shivaheader.jpg (29087 bytes)

133. Sivapuram

சிவபுரம் 

Location: Kumbhakonam near Kumbhakonam .
(Chola Naadu-South of Kaveri )
Shiva: Sivapuranathar
Ambal: Periyanayaki, Singaravalli
Vriksham: Shanbagamaram
Theertham: Surya Theertham
Patikam : Sambandar, Appar
Travel Base: Thanjavur
Description: This Shivastalam is located 5 km south east of Kumbhakonam. Sivapuram is considered to be the 67th in the series of Tevara Stalams in the Chola kingdom located south of the river Kaveri. 

Legend has it that Vishnu in his Varaaha Avataram (Boar) worshipped Shiva here; carvings of the Stalapuranam are seen in the temple. This legend is similar to that at Aradaipperumpaazhi (Haridwaramangalam) and Avalivanallur. .Bhrama is said to have worshipped Shiva here before he undertook his task of creation. Legend has it that Kubhera worshipped Shiva here and hence the name Kubherapuri. 

It is believed that there is a Shivalingam under the earth within this temple and that Tirugnanasambandar, cognizant of this, and out of respect refused to set his foot in the temple premises, but circumambulated the temple through the ritual angapradakshinam.

The  temple occupies an area of about 1.3 acres and has a 5 tiered Rajagopuram. The internal prakaram has a 3 tiered Gopura entrance; there are shrines to Subramanya and Gajalakshmi and others. There is also a sculptured image of the stalapuranam depicting Varahamurthy worshipping Shiva with flowers. The Bhairava shrine is considered to be of significance here; two worship services are offered to Bhairavar.

Four worship services are offered each day. The annual festival is celebrated in the month of Kartikai. Sivaratri and Navaratri are the other festivals celebrated here.

WB01343_.gif (599 bytes)         WB01345_.gif (616 bytes)

[Abodes of Shiva - Home] [The Templenet Encyclopedia][Temple Architecture][Travel & Tourism] [[Festivals& Fairs]Beliefss & Legends]]
The Templenet Homepage