Nachiyar Kovil, one of the
108 Divya Desams, is situated at situated close to
Kumbakonam, in
Thanjavur District,
Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is
Lord Vishnu, known here as Tirunaraiyur Nambi, depicted in the Kalyanakkolam with Vanchulavalli Taayaar (Nambikkai Nachiyar) in the sanctum.
Nachiyar or Taayaar gets primary importance in this shrine, as implied by the name Nachiyar Kovil.
It is believed that Vishnu had revealed himself in the Pancha Vyuha forms, namely, Sankarshana in the east, Pradyumna in the south, Anirudha in the west, Purushottama in the north and Vasudeva in the center. The beautiful sculptures of these deities are found in the Garbagriha.
The temple has five prakarams with mandapams; the pillars are intricately carved with fine sculptures. Inscriptions dating back to 13th century are found in the temple.
There are separate shrines dedicated to Yoga Narasimhar, Lord Hanuman, Lord Ram and Chkrapani.
The Kal Garuda shrine, depicted with nine serpents, is believed to have the power to remove the Navagraha dosham. The
Utsava Murti is taken on Garuda during the temple festivals.
Margazhi Brahmotsavam is celebrated here amidst much pomp and splendor. Other festivals celebrated with great religious fervour include Tirukkalyanam, the Pankuni Brahmotsavam, Vasantotsavam and Krishna Jayanti.
