Bhavani Temple

The Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple, located at Kooduthurai or Triveni Sangamam in Tamil Nadu, marks the sacred confluence of three holy rivers: Bhavani, Cauvery, and the underground Amrutha Nathi. Spanning over 4 acres on the northern banks of this confluence, the temple is a significant spiritual site, attracting devotees from across the country. This is one of the 276 Shiva temples that have received the divine hymn of Shiva.

Architectural Marvel and Symbolism

The temple features two grand entrances, with the northern Rajagopuram standing tall with its five distinct tiers and seven kalashas. This sacred site harmonizes the Saiva and Vaishnava traditions by housing Lord Sangameshwarar and Goddess Vedanayaki, as well as Sri Adi Keshava Perumal and his consort Sundaravalli Thaayaar, signifying unity in diversity.

Key Shrines within the Temple

• Goddess Vedanayaki: Facing east, Goddess Vedanayaki’s shrine exudes grace and grandeur. Adjacent to this shrine is the sanctum of Lord Subrahmanya.
• Lord Sangameshwarar: The presiding deity, Lord Sangameshwarar, manifests as a Swayambhu Lingam (self-manifested), adding to the temple’s divine aura. Notably, the sannidhi of Lord Subrahmanya lies between his divine parents, symbolizing familial unity akin to Somaskandar.

A Center for Parihaara (Atonement)

The Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple is revered as a foremost parihaara sthalam in Tamil Nadu. Devotees visit this sacred site to perform rituals and prayers seeking absolution for sins committed throughout life.

The Gayathri Lingeshwarar Shrine

At the confluence of the Cauvery and Bhavani rivers lies the shrine of Gayathri Lingeshwarar, believed to have been installed by Sage Vishwamitra. Devotees offer prayers here for peace and familial success, reflecting the spiritual significance of the Gayathri mantra.

Unique Beliefs and Practices

• Sacred Cremation Grounds: It is believed that the bodies cremated here retain intact skulls due to the power of countless Shiva Lingams buried under the sands.
• Stala-Vruksham: The Jujuba tree (Ilandhai tree), considered the temple’s sacred tree, is said to embody divine scriptures and provides fruits for daily offerings to the deity.

The Ivory Cradle of Goddess Vedanayaki

An English officer, William Garo, played a unique role in the temple’s history. Forbidden from entering the temple due to colonial-era restrictions, Garo worshipped Goddess Vedanayaki through specially created holes in the temple wall. After a miraculous escape from a collapsing structure, which he attributed to the goddess, Garo donated an exquisite ivory cradle to the temple on January 11, 1804. This cradle, with his signature, remains a cherished artifact in the temple.

Mentions in Tamil Literature

The saint-poet Arunagirinathar celebrated the temple’s Lord Muruga in his Thiruppugazh hymns.

Jwarahareshwarar: A Unique Deity

Adjacent to Lord Muruga’s shrine is the sannidhi of Jwarahareshwarar, depicted with three arms, three legs, and three heads. According to Tamil history, Saint Thirugnanasambandhar and his disciples were cured of a fever after praying to this deity.

The Southern Hallway and the Nayanmaars

The southern corridor features a display of the 63 Nayanmaars in a golu-mandapam arrangement, emphasizing the temple’s spiritual heritage.

Lord Saneeshwara and Devotee Beliefs

The temple includes a special shrine for Lord Saneeshwara, believed to possess extraordinary powers. Devotees offer prayers here for relief from hardships.

Lord Amirthalingeshwarar: Blessings for Progeny

A walk around the sanctum of Lord Amirthalingeshwarar with a lingam tied around the waist is believed to bless childless couples with progeny.

The Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple is not just a sacred space but a living testament to faith, miracles, and Tamil Nadu’s rich spiritual legacy. Its serene atmosphere and divine legends continue to attract devotees seeking peace, blessings, and spiritual fulfillment.

How to reach Sangameswarar Temple in Bhavani?

Bhavani is easily reachable, being just 56 kilometers away from Salem and 15 kilometers from Erode. You can conveniently travel to Bhavani by bus from Coimbatore, Tirupur, Erode, or Salem.

Bhavani Temple Timings

6 poojas are performed everyday at this temple. The Sangameshwarar temple will be open from 05:00 AM to 01:00 PM and again from 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM.

Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple Address

Arulmighu Sangameswarar Temple,
Bhavani,
Erode District,
PIN 638301.

Bhavani Kooduthurai Temple Contact Number: +914256230192