Ekambareswarar Temple In Kanchipuram
The Ekambareswarar Temple, located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spread over an expansive area, the temple complex showcases exquisite architecture, rich mythology, and vibrant history. With its origins dating back to ancient times, the Ekambareswarar Temple stands as a significant pilgrimage site and a cultural landmark.
Historical Significance:
The Ekambareswarar Temple holds immense historical significance as one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Its origins can be traced back to the 7th century CE during the Pallava dynasty. Throughout its history, the temple has undergone renovations and expansions under different ruling dynasties, including the Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Nayakas. These periods of patronage have contributed to the temple’s grandeur, architectural diversity, and cultural importance.
Mythological Legend:
According to the mythological legend associated with the Ekambareswarar Temple, Goddess Parvati, in the form of Kamakshi, performed intense penance under a mango tree (Ekambaram) to seek Lord Shiva’s hand in marriage. Impressed by her devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before her and granted her wish. This divine union is symbolized by the temple, making it a sacred place for devotees seeking blessings for marital harmony and love.
Temple Architecture:
The Ekambareswarar Temple showcases a magnificent blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara architectural styles. Spread over a vast area of 25 acres, the temple complex features ornate entrance towers called gopurams, intricately carved mandapams (pillared halls), and shrines dedicated to various deities. The main Rajagopuram stands at a height of 192 feet, captivating visitors with its architectural splendor. The Thousand Pillar Mandapam, adorned with beautifully carved pillars, is a notable structure within the complex. The temple’s architectural beauty and craftsmanship reflect the rich heritage and artistic prowess of the region.
Gopurams:
The Ekambareswarar Temple boasts five impressive gopurams, which are ornate entrance towers that serve as architectural highlights of the temple complex. The main gopuram, known as the Rajagopuram, stands tall at a height of 192 feet, making it a prominent landmark. Each gopuram is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various mythological stories and deities. These towering structures not only serve as gateways to the temple but also showcase the artistic prowess and craftsmanship of the architects and artisans of the time. They leave a lasting impression on visitors with their grandeur and architectural beauty.
Thousand Pillar Mandapam:
The Thousand Pillar Mandapam is a prominent structure within the Ekambareswarar Temple complex. Built during the Vijayanagara period, it is renowned for its architectural beauty and intricately carved pillars. The mandapam gets its name from the numerous pillars that adorn it, each displaying exquisite craftsmanship and detailed carvings. These pillars depict various mythological scenes, deities, and ornate motifs. The Thousand Pillar Mandapam serves as a gathering place for devotees and a venue for religious ceremonies and cultural events. It stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance and artistic heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Main Shrine:
The main shrine of the Ekambareswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the form of Ekambareswarar. The sanctum sanctorum houses the lingam, which is believed to be made of Prithvi (earth) elements. The entrance to the main shrine is adorned with silver doors, adding to its grandeur. Devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for various purposes, including spiritual growth, fulfillment of desires, and liberation. The main shrine serves as the focal point of worship and devotion within the temple complex, attracting devotees from far and wide.
Devi Shrine:
Adjacent to the main shrine of Ekambareswarar Temple, there is a separate shrine dedicated to the Goddess Kamakshi, known as the Devi Shrine. Goddess Kamakshi is the divine feminine energy and represents the nurturing aspect of the universe. Devotees offer prayers and seek the blessings of Goddess Kamakshi for marital harmony, fertility, and overall well-being. The shrine is adorned with beautiful decorations and intricate carvings, creating a serene atmosphere. It serves as a sacred space for devotees to connect with the divine feminine energy and experience the grace and compassion of the Goddess.
Hall of Festivals:
The Ekambareswarar Temple houses a spacious hall known as the “Hall of Festivals” or “Punyakoti Vimanam.” This hall serves as a venue for various religious ceremonies and cultural events. The Hall of Festivals is intricately designed and decorated, featuring ornate pillars, exquisite carvings, and vibrant paintings. It provides a grand space for devotees to participate in religious processions, musical performances, dance recitals, and other festivities held during important occasions and festivals. The hall’s ambiance creates a festive atmosphere, amplifying the spiritual and cultural significance of the temple and enhancing the overall experience for visitors and devotees.
Temple Tanks:
The Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram is adorned with several temple tanks, which hold great religious and symbolic significance. One of the notable tanks is the Shivaganga Tank. Devotees consider taking a holy dip in these tanks to be spiritually purifying and believe that it brings them closer to the divine. The temple tanks also serve as a source of water for various rituals and ceremonies conducted within the temple premises. These serene and sacred water bodies add to the overall beauty and tranquility of the temple complex, creating a serene and auspicious environment for devotees.
Ekambareshwara Temple In Kanchipuram
Ekambareshwara Temple Timings:
The Ekambareshwara temple’s timings are 6 am to 8:30 pm. Every day, a pooja is performed at least six times. Additionally, special poojas of Lord Siva’s Temple are regularly performed.
Pooja Details Ekambareshwara temple timings
| Pooja Details | Ekambareshwara temple timings |
| Koo Pooja | 6.00 AM. |
| Ukshakala Pooja | 6.30 am to 7.30 am |
| Kala Santhi Pooja | 7.30 am. to 8.30 am |
| Uchikala Pooja | 11.30 am. to 12.00 Noon |
| Pradhosa Kaalam | 5.00 p.m. to 5.30 p.m |
| Sayaratchai Pooja | 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm |
| Arthajama Pooja | 8.30 pm. |
Festival Celebrations:
The Ekambareswarar Temple is renowned for its vibrant festival celebrations, which attract devotees and tourists alike. The annual Panguni Uthiram festival, held during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), is a major highlight. It involves grand processions, religious rituals, and cultural performances. The Brahmotsavam festival, spanning several days, is another significant event marked by deity processions, music, dance, and fireworks. The Arudra Darshan festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is celebrated with devotion and fervor. These festivals provide a platform for spiritual rejuvenation, cultural immersion, and community participation, showcasing the rich traditions and religious fervor associated with the temple.
Religious Significance:
The Ekambareswarar Temple holds immense religious significance for devotees, particularly Shaivites who worship Lord Shiva. It is considered one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the five elements of nature, with the temple symbolizing the Prithvi (earth) element. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for various aspects of their lives, including spiritual growth, health, prosperity, and liberation. The temple is believed to bestow divine grace and fulfill devotees’ desires. The religious rituals, festivals, and prayers performed at the temple foster a deep connection with the divine and provide a sense of spiritual solace and fulfillment to the devotees.
Cultural Significance:
The Ekambareswarar Temple holds significant cultural importance in Tamil Nadu and India as a whole. It has been a center for promoting Tamil culture, literature, and art forms for centuries. Many Tamil scholars, poets, and musicians have composed hymns and literary works dedicated to the deity. The temple’s architecture, sculptures, and intricate carvings reflect the artistic prowess and heritage of the region. The vibrant festival celebrations, cultural events, and religious rituals conducted at the temple provide a platform for showcasing traditional music, dance, and other cultural practices. The temple thus acts as a cultural hub, preserving and propagating Tamil traditions and artistic expressions.
Visitor Amenities:
The Ekambareswarar Temple offers various visitor amenities to enhance the pilgrimage experience. Separate entry points for men and women ensure a smooth flow of devotees. Footwear counters are available for visitors to deposit their shoes before entering the temple premises. Facilities for offering prayers, performing rituals, and receiving blessings are provided within the temple complex. Additionally, the temple premises house shops selling religious items, souvenirs, and prasadam (holy offerings). Adequate arrangements for drinking water, restrooms, and seating areas are made for the convenience of visitors. These amenities ensure a comfortable and fulfilling visit for devotees and tourists.
Preservation and Renovation:
The Ekambareswarar Temple has undergone several preservation and renovation efforts to maintain its architectural brilliance and religious significance. Over the centuries, various ruling dynasties, philanthropists, and governmental bodies have contributed to the upkeep and restoration of the temple. These efforts have involved structural repairs, conservation of sculptures, and maintenance of the temple complex. The aim has been to safeguard the historical and cultural heritage of the temple, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate its splendor. The continuous preservation and renovation initiatives have played a crucial role in preserving the temple’s sacredness and architectural grandeur.
Nearby attractions :
Kanchipuram, besides being home to the Ekambareswarar Temple, offers several other nearby attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some notable ones:
Kailasanathar Temple: Located in Kanchipuram itself, the Kailasanathar Temple is one of the oldest and most remarkable temples in the city. It features beautiful Pallava architecture and intricate carvings.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple: This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is another significant religious site in Kanchipuram. It is renowned for its impressive architecture and is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred Vishnu temples mentioned in the Tamil verses of Alvars.
Kamakshi Amman Temple: Situated in Kanchipuram, the Kamakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of divine feminine energy. It is a popular pilgrimage site and is known for its architectural splendor.
Kanchi Kudil: This heritage village museum provides a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage of Kanchipuram. It showcases traditional houses, artifacts, and handicrafts, offering visitors a chance to experience the region’s rich cultural legacy.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary: Located around 30 kilometers from Kanchipuram, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. It is home to numerous resident and migratory bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram): About 60 kilometers from Kanchipuram, Mamallapuram is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. The Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Pancha Rathas are among the must-visit attractions here.
Vedagiriswarar Temple: Situated in Thirukalimedu, a short distance from Kanchipuram, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features intricate sculptures and is known for its serene atmosphere.
Ulagalanda Perumal Temple: Located in Kanchipuram, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and showcases marvelous sculptures. It is believed to be one of the Divya Desams.
How To Reach Ekambareswarar Temple :
Reaching the Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram is convenient as it is well-connected by road and rail. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach the temple:
By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located approximately 75 kilometers away from Kanchipuram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Train: Kanchipuram has its own railway station called Kanchipuram Railway Station. It is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India. From the railway station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the Ekambareswarar Temple, which is located in the heart of the city.
By Road: Kanchipuram is well-connected by road with nearby cities and towns. Regular bus services operate from Chennai, Bengaluru, and other major cities to Kanchipuram. You can also hire a taxi or drive in your own vehicle as the city is well-connected through national and state highways.
Once you reach Kanchipuram, the Ekambareswarar Temple is easily accessible within the city. It is located near the Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple, and you can easily reach it by walking or hiring a local auto-rickshaw or taxi.
Ekambareshwara temple Address
Arulmigu Ekambaranathar Temple,
Car St, Periya Kanchipuram,
Tamil Nadu, India,
Pincode – 631502.
Contact Shri Ekambareswara Temple
Phone: 044 2722 2084
Website: tamilnadutemples.in
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