Keezhperumpallam Temple

Keezhperumpallam Temple – Ketu

The temple is formally called Sri Naganathaswamy Temple at Keezhperumpallam (Keelaperumpallam), Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the nine Navagraha temples and is dedicated to Ketu, the shadow planet in Hindu astrology.

“केतु राहु का अंत नहीं, आत्मा की शुरुआत है – यही कीज़्हपेरुम्पल्लम की शिक्षा है।”

― Keezhperumpallam Temple – Ketu

Even though the temple’s main deity (Moolavar) is Lord Shiva as Naganathaswamy, the Ketu shrine is significant; devotees offer worship to Ketu first before entering the main sanctum.

Mythological Significance & History

Keezhperumpallam is also called Vanagiri. The name arises from local lore associated with the temple site.
Legend: During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic Ocean of Milk), Devas and Asuras churned the ocean. Amrita (nectar) emerged, which was being given to the Devas by Mohini (Vishnu’s form). An Asura disguised as a Deva (Swarbanu) also consumed the nectar. Sun and Moon noticed, raised alarm; Vishnu (as Mohini) used a spoon to sever the head of the Asura. Because the Asura had consumed amrita, both head and body continued to live. The head part became Rahu; the body part attached to a snake’s head later became Ketu. This temple is where Ketu worshipped Lord Shiva to get relief / blessings.
The temple is ancient; parts of it are believed to date back 1000‑2000 years. Built/renovated by Chola kings.

Significance of the Temple

It is a parihara sthalam for Ketu dosha (i.e. to reduce / mitigate adverse effects attributed to Ketu in one’s horoscope) — such as delays in marriage or children, fears, spiritual obstacles, etc.
Worship here is believed to grant: spiritual insight, non‑attachment, relief from illness, prosperity, overall balance of karmic influences.
Unique form of Ketu is worshipped: with human‑body plus head of a snake (five‑headed snake), in folded hands, facing a shrine in the temple.
Devotees perform offerings like lily flowers, horse‑gram (kollu), multi‑coloured cloth to Ketu. Special poojas occur during Peyarchi (when Ketu changes zodiac sign), during Rahu / Ketu Kala, and during festivals.