Thukkachi Abatsahayesvar temple
About Thukkachi Abatsahayesvar temple
Located in Thukkachi village approximately 16 kilometres east of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district, this Shiva temple stands as a testament to Chola architectural excellence. The presiding deity, Abathsahayeswarar (Shiva), faces east, while his consort Sowndaranayaki Ambal (Durga) occupies a separate niche facing south, an unusual orientation in South Indian temple design. The temple was originally constructed during the reign of Rajendra Chola I between 1014 and 1044 CE. According to legend, King Vikrama Chola, afflicted with vitiligo, received divine guidance from Lord Abathsahayeswarar in a dream and subsequently ordered the temple's expansion after his miraculous recovery. The shrine houses multiple deities including Sarabeshwarar, Varahi, Dakshinamurthy, Subramaniar with his consorts, and others. The temple's vimana architecture mirrors that of the Darasuram Iravatesvara temple. Once comprising seven prakaras, only three remain today. Comprehensive renovation work commenced in 2015 with government and devotee contributions totalling 5.5 million rupees, culminating in the Kumbhabhishekham ceremony on 3 September 2023. The restoration employed modern technology while preserving traditional aesthetics, earning UNESCO recognition.
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