Saturday, January 9, 2016

Mahalingeswarar Temple, Thiruvidaimarudur – Theerthams

Mahalingeswarar Temple, Thiruvidaimarudur – Theerthams
There are as many as 32 Theerthams associated with this temple. This is perhaps one of the few temples with five Theerthams namely Karunyamitra, Iravadha, Soma, Kanaga and Kalyana Theerthams within the premises and 27 outside, but linked to this temple and Lingams installed in front of each of them. 27 Theerthams related to the 27 stars and five relate to the Pancha Bhoothas. 


 
Karunyamitra Theertham:
It is situated on the east side of the temple, This Theertham is known for Chitirai Vizha celebrations. It is the well known Theertham of this Temple and located inside the temple premises.
Krishna Koopam:
It is also known as Singa Muha Theertham / Singa Mugha Kinaru. It is situated in the Pranava Praharam near to the Bhairava Shrine. There are 3 places where a sacred well is in the form of a lion (Singa Kinaru). Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Virinchipuram and this place.
Bana Theertham:
Bana Theertham is situated on the north east of Banapuram. It is believed that this Theertham was established by Rama. A holy dip or bath in Vaikasi Pournami in this Theertham is considered auspicious.
Parachara Theertham:
Parachara Theertham is currently known as Pidari Kulam. It is situated at the junction of north and east streets. A bath in this Theertham in Marghazhi is sacred.
Soma Theertham:
Soma Theertham is currently called as Ayyanar Theertham. It is situated to the east of Karunyamitra Theertham. A bath in Soma Theertham removes all sins. It is located inside the temple premises.
Rudra Theertham:
Rudra Theertham is situated to the south of the sanctum.
Kavirippoosa Theertham:
Kavirippoosa Theertham is a point in river Kaveri. Idols are bathed during Thai Poosam in this Theertham.
Padma Theertham:
Padma Theertham is situated to the south east of Soma Theertham.
Indra Theertham:
Indra Theertham is situated to the south of the temple.
Other Theerthams:
Pandava Theertham (Not traceable), Iravadha Theertham, Agni Theertham, Kanaka Theertham and Ganga Kupam are some of the holy Theerthas associated with this Temple.