Sri Rajaganapathi Temple

This temple is an associate temple of Sri Sugavaneswarar Temple, Salem. Lord Sugavaneswara had blessed Sugabrammarishi the son of Ved Vyas. When a special car/ chariot was designed and made for Lord Sugavaneswara, Lord Ganapathi’s idol was also placed at the point where the car would start its ride. This Lord Ganapathi became famous due to his supreme powers in attracting devotees and removing their problems. Subsequently a separate temple was built for Lord Rajaganapathi in this place called Theradi. When Lord Sugavaneswara (Lord Shiva) is brought to the car for Vaikasi Visagam, it is for Sri Rajaganapathi that the first pooja would be performed. Lord Rajaganapathi is postured with Angusam, Pasam in his hands, with Abaya, Varatha mudras and with the Tusk in one hand and Modagam in the other hand. Like in other Ganapati Temples, the Mooshika (Rat) is not seen opposite to the Lord because here the Rajaganapathi is in a sitting posture on Mooshika.

Rajaganapathi Temple is a small one but noted for its glory. Ganesha in the sanctum is of medium size and every day he is seen with Raja Alankaram, hence the deity is known as Rajaganapthy. Sri Rajaganapathy temple was constructed 400 years back.