Tamil Nadu • 2 monuments
Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, better known as Kamakshi Amman Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Shakti. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Kamakshi (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati or Shakti) who performed tough penance at the site to please Lord Shiva. Apart from its religious significance, the temple is also famed for its architectural brilliance that boasts of exquisite sculptures and adornments. The main idol has Goddess Kamakshi sitting in a yogic posture called Padmasana with four arms holding sugarcane bowl, lotus flowers, a lasso and a goad. The deity is worshipped in three forms, Sri Kamakshi, Sri Bilahasam and Sri Chakra inside the sanctum sanctorum (called Gayatri Mandapam) which has a spellbinding golden vimana (tower) at the top. Surrounding the main shrine are the idols of other deities like Ayyappan, Saraswati, Roopalakshmi, Arupalakshmi and others. It is a firm belief that presenting red kumkum to Arupalakshmi can fulfil one’s wish. The temple has four entrances, halls with ornamented pillars and a holy temple tank. Indescribable pace and mysticism reside inside the temple which is also a popular venue for numerous festivals round the year.
One of the holiest South India temples, Ekambaranathar Temple is also among the most frequented religious sites in Kanchipuram. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to have existed since 600 AD. Originally built by the Pallavas, the temple was further improved by the rulers from various powerful dynasties. A popular feature of the temple is its 3,500 year old divine mango tree whose branches bear 4 different varieties of the fruit. According to the mythological legend associated with the temple, it was sunder this tree that Goddess Parvati performed tough penance for Lord Shiva, who was pleased enough to marry her. The rajagopuram (main temple tower) is about 57 m. tall and is one of the highest in the South India. Intricately carved 1,008 lingams of Shiva on the inner walls of the temple is a sight to savour. Another remarkable attraction of the temple is its hallway of thousand pillars called Aayiram Kaal Mandapam. Ekambaranathar Temple is one of the five Panch Booths Temples (each depicting a different element among air, ether, earth, water and fire), representing Earth and is therefore of great repute among pilgrims. There are 5 courtyards and numerous shrines dedicated to different Hindu deities. Those dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha are quite popular as well. Be sure to dress up traditionally and follow the religious rules strictly.
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