Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu

Sthala Purana

The Name – Tirukurakkuka

Tirukurakkuka is one of five revered temples whose names conclude with the syllable 'ka', the others being Tiruvanaika, Tirukodikka, Tirunellikka, and Tirukolakka. The temple's distinctive name originates from an intriguing legend involving the worship of a monkey, lending the site its unique identity.

Temple Overview

Unlike many grand temple complexes, Tirukurakkuka features a modest, unassuming entrance devoid of the typical towering gopuram. A captivating painting adorns the space above the entrance, depicting Hanuman in a reverential pose worshipping Lord Shiva with unwavering devotion. This gateway leads devotees into the prakaram, a spacious courtyard that houses the balipeetam and Nandi. Within this enclosure, one also finds separate sannidhis dedicated to Vinayaka and Muruga, the latter accompanied by his consorts Valli and Deivanai. As worshippers make their way into the front mandap, to the right are the idols of Bairava, Surya the sun god, and Hanuman.

Directly across from the mandap stands the east-facing sannidhi of the temple's presiding deity. To the right of this main sanctum is the south-facing sannidhi housing the idol of the deity's female consort. At the entrance to the presiding deity's shrine, devotees are greeted by a statue of Hanuman with hands folded in a reverential posture of worship. The temple complex also features a separate, dedicated sannidhi for Hanuman himself.

Hanuman – The Consecrator

According to the sthala purana, it was Hanuman who originally consecrated the Shiva Linga enshrined here for his own worship. The legend relates that when Hanuman attempted to move the sand Linga created by Sita, his tail was severed, causing him to incur a dosha or spiritual affliction. Acting on Lord Rama's counsel, Hanuman journeyed to this spot and installed a Linga to worship in expiation. Thus, Hanuman occupies a place of special prominence in this temple's traditions. To this day, on every new moon, a homa or fire ritual is conducted in his honour. Moreover, each year during the Tamil month of Chittirai, two monkeys visit the temple and make offerings of leaves from the vilva tree to the enshrined deity — a miraculous occurrence that continues to be witnessed by local residents to this day.

Blessings & Theertham

The deity worshipped by Hanuman at this temple is believed to have the power to alleviate the negative effects of the Sun and Saturn on devotees. By seeking the blessings of this deity as well as Hanuman, who is known for his devotion and strength, worshippers aim to counteract malefic planetary influences and overcome obstacles. The temple is also associated with a sacred water body called 'Pazhavaru' or 'Ganapathy River', whose waters are thought to bestow blessings for a happy marriage and to grant couples the gift of children, removing any impediments in their path to parenthood. The pathikam composed by Tirunaavukkarasar is in the 5th Tirumurai.