The Virudhagiriswarar Temple, located in Virudhachalam, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered in the Tevaram hymns by Tamil saint poets, known as the nayanmars, it is classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam. This ancient temple gives its name to the town of Virudhachalam and is famous for the legend of Shiva transforming into a mountain to answer Brahma’s prayers, highlighting its deep spiritual significance.
Virudhagiriswarar Temple is part of a series of sacred sites built by Sembiyan Mahadevi, a prominent Chola queen, along the banks of the Kaveri River. The temple features numerous inscriptions from the Chola period, showcasing its historical relevance. With six daily rituals conducted from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., the temple celebrates three annual festivals, the most notable being the Brahmotsavam, attracting thousands of devotees who participate in its vibrant festivities.
According to Hindu mythology, the temple's origin story involves Brahma creating water and Lord Vishnu eliminating the evil Madhukaidavas. Brahma prayed to Lord Shiva to create land from the combined essence of water and the cut pieces of the evil beings. Lord Shiva appeared as a mountain, giving rise to the earth. This mountain, named Pazhamalai, symbolizes strength, and worshipping it grants devotees their wishes, embodying the temple's spiritual power.
The name Virudhachalam etymologically reflects its ancient significance, where "Vriddha" means ancient and "Achalam" means unshakeable, referring to the surrounding hills. Initially known as Pazhamalai during the days of Saivite saints, the name transitioned to its Sanskrit version over time. The temple, commissioned by the powerful queen Sembiyan Mahadevi, features high walls, five gopurams, and a unique hundred-pillared hall, resembling a chariot, showcasing remarkable Dravidian architectural style.