Here are some key aspects of the religious beliefs and practices associated with the Suryanar Kovil:
1.Worship of Lord Surya:
The primary focus of the Suryanar Kovil is the worship of Lord Surya. Devotees believe that offering prayers and performing rituals to Lord Surya at the temple can bestow blessings of good health, vitality, prosperity, and success in various endeavors.
2.Navagraha Temple:
The Suryanar Kovil is one of the nine Navagraha Temples in Kumbakonam, each dedicated to a specific celestial body of Hindu astrology. The temple represents the Sun god and holds significance in the Navagraha pilgrimage. Devotees visit the temple as part of their spiritual journey to seek the blessings and guidance of Lord Surya.
3.Rituals and Offerings:
Various rituals and offerings are performed at the Suryanar Kovil to appease Lord Surya. Devotees offer prayers, light oil lamps, and make offerings of flowers, fruits, and other symbolic items. Special pujas and homams (fire rituals) are conducted to invoke the blessings of the deity.
4.Festival Celebrations:
The Suryanar Kovil is known for its vibrant festival celebrations. The annual Brahmotsavam festival, celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), is a major event. The temple premises come alive with colorful processions, music, dance performances, and religious rituals during this time.
5.Astrological Significance:
The Suryanar Kovil holds astrological significance for those who believe in the influence of celestial bodies on human lives. Devotees visit the temple to seek remedies for adverse effects caused by the placement of the Sun in their birth charts. It is believed that offering prayers and performing rituals at the temple can mitigate the negative influences and bring positive changes.
