Agastheesvarar Temple, Purisai

The temple follows the Kamika and Karana Agama architectural traditions, incorporating a sanctum sanctorum, an inner chamber (Andaralam), an assembly hall (Artha Mandap), and a front vestibule (Mukha Mandap). The main deity faces eastward. A distinctive feature of this temple is the shape of the Avudayar—the base upon which the Shiva Linga rests—which is round rather than the more commonly seen leaf shape. Mother Anandavalli is positioned to the south of the sanctum, depicted in a standing posture and facing south.

The temple complex includes several subsidiary shrines. Within the inner courtyard (prakara) are shrines dedicated to Lord Vinayaka and Lord Muruga with his consorts Valli and Deivanai on the western side, while Lord Bhairava and the Navagrahas occupy the northeastern section. A separate shrine houses Sani Bhagwan. The walls of the sanctum display images of Lord Vinayaka and Lord Dakshinamurthi on the south, Lord Vishnu on the west, and Lord Brahma and Mother Durga on the north. A shrine for Lord Dandeswarar is also present. A recently constructed three-tiered gateway tower (Rajagopuram) stands on the southern side with a Vinayaka shrine integrated into its design.

Worship and Observances

The temple maintains regular daily worship during morning hours from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. and evening hours from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Devotees observe monthly rituals on Pradosha days and during new moon periods (Amavasya). Many visitors undertake a full Mandalam—a forty-five-day period of continuous worship—seeking relief from serious ailments, advancement in trade and professional endeavors, or blessings for children. Devotees commonly perform ritual ablutions (abhishek) of the deity and offer cloth garments (vastras) as expressions of gratitude.

Maha Shivaratri Celebrations

The temple observes Maha Shivaratri with significant ceremonial observance during the months of March and April. This festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva, draws devotees who wish to participate in the temple's grand celebrations during this period. Those planning a visit specifically to experience the temple's festival atmosphere should consider timing their journey to coincide with these months.

Visiting the Temple

The temple is situated in Anakaputhur, positioned along the main GST Road in the Kancheepuram district area. Visitors should plan their visit according to the temple's operating hours: morning darshan from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. and evening darshan from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. As with most Hindu temples, modest dress is appropriate—covering shoulders and knees is customary. Footwear should be removed before entering the sanctum. The temple follows traditional Hindu protocols regarding ritual purity and worship practices. Visitors are welcome to participate in or observe the daily worship, though those unfamiliar with temple customs may wish to observe quietly and respectfully during active ritual periods.