Sri Ananda Bhairavar shrine is located in Surakudi, a serene village in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu. This shrine is part of the historic Sri Desikanathar Temple, which is one of the nine Nagarathar temples in the Chettinad region.
The main deity of this shrine is Lord Ananda Bhairavar, a rare and special form of Lord Bhairava, who is considered a fierce and protective form of Lord Shiva. Uniquely, Ananda Bhairavar here does not hold the usual trident (trishula) like in most Bhairava shrines. Instead, he holds a club (gada), symbolizing protection and peace.
Long ago, when Lord Shiva’s consort, Goddess Sati, was insulted by her father Daksha during a grand yajna (sacrificial ritual), Shiva was filled with divine fury. In response, Lord Shiva created Veerabhadra and Bhairava, two powerful forms of his energy, to disrupt the yajna and punish those who disrespected the divine couple.
During this divine mission, Lord Bhairava became the fierce protector of dharma. It is believed that after the destruction of Daksha’s yajna, Lord Surya, who had participated in it, lost his divine radiance due to the curse. To regain his glory, Surya performed penance at this very place, Surakudi.
Impressed by his devotion, Lord Shiva forgave Surya and restored his brightness. Hence, the village got the name Surakudi, which is said to have evolved from Suriyakudi—the place where the Sun God was worshipped.
Lord Bhairava stood guard and protected the devotees during the rituals as part of this divine story. His presence in Surakudi is said to have ensured peace and safety for all who performed penance here. Due to his divine service, a special shrine was dedicated to him within the temple complex. Over time, this form became known as *Sri Ananda Bhairavar*, or the blissful Bhairava.
Unlike his usual fierce form, Ananda Bhairavar in Surakudi is peaceful and smiling, holding a club (gada) instead of the typical trident (trishula), symbolizing that he is both a protector and a giver of peace.
The first pooja of the day is offered to Ananda Bhairavar, and devotees believe that worshipping him here removes fear, protects against evil, and grants peace and stability in life.
Bhairava Ashtami / Bhairava Jayanthi is celebrated with great devotion during the Tamil month of Margazhi (Dec–Jan). Special abhishekams (ritual baths), alankarams (decorations), and deepa aradhana are performed. Devotees light ghee lamps and offer black sesame and curd rice, which are considered Bhairava’s favorite offerings.
