Thirukollikaadu Agneeswarar
Keeralathur

Presiding Deity:
Agneeswarar

The Thirukollikadu Agneeswarar Temple, located in the Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, is a venerated Hindu shrine primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is particularly famous for its association with Lord Shani (Saturn), who is worshipped here as Pongu Saneeswaran, or the "Prosperous Saturn". The temple is also one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, glorified in the hymns of the Tamil saint Tirugnanasambandar. 

Location and deities

Location: The temple is situated in the small village of Tirukkollikkadu, near Thiruthuraipoondi in the Tiruvarur district.

Deities: The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, known as Agneeswarar, whose self-manifested Lingam is reddish in color. His consort, Parvati, is worshipped as Panjin Melladi Ammai. A special shrine is dedicated to Lord Shani as Pongu Saneeswaran. 

Brief legend

According to legend, Agni, the fire god, lost his powers after participating in Daksha's yagna, an event meant to disrespect Lord Shiva. To regain his strength, Agni worshipped Shiva at this location. Pleased with his devotion, Shiva restored Agni's powers, and thus became known as Agneeswarar. This also explains the town's name, as kolli in Tamil means fire. 

In another legend, Lord Shani, troubled by humans' fear of his malefic effects, sought solace from Shiva. Shiva appeared as a flame and instructed Shani to reside here as "Pongu Sani," a benevolent form that bestows abundance and prosperity. It is said that the legendary King Nala worshipped here to regain his lost kingdom and wealth. 

Significance and remedies

The Thirukollikadu temple is highly significant for those seeking relief from the negative influences of Saturn, known as Sani Dosham, especially during the ezharai nattu Sani period (the seven-and-a-half-year cycle of Saturn). Devotees worship Pongu Saneeswaran for the following remedies: 

Wealth and prosperity: Worshipping the benevolent Pongu Sani and offering Vanni leaves is believed to bring abundant wealth and relieve financial problems.

Family harmony and mental peace: Offering Kondrai flowers is said to foster peace and unity within the family.

Relief from mental affliction: Devotees suffering from mental distress offer Oomatham (datura) flowers to Lord Shani.

Ancestral blessings: Pouring sesame seeds mixed with water into the temple's Agni Theertham pond is believed to satisfy the souls of ancestors.

Recovery of lost possessions: As seen in King Nala's story, praying at this temple can help recover lost possessions or property.

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