The Nageswaran Temple, also known as ‘Kudanthai Keezhkottam’ in Kumbakonam, is famous for its beauty and Chola architecture. It is also the setting for T. Janakiraman’s Tamil novel ‘Mogamul’ (thorn of desire). The temple is closely linked to the story’s music and characters. Hindustani musicians in the novel perform at this temple, creating an unforgettable scene. Janakiraman chose this temple carefully. The musicians are first seen at the Kumbeshwaran Temple, then at Ranganna’s house, who is the guru of Babu, the story’s hero. Later, they give a full concert at the Nageswaran Temple. All these places suit the music perfectly. According to Lalitharam, a historian of Carnatic music, the novel shows the difference between pure Carnatic music and what is common in concert halls today. It says the soul of music, shown by Ranganna who is based on Umayalpuram Swaminatha Iyer, is fading. Singers now focus less on voice quality. When Babu first hears the Hindustani singers, he is amazed by the powerful voice and control. Janakiraman writes, “Can a human voice carry such weight? What strength there is!... Goosebumps rose on Babu’s skin, and his eyes filled with tears.” Ranganna also enjoys the music deeply. In one scene, people mistake the musicians for beggars and toss some coins. Ranganna kindly puts the coins in the temple hundi, showing that looks do not matter in music. Another character, Palur Ramu, a proud and patriotic man from Chennai, contrasts with the true musicians. The novel shows his arrogance fading when a Hindustani singer beautifully holds long notes, revealing the effort behind great singing. Babu invites the musicians to Yamuna’s home. She speaks Marathi and learns more about their music. Later, they perform at the Nageswaran Temple, which is nearly empty and feels like a humble wedding. The senior singer aligns with the sruthi and sings with soul. Yamuna says, “My heart aches. How is he able to sing like this? I feel I am going mad.” This moment captures the magic of music and the temple setting. Nageswaran Temple remains a symbol of rich culture and the deep connection between music and literature.