Vaitheeswaran Koil – Temple of Healing

Vaitheeswaran Koil is a revered Hindu temple located in Tamil Nadu, South India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as the divine healer, the temple holds a unique place among the Navagraha shrines, being associated with the planet Mars (Angaraka). Unlike most temples built according to Vastu principles, where the deity faces east, here Lord Shiva is placed facing west.

The temple’s history dates back to the 7th century during the Chola dynasty and is praised in the sacred Tevaram hymns sung by Tamil poet-saints known as Nayanars. Legends speak of celestial beings such as Sambathi, Jatayu, and Surya Deva worshipping here. According to mythology, a drop of sweat from Lord Shiva, while performing penance on Mount Meru, transformed into a child nurtured by Bhoomi Devi, who later became Mars. This divine connection makes the shrine an important part of the Navagraha pilgrimage. The temple also houses a sacred water tank believed to have curative powers, with devotees bathing here for relief from ailments.

Shiva as healer

According to legend, that the temple's history can be traced up to 7 the century, during which the Chola dynasty controlled the majority region of India. Actually, this temple is an entry in Tevaram that were hymns composed by the saints of poetry who were who were also known as Nayanars. They have not only mentioned this temple, but also famous worshippers such as Sambathi, Jatayu and Surya Deva, also known as the sun God. In the same way it is believed the time Lord Shiva was performing penance on Mount Meru a drop of his sweat fell off his forehead and he was transformed into a beautiful child. The child was sheltered by Bhoomi Devi and became a fervent follower to Lord Shiva. The Lord was happy with his devotion and he reincarnated his devotee to the world of Mars. Mars is also called Angarka In Tamil.

This is why this temple is linked with the Navgraha ritual which is held in Tamil Nadu. The poet saints from Tamil Nadu have stated that the time spent by humans on not worshipping Shiva at this temple is a complete loss. There is also a belief that offering prayers towards the God Vaitheeswaran are able to cure any illness. Find out what the Vaitheeswaran Koil Pooja timetables to order to participate in these general prayers carried out in the temple by priests. The temple's premises also house the water tank, which is filled with nectar. A bath in this holy water may be a cure for many ailments.

History and Legends

The temple’s origins trace back to the 7th century during the Chola dynasty and are celebrated in the Tevaram hymns composed by Tamil poet-saints, the Nayanars. Legends tell of celestial beings like Sambathi, Jatayu, and Surya Deva worshipping here. One popular tale recounts that while Lord Shiva was performing penance on Mount Meru, a drop of sweat fell and transformed into a child, later nurtured by Bhoomi Devi and reborn as Mars.

Spiritual Beliefs and Healing Traditions

The temple is considered a place of powerful healing. Devotees believe that offering prayers here can cure ailments and remove afflictions caused by planetary influences. Within the premises lies the Siddhamirtham tank, whose waters are said to hold nectar-like healing properties. Bathing in this tank is a sacred ritual for many seeking wellness.

Palm Leaf Reading Heritage

Vaitheeswaran Koil is also known for an ancient palm leaf manuscript tradition, preserved through generations of hereditary readers. By matching a person’s thumb impression, these manuscripts reveal detailed accounts of an individual’s past, present, and future, often accompanied by remedies for life’s challenges.