In Hindu astrology, Rahu, also known as the northern lunar node, is considered one of the Navagrahas or nine planets. This imaginary point in the sky is associated with goddess Durga and is often referred to as a shadowy planet. Although Rahu has no physical manifestation, it holds great significance due to its power. Additionally, this celestial body moves in a unique fashion, always in the opposite direction. It takes around 1.5 years for Rahu to pass through each sign and complete the zodiac circle in 18 years.
According to Vedic astrology, Rahu governs an individual’s ego, rage, mentality, lust, and alcoholism as well as several erroneous life activities. Rahu is often associated with unconscious desires, dissatisfactions, fears, obsessions, ambitions, hallucinations, trances, and unresolved issues from previous lives.
When Rahu is in a beneficial placement, Vedic astrology suggests that the individual will enjoy great wealth and abundance. This planetary position can also bring about leadership roles, administrative positions, and exceptional diplomacy skills. The influence of Rahu can also have a positive impact on one’s involvement in politics. However, individuals with a weak Rahu placement may be more susceptible to deceit and backstabbing. They may face various challenges in both their personal and professional lives. Furthermore, those influenced by Rahu may be more prone to illnesses, legal issues, and even imprisonment.
An Hindu temple, Tirunageswaram Naganathar Temple, is dedicated to Shiva in Tirunageswaram, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam, a town in Tamil Nadu, India. As one of the Navagraha Stalas temples associated with the nine planet elements, specifically Rahu, it is important to the Hindu sect of Saivism. Shiva, who is worshipped as Naganathar, is represented by the lingam and Parvati by Piraisooodi Amman.
There are many temple towns in the state, but this one gets its name from the grooves, clusters, or forests dominated by one kind of tree or shrub and where the same kind of tree or shrub houses the presiding deity. Due to its belief that it was covered in Chamapaka forest, the area is known as Chamapakavanam.
In this area, many serpents adored Shiva, including Adishesha, Takshaka, and Karkotaka, giving it the name “Tirunageswaram.” According to Hindu legend, this location is known as Senbaranya Kshetram because of its abundance of Senbaga trees. Shiva appeared to him because he was pleased with the penance. Naganathar is the name given to the Serpent king because Shiva granted him a blessing.
