Garbharakshambigai

Arulmigu Mullaivananathar Temple (Garbharakshambigai Temple)

Temple Details

Presiding Deity Lord Shiva as Sri Mullaivananathar
Goddess Sri Garbharakshambigai (Garbharakshambikai)
Temple Type Paadal Petra Sthalam and one of Tamil Nadu’s most revered Shakti–Shiva temples.
Location Thirukarukavur Village, Papanasam Taluk, Thanjavur District,Tamil Nadu – 614302.

Historical Significance

  • The temple is believed to have originated in the 6th–7th century CE during the early Chola period and was later expanded by successive Chola rulers.
  • It contains 31 stone inscriptions recording royal grants and endowments.
  • The name “Thirukarukavur” means the place where life in the womb is protected, reflecting the temple’s long-standing association with fertility, safe pregnancy, and childbirth.

Religious Importance

  • Revered in the Tevaram hymns of Tirugnana Sambandar, the temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams.
  • The temple is world-renowned for the blessings of Sri Garbharakshambigai, who is worshipped as the divine protector of pregnancy and motherhood. Devotees seeking childbirth receive ghee prasadam, while expectant mothers receive castor oil prasadam for safe delivery, following an age-old temple tradition.
  • Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Mullaivananathar, symbolizing the Lord who manifested amidst a jasmine (Mullai) forest. The temple is situated on the southern bank of the Vettar River, a branch of the Kaveri.

Temple Timings

Morning 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Contact

Phone :+91 88700 58269