Thiru Kadaiyur Amirtha Narayana Perumal

The place where the nectar was handed to the Devas

Rahu Kethu seen together at the temple

Located 100yards south of the renowned Thiru Amirtha Kadeswarar -Abhirami temple is the ancient Amirtha Narayana Perumal temple in Thiru Kadaiyur, whose legend dates back to the churning of nectar and distribution to the Devas. Bala Anjaneya is a highlight here at this temple, which is entirely of ‘brick’ construction.

Legend relating to churning of Nectar

The story goes that with Indra losing his powers after being cursed by Sage Durvasa, the asuras started striking the devas with renewed vigour. The desperate devas fearing loss of their battle with the asuras sought the help of Lord Narayana to help regain their powers.

With the churning of the Nectar, Lord Narayana was all set to hand over the nectar to the Devas here at Thiru Kadaiyur but to his surprise the nectar disappeared and turned into a Shiva lingam (Amirtha Kadeswarar). Lord Narayana sought the permission of Goddess Abhirami (his sister) to help secure the nectar from Thiru Kadeswarar.  She appeared before him here at Thiru Kadaiyur and helped devas regain their powers.

While the Devas received the nectar from Lord Narayana here at the Amirtha Pushkarani, an asura too secretly picked it up only to be struck down by Lord Amirtha Narayanan. Having consumed the nectar, the asura did not die but had his body cut into two pieces - Rahu and Kethu. In memory of this event, they are seen here together in a separate sannidhi – a special feature at this temple. This is said to be a parikara sthalam for liberation from Rahu-Kethu dosham.

60^th/80^th Birthday Celebrations

Those who conduct their Thiru Kalyana functions at the Abhirami temple should also visit the Amirtha Narayana Perumal temple to secure the blessings of Amirtha Narayanan so as to complete the entire formalities of the celebrations. But most of the devotees who throng the Abhirami temple are not even aware of the existence of the ancient perumal temple at a walking distance and hence miss out on seeking the blessings of Amirtha Narayana Perumal and Amirtha Valli Thaayar.

Quick Facts

Moolavar        : Amirtha Narayana Perumal in a Grand Sitting Posture

Goddess           : Amirtha Valli Thaayar

Time                : 8am-1pm

Contact            : Rangaraja Bhattar @ 75983 80204

How to reach

Thiru Kadaiyur is 20kms from Mayiladuthurai / Sirkazhi. Take Tharangambadi bound bus via Akkur cross road to reach the temple. Auto from Thiru Kadaiyur bus stand will cost Rs. 40.