Brihadeeswarar Temple – Karuvurar Shrine
Karuvurar shrine is located at the rear portion of the
temple complex. He was a yogi-alchemist and architect who played a key role in
the design and construction of the temple. His famous works are Karuvurar
Vaidya Kaviyam 700, Karuvurar Pala Thirattu.
It is said that the Siddhar was the Chief architect for
the Temple. Karuvur Devar is the alleged to be the spiritual guru of Rajaraja-I
and is one of the authors of Thiruvisaipa (Devotional renditions on Lord Shiva).
This shrine is located in the west portion of the temple
in the Praharam which is a recent addition to the Brihadeeswarar temple complex
during this century. Karuvurar is also considered as one of the 18 Siddhars.
He was born in Karuvur in an anthanar family. He
reportedly was chosen as a disciple of the great Siddhar bogar. His ten songs
are included in Thiruvisaipa (the 9th Thirumurai).