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Nageswara (also spelt as Nageshwara) temple, a Shivastalam
located in the temple town of Kumbakonam is known for its sculptural work,
Vimanams and Mandapams.
The Legend
It is believed that Surya is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here to
regain his lost splendour and hence the temple tank is named after Lord
Surya. Also known as "Vilvavanam", it is believed that a Vilva
leaf from the pot carrying the celestial nectar (associated with the
Kumbheswara temple) had drifted away and landed here. Aadi Seshan is said
to have worshipped here and Lord Shiva is said to have blessed him with
the might to bear the weight of the earth, here.
About The Temple
Possibly the oldest in Kumbakonam,
the Nageshwara temple, one of the finest early Chola temples, noted for
the quality of its sculpture. This temple is believed to have been
completed during the reign of Parantaka I (907-c.940). Though the temple
is small but it is known for its marvellous architecture that exceeds many
of the other Chola temples. The Nritta Sabha, or the dance hall, has an
elevated Mandapam with a flight of steps. The 12 zodiac signs, 2 mammoth
horses, 4 elephants all in stone adorn the Nataraja shrine
The principal shrine to Lord Shiva, standing in a country is connected to
a Mandapam (also spelt as Mandapa). The main niches on the sanctum wall
contain sculptures; on the north, "Dakshinamurti" ("South-Facing"
Shiva as teacher), on the west Ardhanarishvara (male Shiva and female
Shakti in one figure) and Brahma on the south. Joining them are
high-relief near-life-size sculptures of unidentified figures, perhaps
worshippers, donors or royalty. Within the courtyard, a shrine to Nataraja
features rearing horses and wheels, with tiny figures as spokes.
The Nataraja shrine here is shaped in the form of a chariot, and the
shrine dedicated to the Sun God is of great sculptural significance. So
imposing is the shrine to Nataraja, that the hymns of Appar are addressed
to Aadalvallar of Kudandai Keezhkottam in awe.
The Sun's rays fall on Nageswara in the sanctum on the 11th through the
13th day of the Tamil month Chithirai (Aries). Lord Shiva here is also
known as "Paataala Beejanathar". One can see other shrines
dedicated to Pralayakaala Rudrar and Kaali (also spelt as Kali) in the
temple complex.
Services And Festivities
The deity is offered five worship services everyday. The annual
Brahmotsavam is observed in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April).
Air: The nearest airport is at
Tiruchirapalli (Trichy).
Rail: Kumbakonam is
on the Chennai-Tiruchi
line.
Road: Kumbakonam is one of the important pilgrim centres of
Tamil Nadu. It is well connected by road with the major
cities and towns the state. For local transportation taxis and auto
rickshaws are also available.
Accommodation is available at the economy class hotels and choultries in Kumbakonam.