Natadreeswarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple located close to the city of
Erode in
Tamil Nadu. It is situated at the centre of
Kaveri River i.e. between Kudagu, where the river originates and Bay of Bengal at Kaveripoompattinam. The temple dedicated to
Lord Shiva is positioned on a hillock island on Erode-Karur Highways.
Legend of Natadreeswarar Temple
Natadreeswarar Temple is associated with an ancient legend. According to it Agasthiar constructed a made Lingam of Lord Shiva to get rid of this sins. The Lingam was made of sand and was positioned a hillock in the centre of the Kaveri River. He also placed his Rudhraksha Mala around the garland and began his meditation. He continued his meditation until the first day of Chithirai, i.e. the Tamil New Year when he was awakened due to certain disturbances. He then tried to remove his Rudhraksha Mala from the Lingam. He then heard the divine voice of Lord Shiva who instructed him not to disturb his Lingam as it would permanently remain there. He told him that he had appeared to bless him as well as all the devotees who came there and worshipped him devotedly. Thus, according to this legend Lord Shiva established himself in the city of Erode. Afterwards Agasthiar traveled to various other places in South to complete his remaining work. He again visited the hillock where he was blessed by Lord Muruga.
Later almost 3000 years ago the Chola kings constructed the Natadreeswarar temple and installed the lingam of the Lord in the temple. The Lingam here was named as Agastheeswarar. Devotees can see an Athee tree located within the temple. It is believed to be more than 3000 years old. Devotees from far off laces throng the temple on Tamil New Year day to offer their prayers to the Lord and receive his blessings.
Natadreeswarar Temple is well connected with different modes of transport. Devotees can avail the City bus services to Erode. All the busses traveling from Central Bus Terminus and Pasur stop at Kangeyampalayam. Ferry boat services are also available from the banks of Cauvery River and also from other river banks on Namakkal District to reach the temple.
