Dedicated to Lord Rahu (Raaghu Bhagvan), Naganathaswamy Temple is one of the Navagraha Temples. People from different parts of the country visit the temple to pay homage to Lord Rahu. Located at Thirunageswaram, which is 7km east of Kumbakonam in Thanjavur district, the temple is now declared as a protected monument by Tamil Nadu government.
The main deity presiding inside the temple is of Lord Naganathaswamy (Lord Shiva) and his wife Giri Gujambika (Goddess Parvathi). It is the only temple where Lord Rahu is worshipped in human face, while in other temples Lord Rahu is seen in serpent face. According to Hindu Mythology, Naganathaswamy is the place where Lord Rahu got relieved of his affliction, after worshipping to Lord Shiva.
Naganathaswamy is generally visited by people with Rahu dosha. Moreover, locals of the region claim that during ‘milk abhishekam’, the color of the milk turns from white to blue. The temple holds a big space and features four entry towers with fort like walls. The southern side of the temple has four Mandapas which are adorned with artistic pillars.
Visitors have an option of visiting the Vinayaga temple, Balibeedam, Nandeeswarar Mandabam and Thwaja Sthambam which are located on the eastern gateway. Other attractions of the temple include bathing places namely, Suriya Pushkarani, Gowthama Theertham, Parasara Theertham, Indira Theertham and Prugu Theertham. It is believed that if one takes bath in any of these sacred places, all their past Karmas and suffering will disappear.
