Thirunageswaram Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, India, is steeped in Hindu mythology and legends, making it a significant pilgrimage site for devotees. One of the most popular stories associated with this temple involves the worship of Shiva by various serpent deities, leading to its name "Thirunageswaram," which translates to "the place where serpents worshipped." Thirunageswaram Temple is located near Kumbhakonam and is and important center for Rahu worship. Those suffering from hardships in life due to Rahu dosha in horoscope find relief after offering prayers here.
According to the legend, the king of serpents, Adisesha,
along with other prominent serpents like Takshaka and Karkotaka, performed
penance at Thirunageswaram. Adisesha's penance was particularly significant,
taking place in an area abundant with Shenbaga trees, known as Senbaranya
Kshetram. Impressed by Adisesha's devotion, Shiva granted him a boon, hence
earning the title "Naganathar," meaning the lord of serpents.
The temple also houses a shrine dedicated to Goddess
Girigujambal, who is believed to worship Shiva alongside other deities like
Lakshmi, Saraswathi, Ganesha, Murugan and Shasta. Maha Bhairava, a fierce form
of Shiva, is revered as the guardian of the divine mother Goddess Girigujambal
during her prayers.
A unique aspect of the temple is the belief that the Goddess
manifests herself in the form of Meru, and therefore, no ablution (abhishekam)
is performed on her image.
Another tale linked to the temple involves Indra, the king
of gods, who was cursed by sage Gautama for his misconduct towards the sage's
wife, Ahalya. Seeking redemption from the curse, Indra worshipped Goddess
Girigujambal with scented materials called Punugu for a period of 45 days.
Throughout history, various sages like Gautama and
Parashara, as well as legendary kings like Bhagiratha and Nala, are said to
have worshipped Naganathar at Thirunageswaram, further adding to the temple's
sacred significance.
These rich legends and stories contribute to the spiritual
aura surrounding Thirunageswaram Temple, drawing devotees from far and wide to
seek blessings and solace in its divine presence.