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{{Short description|Hindu temple in Tamil Nadu, India}}
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{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2020}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2020}}
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| country            = [[India]]
| country            = [[India]]
| state              = [[Tamil Nadu]]
| state              = [[Tamil Nadu]]
| district          = [[Tanjore]]
| district          = [[Thanjavur district|Thanjavur]]
| location          = [[Papanasam]]
| location          = [[Papanasam]]
| elevation_m        =  
| elevation_m        =  
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| tower              =  
| tower              =  
| festivals= Vaikasi Visagam, Navarathiri
| festivals= Vaikasi Visagam, Navarathiri
| architecture      = [[Dravidian architecture]]
| architecture      = [[Tamilan architecture]]
| temple_quantity  =  
| temple_quantity  =  
| monument_quantity=  
| monument_quantity=  
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| year_completed        = 6th century
| year_completed        = 6th century
| creator            =  
| creator            =  
| website            = http://garbaratchambigaitemple.org/
| website            = https://garbarakshambigaitemple.com/
}}
}}


'''Garbharakshambigai Temple''' (கர்ப்பரட்சாம்பிகை கோயில்)<ref name="ta.wikipedia.org">[[:ta:திருக்கருகாவூர் முல்லைவனநாதர் கோயில்]]</ref>  is a [[Hindu]] temple dedicated to [[Shiva]] located in Thirukarukavoor, [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]].<ref>''Census of India, 1961, Volume 7; Volume 9''</ref> The temple is located 6&nbsp;km east of [[Papanasam]], 20&nbsp;km south east of [[Kumbakonam]], 10&nbsp;km north of [[Saliyamangalam]], 20&nbsp;km north east of [[Thanjavur]] and on the southern bank of [[Vettar River]].<ref name="pillai12">Pillai 2000, pp. 12-16</ref>
'''Garbharakshambigai Temple''' is a [[Hindu]] temple dedicated to [[Shiva]] located in Thirukarukavoor, [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]].<ref>''Census of India, 1961, Volume 7; Volume 9''</ref> The temple is located {{convert|7|km|abbr=on}} south of [[Papanasam]], {{convert|20|km|mi|abbr=on}} south west of [[Kumbakonam]], {{convert|10|km|mi|abbr=on}} north of [[Saliyamangalam]], {{convert|20|km|mi|abbr=on}} north east of [[Thanjavur]] and on the southern bank of [[Vettar River]].<ref name="pillai12">[[#Pillai|Pillai 2000]], pp. 12-16</ref> Nearest railway station is Papanasam Railway Station, which is 6.7&nbsp;km from the temple. Temple is also located very close (3&nbsp;km) to National Highways 36 connecting [[Thanjavur]] and [[Kumbakonam]], making it easily accessible by road also. Constructed in the [[Chola architecture|Chola style of architecture]], the temple is believed to have been built during the [[Cholas]] period in the 7th century. Shiva is worshipped as Mullaivananathar and his consort [[Parvathi]] as Garbharakshambigai.
 
The presiding deity is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the ''[[Tevaram]]'', written by Tamil saint poets known as the [[Nayanmars]] and classified as ''[[Paadal Petra Sthalam]]''. A granite wall surrounds the temple, enclosing all its shrines. The temple has a five-tiered [[Rajagopuram]], the gateway tower.
 
The temple is open from 6 am - 1 pm and 4 pm  - 8:00 pm on all days. Six daily rituals and three yearly festivals are held at the temple, of which the Vaikasi Visagam for Mullaivananathar, Adipooram and Navarathri uthsavam for Ambal, Annabishekam, Kanthasashti, Karthigai Mahadeepam, Karthigai Sunday theerthavari and Panguni Uthram are some of the prominent festivals celebrated. Abhishekam using 1008 conches is performed to Lord Shiva on all Sundays in the Tamil month of Karthikai (Nov-Dec).<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Sri Garbarakshambigai & Sri Mullaivananathar Temple at Thirukarukavur |url=https://www.dharisanam.com/temples/sri-mullaivananathar-temple-at-thirukkarukavur}}</ref> The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the [[Government of Tamil Nadu]]. Garbharakshambigai is believed to have saved a fetus of her devotee (Vedhikai, wife of Sage Nithruvan)<ref name=":0" /> and hence the temple is frequented by people praying for child birth.


==Legend==
==Legend==
The place is also called Tirukalavur, Mullaivanam, Mathavipuram and Garabapuri. Since Mathavi is the temple tree, it is called Mathavipuram (Mullaivanam); ''Karu'' means womb, ''Ka'' means save and ''oor'' means village - Since womb is believed to be saved by the temple deity, the village is called Tirukarukavoor.<ref name="pillai12"/><ref name=Meena>{{cite book|title=Temples in South India|last=V.|first=Meena|publisher=Harikumar Arts|location=Kanniyakumari|year=1974|edition=1st|page=28}}</ref>
[[File:Tirukarugavoor4.JPG|alt=Depiction of the legend|250px|thumb|left|Sculpture indicating the legend]]
The place is also called Tirukalavur, Mullaivanam, Mathavipuram and Garabapuri. Since Mathavi is the temple tree, it is called Mathavipuram (Mullaivanam); ''Karu'' means fetus, ''Ka'' means to save, and ''oor'' mean  village - Since the fetus is believed to be saved by the temple deity, the village is called Tirukarukavoor.<ref name="pillai12"/><ref name=Meena>{{cite book|title=Temples in South India|last=V.|first=Meena|publisher=Harikumar Arts|location=Kanniyakumari|year=1974|edition=1st|page=28}}</ref> As per Hindu legend, a sage named Niruthuvar was living near the banks of river Vennar along with his wife Vedikai. One day, when the sage went out, another sage named Orthuvapathar arrived at their house seeking food. Vedika was pregnant then and due to tiredness, she was taking time to bring food. Orthuvapathar felt that the lady inside the house was humiliating him and he cursed her due to which the fetus was killed. Vedikai prayed to Ambigai for relief, who appeared as Garbharakshambigai and protected the fetus in a pot.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Sundararajan |first=K.R. |author2=Bithika Mukerji |title=Hindu spirituality: Postclassical and modern |year=2003 |publisher=Cross Road Publishing Company |location=USA |isbn=81-208-1937-3 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UUWIEfAY-mMC&q=vaitheeswaran+koil&pg=PA425|page=425}}</ref> The child was born at the right time, who was named Naithruvan. From then on, the presiding deity is worshiped by people seeking child birth.<ref name=Malai>{{cite news|title=கருவினைக் காத்தருளும் திருக்கருகாவூர் கர்ப்பரட்சாம்பிகை கோவில்|url=https://www.maalaimalar.com/devotional/devotionaltopnews/2016/06/01071152/1015719/Garbarakshambigai-Temple-Thirukarugavur.vpf|publisher=Malaimalar|accessdate=11 July 2021|date=1 June 2016|archive-date=11 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711072949/https://www.maalaimalar.com/devotional/devotionaltopnews/2016/06/01071152/1015719/Garbarakshambigai-Temple-Thirukarugavur.vpf|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Pancha Aranya Sthalams: Aranyam means forest and the following five temples at different forests Thanjavur / Kumbakonam / Thiruvarur region are revered as "Pancha Aranya Sthalams".<ref>http://www.shivatemples.com/sofc/sc099.php</ref>
==History==
* 1. Sri Mullaivananathar Temple at Tirukkarugavur – Mullai vanam [SCN018]
The temple has 31 inscriptions dating from the Chola period from the reigns of Koperi Varman, [[Rajaraja I]], [[Rajendra Chola I]] and [[Kulottunga I|Kulothunga Chola]].<ref name="pillai26"/> The inscriptions record the grants of the temple by the kings. The inscriptions are found on the walls of the temple, sanctum and also in the halls. The inscriptions are recorded in numbers 100, 102 and 110 in  ''South Indian Inscriptions, Volume III, Part III''.<ref name="pillai26"/> The inscription from the 21st year of [[Parantaka I]] records the grant of 1.5 ''veli'' of land (roughly 6 acres of land) by an individual named Vilayanattevan for maintaining ghee lamps of the temple. Another inscription from the 20th regnal year of the same king indicates a donation of 13 ''veli'' (roughly 52 acres of land) by a devotee named Tiruchitrambala Udayar to meet the expenses of the temple. The temple has additions from various ruling empires during the subsequent eras.<ref>{{cite book|title=History of People and Their Environs: Essays in Honour of Prof. B.S. Chandrababu|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=crxUQR_qBXYC&dq=tirukarugavur&pg=PA35|page=35|publisher=Bharathi Puthakalayam|year=2011|isbn=9789380325910|last1=B. S. |first1=Chandrababu|last2= S. |first2=Ganeshram|last3= C.| first3=Bhavani}}</ref> The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the [[Government of Tamil Nadu]].
* 2. Sri Satchi Nathar Temple at Avalivanallur – Paadhiri vanam [SCN100]
* 3. Sri Paathaaleswarar Temple at Thiru Aradaipperumpazhi (Haridwara mangalam) – Vanni vanam [SCN099]
* 4. Sri Aapathsahayeswarar Temple at Thiru Erumpoolai (Alangudi) – Poolai vanam [SCN098]
* 5. Sri Vilvavaneswarar Temple at Thirukollam Pudhur – Vilva vanam [SCN113]
 
== Significance ==
It is one of the shrines of the 275 [[Paadal Petra Sthalams]] - [[Shiva Temples of Tamil Nadu#Sthalams|Shiva Sthalams]] glorified in the early medieval ''[[Tevaram]]'' poems by Tamil Saivite [[Nayanars|Nayanar]] [[Tirugnanasambandar]]  [[Sundarar]]  and [[Appar]].


==Architecture==
==Architecture==
[[File:Tirukarugavoor2.JPG|thumb|200px|left|Entrance of the temple]]
{{Multiple image|caption_align=center|header_align=center
Thirukarukavoor Temple is dedicated to [[Shiva]] and is located near [[Papanasam]], [[Tanjore]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]. The temple has a 5-tier Raja[[gopuram]] and an outer ''[[prakaram]]''(closed precincts of a temple). There are inscriptions from [[Cholas]] and king Koparakesarivarman. The temple is 460&nbsp;ft by 284&nbsp;ft and has a ''[[rajagopuram|gopuram]]'' facing east and also has an entrance facing south.<ref name="pillai12"/> There is a garden in the southern side and a Vasantha Mandapam in the north.<ref name="pillai12"/> The sanctum of Mullaivananathar is in the second precinct and the shrine of Amman is located parallel to the Swami shrine. The shrine is Nandi is located in front of Swami, with the Palipeeda and Dwajasthambam located right behind the Nandi.<ref name="pillai12"/> There is a Nataraja hall and a yagasalai. There are separate shrines for Natarajar, Somaskanda, Karpaga Vinayagar and Navagrahas.<ref name="pillai12"/> There are separate shrines for [[Sezhkizhar]], [[Nalvar]], Santhanachariar, [[Dakshinamoorthy]], Nrithivu Nayakkar, [[Arthanariswarar]], [[Mahalakshmi]], [[Arumugan]], [[Brahma]], [[Durga]] and [[Chandikeswarar]].<ref name="pillai12"/> There are four water bodies associated with the temple. Sheerakundam (Parkulam) is the temple tank located opposite to the temple and the water is believed to be born out of the milk of [[Kamadenu]], the sacred cow.<ref name="pillai17">Pillai 2000, pp. 17-19</ref> Sathyakupam is a well located in between the shrines of Swami and Amman. Brahma Theertham is a tank located north east of the temple - Nataraja gives theerthavari during Karthigai Thivatharai in this tank.<ref name="pillai17"/> Vritha Kaveri is the branch of Kaveri, Vettaru (also called Mullivay) - the stepshore is the bank for many of the temple occasions.<ref name="pillai17"/> The temple tree, Mullai tree is located in between the Swami shrine and Chandikeswarar shrine.<ref name="pillai17"/>
|align=left
| total_width = 400
| width1 = 2048 | height1 = 1536
| width2 = 2048 | height2 = 1536
|direction=horizontal
|image1=Lord Dakshinamoorthy.JPG
|image2=Tirukarugavoor5.JPG
|footer=Shrines within the temple
}}
Thirukarukavoor Temple is dedicated to [[Shiva]] and is located near [[Papanasam]], [[Thanjavur]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]. The nearest railway station is in [[Papanasam]], about 3 kilometres from the place. The nearest airport is in [[Trichy]]. Thirukarukavoor is situated in [[Thirukkarugavur]], a village located on the banks of [[Vettar River]], a tributary of [[River Cauveri]].<ref>{{cite book|title=The Top Ten Temple Towns of India|publisher=Mark Age Publication|first=S.C.|last=Karkar|location=Kolkota|isbn=978-81-87952-12-1|year=2009|page=81}}</ref> People from Chennai and northern parts of Tamil Nadu may reach Kumbakonam and from there to Thirukarukavoor. People from east and southern parts of Tamil Nadu must reach Thanjavur and from there to Thirukarukavoor. The temple is one of the prominent and most visited temples in the district.<ref name="TN">{{cite web|title=What to see - Thanjavur district attractions|url=http://www.thanjavur.tn.nic.in/whattoseetou.html|publisher=Thanjavur District Administration|access-date=2013-07-07|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518021412/http://www.thanjavur.tn.nic.in/whattoseetou.html|archive-date=2013-05-18}}</ref> The temple has a 5-tier Raja[[gopuram]] and an outer ''[[prakaram]]''(closed precincts of a temple). The temple is 460&nbsp;ft by 284&nbsp;ft and has a ''[[rajagopuram|gopuram]]'' facing east and also has an entrance facing south.<ref name="pillai12"/> There is a garden in the southern side and a Vasantha Mandapam in the north.<ref name="pillai12"/> The sanctum of Mullaivananathar is in the second precinct and the shrine of Amman is located parallel to the Swami shrine. The shrine is Nandi is located in front of Swami, with the Palipeeda and Dwajasthambam located right behind the Nandi.<ref name="pillai12"/> There is a Nataraja hall and a yagasalai. There are separate shrines for [[Nataraja]], [[Somaskanda]], [[Ganesha|Karpaga Vinayagar]] and [[Navagraha]]s.<ref name="pillai12"/> There are separate shrines for [[Sekkizhar]], [[Nalvar]], Santhanachariar, [[Dakshinamurthy]], Nrithivu Nayakkar, [[Ardhanarishvara|Arthanariswarar]], [[Mahalakshmi]], [[Arumugam]], [[Brahma]], [[Durga]] and [[Chandeshvara Nayanar|Chandikeswarar]].<ref name="pillai12"/> There are four water bodies associated with the temple. Sheerakundam (Parkulam) is the temple tank located opposite to the temple and the water is believed to be born out of the milk of [[Kamadenu]], the sacred cow.<ref name="pillai17">[[#Pillai|Pillai 2000]], pp. 17-19</ref> Sathyakupam is a well located in between the shrines of Swami and Amman. Brahma Theertham is a tank located north east of the temple - Nataraja gives theerthavari during Karthigai Thivatharai in this tank.<ref name="pillai17"/> Vritha Kaveri is the branch of Kaveri, Vettaru (also called Mullivay) - the stepshore is the bank for many of the temple occasions.<ref name="pillai17"/> The temple tree, Mullai tree is located in between the Swami shrine and Chandikeswarar shrine.<ref name="pillai17"/> In 2020, a hall for Annadhanam was added by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Department, by the Government of Tamil Nadu.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/dec/08/18-eb-sub-stations-worth-rs-300-crore-inaugurated-2233243.html|title=18 EB sub-stations worth Rs 300 crore inaugurated|date=8 December 2020|accessdate=15 August 2021}}</ref>


==Literary Work==
==Religious significance==
[[File:Tirukkarukavur1.jpeg|thumb|Sculptures in mandapa]]
{{Multiple image|caption_align=center|header_align=center
The temple finds mention in ''[[Tevaram]]'', the 7th century 12 volume Saiva canonical work by Tamil saints, namely [[Appar]], [[Sundarar]] and [[Campantar]].<ref name="pillai23">Pillai 2000, pp. 23-24</ref> The temple also finds mention in ''[[Periya Puranam]]'' by Sezhkizhar, ''Siva Ksehtra Sivanamaga Kalivenba'' by Umapathi Sivam and ''Vinnapakali Venba'' by [[Ramalinga Adigal]].<ref name="pillai23"/>  ''Thalapuranam'' by Ambalavana Pandaram, ''Nanmaimalai'' & ''Rettaimanimalai'' by Veerabathra swamigal, ''Pathirru Panthathi'' by Govindaswami Pillai, ''Vadamozhi Slogangal'' by Anatharama Dikshithar and ''Amman thothirangal Tamilpattu'' by T.S. Vaithiyanathan are some of the religious works associated with the temple.<ref name="pillai23"/>
|align=right
 
| total_width = 400
==Inscriptions==
| width1 = 2048 | height1 = 1536
[[File:Garbharakshambigai Temple Timings.png|thumbnail|right|Garbharakshambigai Temple Timings]]
| width2 = 2048 | height2 = 1536
The temple has 31 inscriptions dating from the Chola period from the reigns of Koperi Varman, [[Raja Raja I]], [[Rajendra Chola I]] and [[Kulottunga I|Kulothunga Chola]].<ref name="pillai26"/> The inscriptions record the grants of the temple by the kings. The inscriptions are found on the walls of the temple, sanctum and also in the halls. The inscriptions are recorded in numbers 100, 102 and 110 in  ''South Indian Inscriptions, Volume III, Part III''.<ref name="pillai26"/>
|direction=horizontal
 
|image1=Tirukarugavoor3.JPG
== Transport ==
|image2=Tirukkarukavur1.jpeg
The nearest railway station is in [[Papanasam]], about 3 kilometres from the place. The nearest airport is in [[Trichy]]. Thirukarukavoor is situated in Thanjavur - Kumbakonam main road. People from Chennai and northern parts of Tamil Nadu may reach Kumbakonam and from there to Thirukarukavoor. People from east and southern parts of Tamil Nadu must reach Thanjavur and from there to Thirukarukavoor. The temple is one of the prominent and most visited temples in the district.<ref name="TN">{{cite web|title=What to see - Thanjavur district attractions|url=http://www.thanjavur.tn.nic.in/whattoseetou.html|publisher=Thanjavur District Administration|access-date=2013-07-07|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518021412/http://www.thanjavur.tn.nic.in/whattoseetou.html|archive-date=2013-05-18|df=}}</ref>
|footer=Sculptures and temple tank
 
}}
==Festivals==
The temple finds mention in ''[[Tevaram]]'', the 7th century 12 volume Saiva canonical work by Tamil saints, namely [[Appar]], [[Sundarar]] and [[Campantar]]. It is one of the shrines of the 275 [[Paadal Petra Sthalams]] glorified in the Saiva canon.<ref name="pillai23">[[#Pillai|Pillai 2000]], pp. 23-24</ref> The temple also finds mention in ''[[Periya Puranam]]'' by Sezhkizhar, ''Siva Ksehtra Sivanamaga Kalivenba'' by Umapathi Sivam and ''Vinnapakali Venba'' by [[Ramalinga Adigal]].<ref name="pillai23"/>  ''Thalapuranam'' by Ambalavana Pandaram, ''Nanmaimalai'' & ''Rettaimanimalai'' by Veerabathra swamigal, ''Pathirru Panthathi'' by Govindaswami Pillai, ''Vadamozhi Slogangal'' by Anatharama Dikshithar and ''Amman thothirangal Tamilpattu'' by T.S. Vaithiyanathan are some of the religious works associated with the temple.<ref name="pillai23"/> The temple is one of the five Pancha Aranya Sthalams, the temples named after forest. Aranyam means forest and the following five temples at different forests Thanjavur / Kumbakonam / Thiruvarur region are revered as "Pancha Aranya Sthalams".The five temples are Mullaivananathar Temple at Tirukkarugavur – Mullai vanam, Satchi Nathar Temple at Avalivanallur – Paadhiri vanam, Paathaaleswarar Temple at Thiru Aradaipperumpazhi (Haridwara mangalam) – Vanni vanam, Aapathsahayeswarar Temple at Thiru Erumpoolai (Alangudi) – Poolai vanam and Vilvavaneswarar Temple at Thirukollam Pudhur – Vilva vanam.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pancha Aranya Stalams|url=http://www.shivatemples.com/sofc/sc099.php|publisher=Shaivam.org|access-date=10 July 2021|archive-date=25 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180825143304/http://www.shivatemples.com/sofc/sc099.php|url-status=dead}}</ref> Vaikasi Visagam for Mullaivananathar, Adipooram and Navarathri uthsavam for Ambal, Annabishekam, Kanthasashti, Karthigai Mahadeepam, Karthigai Sunday theerthavari and Panguni Uthram are some of the prominent festivals celebrated.<ref name="pillai26">[[#Pillai|Pillai 2000]], pp. 26</ref>
Vaikasi Visagam for Swami, Adipooram and Navarathri uthsavam for Ambal, Annabishekam, Kanthasashti, Karthigai Mahadeepam, Karthigai Sunday theerthavari and Panguni Uthram are some of the prominent festivals celebrated.<ref name="pillai26">Pillai 2000, pp. 26</ref>
 
==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:Tirukarugavoor3.JPG|The temple tank
File:Tirukarugavoor4.JPG|Depiction of the legend
File:Tirukarugavoor5.JPG|The Garbharakshambigai shrine
File:Lord Dakshinamoorthy.JPG|Lord Dakshinamoorthy
File:Gopuram view from Temple tank.JPG|Gopuram view from Temple tank
File:Gopuram of the temple.JPG|Gopuram of the temple
File:Sunset view in temple tank.JPG|Sunrise view in temple tank
File:The temple tank.JPG|The temple tank
File:Main Entrance of the Temple.JPG|Main Entrance of the Temple
</gallery>


==Notes==
==Notes==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist|20em}}


==References==
==References==
{{Refbegin}}
{{Refbegin}}
*{{Citation |last=Sundararajan |first=K.R. |author2=Bithika Mukerji |title=Hindu spirituality: Postclassical and modern |year=2003 |publisher=Cross Road Publishing Company |location=USA |isbn=81-208-1937-3 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UUWIEfAY-mMC&q=vaitheeswaran+koil&pg=PA425}}
*{{cite book|title=Mullaivananathar Tirukoil Varalaru|last =Pillai|first=M. Sivaguru|edition=6th|year=2000|publisher=Thirukoil Veliyeedu|ref=Pillai}}
*{{cite book|title=Mullaivananathar Tirukoil Varalaru|last =Pillai|first=M. Sivaguru|edition=6th|year=2000|publisher=Thirukoil Veliyeedu}}
{{Refend}}
{{Refend}}


==External links==
==External links==
* [http://garbaratchambigaitemple.org/ Official Website of Sri Garbarakshambigai Temple]
* [https://hrce.tn.gov.in/hrcehome/index_temple.php?tid=14056/ Official Website of Sri Garbarakshambigai Temple]


{{Famous Shiva temples}}
{{Famous Shiva temples}}

Latest revision as of 08:38, 12 March 2026


Garbarakshambigai Temple
Thirukkarugavoor
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DistrictThanjavur
DeityMullaivananathar
(Shiva) Garbharakshambigai
(Parvathi)
FestivalsVaikasi Visagam, Navarathiri
Features
  • Temple tank: Ksheera Kundam (Milk Pond)
Location
LocationPapanasam
StateTamil Nadu
CountryIndia
Garbharakshambigai Temple is located in Tamil Nadu
Garbharakshambigai Temple
Location in Tamil Nadu
Coordinates10°52′5″N 79°16′32″E / 10.86806°N 79.27556°E / 10.86806; 79.27556
Architecture
TypeTamilan architecture
Completed6th century
Direction of façade
East
Inscriptions31
Website
https://garbarakshambigaitemple.com/

Garbharakshambigai Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Thirukarukavoor, Tamil Nadu, India.[1] The temple is located 7 km (4.3 mi) south of Papanasam, 20 km (12 mi) south west of Kumbakonam, 10 km (6.2 mi) north of Saliyamangalam, 20 km (12 mi) north east of Thanjavur and on the southern bank of Vettar River.[2] Nearest railway station is Papanasam Railway Station, which is 6.7 km from the temple. Temple is also located very close (3 km) to National Highways 36 connecting Thanjavur and Kumbakonam, making it easily accessible by road also. Constructed in the Chola style of architecture, the temple is believed to have been built during the Cholas period in the 7th century. Shiva is worshipped as Mullaivananathar and his consort Parvathi as Garbharakshambigai.

The presiding deity is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanmars and classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. A granite wall surrounds the temple, enclosing all its shrines. The temple has a five-tiered Rajagopuram, the gateway tower.

The temple is open from 6 am - 1 pm and 4 pm - 8:00 pm on all days. Six daily rituals and three yearly festivals are held at the temple, of which the Vaikasi Visagam for Mullaivananathar, Adipooram and Navarathri uthsavam for Ambal, Annabishekam, Kanthasashti, Karthigai Mahadeepam, Karthigai Sunday theerthavari and Panguni Uthram are some of the prominent festivals celebrated. Abhishekam using 1008 conches is performed to Lord Shiva on all Sundays in the Tamil month of Karthikai (Nov-Dec).[3] The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu. Garbharakshambigai is believed to have saved a fetus of her devotee (Vedhikai, wife of Sage Nithruvan)[3] and hence the temple is frequented by people praying for child birth.

Legend[edit | edit source]

Depiction of the legend
Sculpture indicating the legend

The place is also called Tirukalavur, Mullaivanam, Mathavipuram and Garabapuri. Since Mathavi is the temple tree, it is called Mathavipuram (Mullaivanam); Karu means fetus, Ka means to save, and oor mean village - Since the fetus is believed to be saved by the temple deity, the village is called Tirukarukavoor.[2][4] As per Hindu legend, a sage named Niruthuvar was living near the banks of river Vennar along with his wife Vedikai. One day, when the sage went out, another sage named Orthuvapathar arrived at their house seeking food. Vedika was pregnant then and due to tiredness, she was taking time to bring food. Orthuvapathar felt that the lady inside the house was humiliating him and he cursed her due to which the fetus was killed. Vedikai prayed to Ambigai for relief, who appeared as Garbharakshambigai and protected the fetus in a pot.[5] The child was born at the right time, who was named Naithruvan. From then on, the presiding deity is worshiped by people seeking child birth.[6]

History[edit | edit source]

The temple has 31 inscriptions dating from the Chola period from the reigns of Koperi Varman, Rajaraja I, Rajendra Chola I and Kulothunga Chola.[7] The inscriptions record the grants of the temple by the kings. The inscriptions are found on the walls of the temple, sanctum and also in the halls. The inscriptions are recorded in numbers 100, 102 and 110 in South Indian Inscriptions, Volume III, Part III.[7] The inscription from the 21st year of Parantaka I records the grant of 1.5 veli of land (roughly 6 acres of land) by an individual named Vilayanattevan for maintaining ghee lamps of the temple. Another inscription from the 20th regnal year of the same king indicates a donation of 13 veli (roughly 52 acres of land) by a devotee named Tiruchitrambala Udayar to meet the expenses of the temple. The temple has additions from various ruling empires during the subsequent eras.[8] The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

Shrines within the temple

Thirukarukavoor Temple is dedicated to Shiva and is located near Papanasam, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. The nearest railway station is in Papanasam, about 3 kilometres from the place. The nearest airport is in Trichy. Thirukarukavoor is situated in Thirukkarugavur, a village located on the banks of Vettar River, a tributary of River Cauveri.[9] People from Chennai and northern parts of Tamil Nadu may reach Kumbakonam and from there to Thirukarukavoor. People from east and southern parts of Tamil Nadu must reach Thanjavur and from there to Thirukarukavoor. The temple is one of the prominent and most visited temples in the district.[10] The temple has a 5-tier Rajagopuram and an outer prakaram(closed precincts of a temple). The temple is 460 ft by 284 ft and has a gopuram facing east and also has an entrance facing south.[2] There is a garden in the southern side and a Vasantha Mandapam in the north.[2] The sanctum of Mullaivananathar is in the second precinct and the shrine of Amman is located parallel to the Swami shrine. The shrine is Nandi is located in front of Swami, with the Palipeeda and Dwajasthambam located right behind the Nandi.[2] There is a Nataraja hall and a yagasalai. There are separate shrines for Nataraja, Somaskanda, Karpaga Vinayagar and Navagrahas.[2] There are separate shrines for Sekkizhar, Nalvar, Santhanachariar, Dakshinamurthy, Nrithivu Nayakkar, Arthanariswarar, Mahalakshmi, Arumugam, Brahma, Durga and Chandikeswarar.[2] There are four water bodies associated with the temple. Sheerakundam (Parkulam) is the temple tank located opposite to the temple and the water is believed to be born out of the milk of Kamadenu, the sacred cow.[11] Sathyakupam is a well located in between the shrines of Swami and Amman. Brahma Theertham is a tank located north east of the temple - Nataraja gives theerthavari during Karthigai Thivatharai in this tank.[11] Vritha Kaveri is the branch of Kaveri, Vettaru (also called Mullivay) - the stepshore is the bank for many of the temple occasions.[11] The temple tree, Mullai tree is located in between the Swami shrine and Chandikeswarar shrine.[11] In 2020, a hall for Annadhanam was added by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Department, by the Government of Tamil Nadu.[12]

Religious significance[edit | edit source]

Sculptures and temple tank

The temple finds mention in Tevaram, the 7th century 12 volume Saiva canonical work by Tamil saints, namely Appar, Sundarar and Campantar. It is one of the shrines of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams glorified in the Saiva canon.[13] The temple also finds mention in Periya Puranam by Sezhkizhar, Siva Ksehtra Sivanamaga Kalivenba by Umapathi Sivam and Vinnapakali Venba by Ramalinga Adigal.[13] Thalapuranam by Ambalavana Pandaram, Nanmaimalai & Rettaimanimalai by Veerabathra swamigal, Pathirru Panthathi by Govindaswami Pillai, Vadamozhi Slogangal by Anatharama Dikshithar and Amman thothirangal Tamilpattu by T.S. Vaithiyanathan are some of the religious works associated with the temple.[13] The temple is one of the five Pancha Aranya Sthalams, the temples named after forest. Aranyam means forest and the following five temples at different forests Thanjavur / Kumbakonam / Thiruvarur region are revered as "Pancha Aranya Sthalams".The five temples are Mullaivananathar Temple at Tirukkarugavur – Mullai vanam, Satchi Nathar Temple at Avalivanallur – Paadhiri vanam, Paathaaleswarar Temple at Thiru Aradaipperumpazhi (Haridwara mangalam) – Vanni vanam, Aapathsahayeswarar Temple at Thiru Erumpoolai (Alangudi) – Poolai vanam and Vilvavaneswarar Temple at Thirukollam Pudhur – Vilva vanam.[14] Vaikasi Visagam for Mullaivananathar, Adipooram and Navarathri uthsavam for Ambal, Annabishekam, Kanthasashti, Karthigai Mahadeepam, Karthigai Sunday theerthavari and Panguni Uthram are some of the prominent festivals celebrated.[7]

Notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Census of India, 1961, Volume 7; Volume 9
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Pillai 2000, pp. 12-16
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Sri Garbarakshambigai & Sri Mullaivananathar Temple at Thirukarukavur".
  4. ↑ V., Meena (1974). Temples in South India (1st ed.). Kanniyakumari: Harikumar Arts. p. 28.
  5. ↑ Sundararajan, K.R.; Bithika Mukerji (2003). Hindu spirituality: Postclassical and modern. USA: Cross Road Publishing Company. p. 425. ISBN 81-208-1937-3.
  6. ↑ "கருவினைக் காத்தருளும் திருக்கருகாவூர் கர்ப்பரட்சாம்பிகை கோவில்". Malaimalar. 1 June 2016. Archived from the original on 11 July 2021. Retrieved 11 July 2021.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Pillai 2000, pp. 26
  8. ↑ B. S., Chandrababu; S., Ganeshram; C., Bhavani (2011). History of People and Their Environs: Essays in Honour of Prof. B.S. Chandrababu. Bharathi Puthakalayam. p. 35. ISBN 9789380325910.
  9. ↑ Karkar, S.C. (2009). The Top Ten Temple Towns of India. Kolkota: Mark Age Publication. p. 81. ISBN 978-81-87952-12-1.
  10. ↑ "What to see - Thanjavur district attractions". Thanjavur District Administration. Archived from the original on 18 May 2013. Retrieved 7 July 2013.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 Pillai 2000, pp. 17-19
  12. ↑ "18 EB sub-stations worth Rs 300 crore inaugurated". 8 December 2020. Retrieved 15 August 2021.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 Pillai 2000, pp. 23-24
  14. ↑ "Pancha Aranya Stalams". Shaivam.org. Archived from the original on 25 August 2018. Retrieved 10 July 2021.

References[edit | edit source]

  • Pillai, M. Sivaguru (2000). Mullaivananathar Tirukoil Varalaru (6th ed.). Thirukoil Veliyeedu.

External links[edit | edit source]

Template:Hindu Temples of Kumbakonam

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