Vaitheeswaran Kovil (also known as Pullirukkuvelur) is one of the nine sacred Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Angaraka (Mars). Located near Mayiladuthurai in the Mayiladuthurai district, the temple's presiding deity is Lord Shiva worshipped as Vaidyanathaswamy — the "God of Healing" [citation:1][citation:5]. The consort is Thaiyalnayaki (also known as Valambigai), depicted carrying a pot of Sanjeevi Thailam (medicinal oil) for curing illnesses [citation:8].
The temple has a rich history dating back to the Chola period, with inscriptions from the reign of Kulothunga Chola I (1070–1120 CE) [citation:5]. It received contributions from various rulers including Vikrama Chola, Vira Rajendra Pandya, Achuthappa Nayak, and Maratha prince Thulaja [citation:5][citation:12]. Architecturally, the temple features a five-tiered rajagopuram (gateway tower), two inner gopurams, and extensive precincts built in the Dravidian style [citation:5][citation:7].
The Legend of Angaraka's Cure: According to Hindu mythology, Angaraka (Mars), one of the nine planetary deities, suffered from leprosy. He performed penance and worshipped Lord Shiva at this sacred site. Moved by his devotion, Vaidyanathaswamy cured him of the disease. From then on, this temple became the primary Navagraha sthalam for Angaraka, and devotees believe that prayers here can cure diseases and skin ailments [citation:1][citation:8].
Significance of Healing: The temple is renowned as a center for religious healing. The holy tank, Siddhamirtham, is believed to contain nectar, and a dip in its waters is said to cure all diseases [citation:1][citation:9]. The temple's Sthala Vriksha (sacred tree) is the neem (margosa) tree, known for its medicinal properties [citation:5][citation:7]. Devotees also receive Thiruchandu Urundai (medicinal pellets made from sacred ash) and Nethrapidi Sandhanam (sandalwood-saffron paste) as prasadam, believed to have curative powers [citation:8].
Nadi Astrology Connection: Vaitheeswaran Kovil is famously associated with Nadi Astrology (Nadi Jothidam). The temple is believed to house ancient palm leaf manuscripts containing the destinies of countless individuals, and many devotees come here seeking Nadi readings [citation:1][citation:8]. The temple is located about 13 km from Mayiladuthurai and 90 km from Thanjavur on the Thanjavur–Chidambaram highway [citation:7].
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