Vaitheeswaran Koil - Temple of Shiva - The Healer
Mars also known as Mangal or Chevvai or Angarakan is a planet appearing after dusk as a red object in the summer sky. He is a planet who needs to be worshipped by the believer when misfortune strikes. He is considered very powerful with a strong war-like influence. He rides a golden chariot drawn by eight horses.
At a distance of 52 kms from Swamimalai is the abode of Shiva as Vaidyanatha Swamy (God of Healing) and his consort Thaiyal Nayaki. He cures all illness, both mental and physical. Upon entering the temple, devotees usually dissolve jaggery in the waters of Siddhamrita tank. The tradition is evocative of the waters curative properties. The next ritual to be performed is offering a mixture of common salt and peppercorns at a designated area. Eating a pinch of mixture is believed to be the medicine for skin eruptions.
There is a separate small shrine for Chevvai (Angarakan). He bestows valour, victory and strength in any endeavour. He removes obstacles such as delayed marriages caused by a horoscope with Chevvai Dosham.
Chevvai being the Graha in charge of brothers and sisters, prayers for the well being of one’s siblings at this sub-shrine are appropriate.
Any health problems with the bone-marrow find a cure with prayers to Chevvai. Many bathe in the temple tank on Tuesdays to get invoke Chevvai to relieve them of ailments like rheumatism, fractures and wounds.
Creditors with long pending loans due to them and debtors also pray here and fast on Tuesdays to find a solution.
Vaitheeswaran Koil was built in the fifth or sixth century AD and it was renovated by the Chola King in 12th century.