Veezhinatheswarar Temple

Veezhinatheswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thiruveezhimizhalai, Tiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams revered in the Tevaram hymns by Tamil Saivite saints. The presiding deity is Veezhinathar and the consort is Sundarakuchambikai. The temple exhibits Chola architecture with inscriptions and is noted for its large temple tank and association with legends involving Vishnu and saint Thirugnanasambandar.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian Shiva temple complex with a multi-tiered gopuram, pillared mandapams, stone sculptures, and shrines for Veezhinathar and Sundarakuchambikai. The temple is set in the village of Thiruveezhimizhalai surrounded by agricultural land, with a large temple tank (Vishnu Theertham) nearby. Visitors can explore the main sanctum, circumambulate the prakarams, view Chola-era architecture and inscriptions, and observe daily pujas and rituals.

The temple is of Chola origin with later contributions and contains Chola inscriptions. It is classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, having been revered in the 7th-century Tevaram hymns by the Nayanmars Thirugnanasambandar, Appar and Sundarar. The temple's architecture, stone inscriptions and tank reflect its historical importance as a major Shaivite centre in the Cauvery delta region.

As a Paadal Petra Sthalam, the temple holds high religious significance for Shaivites. The presiding deity Veezhinathar is worshipped as a swayambhu lingam. The temple is associated with traditions where Vishnu is believed to have worshipped Shiva here, and with the legend of saint Sambandar receiving a treasure (Padikasu) from Shiva. Annual festivals including Maha Shivaratri and other Shaivite festivals are observed.