Overview
- Main Deity: Lord Padaleeshwarar (Lord Shiva).
- Goddess: Periyanayaki Amman (Gnanambigai).
- Location: Thirupathiripuliyur, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu.
- Sthala Vriksham (Holy Tree): Pathiri Tree (Stereospermum chelonoides).
- Significance: The 7th Shiva Sthalam in the Nadu Naadu region, with inscriptions dating back to Chola and Pallava periods.
Gallery
Thala Varalaru (Temple Legend)
The history of this temple is legendary for its miracles connected to the Saivite Saint Appar.
The Stone Boat Miracle: Saint Appar was tied to a heavy stone and thrown into the sea by the Pallava King (then a Jain). Appar chanted the Namah Shivaya mantra, and the stone floated like a wooden raft, carrying him safely to the shores of Thirupathiripuliyur.
The Pathiri Tree: The town name comes from Pathiri tree and Puliyur (Tiger-town). It is said Goddess Parvati performed penance under a Pathiri tree here to reunite with Lord Shiva.
Maha Vishnu's Worship: Legend says Lord Vishnu worshipped Shiva here to be relieved of a curse, highlighting the unity between the two deities.
Deity Details
| Deity | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Moolavar | Padaleeshwarar | A Swayambhu (self-manifested) Lingam. He is also known as Kannivana Nathar. |
| Amman | Periyanayaki | Standing in a separate shrine, she represents supreme wisdom and is also called Bruhannayaki. |
| Special Icon | Appar Adigal | A unique shrine for Saint Appar, commemorating his miraculous survival from the sea. |
Poets & Saints (The Tevaram)
This is a Paadal Petra Sthalam, immortalized in the hymns of the Nayanmars.
Thirunaavukkarasar (Appar): Having been saved by the Lord here, his verses on this temple are exceptionally emotional and powerful.
Gnanasambandar: He sang the glories of Padaleeshwarar, describing the floral beauty and spiritual aura of the Pathiri forest.
Arunagirinathar: He mentions this temple in his Tiruppugazh hymns dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Spiritual Benefits & Beliefs
Removal of Obstacles: Devotees pray here to overcome life-threatening situations and impossible obstacles, recalling Appar's miracle.
Marriage & Family: Women offer glass bangles and sarees to Periyanayaki Amman for a happy married life and well-being of children.
Healing: The sacred Pathiri tree is believed to have medicinal power; circumambulating the tree is said to support relief from respiratory ailments.
Key Festivals
- Vaikasi Brahmotsavam: The grand 10-day festival (May-June). The Appar Sailing Festival, marking the stone-floating miracle, is the highlight.
- Maha Shivaratri: Celebrated with four Kaala Pujas through the night.
- Aadi Pooram: Dedicated to Goddess Periyanayaki with special chariot processions.
Stay Near Padaleeswarar Temple
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