Sernthapoomangalam, revered as the Ninth Kailasam, holds a unique place in the spiritual geography of the Thamirabarani river belt. This sacred Shiva temple marks the culmination of a divine journey undertaken by Uromasa Maharishi, guided by Sage Agasthiyar, in his quest for salvation.
The Legend of the Nine Flowers
According to legend, Uromasa Maharishi built nine Shiva temples along the banks of the Thamirabarani. To identify the final sacred spot, he set nine flowers afloat in the river. The place where the ninth flower rested came to be known as Sernthapoomangalam, literally meaning the place where the flower completed its journey. This act fulfilled the sage’s spiritual quest, making the site immensely sacred.
Sangumugam – Where River Meets the Divine
Sernthapoomangalam lies close to Sangumugam, a holy stretch where the Thamirabarani flows towards its confluence with the sea near Punnakayal. The sacred bathing ghat here is considered highly auspicious, and water from this spot is traditionally used to commence Kumbabishekam rituals in nearby temples. Legends say Sage Agasthiyar and even the King of the Seas worshipped Lord Shiva at this very place.
Presiding Deities and Planetary Significance
The presiding deity is Sri Kailasanathar, with Sri Soundarya Nayagi as the consort. In this temple, Lord Shiva is believed to embody the qualities of Lord Sukran (Venus). Worship here is said to grant benefits similar to prayers offered at Kanjanoor Sukran Temple, blessing devotees with prosperity, fame, and marital harmony.
Temple Layout and Divine Presence
The east-facing Shiva Lingam stands majestically in the central sanctum, while the Goddess faces south. The temple corridors house several important deities, including Dakshinamoorthy, Kanni Vinayagar, Lord Muruga with Valli and Deivanai, Saniswarar, and Bhairavar. The presence of these shrines creates a spiritually complete worship experience.
Ancient Inscriptions and Royal Patronage
Stone inscriptions suggest that the temple may have been built during the reign of Pandya kings, possibly by Maravarman Sundara Pandian or King Sendhan. Earlier records mention the town as Kudanaatu Aathoor Serndha Mangalam and Avaniba Sekara Chaturvedi Mangalam, highlighting its historical and scholarly importance.
Unique Beliefs and Special Worship
A rare carving of Lord Kubera riding an elephant, along with Sanga Nidhi and Paduma Nidhi, adorns the temple vimana. Devotees traditionally worship this form after Shiva darshan, seeking wealth and stability. Rituals such as Neeranjana Pooja, Sukra Olai, and special Friday worship are believed to remove Sukra Dosham, overcome financial losses, and bless couples with progeny.
Festivals and Living Traditions
The Chithirai Festival and Car Festival held on Chithra Pournami draw devotees from across the region. Regular observances like Pradosham, Thirukalyanam, Navaratri, Varusha Abishegam, and Thiruvilakku Pooja keep the temple’s spiritual rhythm alive throughout the year.
A Sacred Stop on the Thamirabarani Path
Sernthapoomangalam is not just a temple, but a spiritual milestone, where devotion, legend, river, and planet converge. For devotees seeking Sukran’s grace and inner fulfillment, the Ninth Kailasam remains a powerful destination on the sacred banks of the Thamirabarani.
