Alangudi Guru Temple
Jupiter’s Navagraha Temple in Tamil Nadu
Why Alangudi Guru Temple?
- The only Navagraha temple devoted to Lord Guru Bhagavan (Jupiter) – the planet of knowledge, fortune, and benevolence.
- Regarded as the fifth temple in the Navagraha circuit of Tamil Nadu.
- The main deity, Lord Abathsahayeswarar, means “One who rescues devotees from danger.”
- Built during the Chola era, featuring detailed stone carvings and inscriptions on planetary cycles and yagnas.
- The temple’s holy tank, Amrita Pushkarini, is believed to cure afflictions and grant longevity.
- Performing Guru Dosha Pariharam here bestows prosperity, wisdom, and success in studies.
- Visiting Alangudi is said to open the path toward spiritual maturity and divine protection.
Location
Alangudi village, Valangaiman, Tiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu
Significance
Seat of wisdom, spiritual growth, and divine guidance
Presiding Deity
Lord Guru Bhagavan with Lord Abathsahayeswarar & Goddess Elavarkuzhali Amman
Architecture
Chola-period Dravidian temple with gopuram, concentric prakaram, and a sacred tank called Amrita Pushkarini
Temple Type
Fifth temple in the Tamil Nadu Navagraha circuit
Benefits of Worship
Enhances knowledge, removes financial obstacles and grants family harmony
Best Day to Visit
Thursday (Guru Vaaram) – the day ruled by Jupiter
Distance
17 km from Kumbakonam, 35 km from Thiruvarur, and 110 km from Trichy Airport
The Divine History of Alangudi Guru Bhagavan
The Alangudi Guru Navagraha Temple has been a sacred center of wisdom and devotion for over a thousand years.
According to legend, when the Devas and Asuras churned the Milky Ocean to obtain Amrita (the nectar of immortality), deadly poison also emerged. To save the universe, Lord Shiva consumed the poison here at Alangudi, earning the name Abathsahayeswarar – the Savior from peril.
Navagraha Temple History – The Story Behind Guru Worship
In the Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu, each planet represents a vital aspect of life. Jupiter, known as Guru or Brihaspati, governs wisdom, wealth, faith, and dharma.
When well-placed in a birth chart, Jupiter brings optimism, spiritual depth, and good fortune. When afflicted, it can cause financial struggles, academic issues, or loss of guidance.
Why Guru Bhagavan Is Worshipped at Alangudi
- To seek blessings for higher education and professional success
- To remove financial hurdles and marital discord
- To improve spiritual understanding and moral strength
- To overcome Guru Dosha or periods of weak Jupiter influence
Poojas, Pariharam & Spiritual Significance
Daily Poojas
Time | Pooja Name | Purpose |
6:00 AM – 7:30 AM | Ushakalam Pooja | Begin the day with wisdom and peace |
12:00 PM | Uchikalam Pooja | Seek divine guidance during daily duties |
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Sayaraksha Pooja | Evening gratitude and introspection |
Guru Dosha Pariharam (Planetary Remedies)
- Abhishekam with honey, curd, and ghee for prosperity.
- Offering yellow cloth, chickpeas, and turmeric to the deity.
- Lighting ghee lamps on Thursdays and donating yellow flowers.
- Reciting Dakshinamurthy Stotra or Guru Beeja Mantra for concentration and inner calm.
Spiritual Benefits
- Enhances wisdom, speech, and moral judgment
- Grants success in education, law, and teaching professions
- Strengthens family bonds and spiritual faith
- Removes financial instability and gives long-term fortune
When Guru is pleased, life finds direction and knowledge becomes light.
Temple Timings, Map & How to Visit
Temple Timings
- Morning : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening : 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Best Day : Thursday (Guru Vaaram)
Exact Location: Alangudi Village, Valangaiman Taluk, Tiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu – 612 801
Distances from Key Places
- Kumbakonam – 17 km
- Thiruvarur – 35 km
- Mannargudi – 28 km
- Trichy International Airport – 110 km
How to Reach
- By Train: Board to Kumbakonam or Mannargudi stations and take a local taxi.
- By Road: Frequent buses and cabs operate from Kumbakonam and Thiruvarur.
- By Air: Trichy Airport serves domestic and international travelers.
Conclusion
The Alangudi Guru Navagraha Temple stands as a sanctuary of light, knowledge, and faith. Here, Lord Abathsahayeswarar and Guru Bhagavan together symbolize the perfect balance between worldly learning and divine wisdom.
For students, teachers, and spiritual seekers alike, Alangudi represents the turning point of the Navagraha journey – from intellect to understanding, from learning to enlightenment.
When Guru blesses you, life finds purpose and every step becomes a lesson in grace.