Sattainathar Temple, Sirkazhi

Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu

Sattainathar Temple, located in Sirkazhi, is a remarkable testament to the rich blend of cultural heritage and spiritual devotion. With a history that spans centuries, the temple has preserved its original charm while adapting to the evolving times. Its unique architecture reflects the craftsmanship of skilled artisans, while its rituals echo ancient traditions passed down through generations. Visitors are captivated by the intricate carvings, sacred idols, and the serene courtyards that invite both prayer and reflection. This temple has not only served as a centre of worship but also as a cultural hub where stories, art, and traditions thrive. For both devotees seeking divine blessings and heritage enthusiasts exploring India’s spiritual landscape, Sattainathar Temple in Sirkazhi offers a truly enriching experience. Its legacy also resonates with the grandeur of Historic temples in Tamil Nadu.

Sattainathar Temple History and Significance

Sattainathar Temple, also known as Brahmapureeswarar Temple and Thoniappar Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It is located in Sirkali, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is mentioned in the hymns of Thevaram and is classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam. It is an ancient temple complex with three different Shiva shrines in three stories.

Sattainathar Temple Interesting Facts
Sattainathar Temple Nearby Temples
Other Shiva Temples
Famous Temples from around

Sattainathar Temple Location Details

How to Reach Sattainathar Temple

By Road:

Sirkazhi is well-connected by road to major towns in Tamil Nadu such as Chennai (250 km), Chidambaram (20 km), and Nagapattinam (50 km). State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly.

By Train:

Nearest railway station: Sirkazhi Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu. From the station, the temple is easily accessible by auto-rickshaws or taxis.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (approximately 160 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Sirkazhi via connecting cities like Chidambaram.

Sattainathar Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall.

Other Shiva Temples

Legends Beliefs

In ancient times, this town had twelve different names, including Brahmapuram and Thonipuram. According to legend, during a deluge, Shiva carried the 64 arts on a raft, hence the name Thoniappar. Brahma is believed to have worshipped Shiva here, giving the name Bhramapureeswarar. The town was known as Kalumalam during the early Chola period.Thirugnanasambandar, a 7th-century Saiva poet, is believed to have been fed with divine milk by Parvati at this temple. The temple is maintained by Dharmapuram Adheenam, a Saivite mutt located in Mayiladuthurai.
Deities and Sub Deities

The temple houses three different forms of Shiva: Bhrammapureeswarar (Shivalingam) in the lower level, Uma Maheswarar (Toniappar) in the medium level, and Bhairavar (Sattanathar) in the upper level. The Bhramapureeswarar shrine is accompanied by Ambal Sthira Sundari/Thiripurasundari or Thirunilainayaki. The second level houses Periyanakar with Periyanayaki on a Thoni.
Offerings

The temple priests perform the pooja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. The rituals are performed six times a day, including Ushathkalam, Kalasanthi, Uchikalam, Sayarakshai, Irandamkalam, and Ardha Jamam. Each ritual comprises abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), neivethanam (food offering), and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps).
Architecture

The temple has vast Prakarams (courtyards) with high walls of enclosure. There are two sets of seven-tiered gopurams on the outer walls. The original shrine included the Bhrammapureeswarar shrine, the Tonniappar shrine, and the Sattanathar shrine. The temple was enlarged during the period of Kulothunga Chola I, Vikrama Chola, Kulothunga Chola II, and Kulothunga Chola III.
Festivals

Every year in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April – May), a 10-day festival is celebrated. The temple also observes weekly rituals like somavaram and sukravaram, fortnightly rituals like pradosham, and monthly festivals like amavasai (new moon day), kiruthigai, pournami (full moon day), and sathurthi.
Religious Practices

The temple is mentioned in the Saiva canonical work, Tevaram, by Thirugnana Sambanthar, Tirunavukkarasar, and Sundarar. There is a separate shrine for Sambandar celebrating the miracle of Parvati suckling the child Sambandar. Shiva is worshipped in three different forms: Shivalingam (Bhrammapureeswarar), Uma Maheswarar (Toniappar), and Bhairavar (Sattanathar).

FAQ's

Where is the Sattainathar Temple located?

The Sattainathar Temple is located in Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Nagapattinam district.

Which God is Sattainathar (Shiva), Bhramapureeswarar, Thoniappar, Periyanayagi (Parvathi)?

Sattainathar (Shiva), Bhramapureeswarar, Thoniappar, Periyanayagi (Parvathi) is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Sattainathar Temple?

The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall.

How to reach Sattainathar Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway station: Sirkazhi Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu. From the station, the temple is easily accessible by auto-rickshaws or taxis. Nearest airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (approximately 160 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Sirkazhi via connecting cities like Chidambaram.