Apatsahayesvarar Temple

Apatsahayesvarar Temple, Alangudi – Jupiter God

The Apatsahayesvarar Temple, Alangudi Guru Temple, dedicated to Lord Jupiter (Guru), is located in the village of Alangudi, near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. Lord Shiva is the main deity in Apatsahayesvarar Temple. This 12th-century temple serves as one of the nine Navagraha temples and is particularly important for devotees looking for blessings that represent Jupiter's spiritual influence on their lives as per astrology. It is said that worship at Alangudi promotes spiritual development, wealth, and wisdom. This temple is the most visited temple in the district.

Historical Origins : Alangudi Guru Temple was constructed in the 12th century during the Chola era and the present masonry structure was built during the Nayak during the 16th century.
Architectural Style: : Alangudi Guru Temple's architectural style represents iconic Dravidian architecture. This temple covers 2 acres and it houses a 5-tier gateway tower known as gopurams, one facing the Apathsaheswarar shrine and the other towards the North.
Main Deity: This temple is dedicated to Lord Guru (Jupiter), symbolizedby a four-handed sage.
Spiritual Beliefs: It is believed that worshipping here can neutralize Jupiter-related doshas and bless devotees with wisdom and prosperity.

Key Festival: The major festival of Lord Guru’s temple is Brahmotsavamcelebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April–June) when special rituals are followed and the Lord Guru is taken around the streets of Alangudi.
Prime Location and Nearby Attractions: It is located in Kumbakonam which is near to other important Navagraha temples, making it a key part of a devotee's journey to the nine planets. Alangudi Guru Temple is close to Suryanar Kovil and Thingalur Chandran Temple which makes it an important destination for all devotees.
Ritual Timing: The temple ritual is performed on a daily basis 6 times a day at 6:00 am, 9:00 am, 12:00 am, 6:00 pm, 7:30 pm, and 9:00 pm. Each ritual consists of 4 steps: abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), neivethanam (food offering), and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps).