An overview of Nagarathar heritage and temples
This special feature provides an overview of of Nagarathar heritage and explores the evolution of temples in the Chettinadu region… Read More An overview of Nagarathar heritage and temples
Tag: Kanchipuram
Kadambanathar, Kadambar, Kanchipuram
The demons Malayan and Makaran were harassing Sage Kashyapa, amongst others, and so the sage worshipped Siva, who deputed Murugan to deal with the demons. After they were decimated, Murugan came here to worship Siva. Though not a Tevaram temple, the child-saint Sambandar has sung here. But what is the reason for this place being regarded as holier than Kasi? … Read More Kadambanathar, Kadambar, Kanchipuram
Balasubramanian, Uthiramerur, Kanchipuram
Murugan temple celebrating the victory over Makaran and Malayan, and where Murugan’s spear of unknown length is embedded in the ground… Read More Balasubramanian, Uthiramerur, Kanchipuram
Sundara Varadaraja Perumal, Uthiramerur, Kanchipuram
This Pancha Varada Kshetram, which finds mention in the Mahabharatam, is one of the temples the Pandavas visited during their period of exile, and they regained the wisdom they had lost when gambling with the Kauravas. The long list of dynasties who ruled the region, have each left their mark on the temple construction. But what is the connection between this temple and the celestial architect Takshaka, in the depiction of Vishnu on three levels at this temple? … Read More Sundara Varadaraja Perumal, Uthiramerur, Kanchipuram
Perarulalan, Tirunangur, Nagapattinam
This Divya Desam is also one of the 11 temples in Tirunagur, regarded as the Nangur Ekadasa Divya Desam, all of which are connected with the 11 Rudra Peethams representing the fierce aspect of Lord Siva. The sthala puranam here is connected with the Ramayanam, and the ritual purification of Rama from the sin of having killed Ravana, a brahmin. This also gives the place its name. But how is this temple very closely connected with the Azhagiya Manavalar Divya Desam temple at Uraiyur in Trichy? … Read More Perarulalan, Tirunangur, Nagapattinam
Kailasanathar, Kovalam, Kanchipuram
Lesser-known temple in Kovalam near Chennai, with some very unusual and interesting aspects of architecture, iconography, and worship practices… Read More Kailasanathar, Kovalam, Kanchipuram
Nitya Kalyana Perumal, Tiruvidandhai, Kanchipuram
Divya Desam and a prarthana sthalam for marriage, where Vishnu married every day of the year… Read More Nitya Kalyana Perumal, Tiruvidandhai, Kanchipuram
Vishwaroopa Lakshmi Narasimhar, Kattavakkam, Kanchipuram
Consecrated as recently as in 2007, this beautiful temple near Wallajabad on the way to Kanchipuram features a 16-foot tall murti of Vishnu as Viswaroopa Lakshmi Narasimhar. The depiction of Perumal is said to be exactly as described in the Brahma Stuti of the Lakshmi Narasimha Dhyana Slokam. What other unusual features do this temple’s architecture and iconography boast of?… Read More Vishwaroopa Lakshmi Narasimhar, Kattavakkam, Kanchipuram
Kailasanathar, Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram
Possibly the oldest structure in Kanchipuram, this temple is a veritable feast for the eyes, with its intricate yet extensive art and architecture… Read More Kailasanathar, Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram
Uthira Vaidyalingeswarar, Kattur, Kanchipuram
A sevvaai parikara sthalam considered equivalent to the Vaidyanathar temple at Vaithiswaran Koil, and where Agastyar saw Siva and Parvati in their kalyana kolam
… Read More Uthira Vaidyalingeswarar, Kattur, Kanchipuram
Jambukeswarar, Sembakkam, Kanchipuram
Simple Chola temple near Tirupporur, south of Chennai, associated with Kochchenga Cholan
… Read More Jambukeswarar, Sembakkam, Kanchipuram
Gnanapureeswarar, Tiruvadisoolam, Kanchipuram
Temple between two hills (which gives the place its name), where Siva, in the form of a shepherd, sated Sambandar’s hunger and thirst … Read More Gnanapureeswarar, Tiruvadisoolam, Kanchipuram
TN Temples Project 