This history of Alangudi Guru Bhagavan Temple (Arulmigu Abathsahyeswarar Temple – Sthala Puranam) dates back to Chola Kingdom.
Alangudi in 127 Sthalams
274 Sthalams of erstwhile Chola Country have been sung in Devaram and Alangudi is one among the 127 Sthalams, situated on the southern banks of Cauvery river. Sage Sukha, Rishi Viswamithra, Sage Agastya, Adisankara and several other hoy men have worshipped at this shrine. The Lord of this Sthalam is Swayumbhu (Natural origination of the idiol). Hence, the period of this temple could not be fixed accurately. The temple is existing from ancient times.
Temple Construction – Who constructed Alangudi Temple?
This temple was believed to be constructed by an ardent of Lord Shiva. ‘Amuthokar’, the minister of the King Masukuntha Chakravarti. He was beheaded by the Chakravarti, as he refused to give half of his Punya, (merit) to the King. On his death, the sthalam reverberated with the sound ‘Amuthokar’. The King got frightened at this constant diabolic echo, realizes his mistake and worshipped the Lord Abadsahayeswarar with ardent devotion. Then, he was relieved from all Doshas.
Sthala Vruksha (The Holy Tree) – Poolai Shrub is the holy tree of this Sthalam and it is an object of worship here..
Theertham (The Holy Water)
Alangudi is surrounded by three holy rivers. They are Cauvery, Kolidam and Vennaru. Fifteen theerthams are around this temple, among which the Amrita Pushkarani encircling the temple is very famous. Chakra theertham is in front of the temple. It is said that this theertham, was created by Maha Vishnu’s Chakra (Disc).