Karaikal, May 15: The day of Saturday holds special significance for devotees of Shani Dev, the son of the Sun God. However, the Amavasya of Jyeshtha month becomes even more important as it marks the celebration of Shani Jayanti on May 16. Enthusiasm among devotees is palpable as they prepare for this auspicious occasion. Across the country, numerous divine shrines dedicated to Shani Dev offer blessings through darshan and worship. One such sacred site is located in Karaikal district, Puducherry, where King Nala was liberated from the curse of Shani.
The Incredible India portal provides detailed information about this temple. Thirunallar, a holy village in Karaikal district of the Union Territory of Puducherry, is home to the ancient 12th-century Sri Dharbaranyeshwarar Temple. This temple is dedicated to Shani Dev, and it is believed that bathing and merely visiting this site can relieve devotees from Shani dosha, Sade Sati, and other hardships, calming Shani Dev in the process. Every year, a large number of devotees flock to the Thirunallar temple during Shani Jayanti seeking relief from Shani dosha.
The temple’s name is associated with King Nala. According to legends, King Nala of Nishad country suffered greatly due to a curse from Shani. With the grace of Lord Shiva and a visit to Thirunallar, he was freed from Shani’s adverse effects. This is why the place is referred to as ‘Nallar,’ meaning the site of Nala’s redemption. It is believed that bathing in the Nala Tirtha here washes away sins from past lives and alleviates all troubles stemming from Shani dosha. This temple is also unique because Shani Dev transferred all his powers to Lord Shiva (Dharbaranyeshwarar). Thirunallar is one of the seven temples known as ‘Sapta Vidanga Sthalams.’
Thirunallar Shanishwaran Temple is not only a center of devotion but also an exquisite example of 12th-century architecture. The temple’s tower is five stories high, and the Maha Mandapam is spacious, adorned with beautiful Tanjore-style paintings. The temple showcases the Navagrahas as nine separate wells alongside the shrine of Lord Shiva. The idols of Golden Ganapati, Lord Murugan, Mahalakshmi, and King Nala are major attractions here. At the entrance, there is a separate shrine for Shani Dev, featuring symbols of Capricorn and Aquarius. Shani’s vehicle, a crow, is depicted in golden hues. The temple also houses statues of 63 saints.
Thirunallar is not just a religious center but also a cultural heritage site. During Brahmotsav, dance and Bharatanatyam festivals are held, along with special programs during Maha Shivaratri and other religious occasions. The natural beauty of the area is captivating, enhanced by Nallambal Lake, Nular River, Arasalar River, and the Agalankanu reservoir.
Thirunallar is easily accessible by road from Karaikal city and is well-connected to various parts of Tamil Nadu.
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