Theerthagireeswarar Temple,
Theerthamalai – Theerthams
Theerthams associated with this temple are Rama Theertham, Agni Theertham, Gowri Theertham, Kumara Theertham, Vasishta
Theertham, Vayu Theertham, Varuna Theertham, Indira Theertham, Yama Theertham,
and Hanuman Theertham. The waters of the Theerthamalai is said to have medicinal
values.
Rama Theertham:
The Rama Theertham is a tiny
waterfall about 9.1 meters (about 30 feet) high. This waterfall is perennial
and is situated behind the sanctum. It
is believed that Lord Rama unleashed an arrow onto the rocky slope of the
hillock and water gushed out from the rock. Thus, the theertham came to be
called as Rama Theertham.
Gowri Theertham:
Gowri Theertham is situated in
the temple premises. It is believed that Gowri Theertham was created by goddess
Parvathy. She worshiped Lord with this theertha and got his hand in wedding and
became Ardhanareeswarar. Devotees worship Lord and Mother with this theertha
for wedding boons.
Kumara Theertham:
Kumara Theertham is situated in
the temple premises. It is believed that Kumara Theertham was created for
Abhisheka to Lord Muruga when he was crowned as the Supreme Commander of the
forces of the devas. It is said that taking bath in this theertham will bestow
one with knowledge and wisdom.
Agni Theertham:
Agni Theertham is situated in
the temple premises. It is believed that Lord Agni got relieved of his sin
after taking bath in Agni Theertham. Devotees consume this theertham to get
cure from cold attacks, tuberculosis etc.
Agasthya Theertham:
Agasthya Theertham is situated in
the temple premises. It is said that the waters of Agastya Theertham has
curative powers in treating ulcer problems. Devotees consume this theertha and
also use for cooking for relief from gastric problems and stomach pain.
Hanuman Theertham:
Hanuman Theertham is situated
about 16 kms from the main temple on the banks of river South Pennar. It is believed
that when Hanuman returned with the pot of water from the Ganga, he found that
Rama had brought the Ganga water with his arrow. He then threw away the pot in
anger. The pot is said to have landed here and became Hanuman Theertham.
Vasishta Theertham:
Vasishta Theertham is situated
at the top of the hill. Images of Saptha Matrikas can be seen near this
theertham.
Vayu Theertham & Varuna
Theertham:
Vayu Theertham and Varuna
Theertham are situated to the western side of the hill in Harur.
Indira Theertham:
Indira Theertham is situated to
the eastern side of the hill in Andiyur (Mondukuli).
Yama Theertham:
Yama Theertham is situated to
the southern side of the hill in Veppampatty.
