Shri Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Keelapoongudi

Timings

6 am–12 noon, 4 pm–8 pm

Associated star

Uthradam

Nearest railway station

Karaikudi

Nearest airport

Madurai / Tiruchirappalli

Location

Keelapoongudi, near Okkur

The legend

Brahma is said to have once had five heads, like Shiva, and grown proud of it. Shiva removed one of the heads to humble him. Seeking forgiveness, Brahma worshipped at many Shiva shrines, and this is one of the places where he was freed from the curse, which is why the Lord here is called Brahmapureeswarar.

What to see

The main shrine holds the lingam of Brahmapureeswarar, and the goddess is worshipped as Sri Meenakshi in a separate shrine beside it. The bronze of Nataraja, in a posture resembling a classical dancer, is the image most visitors remember. The usual Shiva-temple shrines for Vinayagar, Murugan and the Navagrahas line the enclosure, and the setting among fields makes for an unhurried visit.

Uthradam star and offerings

The temple is especially associated with Uthradam, one of the 27 nakshatras. On days when this star is in the ascendant, special poojas are held, and people born under it come regularly to pray. Devotees seeking help with marriage or childbirth traditionally offer white thread to the Lord and a yellow saree to the goddess.

Festivals and timings

Chithirai Thirukalyanam, Vaikasi Visakam and Thai Poosam are the main festivals, along with Maha Shivaratri, Karthigai Deepam and Aadi Pooram. The temple is usually open from 6 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 8 pm. Wear traditional, modest clothing; shorts and lungis are not allowed for men.

How to reach

Direct buses run from Mattuthavani bus stand in Madurai. From Okkur, a short auto ride brings you to the temple. Karaikudi is the nearest railway station, and Madurai and Tiruchirappalli are the nearest airports. A hired car lets you combine this visit with the Chettinad temples and mansions around Karaikudi.

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