Sri Vasishteswarar Temple is situated in Thittai village, a few kilometres faraway from Thanjavur, and it is a Temple dedicated to Lord Vasishteswarara, a form of Lord Shiva. As per legend, Sage Vasishtar has once visited and worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple. The temple was built by the Chola Kings during 12th century AD.
The chief deity is also called as Swayambootheswarar, since the Lingam is supposed to be self-emanated Lingam and Ma Parvati, is known as Ulaganayaki. Nayanar Saints have glorified this temple Shiva by singing wonderful songs on him, and it was mentioned in the holy text Thevaram. This temple attracts huge crowds during festivals, since this temple is also considered to be one of the Navagraha Parihara Stalams.
It is also believed that during the time of deluge (Pralaya) Lord Brahma & Vishnu had worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple for universal wellness. They also performed Puja to the Lingam and worshipped Lord Shiva, and pleased by their devotion Lord Shiva had appeared before them and had given them the duties of Creation and Protection. This is the only place, which would exist even during the time of deluge.
This temple is constructed only using stones, which must be considered to be a most significant factor! There is also a temple tank which is located opposite to the temple, and it is called as “Chakra Tirtham”, and it was created from Mahavishnu’s Sudarsana Chakra. There is a separate Sannidhi for Lord Brihaspati, who can be seen calmly seated between Lord Vasishteswarar and Ma Loganayaki Shrines.
Chitra Pournami and Guru Peyarchi are the most important festivals celebrated at this temple. This temple is built on the banks of the holy River Kaveri. I have visited this temple during the month of August 2022. Those who want to shine brightly in their lives must have to compulsorily visit this temple, in order to get the glimpse of Lord Brihaspati Bhagavan.
“OM SRI BRIHASPATI BHAGAVANE NAMAHA”
WRITTEN BY
R.HARISHANKAR