Someshwara Temple, Shivanasamudra – Legends

Someshwara Temple, Shivanasamudra – Legends

Shivana Samudra:

As per Hindu mythology, it is said that one day, Shiva and Parvathi were on a stroll in the sky and were observing the river Kaveri from above. Shiva observed that a huge rock obstructed the increasing ongoing flow of the river. But the river spread out like an ocean and surrounding that rock, flowed forward. Amazed by the sheer size of the river, which appeared to him as an ocean, Shiva proclaimed "Dhanya Kaveri" (Blessed river). Observing the ocean like river which impressed Shiva, Parvathi gave it the name "Shivanasamudra". All the temples have been built on the same rock which is famous today as Shivana Samudra.

Lord Shiva destroyed Rakshasas to save River Cauvery:

The legends state that river Cauvery, which flows on either side of the temple like a garland, was obstructed by a rakshasa who had taken the form of a rock at a place near Shivanasamudra. Mother Cauvery appealed to Lord Shiva who destroyed the rakshasa, hence the name Shivanasamudra.

Saptha Rishi Kshetra:

It is also said that the Saptha Rishis take their Saayam Sandhya bath and perform other holy rites in the river Cauvery at Barachukki. Hence this place is also known as "Saptha Rishi Kshetra." Also, it is believed that Saptha Rishis were performing Pooja and worshipping this Linga.

Adi Shankaracharya installed Sri Chakra here:

Adi guru Sri Shankaracharya is said to have visited this place and has established a "Sri Chakra" in this place.