Chandrasekharar, Mappadugai, Mayiladuthurai


The sthala puranam of this temple is connected to that of the nearby Tirumeni Azhagar temple at Mappadugai / Pandaravadai. This small but beautiful temple is where Chandran – fearing Suryan’s curse and the effect of eclipses – worshipped Lord Siva and was blessed by Him, and was able to return to the other temple without fear. Equally interesting is one story of how the place gets is name. Continue reading Chandrasekharar, Mappadugai, Mayiladuthurai

Tirumeniazhagar, Mappadugai, Nagapattinam


This nondescript temple in a small village of Mappadugai / Pandaravadai is said to be quite old, given that it is constructed entirely of bricks. The temple is noted in the region for its unique Navagraham arrangement, causing it to be a preferred place of worship during eclipse times, and also to ward of Chandra dosham. However, what is the interesting Ramayanam story that may have given this village its name? Continue reading Tirumeniazhagar, Mappadugai, Nagapattinam