Sri Garbarakshambigai TempleWho is Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy?
Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy is a revered form of Lord Shiva, worshipped at the ancient Sri Garbarakshambigai Temple in Thirukarukavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Known as the "Lord of the Jasmine Garden," Sri Mullaivananathar is celebrated for His divine powers in blessing devotees with good health, fertility, and safe pregnancies.
The Sacred Abode: Thirukarukavur Temple
The Sri Garbarakshambigai Temple, dating back to the 7th century Chola era, is a testament to ancient Tamil architecture and spirituality. Key features include:
- A majestic five-tiered Rajagopuram (gateway tower)
- Sprawling complex measuring 460 ft by 284 ft
- Located on the serene banks of the Vettaru River
- Part of the sacred Pancha Aranya Sthalams (five forest temples)
The Divine Lingam: A Miracle of Nature
The Shiva lingam representing Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy is truly unique:
- Swayambhu (self-manifested) from a hardened termite mound
- Large in size with visible marks of jasmine creepers
- Always covered with a metal bowl called "Kuvalai"
- No traditional water abhishekam performed due to its delicate nature
Divine Blessings and Rituals
Devotees seek Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy's blessings for:
- Overall health and well-being
- Fertility and conception
- Safe and healthy pregnancies
- Healing of skin diseases and other ailments
Special rituals include:
- Punugu sattam: Offering of fragrant civet cat incense believed to have healing powers
- Lighting of ghee lamps for specific prayers
- Consumption of special ghee prasadam for 48 nights by couples seeking to conceive
The Divine Couple: Sri Mullaivananathar and Garbarakshambigai
Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy is worshipped alongside His consort, Goddess Garbarakshambigai, a form of Parvati. Together, they are revered for their power to protect pregnancies and ensure safe deliveries.
Visiting the Temple
For those seeking the blessings of Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy:
- Temple timings: 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily
- Abishekams performed at 8:00 AM on weekdays (except Sundays and festival days)
- Major festivals: Vaikasi Visagam, Aadi Pooram, Navarathri, and Mahashivarathri
Conclusion
Sri Mullaivananathar Swamy stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking divine intervention for health, fertility, and safe childbirth. The unique swayambhu lingam, special rituals, and the combined power of Sri Mullaivananathar and Goddess Garbarakshambigai make this temple a must-visit for devotees and spiritual seekers alike.