HINDU DICTIONARY IN ENGLISH AND TAMIL 50; இந்து மத கலைச்சொல் அகராதி-50 (Post.15,608)


Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,608

Date uploaded in London –11 April 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx 

Tamil Version will be posted tomorrow.

Kurukshetram

Kurukṣetra (कुरुक्षेत्र).—Name of an extensive plain near Delhi, the scene of the great war between the Kauravas and Pāṇḍavas; Kurukshetra is the city located in Haryana.

Hindus’ most famous scripture Bhagavad Gita begins with these words: धर्मक्षेत्रे कुरुक्षेत्रे समवेता युयुत्सवः (dharmakṣetre kurukṣetre samavetā yuyutsavaḥ) Bhagavadgītā (Bombay) 1.1; Manusmṛti 2.19.

Wisdomlib.org website adds,

Kurukṣetra (कुरुक्षेत्र).—Founded by Kuru and sacred to Harī.1 Watered by the river Sarasvatī.2 Capital city of the Kurus.3 Sages of Kurukṣetra visited Dvāraka. At Kurukṣetra Kṛṣṇa performed sacrifices for twelve years.4 The battlefield where the Pāṇḍavas fought with the Kurus led by Duryodhana.5 Here Paraśurāma dug a lake called Syamantapañcaka.6 On the occasion of a sacrifice Sūta narrated the br. purāṇa here.7 Purūravas met Urvaśī after their separation at; the residence of Sanatkumāra and Dharmarāja fit for śrāddha offerings, and sacred to Pitṛs. Founded by Kuru, son of Samvaraṇa;8 residence of sage Kauśika, and sacrifice of Adhisīmakṛṣṇa for 2 years at; sacred in Dvāpara;9 Dharmakṣetra where a great sacrifice was performed.10 Residence at, leads to mukti; no shaving or upavāsa required here.11 Noted for ambhojasaras or lotus tank.12 R. Sarasvatī flows here: noted for a temple of Vāmana.13

***

Kuvalayapeedam

Kuvalayāpīḍa (कुवलयापीड).—Name of the elephant posted at the gates of Mathurāpurī to kill Śrī Kṛṣṇa and Balabhadrarāma, who went there to witness the dhanuryajña. But, they killed the elephant.Kuvalayāpīḍa (कुवलयापीड).—The state elephant of Kaṃsā. When Kṛṣṇa came to the mallaraṅga or the wrestlers’ arena, it was ordered that this elephant should be stationed at the gate of the arena to attack him. When Kṛṣṇa entered the araṅga, the mahout Ambaṣṭha led the animal against him, when Kṛṣṇa took hold of its tail, and whirling it round and round, hit its front when it died with the keeper. He seized its tusks and entered the enclosure in glee. At this Kaṃsā was perturbed; its keeper was killed by Rāma.*

***

Kubera

Kubera (कुबेर) Kubera is the lord of the Yakṣas, he is known also by two other names Vaiśravaṇa and Dhanada, and is regarded as the giver of wealth.  He is a friend of Śiva and the Nāga Nīla. Kubera is the son of Viśravas by Iḍaviḍā  He is mythologised as having three legs and eight teeth. His name Ku-bera or Ku-vera signifies his deformed body having three legs and eight teeth. He is married to Yakṣī, the daughter of the Dānava Mura. As friend of Śiva he is called Śiva-sakhā. His capital Alakā on the Himālaya mountain is mentioned also in the Ṛig veda.

Lord of Alaka and son of Pulastya and resident of Kailāsa; vanquished by Rāvaṇa; wife Ṛddhi and son Nalakūbera. Man is his vahana.

Kubera (कुबेर) refers to one of the eight guardians of the quarters, according to the Śivapurāṇa 2.2.22.

Navanidhi (नवनिधि).—m. (pl.) the nine treasures of Kubera. i. e. महापद्मश्च पद्मश्च शङ्खो मकरकच्छपौ । मुकुन्दकुन्द- नीलाश्च खर्वश्च निधयो नव (mahāpadmaśca padmaśca śaṅkho makarakacchapau | mukundakunda- nīlāśca kharvaśca nidhayo nava) ||

The nine treasures of Kubēra, are [padma, mahapadma, shamkha, makara, kacchapa, mukamda, kumda, nila] and  kharva).

In the Hindu palaces and now in Chettiar houses in Tamil Nadu, the main door has Sankha and Padma, Conch and the Lotus, representing Nine Treasures.

***

Kunti

 Kuntī (कुन्ती).—(PṚTHĀ). Wife of King Pāṇḍu and the mother of the Pāṇḍavas, Kuntī is a noble heroine in the Mahābhārata. Kuntī was the sister of Śrī Kṛṣṇa’s father Vasudeva. Her real name was Pṛthā. Vasudeva and Pṛthā were the children of King Śūrasena of the Yādava dynasty. King Kuntibhoja was the son of Śūrasena’s sister. He had no issues. Śūrasena had promised to give the daughter first born to him as the adopted daughter of Kuntibhoja, and accordingly his first-born daughter Pṛthā was given to Kuntibhoja, and Kuntī was brought up in his palace. From that day onwards Pṛthā came to be known as Kuntī. (Ādi Parva, Chapter 111).

Queen Kunti, had in her youth been granted the power to invoke the Devas by Rishi Durvasa. Each god, when invoked, would place a child in her lap. Urged by Pandu to use her invocations, Kunti gave birth to Yudhisthira by invoking the Lord of Righteousness, Yama. 

She was the first wife of Pāṇḍu. As he was prevented by a curse from having progeny, he allowed his wife to make use of a charm she had acquired from the sage Durvāsas, by means of which she was to have a son by any god she liked to invoke. She invoked Dharma, Vāyu and Indra, and had from them Yudhiṣṭhira, Bhīma and Arjuna respectively. She was also mother of Karna by the deity Sun whom she invoked in her virginhood to test her charm. Being an unmarried girl, she abandoned her first son Karna in a box, and this was discovered by Adhiratha who brought him up.

Other two Pandavas Nakula and Sahadeva were born to Madri (maadri), second wife of Pandu Kunti died in a forest fire.

***

Kuni/ Kooni

Kooni, or Manthara, was a hunchbacked nursemaid and close confidante to Kaikeyi. Manthara was not just a maid, but a loyal caretaker who accompanied Kaikeyi from her home kingdom (Kekeya) to Ayodhya.

 As a child, Rama once hit her on her hunched back with a clay ball when he was practicing archery, fostering a lasting bitterness.

 Upon hearing of Rama’s upcoming coronation, she feared for her own status and manipulated Kaikeyi by claiming that if Rama became king, Kaikeyi would be treated as a slave by Kausalya.

She reminded Kaikeyi of the two boons granted by King Dasharatha, instructing her to demand Bharata’s coronation and Rama’s 14-year exile.

In some versions of the story, particularly Tulasidas’s Ramcharitmanas, she is guided or possessed by Goddess Saraswati to ensure Rama leaves the city to fulfil his destiny of destroying evil, such as Ravana.

Often referred to as “Kooni” in Tamil, which means “hunchback”. This word is related Sanskrit word Kuni which means crippled.

 *****

Kurma Avatar /Kurma Purana

Kūrmāvatāra (कूर्मावतार) refers to the “tortoise incarnation” of Viṣhṇu.

Kūrmāvatāra (कूर्मावतार) is found depicted at the Kallazhagar Temple in Madurai. The god Kūrmāvatāra is represented with the lower part as tortoise’s feet and the upper part in the usual form of the god. The god in this form is found with four arms where the upper hands hold the discus and the conch, and the other two right and left hands are in abhaya and dolā-hasta respectively.

During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Vishnu assumed this form to support Mount Mandara on his back, acting as a pivot to prevent it from sinking, allowing gods and demons to obtain the nectar of immortality. Srikurmam temple in Andhra Pradesh is one of the temples representing this avatar.

The Kurma Purana (कूर्म पुराण) is one of the eighteen Mahapurana. It is believed to have been directly narrated by the Lord Vishnu to the sage Narada, and it contains the details about the Kurma Avatar. Narada is believed to have stated the contents of this Puranas to Suta, who narrated this Purana to an assembly of great sages.

The printed editions of this text are divided into two bhāgas (parts),

The Pūrvabhāga has 53 chapters and the Uttarabhāga has 46 chapters.

***

Kumbha mela

Kumbhamela is a major 5,000-year-old Hindu pilgrimage and religious fair, occurring every twelve years at Prayag in Uttar Pradesh, India.

 Prayag is the city where rivers Ganga Yamuna and Saraswati meet. It is the largest religious gathering in the world. The most recent major gathering happened from January 13 to February 26, 2025. 400 million devotees took holy bath in the rivers. The place is called Triveni Sangam because three rivers meet there. Nowadays Saraswati River is not visible. It dried long ago but Hindus believe it runs underground.

Held every 12 years (with a Mahakumbh occurring every 144 years), it is the world’s largest religious gathering, featuring extensive security, tent cities, and UNESCO-recognized spiritual traditions.

Location: Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati).

Significance: It is the most sacred of Kumbh Melas, commemorating where drops of the immortal nectar (Amrit) fell during the Samudra Manthan.

The festival spans 45 days, featuring intense spiritual activities including Shahi Snan (royal baths) by Naga Sadhus. They are naked saints living in the Himalayas.: The event attracts millions of holy men (sadhus) who travel from across India, including naked Naga sadhus who lead the dawn bathing rituals.

Apart from this every four years Mini Kumbh mela is held in Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik in rotation.

·         Maha Kumbh: Every 144 years (Prayagraj).

·         Purna Kumbh: Every 12 years (Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nashik, Ujjain).

·         Ardh Kumbh: Every 6 years (Haridwar, Prayagraj).

·         Magh Mela (Mini Kumbh): Every year.

***

Kumbakonam

This town is known for its temples, Maths/monasteries, Archaeological monuments (Darasuram), betel leaves and coffee. Nine Planets temples are near by this place.

There are more than 100 Hindu temples within the municipal limits of Kumbakonam. Apart from these, thereare  hundreds of temples around the town thereby giving the town the sobriquets “Temple Town” and “City of temples”.

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is the oldest Shiva shrine in the town, constructed by the Cholas in the 7th century.

Sarangapani temple is the largest Vishnu temple. The present structure of the temple having a twelve storey high tower was constructed by Nayak kings in the 15th century. It is one of the “Divya Desams”, the 108 temples of Vishnu revered by the 12 Alvar saint-poets.

Around this town are Navagraha Nine Planets shrines dedicated to Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn and Rahu, Ketu.

Like Kumbha mela in the north, Mahamakam (mahaa makam) festival is heled once in 12 years which attracts lakhs of people to the tank called Mahamakam tank in front of the main Shiva temple.

***

Kuraip /Koorai pudavai /saree

Koorai silk saree, also referred to as Koorai  Pudavai,  is a traditional nine-yard saree originating from Koranad in Mayiladuthurai;   Traditionally worn by brides during Hindu wedding ceremonies, the saree is recognized for its unique weaving patterns and cultural significance. It is produced by the Sāliyan weaving community using a blend of silk and cotton in red colour. The saree was originally woven from cotton. By the early 20th century, it transitioned to silk and became a prominent bridal garment.  Original Red colour is also changed now. Red means Mangalam/ auspicious like Red Kunkum of Hindu women.

–subham—

Tags- HINDU DICTIONARY, ENGLISH AND TAMIL 50, இந்து மத கலைச்சொல் அகராதி-50, Kurukshetra, Kumbhamela, Kumbakonam, Kuraip pudavai,  Koorai saree, Kurma

Image Worship in Sangam Tamil Literature! – Part 59 (Post No.15,604)

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,604

Date uploaded in London –10 April 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx  

Purananuru Wonders -19  Ancient Tamil Encyclopaedia -Part 59; One Thousand Interesting Facts -Part 59

***

Item 442


There are at least three interesting points in the Purananuru verse 51. Five elements are used to compare the greatness of the king. We see this in Kalidasa who lived in the second century BCE. Comparing a king with the Five Elements is a Hindu concept which is also in Manu Smriti of Second century BCE or earlier. Poet Iyur Mudavaanar must be a great Sanskrit scholar. But we see such a comparison in the poems of other Sangam poets as well. (see Puram 2)

Kalidasa in Raghuvamsam 1-29; 4-11 (five elements and king)

Manusmriti – 1-20;1-76 12-12 to 21 five elements )

***

Item 443 Concept Five Elements/ Pancha Bhuta

The concept of Five Elements, known as Pancha Bhuta in Indian languages, is found in Greek and Babylonian cultures. But they borrowed it from India. Greeks left one of the elements, Sky, and used the other four elements i.e. water, fire, earth and wind. Empedocles of Greece mentioned the four elements.

In the Babylonian myth, Enuma Elis, the elements are mentioned. But the hymn is like the creation hymn in the Rig Veda

Following hymn in Taiittiriya Upanishad:

From – divine – soul, verily,

space arose;

from space wind;

from wind fire;

from fire water;

from water the earth;

from earth the herbs and food;

from food semen and from semen the person/purusa

—-Taittiriya Upanishad, Brahmavalli, Anuvak.1

Kalidasa used the five elements in Raghuvamsa and his other works.

Raghuvamsa 1-29

Brahma created Dilipan with five elements. This is true indeed because all his virtues are useful to others (like five elements).

Raghuvamsa 4-11

As soon as Raghu became king, even the Pancha bhutas attained new vigour.

Raghuvamsa 3-4

Dilipan’s wife Sudakshina who was pregnant, ate sand out of craving .

Sangam Tamil Puram verse 20 by Kurungkoliyur kizar said the same thing.

Kings were called “Bhubuk” i.e. eaters of land (of other kings)

***

More Pancha Bhuta references in Sangam Tamil Books:

Pari. 3-4; 3-66; 3-77. Pari.13-18; 24-15

Mathur. -line 453; Puram-2- 1; 20-1; 51-1;55-15

Pathitr- 14-1; Kurun.3-1.

Tol -305; Murukku. Line 254

The strange coincidence is, all the poets use the Pancha Bhuta matter in the very beginning of the poems.

Post Sangam book – Tiruk Kural 271

***

Item 444 Science

Life span of white ants is known to all Tamils . Some die in a day or two other ants live for long. Another meaning is the termite mounds are demolished in a minute or two by bears or human beings. They are compared to king’s enemies.

***

Item 445 Tamil arrogance or war mongering

From Asokan times, from Kharavela times, we see the Tamil front consisting of Chera Choza Pandya. But they fought among themselves continuously for 1500 years. Here the king thinks Tamil Nadu does not belong to all the three kings but his own. This infighting was not seen in any other race. But yet Chera Choza Pandyas ruled for 1500 years which is also unique in the world. One language, one religion one culture ; but ruled for- 1500 years; unique in world history.

***

Item 445 Koodakārathu Thunjiya Māran Vazhuthi

What is Koodaagaaram ? What is Thunjiya?

Tamils were unique in affixing the place of death of a king to his name. We don’t see such naming in any other parts of the world. We see Thunjiya/ Death in other Tamil poems as well. To identify or differentiate one king from another they say where the king died/Thunjiya mening who had died…

***

Item 446

Koodaagaaram கூடாகாரம் mystery!

Commentators skip this word Koodaagaaram கூடாகாரம்1935 Ananda Vikatan dictionary gives two meanings: Nilavarai- underground shelter or dungeon or Upper part of a house. We don’t see this word much in Tamil. Some people tried to identify this with salt cotar.

“Kottaram” (Koṭṭāram கொட்டாரம்) meaning a granary or “godown” is still used. So I would guess this Pandya king died in the underground. He might have been imprisoned or murdered there? No one dared to explain this word. If there is any explanation by some people, that is only a guess work not authenticated.

***

Please see my earlier posts:

1

Purananuru (Tamil Sangam Book) wonders -2; Upanishad and Kalidasa in verse Two! (Post.15,278)

2

Tamil Hindu Encyclopaedia -10 பஞ்சபூதம் (Pancha Bhuta)—Post No.11,359

3

Cosmology in Appar, Nammalvar, Puram Poems (Post No.15,196)

***

Puranānūru 51, Poet Aiyur Mudavanār sang for Pandiyan Koodakārathu Thunjiya Māran Vazhuthi,

1
When water overflows, there is no dam to contain it!
When fire exceeds, there is no shadow that can shade
the living!  When there is too much wind, no strength
can resist it!  Vazhuthi, radiant and fierce in battle
is like all these.

He will not tolerate if they say that
cool Thamizh Nadu is common, and undertakes wars.
If he requests tributes, kings who say, “take it” and
give willingly, do not tremble.

Those who are very pitiable are those who have lost his
graces. 

3

Like the termites from red mounds built with
difficulty by tiny termites, they whirl around just for a day.

Notes:  Puranānūru poems 51 and 52 were written for this king.   He hailed from a town called Koodakāram.   He was a contemporary of Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan.  His successor was Pandiyan Ilavanthikai Palli Thunjiya Nanmāran.Aiyur Mudavanār wrote Puranānūru 51, 228, 314 and 399.

***

புறநானூறு 51பாடியவர்: ஐயூர் முடவனார்பாடப்பட்டோன்: பாண்டியன் கூடகாரத்துத் துஞ்சிய மாறன் வழுதிதிணை: வாகைதுறை: அரச வாகை

1


நீர் மிகின் சிறையும் இல்லைதீ மிகின்
மன்னுயிர் நிழற்றும் நிழலும் இல்லை,
வளி மிகின் வலியும் இல்லைஒளி மிக்கு
அவற்றோர் அன்ன சினப்போர் வழுதி!

2
தண் தமிழ் பொது எனப் பொறாஅன், போர் எதிர்ந்து  5
கொண்டி வேண்டுவன் ஆயின், கொள்க எனக்
கொடுத்த மன்னர் நடுக்கற்றனரே,
அளியரோ அளியர் அவன் அளி இழந்தோரே,

3
நுண் பல் சிதலை அரிது முயன்று எடுத்த
செம்புற்று ஈயல் போல,  10
ஒரு பகல் வாழ்க்கைக்கு உலமருவோரே.

****

Item 447

Two things in Puram 52 are important. It is about Image worship.

அணங்குடை நெடுங்கோட்டு அளையகம் முனைஇ,
முணங்கு நிமிர் வயமான் முழு வலி ஒருத்தல்,

Tamil Hindus like their counterparts in North India believed that spirits are dwelling in the mountains, lakes, forests, gardens, and trees. Here the mountain cave is described as Spirit living place. Anangu in Tamil meant the spirit that is terrifying or ghost

***

Item 448

Tamils worshipped images like their North Indian brothers. We get coins from second century BCE showing Hindu Gods. Here Maruthan Ilanakanar, a late poet, who mostly imitate his predecessors, talk about

“where offerings with uproar are not given to
the gods who have abandoned their pillars”.

It is made clear that Tamils made offerings to Gods in the pillars. Even today the offerings are made in the temple Bali Peedam near the Dwajasthamba/pillar. Moreover, Brahmins also erected venerable Yupa Stambha when they performed Yagas/fire ceremonies. Purananuru used the Sanskrit Yupa in a few poems. So the poet might have mean Yupa pillars or Dwajasthambas or Nadukal/herostones. Tamils worshipped Hero Stones too.

***

Puranānūru 52, Poet Maruthan Ilanākanār sang to Pandiyan Koodakārathu Thunjiya Māran Vazhuthi,

A male tiger in a cave on a terrifying, tall peak,
hating to stay in, rises and stretches, full of strength,
and goaded by desire for meat, takes whatever direction he may wish.

You are like him with your intent to kill the kings of the
north, O Vazhuthi with a well fashioned chariot, who fights ferocious battles.  Since you have willed war, the kings in this wide world are to be pitied, in whose lands long streamers
of smoke that smelled of flesh rose once from roasting fish in every town near fields and surrounded the curved branches
of marutham trees.  They used to be prosperous towns. That has changed.  Now, they are ruined, and turned to forests where forest hens with spots lay eggs in the depressions
caused by the gambling gadgets of white-haired old men in public places,

 where offerings with uproar are not given to
the gods who have abandoned their pillars.

***

புறநானூறு 52பாடியவர்: மருதன் இளநாகனார்பாடப்பட்டோன்: பாண்டியன் கூடகாரத்துத் துஞ்சிய மாறன் வழுதிதிணை: வாகைதுறை: அரச வாகை

1


அணங்குடை நெடுங்கோட்டு அளையகம் முனைஇ,
முணங்கு நிமிர் வயமான் முழு வலி ஒருத்தல்,


ஊன் நசை உள்ளம் துரப்ப இரை குறித்துத்
தான் வேண்டு மருங்கின் வேட்டு எழுந்தாங்கு,
வட புல மன்னர் வாட, அடல் குறித்து,  5
இன்னா வெம்போர் இயல் தேர் வழுதி!
இது நீ கண்ணியது ஆயின், இரு நிலத்து
யார் கொல் அளியர் தாமே,  ஊர்தொறும்
மீன் சுடு புகையின் புலவு நாறு நெடுங்கொடி
வயல் உழை மருதின் வாங்கு சினை வலக்கும்  10
பெரு நல் யாணரின் ஒரீஇ, இனியே

2


கலிகெழு கடவுள் கந்தம் கைவிடப்
பலி கண் மாறிய பாழ்படு பொதியில்,


நரை மூதாளர் நாய் இடக் குழிந்த
வல்லின் நல்லகம் நிறையப் பல் பொறிக்  15
கான வாரணம் ஈனும்
காடாகி விளியும் நாடுடையோரே.

கந்துடை நிலை என்றது, இறைவன் அருட்குறியாகக் கல் தறி நட்டியிருக்கும் இடத்தை, பண்டைக் காலத்தே இறைவணக்கம் செய்தற்பொருட்டுக் கல்தறி நட்டு அதனை வணங்கி வந்தனர். .

அணங்கு உடை நெடுங்கோட்டு – in the fearful tall peak, in the tall peak with gods,

***

Item 449 Kudos to Brahmin Poet Kapilan

Here the great Brahmin poet Kapilan is praised. He wrote more poems than other poets. He was the only poet mentioned by more poets. 

Puranānūru 53, Poet Porunthil Ilankeeranār sang to Cheraman Māntharancheral Irumporai, Thinai: Vākai, Thurai: Arasa Vākai


To remove the anguish to Vilangil town,
……….where women wearing bright bangles play on
……….verandas of mansions with glittering gems
……….that awe eyes, that are on the long stretches
……….of sand spread like pearls from mature shells,
you took to battle with your fast horses and elephants.

O Poraiyan!  If I sing your praises in full, it will be too long.
If I sing in short, I will miss much.  Those like me with
bewildered hearts cannot sing your glory in full.  This is
the huge world in which we are born, and we cannot live
hating it.
We heard you say, “If only Kapilan were alive today, he whose
fame was radiant and knowledge immense, he with eloquent
tongue, could produce perfect verses in an instant and
how wonderful that would be!”  Yet, I will sing suitably of
your might in battle and how you overwhelmed your enemies.

***

புறநானூறு 53பாடியவர்: பொருந்தில் இளங்கீரனார்பாடப்பட்டோன்: சேரமான் மாந்தரஞ்சேரல் இரும்பொறைதிணை: வாகைதுறை: அரச வாகை


முதிர் வார் இப்பி முத்த வார் மணல்,
கதிர் விடு மணியின் கண் பொரு மாடத்து,
இலங்கு வளை மகளிர் தெற்றி ஆடும்
விளங்கு சீர் விளங்கில் விழுமம் கொன்ற
களங்கொள் யானைக் கடுமான் பொறைய!  5


விரிப்பின் அகலும் தொகுப்பின் எஞ்சும்,
மம்மர் நெஞ்சத்து எம்மனோர்க்கு ஒருதலை
கைம்முற்றல நின் புகழே என்றும்
ஒளியோர் பிறந்த இம் மலர்தலை உலகத்து
வாழேம் என்றலும் அரிதே, தாழாது  10

செறுத்த செய்யுள் செய் செந்நாவின்
வெறுத்த கேள்வி விளங்கு புகழ்க் கபிலன்
இன்று உளன் ஆயின் நன்று மன், என்ற நின்
ஆடு கொள் வரிசைக்கு ஒப்பப்
பாடுவன் மன்னால், பகைவரைக் கடப்பே.  15

 தாழாது செறுத்த செய்யுள் செய் – created meaningful verses without delay, செந்நாவின் – with an eloquent tongue, வெறுத்த கேள்வி – dense learning, abundant learning (வெறுத்த – செறிந்த), விளங்கு புகழ்க் கபிலன் இன்று உளன் ஆயின் – if poet Kapilan with bright renown were alive today, நன்று  – it would be good,

 –subham—

Tags- Item 449, Kapilan, Purananuru wonders, Image Worship , Sangam Tamil Literature!- Part 59

My visit to Pratyangira Devi Temple in Ayyavadi (Post No.15,593)

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,593

Date uploaded in London –8 April 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx  

I was lucky to visit Pratyangira Devi Temple in Ayyavadi ,very near Kumbakonam , in Tamil Nadu. Earlier I had visited Pratyangira Devi Temple in Raja Kilpauk near Tambaram, Chennai. Swami Santhanada of Pudukottai installed Sarabeswarar and Pratyangira Devi in Skandashram near Tambaram. I visited the temple twice in the past few years. In Skandashram,  the statues are huge. But in Ayyavadi it is of normal size.

Pratyangira Devi is another form of Bhadrakali or Durga. In Ayyavadi, it is part of a thousand year old Shiva temple known as Agastheewarar Temple. When I went there on March 12, 2026 main Shiva temple  was closed for renovation work. But I had good darshan of Pratyangira Devi  in the same temple compound. One can feel the divine atmosphere there.

People believe that worshipping Her, they can destroy the evil forces. Those who want to win in some cases or to defeat their enemies go there and do Puja or Yaga.

On New moon days special Yagas/fire ceremonies are organised. In this temple, there are idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Sarswathy placed nearby the idol of Goddess Pratyangira. Goddess Lakshmi is standing in her Pratyangira form and also in her normal form.

H Krishna Sastri in his book South Indian Images of Gods and Goddesses (year  1916) adds the following details:

Pratyangira has four arms and a face as terrible as that of a lion. Her hair stands erect on her head. In her hands she holds a skull, trident, kettledrum and the noose (naaga paasa). She is seated on a lion and by her power destroys all enemies.

He has published tow pictures and he says, “The lion vehicle is missing in the Tirupparaithurai bronze. The Tiruchengodu statue has the sword and shield in place of skull and noose. And a breast band like Durga. Both are called Bhadrakaali by the people”.

***

In the Skandasramam book, following information is given:

“Umapathi Sivam says in his Kunchithangiri stava:

Yukte Bhagnorukaayam Narahari vapusham khandaperundarupi

Bhhutwaa garjanta magre sarabha kaghapathi: yasya faalaagni kundaath.

Ugraprathyangiraakyaam  dasasatavadanaam  kaalikaam aasu srutwaa

tasyaaH jigvaahra vahnim sutaruvath anyat  kunchithaangrim Bhaje

Angiras and Prathyangiras were the two ascetics who found out the mantra of this deity. The potency of the mantra is so high that one should not have any ill feelings towards the one who chants it.

She had sent Veerabhdra to violently interrupt and break up the sacrificial fire performed by Daksha, accompanied by Pratyangira. The mantras tell us she is but the embodiment of the wrath of Parvathi.

As Indrajit (in Ramayana) felt that he could not defeat Rama and Lakshmana in the battle, he got up to a sacrificial fire with the chanting of the Pratyangira mantra in the Nigumbala. On knowing this Lakshmana went there and broke it up”.

The book gives also the Mantras for this deity in Sanskrit. Any one interested in it may go through the book. It is in Devanagari lipi. ( I have one copy of the book)

Chennai Sri Skandasramam

Splendour and Vision

Published by Swayamprakasa Awadhuta Trust, Pudukkottai.

Available in Chennai, Salem and Pudukottai where the trust have centres.

***

Larousse Encyclopedia of Mythology published by Hamlyn has a colour picture of the goddess with the following caption:

“Durga Pratyangira: one of the terrifying forms assumed by Siva’s wife.The goddess is seated on a jewelled Padmasana holding her husband’s trident, sword and drum and a bowl for blood. Her name, in this south Indian representation, has Tantric associations while her form as Kaali is seen in the long teeth and the tongues of fire. Kali in Vedic times is the name of Fire God’s black terrifying flame.  (Tricinopoly Painting, Nineteenth Century A D)”

***

In the Shaiva tradition, Shiva assumed the form of Sharabha, a bird-lion hybrid form with two wings of Shakti in the form of Shulini Devi and Pratyangira Devi to calm down Narasimha. Seeing this, Narasimha created Gandaberunda, a powerful two-headed bird, to fight Sharabha. Seeing that the fight between Sharabha and Gandaberunda was terrorizing the world, Pratyangira in her ugra form was released from the third eye of Sharabha. The war ended with Pratyangira’s roar. Narasimha resumed his Satvik form, and thus Dharma in the world was restored.

***

Wisdom lib.org gives following information about the goddess:

Pratyangira is endowed with four arms and a face as terrible as that of a lion. Her head is that of a male lion and her body is that of a human-female. Her hair stands erect on her head. In her hands she holds a skull, trident, Damaru and the noose (nagapasa). She is seated on a lion and by her power destroys all enemies.

In Tantric worship, Pratyangira is shown with a dark complexion, ferocious in aspect, having a lion’s face with reddened eyes and riding a lion wearing black garments, she wears a garland of human skulls; her hair strands on end, and she holds a trident, a serpent in the form of a noose, a hand-drum and a skull in her four hands. She is also associated with Bhairava, as Atharvana-Bhadra-Kali.

Pratyaṅgirā (प्रत्यङ्गिरा) is a form of Kālī and identified with Goddess Tvaritā, according to the Kulakaulinīmata verse 3.310.—Tvaritā is also identified as Pratyaṅgirā, a form of Kālī.

–subham—

Tags- Pratyangira devi, Ayyavadi temple, Chennai Skandasram temple,  London swaminathan , images of Pratyangira

My Three Country Tour in January-March 2026 (Post.15,563)

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,563

Date uploaded in London – 1 April 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx 

By God’s grace I went to three countries with my wife between January and March 2025 and spent much of the time in visiting new and unseen temples.. I have written detailed articles in Tamil about most of these places; and more articles are in the line.

During this trip, I visited Temples, archaeological monuments, gardens, Tourist spots, Shopping centres, libraries, museums and palaces.

Here is a brief tour plan I followed:

January 2, 2026- departure from London LHR.

January 2, 2026- stayed in Bengaluru.

January 3- stayed in Fortune JP Palace hotel in Mysuru.

Visited Melakote Vishnu temple, Sri Rangapatna Vishnu temple, Chamundeeswary Devi temple etc.

January 4- Mysore Palace, Somnathpur Kesava Temple/Archaeological Monument, Back to Bengaluru in the night.

January 5- Left Bengaluru for Bangkok in Thailand.

January 6, 2026- arrived in Bangkok and stayed in Villa de Kaoshanon Hotel; visited the Royal Palace.

January 7- Had darshan in Mariamman Temple in Bangkok. Did some shopping; also visited one of the oldest Buddhist temples very near out hotel.

January 8- Left for Sydney in Australia.

January 8- reached Sydney just before midnight.

Stay in Australia until 2 March 2026.

January 29- had darshan at Sri Karpaka Vinayakar Temple .

January 31- Sri Durga Kovil and Sri Shirdi Baba Mandir

March 2, 2026 – left for Chennai

March 3 – Chennai shopping

March 4- reached Sri vathsam Divine Inn hotel near Kumbakonam stayed there until 13-3-2026

March 5, 2026- Vaitheeswaran Siva temple,

Mayuranathar temple in Mayiladuthurai

Sivapuram Vedapatasala in Mayiladuthurai

Sarngapani temple, Kumbakonam

Chakrapani temple, Kumbakonam

Nageswarar temple, Kumbakonam

Kumbeswarar temple, Kumbakonam

March 6- Tiruchengattankudi Shiva/ Ganapathy temple

Tiruupugalur Appar/ Shiva temple

Srivanchiyam Shiva temple

March 9, 2026-Thiruvidaimarudur Shiva temple

Tirubhuvanam Shiva temple

Tiruvavaduthurai Shiva temple

Kanchanur Shiva temple/ sukran temple

March 10, 2026- Dharasuram Shiva temple/ Archaeological monument

Adivarahar Vishnu temple – Kumbakonam

March 12, 2026- Uppilappan Vishnu Temple

Ayyavadi Pratyankara/ Shiva temple

Tirunaraiyur Shiva temple / Sani graha shrine

Swarna akarshana Bhairava temple, Sembianvararampal near Ayyavadi

March 13, 2026- Veeranarayana Vishnu Temple, Kattumannar Koil,

Aravinda/Aurobindo Ashram at Puducherry

Manakkula Vinayakar Temple at Puducherry

Puducherry Museum

Back to Chennai in the night.

March 14- Chennai Shopping

March 15- Left Chennai by BA and reached LHR same day afternoon.

I took 500 to 600 pictures during my tour.

–subham-

Tags- My tour, Three countries, India, Australia, Thailand, Hindu temples, museums, palaces, London Swaminathan, January- March 2026., Buddhist temple

Purananuru Wonders -16, Ancient Tamil Encyclopaedia -Part 56; One Thousand Interesting Facts -Part 56 (Post.15,558)

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,558

Date uploaded in London – 31 March 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx 

Item 409

Sibi story from Hindu Puranas and epic is repeated here which shows Choza kings came from North West India. Even Buddhists stole this story and incorporated in the Jataka Tales which were older than Sangam Tamil  literature. But Buddhists showed Sibi as Buddha and not as Chozas.

The Sibi Chakravarthi story appears to have adopted by the Chozha kings as theirs.  It is referred to in Puranānūru 37, 39, 43 and 46. 

Chembian in Tamil is derived from Sanskrit Saibhya which is again derived from Sibi.

***

Item 410

Hanging Forts in the sky.

All Tamil interpreters skip this line without explaining.

In fact it is the story of Tripurantaka/Lord Siva.

தூங்கு எயில் எறிந்த நின் ஊங்கணோர் நினைப்பின்,
அடுதல் நின் புகழும் அன்றே; கெடுவின்று

The destruction of the three cities in the sky, known as Tripura or Tripurantaka, is a major mythological theme frequently referenced in Chola-era inscriptions and art to glorify Lord Shiva and, by extension, the Chola kings who claimed to rule under his grace. 

1. The Myth of Tripura in Chola Context

  • The Myth: Three demon sons of Taraka obtained a boon from Brahma to live in three powerful, movable aerial cities (gold, silver, and iron) created by Mayasura. They could only be destroyed when these cities aligned once every thousand years and were struck by a single arrow. Shiva (“Tripurantaka”) shot this arrow.
  • Chola Symbolism: The Chola kings identified with the strength and role of Shiva, projecting themselves as protectors of the cosmic order. The Tripurantaka form of Shiva (Destroyer of the Three Cities) was particularly popular in early Chola art and inscriptions.
  • Significance: It signifies the destruction of evil (“sins”) and the restoration of balance. 

2. Epigraphical and Artistic Evidence

  • Kailasanathar Temple, Kanchipuram: 1500-year-old carvings show a colossal “Tripurantaka Murthi” figure. While early, this set the stage for Chola temple art.
  • Kamarathivalli Temple (Kamarasavalli): Inscriptions here highlight that the temple was heavily supported by monarchs like Rajaraja Chola ISundara Chola, and Vikrama Chola, who worshipped Shiva in his various forms.
  • Chola Bronzes: The Norton Simon Museum houses one of the earliest Chola bronzes depicting Shiva as Tripurantaka, highlighting the importance of this story during the early, middle, and late Chola periods. 

  • 3. Connection to Chola Rule
  • Rajaraja I and Gangaikonda Cholapuram: While building his capital, Rajaraja I was heavily influenced by Shaivite traditions. His successors, like Rajendra Chola I, adopted similar ideologies, and inscriptions often describe the king’s victory in terms of divine favor, drawing parallels to the destruction of the three forts (Tripura).
  • Kumbakonam Area: The “Thiruvanaikkaval” area (near Trichy), linked to the Kochengot Chola (a very early king), features Shiva-centered mythology, including stories of transformation and overcoming threats. 

In summary, the story of the “three cities in the sky” (Tripura) represents the triumph of divine justice and is a key ideological theme found in the inscriptions of the Chola dynasty, linking their victories directly to the prowess of Lord Shiva, particularly in his Tripurantaka form. 

***

Item 411 

Uranthai, now Uraiyur near iruchi was famous for the Justice Court that existed during Krikal Choza Time. Then it was destroyed in a sand storm.

My article written in year 2011 is reproduced here: 

Strange as it may look, British judges, magistrates and barristers follow a custom that was started by a Tamil king two thousand years ago. British judges and several others who preside over the courts of justice wear a white wig.

If we go to encyclopaedias they don’t explain why they wear it or when it was exactly started. Ancient Egyptians wore wigs for protecting their heads from the scorching sun. Then Romans and others wore different types of wigs as symbols of aristocracy.

 The British judiciary started wearing wigs from 17th century. Many of the commonwealth countries also followed it. Whenever the reason for the custom is asked many people say that it is the tradition or uniform for professional discipline or it shows experience. Actually it was started by the most famous Tamil king, Karikal Chola two thousand years ago. Crystal clear proof comes from the ancient Tamil Cankam (Sangam) literature.

Karikalan was the greatest of the Tamil kings for three reasons. He ruled vast areas of Tamil-speaking land, subjugating other Tamil kingdoms. He was the first Tamil king who went up to the Himalayas and carved his dynastic emblem there. Till today, there remains a Chola pass in the Himalayas. The second reason was he was a just king and his court of justice in Uraiyur became very famous. Tamil literature praises his justice and gives the story of wigs. And the third reason is the Grand Anaicut he built across the river Cauvery is one of the oldest dam s in the world. 

Though we did not have any historical records scholars have dated him around 1st century BC. He was a boy king – like the Egyptian Tutankhamen. He came to power while he was a teenager.

The Story of Wigs:

One day two elderly people came to his court seeking justice. They had a dispute among themselves. They decided that whatever the Uraiyur court says must be the final settlement. When they came in to court, they were shocked to see a boy sitting as the judge. They were greatly disappointed – which Karikalan felt immediately by looking at their faces. Indeed, the face is the index of the mind.

 Karikalan politely asked the elders to take seats and told them to wait for the ‘judge’ and he went in. The entire assembly was puzzled. Then came an elderly person and sat on the chair. After carefully listening to the arguments of both the sides he gave his judgement. Both of them were immensely happy to hear a fair settlement. Now the assembly wanted to know who the elderly judge was. King Karikalan removed his white hair wig (Narai Mudi in Tamil) and revealed himself.  All applauded the Wisdom of the ‘Solomon of India’.

The proof for the anecdote is in three Tamil books:

1.      Porunar Atruppadai –lines 187-188. Porunar Atruppadai is one of the ten long poems of Tamil Cankam literature dated  between 1st to 3rd century AD

2.      Manimekalai- This is one of the five Tamil epics dated 3rd century AD  

3.      Pazamozi – poem 25 translation:


Nobody can deny the fact that Karikalan was the first one to use white wig in judiciary matters.

*** 

Item 412 Himalayas

Himalayas was not only sacred to Hindus but also a symbol of victory. Chera Choza Pandya kings went up to the northern most and the highest mountain in the world to engrave their symbols. This Ws achieved with the help of Satakarnis, the mighty Satavahana kings. They were friends of the Tamil kings. Tamils of Sangam Age mentioned Himalayas, Ganga and Yamunai but never Indus River/Sindhu. It shows that they have no connection with the Harappan Civilization.

 ***

Item 413 Vanji 

Play on words. Vanji has three meanings: A plant, modern Karur town in Tamil Nadu and a girl who is slim like Vanji creeper.

Here in Puram 39, poetess used it for Vanji city, that is Karur. But she used it by saying Vanji that which will not whither. This is the style of Kalidas, the greatest of the Indian poets. He used to play on words like this.

For instance if he wants to mention the bird Chakravaka, he would saythe bird with the name of a wheel/Chakra. 

வாடா வஞ்சி வாட்டும் – you hurt strong Vanji city which is not the vanji flower that fades (வாடா வஞ்சி – வஞ்சிநகருக்கு வெளிப்படை,  வஞ்சி – இன்றைய கரூர்),

***

Puranānūru 39, Poet Mārōkkathu Nappasalaiyār sang to Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan 

1
O heir of Chempiyan who removed the pain of a dove by climbing
on a scale with a pointer made of white tusk of an elephant with
dark legs!  Generosity is not the reason for your fame!  

2

If we
think about your ancestors who ruined forts that are hanging high
that are strong and difficult to approach, killing in battles is
not the reason for your fame! 

3

Righteousness has been established
in the court of Uranthai of the Chozhas with martial courage, and
reigning with justice cannot increase your fame!

O Valavan who wins battles with great might, whose arms are like
the crossbars of forts, whose garland is blinding, who owns proud
horses! 

4

How can I describe you, since you have made strong Vanji
wither, and destroyed the Chera king owning tall, well-built chariots,

5

who had placed his protective bow symbol on the Himalayas
with many towering summits with gold?  How can I sing of your great acts?

**** 

புறநானூறு 39, பாடியவர்மாறோக்கத்து நப்பசலையார்பாடப்பட்டோன்சோழன் குளமுற்றத்துத் துஞ்சிய கிள்ளிவளவன்திணைபாடாண்துறைஇயன் மொழி 

1

புறவின் அல்லல் சொல்லிய கறையடி
யானை வான் மருப்பு எறிந்த வெண்கடைக்
கோல் நிறை துலாஅம் புக்கோன் மருக!
ஈதல் நின் புகழும் அன்றே; 

 சார்தல்
ஒன்னார் உட்கும் துன்னரும் கடுந்திறல்  5
தூங்கு எயில் எறிந்த நின் ஊங்கணோர் நினைப்பின்,
அடுதல் நின் புகழும் அன்றே; கெடுவின்று

3

மறங்கெழு சோழர் உறந்தை அவையத்து,
அறம் நின்று நிலையிற்று ஆகலின்அதனால்
முறைமை நின் புகழும் அன்றே; மறம் மிக்கு  10
எழு சமம் கடந்த எழு உறழ் திணி தோள்,
கண்ணார் கண்ணிக் கலிமான் வளவ!

4

யாங்கனம் மொழிகோ யானே, ஓங்கிய
வரை அளந்து அறியாப் பொன்படு நெடுங்கோட்டு
இமையம் சூட்டிய ஏம விற்பொறி,  15
மாண் வினை நெடுந்தேர் வானவன் தொலைய,

5
வாடா வஞ்சி வாட்டும் நின்
பீடுகெழு நோன் தாள் பாடுங்காலே.

****

Item 414 Enemy Kings’ Crowns

Two interesting points are her in Puram verse 40.

Ancient Hindu kings melted the golden crown of the enemy kings and made them their anklets (leg ornaments) or foot stools . Here the anklets are mentioned by the poet. Here we come to know more about the jewellery of ancient Tamil Nadu.

“You have made glittering warrior anklets with the
fine gold crowns of your enemies that you wear on your legs”

Item 415 

A very good description about the paddy Production is revealed in the following lines:

“country where a small space fit for a female elephant produces
food for seven male elephants!”

In fact there is a well known saying

சோழநாடு (சோறுடைத்து): Choza country is famous for rice;

பாண்டிய நாடு (முத்துடைத்து): Pandya country is famous for pearls;

சேர நாடு (வேழமுடைத்து): Chera country is famous for elephants;

தொண்டை நாடு (சான்றோருடைத்து):Thondai country is famous for Scholars

***

Puranānūru 40, Poet Āvūr Moolankizhār sang to Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan,

You do not respect the fortresses of your enemies who protect
them with martial courage.  You wage wars with them and ruin
them.  You have made glittering warrior anklets with the
fine gold crowns of your enemies that you wear on your legs.

O Mighty King!  We have seen you today and we wish we can
see you always.  May those who sing ill of you bow their necks
and those who sing your praises flourish!   O greatness!
May you, with sweet words be easy to approach, O lord of the
country where a small space fit for a female elephant produces
food for seven male elephants!

புறநானூறு 40, பாடியவர்ஆவூர் மூலங்கிழார்பாடப்பட்டோன்சோழன் குளமுற்றத்துத் துஞ்சிய கிள்ளிவளவன்


நீயே பிறர் ஓம்புறு மறமன் எயில்
ஓம்பாது கடந்து அட்டு, அவர்
முடி புனைந்த பசும் பொன்னின்
அடி பொலியக் கழல் தைஇய
வல்லாளனை, வய வேந்தே!  5
யாமே நின் இகழ் பாடுவோர் எருத்து அடங்கப்,
புகழ் பாடுவோர் பொலிவு தோன்ற,
இன்று கண்டாங்குக் காண்குவம், என்றும்
இன் சொல் எண் பதத்தை ஆகுமதி பெரும!
ஒரு பிடி படியுஞ் சீறிடம்  10
எழு களிறு புரக்கும் நாடு கிழவோயே!

அவர் முடி புனைந்த பசும் பொன்னின் – with their crowns made of gold, அடி பொலிய – feet to be beautiful, feet to glow, கழல் தைஇய – made war anklets out of them

O Greatness, ஒரு பிடி படியும் சீறிடம் எழு களிறு புரக்கும் நாடு கிழவோயே – O lord of the country where a small space necessary for a female elephant protects (grows food for) seven male elephants .

To be continued………………..

Tags- Puranaanuru Wonders -16, Ancient Tamil Encyclopaedia -Part 56, One Thousand Interesting Facts -Part 56 , Sibi, Karikalan, Wigs, Uraiyur, Tamil jewellery, item 415, hanging forts, hanging cities

Hinduism through 500 Pictures in Tamil and English 47; படங்கள் மூலம் இந்து மதம் கற்போம்-47 (Post.15,545)

Budha/ Mercury

Sukra/ Venus

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,545

Date uploaded in London – 28 March 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx  

Chandra and other Grahas/Planets / Thingal in Tamil

The moon is regarded as one of the grahas surrounding the sun and going round and round the mountain Meru. He is born of the sea and of sage Atri. He is said to have only face and hands , but no body. He turns towards the sun and holds white lotuses in his hands or sometimes a club and the boon conferring hand- Abhaya hasta.  He rides on a two wheeled chariot drawn by ten horses. His caste is Vaisya.

***

Mars/ Kuja/ Mangal / Sevvay in Tamil

Kuja is the son of the earth and of sage Bharadwaja; his country is Avanti. His caste is Kshatriya . He wears red garments and a crown and has four arms holding weapons Sakti and club, and the postures Abhaya and Varada hastas. He faces the sun and rides on a ram.

He is called Angaaraka, Bhauma ,Bhuumii putra and

Mahiisuta. He is also called Siva- gharmaja/born of the sweat of Siva,Gaganolmuka- the torch of the sky,

Lohita – the red, Navaarchi- the nine rayed,Chara- the spy, Rinaantaka- the ender of the debts or the patron of the debtors.

Mangala / Mars/Angaaraka

The planet Mars, is identified with Kaartikeya , the god of war. He was the son of Siva and the earth/bhu

***

Budha / Mercury / Budhan in Tamil

Budha , the son of moon is a Vaisya of the Magadha country born in the lineage of Atri. He has four arms, a yellow body and the lion vehicle. He shows in his hands the shield, club, Varada mudra and the sword. He also faces the sun.

Budha /Mercury

Wise, intelligent ; buddhisaali- brainy.

The planet mercury, is son of soma, the moon, by Rohini or by Taaraa , wife of Brihaspati. He married Ilaa, daughter of Manu Vivasvata, and ha da  son, Puruuruva. Budha was an author of a hymn in the Rig Veda. From his parents he is called Saumya and Rauhineya. He is also called Praharshana, Rodhana, Tunga, and Syaamaanga, black bodied.

The intrigue of Soma with Taaraa was the cause of a great quarrel, in which the Gods/Devas and Asuras/demons fought against each other. Brahma compelled Soma to give up Taaraa and when she was returned to her husband she was pregnant.  A son was born, who was handsome that Brihaspati and Soma both claimed him. Taaraa for long refused to tell his paternity, and so excited the wrath and nearly incurred the curse of her son. At length, upon the command of Brahma, she declared Soma to be the father, and she gave the boy name Budha.

 ***

Brihaspati /Guru /Jupiter/ Viyaazan in Tamil

Brihaspati is a Brahmana and the Guru of Devas. Born of Angiras he comes from the Sindhu country. He has either two or four arms holding the book and the rosary. He also faces the sun.

***

Kanjanur Sukra Shrine

Sukra /Venus /Velli in Tamil

He is also a Brahmana, born of Bhrigu  and a native of Bhojakata. He is the teacher/ guru of Asuras/ demons. He is seated in a golden chariot drawn by eight horses or in a silver chariot yoked to ten horses. He has two hands one of which holds a Nidhi/treasure and in the other a book. According to other authorities, he has four arms in which are seen the staff, rosary, water pot and the Varada hasta.

Sukra

The planet Sukra/ Venus is the son of Bhrigu and the priest of daityas/demons. He is also called the son of Kavi. His wife’s name was Susumaa or Sataparwa. His daughter Devayaani married Yayaati of the lunar race/ Chandra vamsa and her husband’s infidelity induced Sukra to curse him.

Sukra is identified with Ushanas, and is author of a code of law- Sukra Niti.

The Harivamsa relates that he went to god Siva  and asked for means of protecting the asuras/demons against the gods. , and for obtaining his object, he performed a painful rite, inhibiting the smoke of chaff with his head downwards for a thousand years. In his absence, the gods attacked the asuras and Vishnu killed his mother, for which deed he cursed him to be born seven times in the world of men.

Sukra restored his mother to life, and the gods being alarmed lest sukra’s penance should be accomplished, indra sent his daughter Jayanti to lure him from it. She waited upon him and soothed him, but he accomplished his penance and afterwards married her.

Sukra is known by his patronymic Bhargava and also Bhrigu. He is also called Kavi, Kaavya, the poet.

Sukra/ Venus is called

Asphujit and

Maghaabhava- son of maghaa

Shodasaansu- having sixteen rays;

Sweta- the white.

***

Sani /Sanaischara /Saturn / Sani in Tamil

Sani is a Shudra from the Saurashtra country and a descendent of Kasyapa Rishi , also facing the sun.

He is supposed to be born of the sun, to have blue garments  and to ride on a crow or vulture or in an iron chariot drawn by eight horses. He is represented with two or four arms and stands on a lotus pedestal, but is more  often found  seated with four arms., his weapons  being the arrow, trident and the bow. 

Sani

The planet Saturn/ Sani is represented as a black man in black garments. Sani was the son of sun and Chaayaa, but another statement is that he was the offspring of Balarama and Revati. He is also known as

Aara ,Kona,Kroda  and by the patronymic  Saura

His influence is evil and hence he is called Kruura-dris

Kruura lochana- the evil eyed one. He is also

Manda- the slow moving, Pangu- the lame, Sanais chara- the slow moving , Saptaarchi- seven rayed and

Asita- the dark.

***

Rahu and Ketu

Rahu and Ketu are the ascending and descending nodes , but also represented as images. Rahu is a Shudra. He is of fearful face, wears black clothes and four arms holding the sword, trident and the shield. He rides on a black lion and faces the sun.

Ketu

Ketu is also a Shudra, comes from Kusadwipa  and is born in the lineage of Jaimini. He has an ugly face , rides on a vulture and exhibits in his two arms the club and the Varada posture.

Rahu Ketu

Rahu and Ketu are in astronomy the ascending and descending node. Rahu is the cause of eclipses, and the term is used to designate the eclipse itself. He is also considered one of the Nava Grahas, as king of meteors and the guardian of the south west quarter.

Mythologically Rahu is a Daitya/demon, who is supposed to seize the sun and moon and swallow them. It is described in literature as a snake devouring sun and moon. Since it is in Sangam Tamil literature as well, the belief has been there for at least 2000 years from south to north of India.

Rahu was son of Vipachitti   and Simhika, and is called by metronymic Sainhikeya. He had four arms and his lower part ended in a tail. He was a great mischief maker, and when the gods produced amrita by churning the ocean, he assumed a disguise, and insinuating amongst them, drank some of it. The sun and moon detected him and informed Vishnu, who cut off his head and two of his arms, but as he had secured immortality, his body was placed in the stellar sphere, the upper parts, represented by a dragon’s tail, being  Ketu the descending node.

Vishnu purana says eight black horses draw the dusky chariot of Rahu .  He is called  Abhra pisacha- the demon of the sky; Bharani- bhuu- born from the asterism Bharani; Graha- the seizer; And Kabandha – the headless.

Ketu

The descending node in astronomy, represented by a dragon’s tail; also a comet or meteor .

Dhumaketu is comet. He is said to be a daanava and son of Vipachitti and Cimhikaa. He is also calle

A-kacha- hairless

Asleshaa- bhava- born of asterism aaslesha;

Munda- bald

—subham—

Tags- Nine planets, Chandra, Mangal, Budha, Guru, Sukra, Rahu, Ketu, Navagraha, Sani, Sanaischara

My Visit to Famous Darasuram Temple with 40,000 Sculptures (Post No.15,497)

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,497

Date uploaded in Kumbakonam, India –  14 March 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx   

The temple of Airavatesvara in Darasuram (Tamil Nadu), dating from the second half of the twelfth century, is one of the four biggest temples erected by the Choza Dynasty.

I have already visited Thanjavur Big Temple and Gangaikonda Chozapuram many times. On Tenth March 2026, I visited the Darasuram temple for the first time. I took an auto from Kumbhakonam and reached the temple within half hour. I spent an hour taking pictures. The entry is free. But compared with other two temples it is less shiny. Many of the sculptures are worn out. 800 years ago, it was the capital of Choza empire with the name Rajarajeswaram. Later it became popular with the name Airavateswar Temple.

Airavatam is the white elephant and the vehicle/ Vahana of Indra. Once it came under the curse of Durvasa Muni and lost its lustre. It came and worshiped Lord Shiva here and got out of the curse. Now we can have good darshan of Lord Airavateswara in Siva Linga form and Goddess Deivanayaki. The temple com[plex maintained by the archaeological department is huge and has 40,000 sculptures. All the Vedic Gods and later gods are sculpted and occupy the niches. Beautiful decorative stone windows are in between the Gods.

Here are salient features:

The temple is constructed like a stone chariot pulled by the horses.

The entire temple complex is filled with rich carvings and inscriptions that narrate stories from ancient Indian Puranas. It  has musical steps. These 7 singing steps that lead to the altar are intricately carved and represent seven musical notes.

The reliefs all along the base of the main temple narrate the stories of the sixty three Shaiva Bhakti saints called Nayanars. These stories are found in the Periya Purana by Sekkilar.

On the outer walls of the main sanctum are sculpture niches; They show various Hindu deities, with the middle one of each side showing Shiva in different aspects.

There are variousNorthern face: Adi Chandesvara, Gangadevi, Tumburu Nardar, Vaisravana, Chandra, Maha Sata, Nagaraja, Vayu

West: Devi, Rudrani, Vaishnavi, Brahmi, Varunani, Nandidevar, Periyadevar, Santyatita Sakti, Santa devi, Vidya Sakti, Pratishta Sakti, Nivarti Sakti

Southern face: Daksha Prajapati, Yamuna devi, Rati, Kamadeva

East: Agni deva, Agastya, Sri devi, Durga devi, Devendran, Padma Nidhi, Surya, Subrahmanya, Kshetrapala, Sarasvati, Visvakarma, Isana inscriptions in the temple.

Airavatesvara Temple was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list of Great Living Chola Temples in the year 2004. The American astronomer Carl Sagan visited the Airavatesvara Temple for his 1980 television documentary series, Cosmos: A Personal Voyage.

Please see the pictures taken by me to appreciate the efforts of great and dedicated sculptors.pictures speak more than words

–Subham—

Tags- Darasuram, Airavateswarar temple, My visit, Choza monument, 40000 sculptures.

Aththi varadar and Adi varahar Temples in Kumbakonam (Post No.15,491)

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,491

Date uploaded in Kumbakonam, India –  12 March 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx  

Athi Varadar festival in Kumbakonam featuring the rare, once-in-12-years public viewing of the idol ended on tenth March 2026. Over 500,000 devotees had the darshan standing in the long queue for hours.

Here are the key details from the news reports (as of March 2026):

12-Year Cycle: Unlike the 40-year cycle in Kanchipuram, the Athi Varadar idol at the Varadharaja Perumal Temple in Kumbakonam is brought out from its underground chamber once every 12 years.

Current Event (2026): The idol was brought out for public worship in March 2026, marking the end of its 12-year seclusion.

Duration: The special darshan, which includes rituals like Thailakappu (oil anointing) and Oonjal Sevai (swing ritual), is scheduled for a limited period, often spanning about 10 days, attracting thousands of devotees.

Location: The temple is located on Brahmman Koil Street in Kumbakonam.

In a spiritually significant event, the sacred Athi Varadar idol will be brought out from the underground chamber of the Varadharaja Perumal Temple in Kumbakonam after a gap of 12 years. The rare occasion drew devotees not only from Tamil Nadu but also from Andhra, Telangana, Kerala and a few North Indian states.

The Athi Varadar idol, carved from the sacred athi (fig) tree, is preserved in a subterranean chamber within the temple premises as part of a long-standing tradition. According to temple customs, the idol is taken out only once every 12 years for a brief period of public worship. Along with the main deity, Sri Devi and Bhoodevi are also part of the ceremonial display.

During the special darshan period, which lasted for  ten days, elaborate rituals and poojas were conducted in accordance with Agama traditions. Ceremonies such as Thailakappu (oil anointing), Pushpa Alankaram (flower decoration), and Oonjal Sevai (swing ritual) were performed with devotional fervour.

Temple authorities made extensive arrangements to manage the surge in devotees, including regulated darshan timings and security measures. The event transformed Kumbakonam into a major spiritual hub, as devotees gathered to witness and participate in this rare and auspicious tradition.

Only one incident was reported ;a devotee passed away while waiting in the long queue for the darshan on March 10, 2026.

( The Athi Varadar idol in Kumbakonam is distinct from the more famous, larger Athi Varadar idol in Kanchipuram, though both are made of fig wood.)

***

Adi Varaha Perumal /Vishnu Temple

I visited Adi Varaha Perumal /Vishnu Temple (aadi varaaha perumaal) on 10th March 2026 and had good darshan. It is a small temple compared to Sarngapani and Chakrapani Vishnu temples. It is very near the famous Kumbeshwar Siva Temple.

God/Moolavar : Sri Adhi Varaha Perumal

Goddess/Thayar    : Sri Ambujavalli

It has no tall tower. but instead there is an Arch which is East facing. On top of the Welcome Arch Sri Varaha Perumal is seen along with few other Gods. There is a gold plated Dwajasthambam, a Bali Peedam and a Garudalwar who faces the Moolavar Sannadhi. It is about 800 years old.

Thayar/Goddess Ambujavalli is in a separate shrine in a sitting posture with abhaya varada hastam.

According to Sthala Purana/ local history,Demon Hiranyaksha took Bhumadevi deep inside the earth. Bhumadevi prayed to Maha Vishnu to rescue her. Maha Vishnu took the Varaha avatar, dug the earth with his nose, and brought her back. Hence, Maha Vishnu of this temple is called Adhi Varaha Perumal Temple. Varaha means boar. It I one of the Ten Avatars/Dasavatar.

This Temple is one of the five Templescelebrating  Mahamaham festival that is held once in 12 years. Inside the Sanctum Sanctorum Adhi Varaha Perumal can be seen along with His Consort Bhoomadevi on His Lap and Adisesham can be seen in a standing posture.

 This is a Vadakalai  temple with Nigamantha Desikan shrine inside the temple.

One of the special features of the temple is a rare Prasad/Food offering. A root called Korai Kizangu is used in the food offering to God here. Since the God is in the form of Boar, this is considered appropriate offering.

Korai Kizhangu, or Nut Grass (Cyperus rotundus), is a traditional Ayurvedic and Siddha tuberous root known for its diverse medicinal, skincare, and hair removal properties. It is used to treat skin infections, improve skin texture, boost immunity, and aid digestion, often consumed as a powder or used as a topical paste.

–subham—

Tags– Aththivaradar and Adivarahar Temples , Kumbakonam, Root vegetable Prasad, 12 years,Korai Kizhangu,

Two Famous Shiva Temples in Kumbakonam that I Visited (Post No.15,487)

STORY OF KUMBAKONAM IN PICTURES; ALL PHOTOS TAKEN BY LONDON SWAMINATHAN

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,487

Date uploaded in Kumbakonam, India –  11 March 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx  

I was fortunate to have good darshan at Kumbesshwar Shiva temple and Nageswara Shiva temple in Kumbakonam. I visited Kumbeshwar temple for the fourth time in the past four years. This time I went there specifically to thank the Lord and the priest for retrieving my lost passport. During my visit in 2025, my British passport was pickpocketed by someone. Finding no money in the passport bag, he threw it into the temple flower heap. The priest saw that while clearing the flowers and gave it to his wife to find the owner. She found me after a great effort and spending much time. After a few hours of phoning people, she googled swaminathan from London, and all my books appeared in google and amazon. Then she found the publisher Pustaka.co.in and phoned the proprietor. He is a good friend of my brother in Bengaluru. When my brother phoned me the good news, I booked a taxi to and from Chennai and reached Kumbakonam just before midnight. I thanked the priest and his wife and travelled back to Chennai to catch my flight to London. When I gave some money as a token of thanks, they refused to take it and asked me to donate it to the temple. It was almost midnight and the temple was closed. This time on 5-3-2026, I went to Kumbeshwar  temple and put the money in the temple Hundi thanking both lord Shiva and the priest family.

Kumbheswar is the God who gave the name to the town. Here are the salient features:

The Adi Kumbeswarar Temple in Kumbakonam is at least  1400-year-old Shiva temple ;it is the site for the Mahamakam Festival held every 12 years. The big Mahamakam tank is near the temple.

Temple features a unique, sand-mixed lingam created by Lord Shiva and houses a rare, ancient stone Nagaswaram

  • Deity: Lord Shiva as Adi Kumbeswarar and Parvati as Mangalambigai Amman.
  • Significance: It is the primary temple in Kumbakonam, linked to the pot of nectar in Hindu mythology.
  • Features: It showcases Chola and Nayak architecture, including a 1400-year-old legacy.
  • Cultural Reference: it has rare statue of Jvaradeva/Jurakareśvara and a stone Nagaswaram.
  • The Siva Linga is slightly tilted at the top towards left.
  • It has four towers in four directions; The tallest is the eastern tower, with 11 stories and a height of 128 feet (39 m) .
  • The sixteen-pillared hall built during the Vijayanagara period has all the 27 stars and 12 zodiacs sculpted in a single stone.
  • During cosmic dissolution, a pot containing nectar (Amirta) was floating and lord Siva came in the disguise of a hunter and pierced the pot with an arrow, thereby making the nectar to flow through it’s nostril on all sides. Hence this place is named Kudamooku (kuda – pot; mooku – nostril or tip). Kudam in Sanskrit is Kumbham. The Kumbeswarar (Linga) is on the form of conical lingam. That gave the name Kumbha konam.

***

Special Features of Nageshwar Shiva Temple

The presiding deity is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Tevaram. The temple is one of the earliest of all Chola temples. Shiva in the guise of Nagaraja, the serpent king.

Sun rays fall directly on the deity during April-May. 

WHITE FIGURE- PADAKACHERI SWAMI WHO RENOVATED THE TEMPLE IN 1920S.

 

Key Details of Nageshwar Temple, Kumbakonam:

  • Deity: Lord Shiva is worshipped as Nageswaran, Naganathar, or Koothandavar.
  • Architecture: Known as Kudandai Keezhkkottam, the temple is a masterpiece of Chola engineering, with the main sanctum constructed in the shape of a chariot.
  • Astronomy & Light: The temple is designed so that sun rays fall on the central lingam for three days in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April/May).
  • Significance: It is one of the 12 temples associated with the Mahamaham festival.
  • Legend: It is believed that the serpent king Adisesha worshipped Shiva here. Another legend features kings and sages worshipping here to overcome obstacles.
  • Specialty: It is a major spot for relieving Rahu dosham, with special prayers held on Mondays and Thursdays. 

The temple complex is famous for its intricate carvings and its role as a key historical site representing the Chola dynasty’s architectural prowess.

The temple has numerous shrines, with those of Nageswarar, Pralayamkathanathar and Periyanayagi being the most prominent..

This place has been referredto  in Tevaram written by Saint Tamil poet of 7th Century CE, Thirugnana Sambanthar. So it is older than 1400 years.

The temple had been a centre of learning as seen from the inscriptions in the temple. The inscriptions indicate specific subjects like Purvamimansa styled as Pravahakarma. There were also provisions made for feeding and maintaining for teachers and students

–subham—

Tags-  Famous Shiva Temples in Kumbakonam, Kumbeshwar, Nageshwar, Stone Nadaswara, Stone Chariot, Mahamakam Tank, Festival, Adishesan, Snake worship, PICTURES BY LONDON SWAMINATHAN

Two Famous Vishnu Temples of Kumbakonam that I Visited (Post No.15,483)

Pictures are taken by London Swaminathan’.

Written by London Swaminathan

Post No. 15,483

Date uploaded in Kumbakonam, India –  10 March 2026

Contact – swami_48@yahoo.com

Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.

this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.

tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com

xxxx  

Like Kanchipuram, Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu is also dotted with several Vishnu and Shiva temples. They are called Temple Towns; only difference is Kanchi has Jain temples as well. In Kanchi one can see more Pallava influence and in Kumbakonam one can see more Choza influence.

The Vishnu temples I visited on 5-3-2026, are Bow Holder Temple (Sarangapani) and Wheel Holder Temple (Chakrapani). They are sung by Alvars, Tamil Vaishnavite saints and dated 1200 to 1500 years old. Both the temples have some unique features.

Vishnu has five weapons in his hands.

Vanamali Gadi Sarangi Shanki Chakri Cha Nandaki Shriman Narayano Vishnur Vasudevo Bhirakshatu.

वनमाली गदी शार्ङ्गी शङ्खी चक्री च नन्दकी।

श्रीमान् नारायणो विष्णुर्वासुदेवोऽभिरक्षतु॥

Vanamali (वनमाली): One who wears the Vanamala, a divine garland made of forest flowers (Vaijayanti), representing the subtler elements of nature.

Gadi (गदी): The bearer of the mace named Kaumodaki;

Sharngi (शार्ङ्गी): The wielder of the Sharnga bow;

conch (Shankhi), discus (Chakri), and sword (Nandaki).

Lord Narayana, who is adorned with these divine weapons and symbols, including the conch (Shankhi), discus (Chakri), and sword (Nandaki). It is chanted for safety and to remove obstacles.

Let us first visit Sarngapani (saarngapaani) Sarngam is the bow and Paani in Sanskrit is Hand.

The Sarangapani Temple is a 1000 year old Hindu temple in  dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is depicted holding the sharanga (bow). It is one of the 108 Divya Desams and a significant Pancharanga Kshetram located on the Kaveri River bank. It features unique chariot-shaped architecture and legends.

Situated in Kumbakonam, this temple is revered in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham by seven Alvars (poet-saints).

Architecture: The main sanctum is designed like a chariot (Ratha) pulled by elephants and horses, featuring intricate carvings from the Chola and Nayak periods.

Deity: Lord Sarangapani is in a reclining posture (Bhujanga sayanam) on the chariot bed.

Legends: The temple is associated with Sage Hemarishi, who did penance to have Lakshmi as his daughter, and it is a Pancha Kshethram where Goddess Lakshmi was born as Bhargavi.

Key Spots: Includes the Pathala Srinivasan sanctum (underground) and the Mettu Srinivasan (above ground) sanctum.

Festivals: The temple celebrates major festivals, including the chariot festival (Rathotsavam).

Lakshmi emerged from the Potramarai tank among thousand lotuses and was thus named Komalavalli (the one who emerged from lotus). Vishnu descended to earth as Aravamudhan in a chariot drawn by horses and elephants from his abode Vaikuntam.He stayed in the nearby Someswaran Temple to convince Lakshmi to marry him and the couple eventually got married. The temple follows Pancharatra Agama and Vadakalai tradition.

Tallest tower

The Sarangapani Temple dates back to the Pallava era; however, the existing edifice is linked to the Vikrama Chola period, beginning in 1121 AD. Its importance grew significantly during the reigns of the Vijayanagara and Nayaka dynasties from the 15th to the 17th centuries, which saw considerable expansion of the temple’s structure

A notable highlight of the Sarangapani Temple is its main entrance, the rajagopuram, which rises to a height of 173 feet and consists of eleven tiers. This structure is the tallest temple tower in Kumbakonam and ranks as the third tallest gopuram among the Divya Desams, following Srirangam (236 feet) and Srivilliputhur (192 feet).

Trial Run of the New Chariot

Trial run of the New Ratha/ Chariot of Sarngapani

Is taking place on 13-3-2026. This is one of the biggest chariots of Tamil temples.

Height – 60 feet; Weight 500 Tons;

Chariot’s horses and other figures are made up of papier mache and bamboo. It will be used next Chitrai month . Thousands of people will pull it using 300 metre long huge rope.

***

Chakrapani temple

All the Shiva and Vishnu temples are in walking distance. Chakrapani temple is unique in many respects.

In the Chakrapani Temple, Lord Vishnu appears in the form of a discus or Chakra to put down the pride of Surya, who subsequently became his devotee. Like Lord Shiva, Lord Chakrapani has a third eye on his forehead.

Lord Vishnu appears as the fiery Sudarshana Chakra with eight arms and a third eye, resembling Lord Shiva to subdue Surya’s pride. It is known for its “Bhaskara Kshetram” where the Sun God worships the deity. Bhaskra means Sun/Surya.

Picture shows Sun God worshipping Chakrapani.

Unique Deity Form: Lord Chakrapani is depicted not as a human avatar but as the radiant, Sudarshana Chakra (wheel ) housed in a central sanctum.

Third Eye & Eight Arms: Unlike typical Vishnu forms, this idol has eight arms holding weapons and a third eye on the forehead, similar to Lord Shiva.

Bilva leaves are used here instead of Tulsi.

Sun Worship (Bhaskara Kshetram): Legend holds that the Sun God (Surya) worshipped the Chakra here to regain his lost brilliance, making it a prominent place for Sun worship.

Architecture & Entrances: The temple has a five-tiered Raja Gopuram and features two entrances—”Thatchinaya Vayil” and “Utharavana Vayil”—and an outer Prakara built like a balcony.

Historical Significance: A bronze statue of the Maratha King Serfoji II is present, as he is said to have been cured of a severe illness by the deity.

Important Rituals: It is one of the five Vishnu temples involved in the Mahamaham festival, with major, unique celebrations including the, Thirumanjanam (holy bath) and special, worship during Masi Magam.

Pancha Mukha Hanuman: The temple complex contains an idol of the five-faced Hanuman.

The temple is also known for, being a place where worshippers, pray for relief, from, physical, or, mental, illnesses.

***

As per Hindu legend, Chakra (also called Sudarshana), is the most powerful weapon of god Vishnu. He once sent his weapon to nether world to kill king Jalandasura. The weapon is believed to have come out of the nether world through river Kaveri. God Brahma, installed the image of Sudarshana in the place where the temple is now located. Surya, the Sun god, who was glowing in brilliance, had his brightness diminished by the effulgent Sudarshana. Surya worshipped Sudarshana and pleased by his devotion, Sudarshana restored all the powers of Surya. He worshiped Chakrathazhwar (personified Wheel or Discuss) during Masi Magam and every year Masi Magam festival is celebrated during the day, commemorating the event. The temple car is drawn around the streets of the temple during the day.

–subham—

Tags- Kumbakonam, Sarngapani temple, Chakrapani temple, unique features, wheel, bow, Bhaskara kshetra, tallest tower, tallest chariot, Sun/Surya