About Temple
In India, there are very few temples dedicated to Saraswati, the Goddess of learning. Although we see Her collaboration with other deities in many other temples, it is rare to find a shrine dedicated to Her. Located along the Mayiladuthurai-Tiruvarur rail route and one and a half kilometers from the village Poonthottam is the temple dedicated to Saraswathi – Koothanur.
History
Contrarily, Saraswathi, who had a conflict with Brahma, was reborn on earth. She sought spiritual enlightenment by worshipping Lord Shiva and both she and Brahma attained salvation. As a result, Saraswathi could take form as the Harisol River and have a shrine dedicated to her as the Goddess of knowledge on its banks. However, due to another curse, Brahma was unable to have such a shrine. But after beseeching Lord Shiva, he was granted permission to perform rituals for the departed souls. Thus, Brahma Pooja is now synonymous with these sacred ceremonies that hold great importance when carried out in this specific location.
River Yamuna is said to have been tempted by Krishna’s acts with the gopikas. Cursed, she prayed for emancipation and came here as a river.
A kumbhabhishekan was conducted in the temple in 1941, 1968, 1987, and 2003. Great people, such as Ottakoothar, Ovathakoothar, and Purushotham Bharathi, have worshiped here.
A rare example can be found in Kuthanoor, Tamil Nadu. The only temple dedicated to Saraswati devi in India.
