| Description:
This Shivastalam is located at Ratnagiri near Kulittalai, near Tiruchirappalli. There are
many literary works on Vaatpokki. It is considered to be of significance to visit Kadambar Kovil, Eengoi Malai
and Ratnagiri on the same day.
It is considered to be the 1st in the series of Tevara Stalams in the
Chola kingdom located south of the river Kaveri. The
Temple: The Ratnagireeeswarar temple is built on a hillock reached by a flight of
1000 steps while the Sivapureeswarar temple is at ground level. Shiva and Ambal face each
other in the Upadesa formation.
Legends: There are several colorful legends associated with this
shrine where it is believed that Indra, Surya, Adi Seshan, Durga, Agasthya Muni and the
Sapta Matas have worshipped. This hill temple is believed to be worshipped by lightning
once every 12 years.
Festivals: Arudra Darisanam in Margazhi witnesses the procession of
Nataraja in a decorated chariot. Thai Poosam represents the visit of the processional
deity to Kadambanturai and the convergence of
deities from several temples there. The 'Ther' or chariot procession highlights the 9th
day of the Bhrammotsavam in Chittirai (Aries), while the float festival in Pankuni
(Pisces) witnesses the procession of the deity on a horse mount, through the surrounding
villages. |
