Patteeswaram
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Patteeswaram is a small village, eight kilometres from Kumbakonam in the state of Tamil Nadu in India. The village was named after Patti, the calf of Kamadhenu, the divine cow in Hindu mythology. Other notable temple towns near Patteeswaram are:
The village is famous for two temples:
- Sri Thenupureeswarar Temple
- Lord Sakthivanesvara Temple
[edit] Thenupureeswarar Temple
This is a famous Shiva shrine that has the privilege of getting a mention in Thirugnanasambandhar's songs. This temple is also famous for "Shantha Swaroopi" Vishnu Durga. This was built by the Chola Kings.
Unlike in other temples, the Durga here is very soft in look and grace (Shanta Swarupi). Sitting on her vehicle Lion, placing the feet on the head of Demon Mahishasura, the Gooddess appears in a Tribanga stature, eight hands, three eyes and jewels in the ears. Generally, the Lion carrying Kali would be looking on the right side. But the Shanta Swarupi Durga’s Lion here faces the left side. In her hands, the mother holds, conch, wheel, bow, arrow, sword, shield and a parrot.
Visiting the Shiva Temples in the state, once saint Gnanasambandar came to Thirumazhapadi – Patteeswaram. It was summer. The Sun was at his peak. To protect Gnanasambandar from the scorching Sun, Lord Shiva sent a Pearl Umbrella (Muthupandal) through his Bhudaganas. The Lord wanted to enjoy the childish walking movement of child saint ordered Nandi to move from his place. Gnanasambandar’s joy knew no bounds and sung a pathigam (10 songs) beginning with the word Marai. The incidence is remembered each year during the Tamil Ani Month June-July) with all festive celebrations.
- The name Patteeswaram was derived from the daughter of the Divine Cow Kamadenu PATTI WHO worshipped the lord here.
- The Lord asked his vehicle Nandi to move a little so he could enjoy seeing the Child Gnanasambandar coming to have his Darshan.
- Sri Rama was relieved of Sayagathi dosha for killing Vaali.
- Goddess herself performed penance here.
- It was in Patteeswaram; Rishi Viswamitra was admitted in the company of Brahma rishis with the backing of Gayatri Mahamantra.
- Markandeya worshipped here.
- All the Navagrahas here face the Sun. And they are positioned as per the "Aagama" tradition.
