The captivating story of Thirukalimedu Sathyanatheswarar Temple, also known as Karaivananathar Temple or Thirukalimedu Temple, unfolds in the serene town of Thirukalimedu, near Indira Theertham in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. This sacred abode is dedicated to Mahadeva Shiva, worshipped as Sathyanatheswarar, with his divine consort Parvathi adored as Pramarambikai.
Legend has it that in the ancient past, Indra, the esteemed
king of celestial Devas, along with Budha (Mercury), sought the divine
blessings of Shiva in a mystical forest known as Kaaraivanam. The temple
derives its name, Karaivananathar, from this sylvan setting where the celestial
deity, Sathyanatheswarar, chose to reside.
Intriguingly, the temple is also associated with the
celestial dynamics of Chandra (moon) and Guru (Jupiter). Chandra, desiring to
wed Guru's wife, Dhara, performed a yagna seeking the boon from Bhagavan
Srihari Vishnu. During the ceremony attended by Guru and Dhara, Chandra
captivated Dhara's heart. This union resulted in the birth of Budha. Upon
learning about his unconventional birth, Budha, in a state of shame, embarked
on penance, entreating Mahadeva Shiva to grant him a place among the
Navagrahas. Sathyanatheswarar, moved by Budha's devotion, materialized and
bestowed upon him the coveted boon.
Another compelling narrative surrounding the temple revolves
around Indra, who, captivated by the beauty of Ahalya, the wife of sage
Gautama, assumed the guise of a rooster to rouse the sage early in the morning.
Seizing the opportunity, Indra entered Ahalya's dwelling, only to be caught by
the sage, who had sensed a disturbance in the day. In an attempt to escape,
Indra transformed into a cat. Incensed by this act, the sage cursed Indra,
afflicting him with eyes all over his body. Seeking redemption, Indra embarked
on penance at Thirukalimedu, fervently praying to Mahadeva Shiva to regain his
celestial form.
The Thirukalimedu Sathyanatheswarar Temple thus stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of stories and legends, woven into the fabric of its sacred grounds, where devotees continue to seek solace and divine blessings.