![]() Legend of Edaganathar Temple Edaganathar Temple is associated with an ancient legend according to which the patikam of Sambandar had been floated on a palm leaf (Edu). It however, went against the water currents of the Vaigai River and remained here. It is believed that the palm leaf was stopped by 'Vaaduvenra Vinaayakar' who took the form of a fish. It was done as a response to Sambandar's patikam. It is also said that here Lord Shiva has been worshipped by Lord Vishnu, Adiseshan and Garuda. Edaganathar Temple is closely related to Tirugnanasambandar. Architecture of Edaganathar Temple Edaganathar Temple is an imposing structure that is spread over a huge area of 5 acres. The temple has spacious corridors and is adorned with magnificent gopurams. Images of episode of Sambandars depicted on the stone steps that lead to the Vaigai River add beauty and charm to the temple. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. He is known as Edakanatheswarar by the devotees and his consort Parvati is known as Elavaarkuzhali, Sugandha Kundalambika. The Theertham is known as Bhrama Theertham and the sthala vriksham is known as Vilvam (Aegle marmelos). The temple depicts several inscriptions dating back to the 12th century A.D. from the period of Jatavarman Kulasekhara Pandyan and Krishna Deva Raya. The poem thevara Pathigam have been composed here by Sambandar. Edaganathar Temple also finds its mention in Tiruppukazh. Festivals of Edaganathar Temple The Edaganathar Temple celebrates many festivals on a grand scale. The miracle of Sambandar is celebrated here in the temple with much enthusiasm. It is celebrated in the Tamil month of Vaikasi in the form of 'Edu Ethireriya Utsavam.' Some of the other festivals celebrated here are, Aadi Pooram, Aippasi Pournami, Arudra Darisanam, Vinayaka Chaturthi, Panguni Uththiram, Kartikai Deepam, Maasi Magam, Skanda Sashti, Tai Poosam, Vaikasi Visakam and Navaratri. Edaganathar Temple is well connected with all modes of transport. The temple is situated on the Madurai-Colavandan bus route. The nearest railway station from the temple is cholavandan. Buses are also available from the Madurai Periyar bus stand to Tiruvedagam. The temple is located close to Tiruvedagam bus stop. |