Thirupampuram Pampunathar Rahu Ketu Temple, located at Thirupampuram
in Thiruvarur district, Tamil Nadu holds a rich narrative deeply rooted in
Hindu tradition. The shrine is dedicated to Shiva as Pampunathar but is famous
for Rahu Ket worship in Kali Yuga.
Thirupampuram Pampunathar Rahu Ketu Temple Story - History
Legend has it that during a divine worship session by Ganapathi
Bhagavan to Mahadeva Shiva within the temple premises, a serpent adorning Lord
Shiva's neck, in a moment of hubris, misinterpreted the worship as directed
towards itself. This folly provoked Lord Shiva's wrath, resulting in a curse
upon the entire Naga race, stripping them of their powers. However, through the
intervention of revered deities such as Adisesha, Rahu, and Ketu, the Nagas
sought redemption by beseeching Lord Shiva's forgiveness. Consequently, the
divine granted absolution, decreeing that the curse could be lifted through
devout worship on Shivaratri at Thirupampuram, also known as Seshapuri.
Importance of Thirupampuram Pampunathar Rahu Ketu Temple
Thirupampuram Rahu Kethu Temple emerges as a sanctuary for
those afflicted with Rahu-Ketu Dosha, offering solace akin to renowned Naga
Dosha remedy sites like Kumbakonam, Thirunageswaram, Nagore, Kalahasti, and
Keelaperumpallam. It occupies a pivotal position as the third shrine among the
four designated for worship during Shivaratri night. The temple's significance
extends beyond mere remedial measures; it stands as a hallowed ground where
celestial beings and sages, including Lord Brahman, Goddess Parvati, Sage
Agathiyar, and the Sun God, once venerated Lord Shiva.
Thirupampuram is enshrined within the illustrious list of
275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, revered Shiva Sthalams immortalized in Tamil Saivite
hymns. Worship here holds particular importance for those afflicted by
Sarpa-dosha or the malefic influence of Rahu-Kethu. Devotees flock to seek
alleviation from various astrological afflictions such as Rahu Tasa, Ketu Tasa,
and planetary positions indicating doshas, finding respite through prayers and
rituals conducted by temple priests.
Thirupampuram Temple Architecture
The architectural splendor of Thirupampuram Temple is
evident in its grand three-tiered tower facing east, complemented by the serene
Adisesha Theertham nearby. Devotees seek blessings from Pambureswarar, the
presiding deity, whose benign countenance offers protection against Naga
Doshas. The temple complex encompasses sanctums dedicated to Sattanathar,
Malayiswarar, Ganesha, and Saneeswaran, each exuding a unique spiritual aura.
Miracle
Myth and mystique intertwine within the temple precincts,
where it's believed a sanctuary for serpents exists to this day. An aura of
divinity permeates the air, especially on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, when
the fragrance of jasmine pervades the temple, purportedly signaling the benign
presence of snakes. The timeless wisdom encapsulated in Thirugnana Sambandhar's
writings, extolled in the first Thirumurai, assures devotees that immersion in
the temple's sacred lore ensures a life enriched with prosperity, fame, and
eventual union with the divine.