Sattainathar Temple in Sirkazhi - Paadal Petra Sthalam

Sattainathar temple in Sirkazhi is located in the northern bank of river Kaveri, is one of the 276 holy shrines of Saivite saints. This is a vast temple complex where Lord Shiva appears in three different forms as the Shiva Lingam (Brahmapureeswarar), a colossal image of Uma Maheswarar (Thoniappar) and Bhairavar (Sattainathar). From the steps leading to the Thoniappar and the Vatuka Nathar shrine, one can grasp the entire layout of this vast temple from its towers to the mandapams. There are 22 holy theerthams associated with this shrine. It is believed that there was once a great deluge that submerged the entire earth. During this incident, lord Shiva is believed to have carried the 64 arts with him on a raft (‘Thoni’ in Tamil) and reached this shrine where he stayed with Goddess Parvati.

Hence this place gets the name, “Thonipuram” and the lord is praised as ‘Thoniappar’. Lord Bhairavar, who is believed to have quelled the arrogance of Lord Trivikrama after his show of dominance over the three worlds is worshiped here every Friday night. It is considered very auspicious to worship the lord at this time. Lord Shiva in this temple is self-manifested. This is the birthplace of the renowned saint ‘Thirugnanasambandar’, the first of the four Samaya Kuravars (Nalvar). This is also the birthplace of saint Gananatha, one of the 63 Nayanmars. As per Hindu myths, Vanity and arrogance are often considered to be the qualities against humanity. Devotees believe that worshiping the lord here will help them to come out of those qualities. Those involved in litigation issues seek the lord’s blessings to help them win their cases.