The place where Indra performed pooja to secure the Vajra Yudha
Located just under 10kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Thiru Kadaiyur highway is the ancient Swarnapureeswarar temple in Sembanar Koil, one that has been praised by Thiru Gnana Sambanthar and Thirunavukkarasarar
Thiru Gnana Sambanthar in his praise of the Lord of Sembanar Koil says that those who offer their sincere prayers will be kept away from miseries of life. He also describes the fiery features of the Lord.
This is one of the Veerateswarar temples.
On the pillars of the temple are several sculptures including those of a King, his wife, his ministers and of Bikshandar. There are still a number of inscriptions inside the temple dating back a 1000 years.
It was here at this place that Indra performed pooja invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva to secure the dreaded Vajra Yudha in a bid to demolish Vridasura. It was also here that Muruga invoked the Lord’s blessings in his endeavour to kill Tharakasura.
Brahmma’s son Daksha failed to invite Lord Shiva to a yagna. An angry Shiva presented Veerabadrar to nullify the yagna. Dakshayani, the daughter of Daksha undertook penance to seek the blessings of Shiva and an apology on behalf of her father.
Sage Agastya, Indra, Brahmma, Surya and Chandra performed pooja at this place.
Lord Swarnapureeswarar is seen in an East facing posture while Ambal is seen facing the West.
Festivals
Chitrai Festival- Sun’s rays fall on the Lord for 10 days from the 7th day
There was a grand Brahmotsavam that took place in Aani once upon a time. But over a period of time, this had come to a halt, though to this day, we find a number of vahanas inside the temple.
Abhishekam for Sugantha Ambikambal on Aadi Pooram
Theerthavari on Thai Poosam
One day procession in Navarathri
How to reach
One can board the bus towards Thiru Kadaiyur/ Karaikal. The temple is a few minutes away from the Sembanar Koil bus stand. An auto from Mayiladurthurai will cost Rs. 250.
The temple is open from 730am to 12noon and from 430pm to 830pm.