Apatsahayesvarar Temple also known as Guru Sthalam is a Shiva temple located in the village of Alangudi, which is in the Valangaiman taluk of the Tiruvarur district, Tamil Nadu, India. The lingam indicates Lord Shiva, who is honoured as Apathsahyesvarar. Parvati, his wife, is portrayed by Elavarkuzhali. This temple is also known as Tiru Irum Poolai in the local language.

The presiding deity is praised in the Tamil Saiva canonical work Tevaram, which was written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanmars and is classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. It is significant to the Saivism branch of Hinduism because it contains temples dedicated to Guru (Jupiter), the ninth planet element, and the Navagraha Stalas.

Story Behind Apatsahayesvarar Temple

According to Hindu legends, the Alangudi Temple is deeply rooted in a long history of beliefs. As Gods and demons searched the ocean for the nectar of immortality, one of these beliefs claims that Lord Shiva consumed the poison of the snake Vasuki. On earth, in heaven, and in hell, it is said that if anyone came into contact with Vasuki’s poison, it would kill them all. In order to save the three worlds, Lord Shiva consumed the poison himself, earning the name “Apatsahayeswarar,” which translates to “rescuer” in Tamil. This selfless deed earned the place the name Alangudi, which translates to “place of poison drink.”

History of Apatsahayesvarar Temple

It is believed that the Cholas constructed the complex’s original masonry structure before the Nayak dynasty added to it in the 16th century. According to the website of the temple authority, a legendary story served as the inspiration for building the temple.

According to legend, the temple was constructed by King Masukuntha Chakravarti, who had previously murdered his minister Amuthokar for not giving up his virtue in the king’s service. But when the minister was killed and his name was heard all over the country, the king was frightened. As mercy for his sins, the king built the temple and overwhelmingly worshipped Lord Shiva.

Architecture of Apatsahayesvarar Temple

The Apathsaheswarar Temple in Alangudi has two prakarams, or enclosed precincts, and a five-tiered rajagopuram, or gateway tower. The Apathsaheswarar and Elavarkuzhali shrines are the most well-known among the numerous shrines in the two-acre temple complex.

The Apathsaheswarar temple and the north are both visible from the temple’s two-tiered gateway towers, or gopurams. Within the temple complex, Elavarkuzhali has a separate shrine, whereas Apathsaheswarar is honoured at the primary shrine. The elaborate sculptures, vibrant murals, and intricately carved pillars of the temple are typical of South Indian temple architecture. The temple’s garbhagriha, or sanctum sanctorum, is located in the middle. Smaller shrines dedicated to various gods surround it.

Facts about Apatsahayesvarar Temple

• This temple is one of the popular Navagraha temples, it has the deity of Guru (Jupiter).
• Alangudi Apatsahayesvarar Temple is believed to have been constructed by an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva named Amuthokar who was the minister of a King named Masukuntha Chakravarthy.
• The presiding deity, Apatsahayesvarar of this temple is a Swayambu linga, Murti.
• Since there isn’t a direct shrine for the planet Jupiter in this location, Lord Dakshinamurthy, who is revered as Jupiter’s representative, is worshipped here at the Alangudi Abathsagayeswarar Temple with great devotion.
• Alangudi Apatsahayesvarar Temple is considered a “Panch Aranya Sthalam” which means a place covered by 5 forests.
• Poolai Bush is viewed as the sacred tree of Alangudi Apatsahayesvarar Temple and it is an object of love here.

Famous Festivals In Apatsahayesvarar Temple

• Amavasai (new moon day), Kiruthigai, Pournami (full moon day), and Sathurthi are monthly celebrations.
• Vinayaka Chaturthi, Aadi Pooram, Navaratri, Skanda Sashti, Kartikai Deepam, Arudra Darisanam, Thaipusam, Maasi Magam, Panguni Uththiram, and Vaikasi Visakam are additional festivals.
• During the Tamil month of Chittirai (April–June), the major festival known as Brahmotsavam is observed. During this time, special worship practices are observed, and the festival image of the deity is paraded through the streets of Alangudi.

How to Reach Apatsahayesvarar Temple

The temple is located in the village of Alangudi in the Valangaiman taluk of Tiruvarur district, Tamil Nadu, India.

By Air: The Trichy airport is 98 kilometres away from the temple. Pondicherry Airport is 151 Km from the temple.

By Rail: Kumbakonam is 16 km from the temple, and Needamangalam is 7 km from the temple.

By Road: Apatsahayesvarar Temple is located in Alangudi near Kumbakonam. Frequent bus facility available The temple is located 18 km from Kumbakonam Bus Terminal.

Also Read – Agniswarar Temple Kanjanur