- December 16, 2024
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The Sirkazhi Sattainathar Temple is one of Tamil Nadu’s most sacred and historically significant Shiva temples. Known for its rich mythology, architectural magnificence, and deep spiritual connections, this temple is a cornerstone of Shaivite worship.
During the great deluge, known as pralaya, when rising seas threatened to submerge the world, Lord Shiva embodied all 64 art forms and transformed the sacred Pranava mantra into a resilient boat. Accompanied by his divine consort, Umadevi, he navigated the tumultuous waters and discovered Sirkazhi, the only place untouched by the destruction.
Recognizing Sirkazhi as the primordial site of creation, Shiva proclaimed it as their eternal abode. Here, he is worshipped as Thoniyappar, or “Lord of the Boat,” and also as Brahmapureeswarar, a name honoring the belief that Brahma himself worshipped Shiva at this site before resuming the act of creation after the deluge.
The temple, centrally located in Sirkazhi, is an architectural marvel that captivates devotees with its towering presence. The structure features four majestic gateways, each crowned with intricately carved gopurams (towers) that reach towards the heavens.
The eastern gateway serves as the main entrance, leading visitors into the temple’s sacred grounds. Upon crossing the threshold, devotees first encounter the sanctum of Brahmapureeswarar, facing east and situated near the temple’s holy pond. The temple also houses several significant shrines, each intricately designed, making it a visual and spiritual delight for pilgrims.
Sirkazhi holds a special place in Shaivite history as the birthplace of Tirugnana Sambandar, the revered saint and poet. Born to devout Shaivite Brahmin parents, Sivapada Hrudiyar and Bhagavathiar, Sambandar’s life was marked by divine grace from a young age.
At the age of three, while visiting the temple, he was blessed by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. On the banks of the sacred Brahma Theertham, the Goddess bestowed upon him the nectar of divine wisdom, an event that shaped his spiritual and poetic journey.
Sambandar’s first verse, “Todudaya Seviyan,” marked the beginning of his contributions to Shaivism, culminating in the composition of over 16,000 hymns, 384 of which are preserved today. Of these, 67 hymns were dedicated to the Sirkazhi temple, immortalizing the site of his divine encounter.
The Sirkazhi temple is home to several significant sannidhis (shrines):
The unique form of Sattainathar symbolizes the profound connection between Shiva and Vishnu. Mythology recounts that Shiva wielded Vishnu’s bones as a weapon and wore his skin as a sacred garment, embodying the dual reverence of these supreme deities.
Witnessing the rituals of Sattainathar, particularly during the Friday evening Artha-jaama Pooja, is considered highly auspicious. Devotees believe that this worship brings blessings of divine protection and wisdom.
The temple is also recognized as one of the 64 Shakti Peetams, sites that are deeply associated with the divine feminine energy of the Goddess. The sanctum of Thiru-Nilai-Nayaki, Shiva’s consort, is adorned with intricate sculptures depicting the goshta murthas, including manifestations of divine energy:
Opposite this shrine lies the sacred Brahma Theertham, a holy pond with an ornate archway entrance decorated with sculptures narrating the life and miracles of Tirugnana Sambandar.
To commemorate the divine blessings received by Tirugnana Sambandar, Sirkazhi hosts the annual Tiru-Mulai-Paal Urchavam, or the Festival of the Divine Milk. Celebrated during the Tamil month of Chitirai, this event occurs on the second day of the Brahmotsavam, under the auspicious Tiruvathirai star.
Interestingly, Sambandar’s birth, his divine encounter, and his attainment of liberation (mukti) all align with the Tiruvathirai star, making it a central celestial marker of his life and legacy.
Sirkazhi temple’s divine significance is amplified by its association with numerous celestial beings and sages. Brahma, Muruga, Kali, Indra, the moon-god Chandra, and the sun-god Surya are all said to have worshipped at this temple. Sage Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata, is also believed to have visited Sirkazhi to pay homage to the deity.
Among the Paadal Petra Sthalams of Lord Shiva (sacred sites celebrated in hymns), Sirkazhi holds the distinction of receiving the highest number of hymns, underscoring its spiritual prominence in Shaivism.
Sirkazhi temple is open from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the morning and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the evening.
Sirkali Sattainathar Temple Contact Number: +91-4364-270235, +91-9443053195
The Sirkazhi Sattainathar Temple stands as a testament to Tamil Nadu’s rich spiritual heritage. Steeped in mythological significance, adorned with architectural brilliance, and enriched by divine encounters, it continues to be a beacon of devotion and cultural pride. For pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike, a visit to this temple is an unforgettable journey into the heart of divine grace and sacred traditions.
The Sirkazhi Sattainathar Temple is located in the heart of Sirkazhi, a municipal town situated 260 km from Chennai by road. It is 17 km from Chidambaram and 58 km from Kumbakonam.
106 D, Pidari South Street, Thenpathi, Sirkali, Tamil Nadu 609110.
