Thirunageswaram

Thirunageswaram is located about 6 km from Kumbakonam and is one of the significant Divya Desams in the Kaveri delta Vaishnava circuit. The presiding deity is Bakthavatsala — one who is tender to devotees — also called Naganatha Perumal here, worshipped in a standing posture. Thirumangai Alvar sang Mangalasasanam for this temple. The most remarkable feature is the annual phenomenon (typically in January on Uthra Nakshatra days) when moonlight directly enters the inner sanctum and illuminates the deity — an architectural and astronomical alignment that draws large crowds. The temple is particularly associated with relief from Rahu-Ketu dosha (serpent planet malefic effects in the horoscope), and thousands come to perform special prayers for removal of Naga dosha. The adjacent Naganatha Swami Shiva temple and the Garuda shrine are also revered. The goddess is Komalavalli.

The legend tells that Rahu (the shadow planet, depicted as a serpent) once hid at this spot after being wounded by Garuda. Vishnu, pleased with Rahu's devotion, appeared as Bakthavatsala and granted Rahu the boon of becoming a graha (planetary body) that could affect human destinies, while also granting the kshetra the power to neutralize the malefic effects of Rahu and Ketu for devotees who pray here.