Sri Abhaya Varadeeswarar Temple

Overview

Athirampattinam, Abhaya Varadeeswarar temple is located in Athirampattinam, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu state, India. The main God here is Abhaya Varadeeswarar and Amman (Thayar) is Sundaranayaki. This temple is a Star Temple Koil.

About the Temple

This temple is for the worship of those affected by planets Rahu and Ketu (dragon’s tail and head) and those belonging to Tiruvadhira star. The land has the power of the three eyes of Lord Shiva (Trinetra) gracing in the temple as Abhaya Varadeeswara. Goddess Sundaranayaki is also called Kadal Partha Nayaki meaning facing the sea. In the Thevaram hymns of Sundarar and Gnanasambandar, this temple is mentioned. This is the second temple devotees pray for the purpose, next to Tirukadayur for relief from death fear and longevity. Special rituals as Mrutyanja Home and Ayush Homa for longevity are performed by many in this temple after Tirukadayur.

If the marriage of girls born in Tiruvadirai star is stalled by any dosha, it would be settled if prayer is done in this temple. King Adhiveerarama Pandian born in Tiruvadhirai was a devotee of Lord Abhaya Varadeeswarar and renovated the temple many times. Earlier, the place was known as Tiru Adhirai Pattinam (after the star), changed as Adhi Veera Raman Pattinam (after the king) and came to stay now as Athirampattinam.

About the God

The presiding god is Abhaya Varadeeswarar. His consort is known as Sundaranayaki. Mother Sundaranayaki is also praised as ‘Kadal Partha Nayaki’ signifying that the Goddess is facing the sea.

Legend and Stories

Devas, who were harassed and driven by the demons, surrendered to Lord Shiva in Tiruvadhirai zone, one of the zones where Lord Shiva walks during Pradosha days (13th day either from new moon or full moon days on the lunar calendar) and on Tiruvadhirai star days. During His stay here, Lord would not let down His followers. Hence, He is praised as Abhaya Varada Easwarar, one who protects those surrendering to Him. Great Rishis Bhairava and Raivada had worshipped the Lord in this temple. Raivadha signifies the light emanating from the three eyes of Lord Shiva. The Rishi was born by the effect of this light on a Tiruvadhirai day. There is a Tamil Verse explaining the beneficial effects of Tiruvadhirai star which is recommended for daily chanting for getting the grace of Lord and Raivadha Maharshi.

Aadhirai Lingamai, Aamarai Jothiyan

Aadhirai thanadhil Abhayam endru aruluvan

Aadhirai adhan azhal aahidum aadhiyil

Aadhirai Aalamar Aarana.

Festivals

The important festival in the temple is Panguni Uthiram in the month of March-April. Other festivals are Tirukarthikai in November-December month, Aipasi Annabishekam in October-November month, Maha Shivrathri in February-March month and Arudra Abishek in December-January month.

Significance

People suffering from incurable diseases, those afraid of death and seeking longevity pray here besides Tiruvadhirai people seeking relief from any planetary adversities. People perform Mrutunjaya Homa (a fire sacrifice to conquer Yama the God of Death) and Ayush Homa for longevity. Any obstacle in the way of marriage talks would surely disappear if the people concerned sincerely pray in this temple.

Nearby Place to Visit

Andalakkum Aiyan

Padikasu Nathar

Gajendra Varadhan

Hara Shaba Vimochana Perumal

Appakudathan

Adhivaraha Perumal

Accessibility

Road

Pattukkottai is 70 km from Thanjavur. Athirampattinam is 12 km from Pattukkottai.

Railways

Thanjavur

Airport

Trichy

Temple Address

Sri Abhayavaradeeswarar Temple,
Athirampattinam,
Pattukkottai Taluk,
Thanjavur district,
Pin code – 614 701.