Sri Akilandeswari Temple is situated within the Sri Suddha Rathneswarar Temple complex at Oottathur, a peaceful village near Lalgudi in Trichy District, Tamil Nadu. The temple is believed to be over 1000 years old, with inscriptions and legends connecting it to the Chola period.
The Main Deity (Moolavar) here is Lord Suddha Rathneswarar (Shiva), along with his consort, Goddess Akilandeswari
Goddess Akilandeswari, meaning “She who governs the entire universe”, is the presiding goddess of this temple. She is enshrined in a separate sanctum within the same complex. Her divine form radiates both motherly grace and powerful energy. Lord Shiva here is worshipped as Suddha Rathneswarar, symbolizing purity and brilliance, much like a flawless gem.
The Sri Suddha Rathneswarar Temple complex follows the Dravidian architectural style. The sanctum of Lord Shiva houses a beautifully polished Shiva Lingam that radiates serenity. The shrine of Goddess Akilandeswari is positioned facing the Lord, reflecting divine balance and unity.
The temple includes a sacred pond (Theertham), a flagpost, and several sub-shrines dedicated to other deities. Intricate carvings, stone pillars, and the peaceful surroundings add to the temple’s divine charm.
The Sthalapurana of Oottathur is deeply centered on Goddess Akilandeswari and her divine compassion.
It is said that after granting wisdom to the world as Akilandeswari in Thiruvanaikaval, the Goddess desired to spread peace and spiritual clarity in a more tranquil and compassionate form. She chose the calm village of Oottathur as her next divine abode.
When Goddess Akilandeswari arrived here, she took on a peaceful and motherly form — no longer fierce or ascetic, but gentle, smiling, and filled with grace. She was accompanied by Lord Shiva, who manifested as Sri Suddha Rathneswarar (meaning “The Pure Gem”). Together, they radiated divine energy to remove ignorance and sorrow from the hearts of devotees.
When Goddess Akilandeswari arrived here, she took on a peaceful and motherly form — no longer fierce or ascetic, but gentle, smiling, and filled with grace. She was accompanied by Lord Shiva, who manifested as Sri Suddha Rathneswarar (meaning “The Pure Gem”). Together, they radiated divine energy to remove ignorance and sorrow from the hearts of devotees.
Legend says that Surya Bhagavan (the Sun God) performed penance here to seek forgiveness for his pride and regain his brilliance. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva and Goddess Akilandeswari blessed him. In gratitude, the Sun God worshipped them daily, and even today, during the Tamil month of Masi (February–March), sun rays fall directly on the Shiva Lingam for three days — symbolizing the union of light, knowledge, and divine power.
The temple tank in front of the shrine is believed to have originated from the energy of the Goddess herself. Devotees believe that sprinkling its waters brings inner peace, mental clarity, and relief from stress.
It is also said that Goddess Akilandeswari here blesses women with marital harmony and emotional strength, and devotees pray to her for wisdom and balance in family life. The village of Oottathur is thus considered a Kshetra of Serenity and Divine Knowledge, where the Goddess continues to radiate compassion and enlightenment to all who seek her blessings.
The temple’s main festival is Navaratri, celebrated grandly with daily alankarams, abhishekams, and cultural events honoring Goddess Akilandeswari. Aadi Pooram and Panguni Uthiram attract large gatherings of devotees, while during Masi month, the sacred event of sun rays falling directly on the main deity is celebrated with special poojas. Aippasi Annabhishekam for Lord Shiva and monthly Pournami poojas are observed with devotion and joy throughout the year.
