranava (the syllable “Om”). As Brahma is responsible for creation, this act disrupted the cosmic process. Hearing of this, Shiva sent His divine bull Nandi to release Brahma, but Muruga remained firm in his decision. Shiva then personally appeared before Muruga and explained the consequences of obstructing Brahma’s role in creation. Understanding this, Muruga finally released Brahma. To correct Muruga for his defiance, Shiva instructed him to travel to Tiruvekadu and worship Him there. Obeying this command, Muruga came to Tiruvekadu and created a sacred water body in order to perform worship to Shiva. This holy tank later came to be known as Velayuda Theertham.

The Velayutha Theertham, located near the eastern entrance of Vedhapureeswarar Temple, is believed to have been created by Muruga for the purpose of worshipping Shiva. Within the inner praharam, on the western side of the sanctum, there is also a sannidhi dedicated to Muruga. A distinctive feature of this sannidhi is the presence of a Shiva Linga placed in front of Muruga, a rare arrangement that is not commonly found in other temples. The revered saint-poet Arunagirinathar has composed two hymns in praise of Muruga at this temple, and these songs are included in his famous devotional work, the Tiruppugazh.

Navagrahas and Sage Parasara

Inside the Vedhapureeswarar Temple, the Navagrahas are installed on a Padma Peetam—an octagonal pedestal designed in the form of a lotus. Because of this sacred arrangement and the associated legends, the temple is considered an important parihara sthalam for devotees seeking relief from Navagraha Dosha (planetary afflictions). According to tradition, the revered sage Parashara, who is closely associated with the foundations of Hindu astrology, worshipped the deity at this temple. For this reason, those involved in astrology—whether practicing astrologers or students learning the subject—are believed to receive spiritual benefits by worshipping the deity here.

Moorkha Nayanar

Tiruverkadu is revered as the birthplace of Moorkha Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars celebrated in the Saivite tradition. He dedicated his entire life to serving the devotees of Shiva by providing them with food and care. His commitment to this noble service was so profound that he eventually spent all his wealth in the process. Despite losing his financial resources, Moorkha Nayanar remained determined to continue feeding the Shivanadiyars (devotees of Shiva). To sustain this charitable mission, he even took to gambling and used whatever he won solely to provide meals for Shiva’s devotees, reflecting his extraordinary devotion, sacrifice, and selflessness.

Significance of the Temple

Tiruvekadu is regarded as one of the places where Sage Agasthya witnessed the divine wedding of Shiva and Parvati. Because of this association, the site is considered especially auspicious for those facing delays in marriage, and many devotees visit the temple seeking blessings for a harmonious union. The temple is also believed to provide remedies for Navagraha Dosha, the unfavorable influences of the nine celestial bodies in astrology. Furthermore, tradition holds that Adisesha worshipped the presiding deity here. Due to this belief, devotees consider the temple a place that offers protection from snake-related dangers, which further adds to its spiritual significance and reverence.