The unique and revered shrine where Lord Shiva is worshipped alongside Goddess Parvati seated on his lap, symbolising the inseparable union of Shiva and Shakti.
According to legend, Goddess Parvati undertook intense penance at this sacred site, desiring not merely to be Lord Shiva's consort but to merge completely with his divine essence. Moved by her devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before her in a radiant form. When she expressed her wish to become one with him, Shiva accepted her request and allowed her to sit on his lap, signifying the eternal, inseparable nature of Shiva and Shakti.
In this temple, the Shiva Lingam is uniquely depicted embraced by Goddess Parvati, earning Lord Shiva the name Sivakozhundeesvarar, and the temple is fondly referred to as Sakthi Mutram, meaning the divine embrace of Shakti.
It is believed that sincere prayers offered here bless devotees with a life partner of their choice.
The temple holds significant historical value:
- The shrine is one of the 276 Paadal Petra Sthalams, glorified in the hymns of the Tamil Saivite saints.
- The temple was reconstructed in stone during the reign of Sembiyan Madevi and the early years of Raja Raja Chola I (circa 1000 CE).
- Inscriptions from the period of Raja Raja Chola II (1166–1182 CE), Kulothunga Chola III, and the Vijayanagara Empire are found within the temple premises, highlighting its rich heritage and continued patronage across centuries.
Located near the famous Patteeswaram Temple, the Sakthivanesvarar Temple is locally known as Chinna Kovil (meaning "small temple") and remains an important spiritual destination for devotees in the region.
Legend also states that to test Goddess Parvati's devotion, Lord Shiva delayed granting her darshan. Undeterred, Parvati intensified her penance, standing on one leg until Shiva finally appeared as a brilliant flame (Jyothiswarupam). Upon recognising him, she embraced the Lord, marking the divine union celebrated at this temple.
Source : alayathuligal, Dinamalar, Exploring My Life