Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Thula Kattam – Legends

Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Thula Kattam – Legends

Thula Snana:

Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi were quite dirty and ugly as people took bath in these rivers to wash off their sins. These three rivers approached Sage Kanva Rishi in Kasi. He advised these rivers to visit Mayiladuthurai during Aippasi (Thula) month for relief. As advised, they visited Mayiladuthurai, took bath (Thula Snana) in Cauvery at Thula Kattam and got relief from their sins. Also, they regained their beauty. Hence, it is considered auspicious to take bath at Cauvery here during the month of Aippasi. Especially, the last day of Aippasi, called Kadaimugam is considered the most sacred day to take bath here and get moksha.

Sadashiva:

Sadashiva is the Supreme being in the Mantra marga Siddhanta sect of Shaivism. Sadasiva is usually depicted having five faces and ten hands, is also considered as one of the 25 Maheshwara idols of Lord Shiva. It is said that he is accompanied by Rudras, Siddhars, Sages and diving beings. It is believed that the sages accompanying Sadashiva worshipped Lord Shiva here. A Linga in this temple is still being managed by the Adhi Shaiva community.

Sage Kanva Rishi worshipped Lord Shiva here:

It is believed Sage Kanva Rishi worshipped Lord Shiva here and got the knowledge of Sangya Yoga and other yogic powers.