Budha or Mercury is the planet closest to the sun. In Hindu mythology, Budha is Buddhi Nathanhe who imparts wisdom or Graha Peeda Hara he who destroys the evil influence of the other planets.

Budha´s controlling deity is Maha Vishnu or Narayana. Thus, by praying to Budha or reciting Vishnu Sahasra Namam, the devotee is bestowed with wisdom, Intellect, and excellence in education, promotions at work and success in business ventures. Budha confers the art of communicating well and also a sense of humor. He controls the lungs, intestines and the nervous system .He is in charge of the well being of one´s maternal uncles. He is gentle, peaceful and grants wealth and vehicles. He is usually in green and wearing an emerald and worshipping him on Wednesdays is considered very auspicious.

Thiruvenkadu

This temple is the abode of Svetaranyeswara and his consort Brahma Vidya Nayaki. It is about 11 kms east of Vaitheeswaran Koil, on the north bank of the Cauvery. It is situated near the chola port of Poompuhar.

This temple is fairly big surrounded by innumerable trees. The main temple is surrounded by several shrines around it. The most important of these shrines is the one dedicated to Budha.

This temple has three water tanksSurya kulam, the Soma kulam, and the Agni kulam named after Shiva´s three eyes, the Sun, the Moon, and the third eye in his forehead Nettrikun , fire. Bathing in these tanks and worshipping Shiva here for forty-five days is believed particularly beneficial to couples praying for a child.

There is reference to this temple in the Ramayana. Hence the oldest part of this temple is believed to be more than 3000 years old. Dedicated to Mercury, this temple is the last of the Navagraha Temples and is said to bestow wisdom and intellect.

The temple is open daily between 6am to 12 pm, 4 pm to 9pm