Full details Of Ekambareswara temple
Ekambareswara Temple, Kancheepuram
Area/Village :- Kanchipuram
State :- Tamil Nadu
Country:- India
Nearest City/Town:-Kanchipuram
Best season to visit:- All
Languages: -Tamil & English
Temple Timings:- 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Photography:- Not allowed.
The Ekambareswara Temple, also known as the Ekambaranathar Temple, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, it is one of the largest temples in the region and holds great significance in Hindu mythology and religious practices. The temple complex spans over 25 acres and is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of South India.
Here are the full details of the Ekambareswara Temple:-
History:
The history of the Ekambareswara Temple in Kanchipuram dates back to the 7th century CE. Initially constructed by the Pallava dynasty, the temple has been expanded and renovated by subsequent ruling dynasties. The Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Nayakas have all contributed to the temple’s development. Over the years, the temple has evolved into a magnificent architectural marvel, showcasing a blend of various architectural styles. With its rich historical significance and cultural heritage, the Ekambareswara Temple stands as a testament to the devotion and patronage of several dynasties throughout history.
Deity:
The presiding deity of the Ekambareswara Temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of Ekambareswara. Lord Shiva is revered as the supreme deity in Hinduism, representing the aspect of destruction and transformation. In this temple, Lord Shiva is worshipped as the Lord of the Mango Tree. The main sanctum of the temple houses the lingam, which symbolizes the presence of Lord Shiva. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek blessings from Lord Ekambareswara, believing in his divine power to grant spiritual growth, prosperity, and liberation from worldly attachments. The temple holds immense significance for followers of Lord Shiva and attracts devotees from far and wide.
Architecture:
The Ekambareswara Temple showcases the exquisite Dravidian style of architecture. Spread over a vast area, the temple complex features towering gopurams (ornate entrance towers), intricate carvings, and spacious courtyards. The main sanctum is adorned with intricate sculptures and embellishments. The temple also encompasses various mandapams (pillared halls), including the Thousand Pillar Mandapam and the Hall of 1000 Pillars, known for their detailed craftsmanship. The architectural elements highlight the skill and artistry of the craftsmen of the bygone eras. The Ekambareswara Temple stands as a remarkable example of the architectural splendor of South India and attracts architectural enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Temple Complex:
The temple complex is vast and encompasses various structures and sections. Some of the notable areas within the complex are:
Main Sanctum: The main sanctum of the Ekambareswara Temple is the sacred abode of Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of Ekambareswara. The sanctum houses the lingam, a symbol representing Lord Shiva’s divine presence. The innermost shrine is adorned with elaborate decorations, including precious metals and gemstones. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek blessings from Lord Ekambareswara in this sanctum. The atmosphere inside the sanctum is filled with devotion and spirituality, creating a sense of tranquility and reverence. The main sanctum holds immense significance for devotees, who believe that their prayers and offerings here will bring them closer to the divine and fulfill their spiritual aspirations.
Thousand Pillar Mandapam: The Thousand Pillar Mandapam is a prominent feature of the Ekambareswara Temple complex. It is a spacious pillared hall known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. The mandapam is adorned with a thousand intricately carved pillars, each showcasing unique designs, and patterns. The pillars are meticulously crafted, depicting various gods, goddesses, and mythological figures. The hall serves as a venue for religious and cultural events, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the temple complex. The Thousand Pillar Mandapam is a testimony to the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of the past and offers visitors a visual treat and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of South India.
Hall of 1000 Pillars: The Hall of 1000 Pillars is a captivating structure within the Ekambareswara Temple complex. Known for its architectural grandeur, the hall boasts a magnificent display of meticulously carved pillars. Each pillar showcases intricate sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological beings. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in the Hall of 1000 Pillars are awe-inspiring. This mandapam serves as a sacred space for devotees to offer prayers and participate in religious ceremonies. The ambiance of the hall, coupled with the artistic brilliance of the pillars, creates an enchanting atmosphere, leaving visitors mesmerized by the architectural splendor and the cultural significance it represents.
Kalyana Mandapam: The Kalyana Mandapam is a significant part of the Ekambareswara Temple complex. This mandapam is dedicated to the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the divine union of the male and female energies. The Kalyana Mandapam features intricate carvings and decorative elements, creating a visually stunning environment. It serves as a venue for Hindu wedding ceremonies, where couples seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for a prosperous and harmonious married life. The sacredness and beauty of the Kalyana Mandapam make it a cherished space within the temple complex, carrying the essence of love, devotion, and marital bliss.
Temple Tanks: The Ekambareswara Temple complex features several temple tanks that hold great significance in Hindu rituals and traditions. These temple tanks, such as the Shivaganga and Sivamurti Theerthams, are considered sacred and are believed to have purifying properties. Devotees often take ritualistic baths in these tanks before entering the main temple, as it is believed to cleanse both the body and the soul. The temple tanks also serve as a serene and peaceful spot for meditation and reflection. These water bodies add to the spiritual ambiance of the temple complex, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and devotees.
Full details Of Ekambareswara temple
Festivals and Celebrations:
The Ekambareswara Temple is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations that attract devotees and tourists alike. The most significant festival is the Panguni Brahmotsavam, held in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April). Lasting for ten days, the festival involves grand processions, elaborate rituals, cultural performances, and the chariot procession of Lord Ekambareswara. Other festivals celebrated with great enthusiasm include Maha Shivaratri, Navratri, and Arudra Darshan. These festivities are marked by devotional music, dance, and religious ceremonies, creating an atmosphere of joy and devotion. The temple becomes a hub of activity during these celebrations, providing a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich cultural traditions and religious fervor of the region.
Religious Significance:
The Ekambareswara Temple holds immense religious significance, particularly for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is considered one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the Earth element. Devotees believe that worshiping at this temple can bring blessings, spiritual growth, and fulfillment of desires. The sacredness of the temple is believed to purify one’s soul and offer divine protection. Many devotees undertake a pilgrimage to seek the divine blessings of Lord Ekambareswara and find solace in his presence. The temple serves as a spiritual center where devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and engage in acts of devotion, strengthening their connection with the divine.
Preservation and Recognition:
The Ekambareswara Temple is recognized for its historical and architectural significance. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These recognitions highlight the temple’s cultural value and the need for its preservation. The authorities responsible for the temple’s maintenance undertake restoration and conservation efforts to preserve its architectural integrity. Regular inspections and repair work ensure that the temple remains a well-preserved heritage site for future generations. The recognition and preservation efforts contribute to the continued appreciation and study of the temple’s architectural and historical significance.
How To Reach Ekambareswara Temple :
Reaching the Ekambareswara Temple in Kanchipuram is relatively easy due to its central location. Here’s a brief guide on how to reach the temple:
By Air: The nearest major airport is the Chennai International Airport, located approximately 70 kilometers away from Kanchipuram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Ekambareswara Temple.
By Train: Kanchipuram has a railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in South India. Regular trains operate from Chennai, Bangalore, and other nearby cities to Kanchipuram. From the railway station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the temple.
By Road: Kanchipuram is well-connected by road networks. You can reach the temple by taking a bus or driving in your private vehicle. The town is easily accessible from Chennai, which is around 75 kilometers away, via the NH-48 highway.
Local Transportation: Once you reach Kanchipuram, you can use local transportation options to reach the Ekambareswara Temple. Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available to navigate within the town. Many devotees also prefer to explore the town on foot due to the temple’s central location.
It’s advisable to check the local transportation schedules and availability before planning your visit. Kanchipuram is a popular tourist destination, and local authorities often provide information and assistance to visitors, making it easier to reach the Ekambareswara Temple.
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