Indian Temples : Nagannathaswamy Temple | Keelaperumpallam, Tamil Nadu- Highlights

 

The Nagannathaswamy Temple, located in Keelaperumpallam near Poompuhar in Tamil Nadu, is a unique and sacred temple dedicated primarily to Ketu Bhagavan, one of the nine Navagrahas. This temple is part of the highly revered Navagraha Temple Circuit of Tamil Nadu and is especially important for devotees seeking relief from Ketu dosha. Alongside Ketu worship, the temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Naganathaswamy.

Surrounded by traditional Tamil landscapes and steeped in ancient legends, the temple attracts thousands of devotees seeking spiritual cleansing and planetary harmony.

History in Detail

The temple’s origins are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and early Chola history.

Mythological Background

According to legend:

  • Keelaperumpallam is associated with the story of Rahu and Ketu, the two shadow planets.
  • During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), the asura Swarbhanu disguised himself and consumed the divine nectar.
  • Lord Vishnu severed his head with the Sudarshana Chakra.
    • The head became Rahu,
    • The body became Ketu.
  • It is believed that Ketu came to Keelaperumpallam to worship Lord Shiva and seek relief from the curse.
  • Lord Shiva, pleased with his penance, blessed him and granted him a shrine of his own next to Him.

Historical Development

  • The temple is believed to have been built during the early Chola period, around the 7th–9th century CE.
  • Later enhancements were added by the Vijayanagara kings and local Pandya rulers.
  • Inscriptions found in the region indicate that the temple was an important centre for Shaivite worship.

Significance

  • One of the only major temples dedicated exclusively to Ketu Bhagavan.
  • Worshipping here is believed to remove Ketu dosha, effects related to obstacles, past karma, fear, sudden losses, and spiritual stagnation.
  • Considered highly powerful for:
    • Relief from serpentine afflictions (Naga dosha)
    • Improving intuition and spiritual growth
    • Removing unseen obstacles
  • The temple forms a key part of the Navagraha pilgrimage, attracting devotees from all over India.
  • Lord Shiva as Naganathaswamy signifies liberation from fear, illusion, and negativity.

Temple Details

Main Deities:

  • Lord Shiva (Naganathaswamy) – main deity
  • Ketu Bhagavan – positioned as a serpent-faced deity
  • Consort: Soundaranayagi Amman

Architectural Features:

  • Traditional Dravidian style architecture
  • Stone inscriptions and carvings typical of the Chola era
  • Ketu Bhagavan’s sanctum is always worshipped after worshipping Shiva
  • Snake motifs and sculptures symbolizing Ketu’s astral serpent form
  • A serene, compact temple complex with shrines for Vinayaka and Subramanya

Rituals & Poojas:

  • Rahu–Ketu Dosha Pariharam
  • Milk abhishekam to Ketu
  • Special rites on Tuesdays, Fridays, and during Rahu Kalam
  • Panguni Uttiram and Shivaratri are major festivals

Timings

  • Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
    Special Navagraha days may have extended timings.

Connectivity

By Air:

  • Nearest airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (approx. 145 km).

By Rail:

  • Nearest railway station: Mayiladuthurai Junction (30 km).
  • Well connected to Chennai, Trichy, and Thanjavur.

By Road:

  • Easily accessible via Mayiladuthurai – Poompuhar road.
  • Regular buses from:
    • Mayiladuthurai
    • Sirkazhi
    • Chidambaram
  • Taxis and autos available locally.

Legacy

The Nagannathaswamy Temple stands as one of India’s most powerful centres of Navagraha worship, especially for Ketu. The temple symbolizes spiritual purification, liberation from karmic burdens, and the transformative power of planetary blessings. Its deep connection to Chola heritage, mythology, and unique astral significance makes it a timeless pilgrimage destination.

For countless devotees, Keelaperumpallam offers peace, renewal, and the hope of removing life’s unseen obstacles—continuing its legacy as a beacon of cosmic harmony.


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