Shaktimuttam
is a famous Siva
temple in Tanjore
district. There
are many legends
associated with
the temple.
According to the
legend Peria Nayagi
began a penance
in this temple to
see Lord Siva and
her desire was to
embrace the Lord
and  kiss
him. Siva appeared
before her on knowing
her desire came
back in the form
of fire. But Peria
Nayagi was unperturbed
and embraced this
form. Then Siva
came back in his
original form. This
idol of Peria Nayagi
kissing the Lord
is worshipped in
this temple. The
name of this place
is also a result
of this mythological
story. Shakti is
Goddess and Muttam
is kiss. In one
of the Balipeetham,
Siva’s footsteps
are seen The lord
of this temple is
also known as Saktivaneswarar
and Teepizhambeeswarar.
The Goddess is also
known by the name
Brihanayaki. Saktimuttam
is also known by
the name Saktivanam
symbolizing the
forest where Goddess
Shakti did her penance.
Saktimuttam is very
near Kumbakonam
and Dharasuram.
The place is easily
accessible by rail
and road.
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