NN21 - Abhirameswarar Temple -Thiru Aamaathur [Nadu Naadu 21][Devara Temple]

This Shivastalam is located at a distance of 6 Kms. from Villuppuram (enroute to Senji) on the banks of the Pampa river, a branch of the Pennar river. This is the 21st of the 22 Devara Stalams in the Nadu Naadu region of Tamilnadu.

THE FIRST KAUMARA MADAM in the world was established here.

Legend has it that Kamadhenu worshipped Shiva here. Bringi munivar is said to have become a Vanni tree and is said to have been relieved of his predicament here. Rama & Sugreeva are said to have taken a vow of eternal friendship in front of the Vattapparai here.

History: Inscriptions reveal that a grant for a Chola King had provided for several blind people to learn the Devaram hymns and sing them in traditional tunes. Ramalinga Adigalar and Arunagirinathar have also sung of this shrine. This temple was built originally by the Pallava rulers, while the Chola rulers made several endowments, as seen in inscriptions from the days of Parantaka, Raja Raja Cholan and Kulottunga Cholan.

The Temple: There are two prakarams in this temple which covers an area of under three acres; there is an image of Achyuta Raya who is said to have effected renovations here. Shiva and Parvati face each other here, in the Updesa formation, as in very few other shrines. The Amman gopuram is about 80 ft in height.

Festivals: Two worship services are offered each day here. Pankuni Uthiram and Skanda Sashti are the annual festivals celebrated here.