Kundrathur Kandazheeswarar Temple, Kanchipuram

Address

Kundrathur Kandazheeswarar Temple, Kanchipuram

Sikkarayapuram, Kundrathur

Kanchipuram district,

Tamil Nadu 600069

Moolavar

Kandazheeswarar

Amman

Nagaimukavalli

Introduction

The Kandazheeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated in Kundrathur, a suburb of Chennai in the Kanchipuram District of Tamil Nadu.

1. Presiding Deities: The main deity of the temple is Lord Kandazheeswarar, and the goddess is known as Nagaimukavalli.
2. History and Age: The temple is believed to date back to the Chola era, possibly constructed during the reign of Kulothunga Chola II. It has a rich history spanning approximately 1800 years. The region has been associated with various dynasties, including the Cheras, Pandyas, and even the reign of Krishnadeva Raya.
3. Sekkizhar’s Connection: The temple has a historical connection with the eminent poet Sekkizhar, who authored the famous Periya Puranam. Sekkizhar is believed to have been a regular visitor to this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Kandazheeswarar.
4. Name’s Significance: The name “Kandazheeswarar” is derived from the Tamil words “Kandhu” (attachment), “Azhi” (removal), and “Easwara” (Shiva). It signifies Lord Shiva as the remover of material attachments. The name also relates to a very ancient tree that was once worshiped at the temple site.
5. Surya’s Worship: Lord Surya (Sun God) is said to have worshiped Lord Shiva at this temple. This connection with Surya contributes to the temple’s name, Kandazheeswarar. There is a separate worship area for Surya in the temple.
6. Kundrathur’s Fertility: The temple is situated in a region with fertile soil that yields an abundance of plantains and coconuts. The surrounding area features hills with a pleasant climate, making it an ideal place for performing penance.
7. Lord Murugan’s Installation: According to legend, Lord Murugan stayed in the hills of Kundrathur while traveling from Thiruporur to Thiruthani. He is believed to have installed the Shiva Linga that is now the temple’s presiding deity, which is why it is called Kandazheeswarar.
8. Unique Features: The temple features a unique Shiva Lingam in the form of Gajabrushta, a sitting elephant. There are also idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Subramanya with their consorts at the entrance of the sanctum. Other deities like Ganesha, Dhakshinamoorthi, Lingodhbava, Brahma, Durga, and Chandikeswara are depicted around the sanctum.
9. Nagaimukavalli: The goddess Nagaimukavalli is known for her slight smile, and it is believed that she fulfills devotees’ wishes when they seek her blessings.
10. Additional Deities: The temple complex houses shrines and idols of various deities, including Surya, Nalvar, Karpaga Vinayakar, 63 Nayanmars with Ganesha, Navagraha, and Nagars under the bodhi and neem trees. Additionally, there are three unique Bhairava idols, each mounted on different animals—elephant, lion, and horse.
11. Valeeswarar and Balambigai Shrine: There is a shrine for Valeeswarar and Balambigai within the temple premises. This Linga and goddess were brought from a nearby dilapidated temple and installed here.
12. Relief Panel of Kannappa Nayanar: Noteworthy is a relief panel depicting Kannappa Nayanar sacrificing his eye and stamping on a Linga.
13. Tamil Inscriptions: Tamil inscriptions are found under the base of the sanctum, adding to the historical significance of the temple.

Century/Period

1800 Years Old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Kundrathur

Nearest Railway Station

Chrompet Station

Nearest Airport

Chennai

Location on Map

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