The Navagraha temples of India, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies or “Navagrahas” in Hindu astrology, are significant pilgrimage sites. These temples are spread across the country, with each one associated with a specific planet. The worship of these planets is believed to influence the destiny and fortunes of individuals according to Vedic astrology.
Here’s an overview of some of the most ancient Navagraha temples in India:
1. Suryanar Koil, Tamil Nadu (Sun – Surya)
- Location: Thanjavur District
- Deity: Lord Surya (Sun)
- Significance: Suryanar Koil is considered the primary temple for Surya, the Sun God. It is unique as it also houses the other eight planetary deities within the temple complex. The temple is renowned for its intricate Dravidian architecture and is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the solar transitions.
2. Thingalur Chandran Temple, Tamil Nadu (Moon – Chandra)
- Location: Thanjavur District
- Deity: Lord Chandra (Moon)
- Significance: The Chandran Temple at Thingalur is dedicated to the Moon God. It is part of the Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu and is believed to be the place where people worship to rid themselves of mental afflictions and obtain mental peace.
3. Vaitheeswaran Koil, Tamil Nadu (Mars – Angaraka)
- Location: Near Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Lord Angaraka (Mars)
- Significance: Vaitheeswaran Koil is famous for its association with Mars and is also known for its healing powers. Devotees believe that a dip in the temple’s holy tank and the offerings to the deity can cure skin diseases.
4. Swetharanyeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu (Mercury – Budha)
- Location: Thiruvenkadu, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Lord Budha (Mercury)
- Significance: Thiruvenkadu, the temple dedicated to Mercury, is known for its association with wisdom and intellect. The temple complex is also famous for the unique statue of Shiva as “Agora Murthi.”
5. Alangudi Guru Temple, Tamil Nadu (Jupiter – Brihaspati)
- Location: Near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Lord Brihaspati (Jupiter)
- Significance: Alangudi is revered as the temple of Jupiter. It is believed that worshipping here can remove the adverse effects of Jupiter and bring prosperity and good fortune.
6. Kanjanoor Sukran Temple, Tamil Nadu (Venus – Shukra)
- Location: Near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Lord Shukra (Venus)
- Significance: The temple at Kanjanoor is dedicated to Venus, and it is believed that offering prayers here can help in marital harmony and prosperity.
7. Thirunallar Sani Temple, Tamil Nadu (Saturn – Shani)
- Location: Thirunallar, Karaikal (Pondicherry)
- Deity: Lord Shani (Saturn)
- Significance: Thirunallar is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Shani. Devotees believe that worshipping here can mitigate the effects of Shani dosha (Saturn’s influence) and lead to relief from hardships.
8. Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple, Tamil Nadu (Rahu – North Lunar Node)
- Location: Near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Lord Rahu
- Significance: The Thirunageswaram Temple is dedicated to Rahu and is one of the few temples where Rahu is worshipped in human form. The temple is particularly famous for the unique milk abhishekam, where the milk poured over the idol turns blue.
9. Kezhaperumpallam Kethu Temple, Tamil Nadu (Ketu – South Lunar Node)
- Location: Near Poompuhar, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Lord Ketu
- Significance: The Ketu temple at Kezhaperumpallam is the final of the Navagraha temples and is associated with the serpent god Ketu. It is believed that prayers here can relieve one of the ill effects of Ketu dosha.
Conclusion:
These Navagraha temples are not just places of worship but are also considered centers of astrological remedies. Each temple has its unique rituals and offerings, tailored to appease the specific planetary deity. Pilgrims often undertake a journey to all these temples to complete the Navagraha pilgrimage, which is believed to bring balance and positivity to their lives.
