Vaitheeswaran Temple

Vaitheeswaran Temple – Mars God

The Vaitheeswaran Temple, also known as the temple of Lord Mars (Angaraka), is located in the town of Vaitheeswarankoil, near Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu. This historic temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Vaitheeswaran, the God of healing, and prayers to Vaitheeswaran can cure diseases.Vaitheeswaran is a Tamil derivative ofVaidya (Doctor) and Ishvara (God/Master). TheTemple attracts devotees who seek both spiritual and physical wellness because of its unique medicinal practices. The holy waters of the Siddhamirtham (Temple Tank) within the temple contains nectar, and a holy dip in the water is believed to cure all diseases. Devotees take a holy dip in the temple tank before worshipping Vaitheeswaran in the temple.

Historical Origins :The Vaitheeswaran Koil was built duringthe Kulothunga Chola I period(1070-1120 CE). The temple has received various contributions from various rulers of the region like Vikrama Chola, Vira Rajendra Pandya, Achuthappa Nayak (1560 - 1614 AD) and Maratha prince Thulaja.
Architectural Style: : The Vaitheeswaran Temple displaysiconic Dravidian architecture, a five-tiered gopuram (temple tower), two inner gopurams, and large precincts with Siddhamirtham (Temple Tank).
Main Deity: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva also known as the Divine Healer with a shrine dedicated to Angaraka (Mars).
Spiritual Beliefs: Vaitheeswaran Temple is believed and known for healing ailments and reducing Mars-related doshas, bringing courage and strength.

Key Festival: Brahmotsavam (annual festival) is celebrated during the Tamil calendar months of Pankuni and Thai (January–February). The Karthigai festival, celebrated with deep devotion in November, brings vibrant rituals and joy to the season.
Prime Location and Nearby Attractions: It is located near Chidambaram and it’s easy to visit other iconic temples in the arealike Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, adding depth to the spiritual journey.
Ritual Timing: The temple ritual is performed daily 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).