Adhi Kandhanatha Swamy Temple, Erakaram… Sri Adhi Kandhanatha Swamy is located on the back side of the Shiva temple in a separate shrine. Adhi Kandhanatha Swamy is standing in the form of abhaya hastam posture. Arunagirinathar has sung some hymns in praise of this marvellous Temple in his Thirupukazh.
It is believed that the temple was constructed during the 12th Century by the great Chozha King Sri Vikrama Chozha. Hence this place was called Mumudi Chozhamangalam and as Kumarapura. Later this temple received contributions from Nayakas and Maratha kings.
Kanthanathaswamy Temple, is a temple situated in Erakaram, near Swamimalai in Thanjavur District in Tamil Nadu. It is situated a few kms far away from Kumbakonam.
It is one of the shrines of the Vaippu Sthalams sung by Tamil Saivite Nayanar Appar.
The chief deity is known as Kanthanathaswamy and Sankaranathar. His consort is known as Sankaranayaki. This temple can be easily reached from Swamimalai Temple.
This Sri Kandanatha Swamy Temple is also called Adhi Kandanathaswamy Temple and it is believed that this temple is the earlier temple to the Swamimalai, Swaminatha Swamy Temple. This place was called “Eaar” during the 8th – 9th Century and is now called Eraharam. It is believed that a visit to Swamimalai temple would get fulfilled only if we visit this temple also!
Today (27.05.2025), I was able to visit this excellent temple due to the grace of Lord Muruga.
SONGS IN PRAISE OF LORD MURUGA
I praise and praise the Lord of the Lords who resides in his holy abode Sri Skanda Loka and I want to explain what the 6-faced Murugan (Arumugam) is.
1 One face is for the going around the world falling prey to lord Shiva’s Thiruvilaiyadal without hesitation on his vehicle, Peacock
2 One face preached the secret of OM, the universal truth to Lord Shiva.
3 One face is the one that removes bad deeds of devotees who sang your praise.
4 One face that won over the demon, Soorapadman.
5 One face that fell in love with his devotees.
6 One face mercifully sees his consorts Ma Valli and Devasena and gives them the everlasting bliss forever.
“OM MURUGA VADIVEL AZHAGA”
COMPILED BY
R. HARISHANKAR