Pottaveli Kamakshi Amman Sametha Kailasanathar Temple, Cuddalore

Address

Pottaveli Kamakshi Amman Sametha Kailasanathar Temple, Cuddalore

Pottaveli village,

Cuddalore District,

Tamil Nadu – 607302.

Moolavar

Kailasanathar

Amman

Kamakshi Amman

Introduction

The Pottaveli Kamakshi Amman Sametha Kailasanathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Pottaveli village, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is Kailasanathar, and the consort deity is Kamakshi Amman. This ancient temple, believed to have been built over 2000 years ago during the Chola period, reflects the grandeur of Chola architecture. The temple has been a spiritual hub for centuries and was visited by spiritual leaders, including Vadalur Ramalinga Swami, for its divine grace. Located 10 kilometers from Bhuvanagiri on the road to Kurinchipadi, the temple holds great historical and spiritual significance.

Puranic Significance

This temple is deeply rooted in mythology:

• According to legends, the demon Padmasura performed intense penance to appease Lord Shiva at this location.
• Lord Shiva, pleased by his devotion, granted him a boon that he could not be destroyed by anyone except someone equal to Lord Shiva.
• Eventually, Lord Muruga vanquished Padmasura, as narrated in the Puranas.
• Pottaveli village is thus considered the sacred site where Padmasura undertook his penance.

Beliefs

The temple is renowned for its miraculous blessings:

• Marriage and Childbirth: Devotees pray to Lord Kailasanathar for resolving obstacles in marriage and for conceiving children.
• Debt Relief and Health: The temple is believed to offer relief from financial troubles and chronic illnesses.
• Employment: Those seeking jobs perform a special puja on Pradosha days, keeping their educational certificates during worship, which is believed to bring career success.

Special pujas to Lord Nandi on Pradosha days hold immense significance.

Special Features

The temple showcases exceptional features, blending spiritual and architectural elements:

1. Temple Orientation:
   • The temple faces east.
   • A Nandi greets visitors upon entry, followed by the Mahamandapam adorned with sculptures of Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, Murugan, and Sudhai art.
2. Inner Sanctum:
   • The Arthamandapam features twelve Thirumas (symbolic elements) arranged in alignment, with a Rudraksha garland.
   • In the sanctum, the Kailasanathar Lingam is enshrined, accompanied by Pradosha Nayak Utsavar.
3. Koshta Deities:
   • The niches host deities like Dakshinamurthy, Vinayagar, Annamalaiyar, Murugan with Valli and Deivanai, Brahma, Durgai, and Sandikeswarar.
4. Outer Prakaram:
   • The outer courtyard contains shrines dedicated to Bhairava, Shivlingam, Ganesha, Sun, and Moon.
5. Goddess Kamakshi Shrine:
   • The shrine of Goddess Kamakshi is located southeast of the main sanctum.
   • A unique feature is the east-facing goddess statue, discovered during renovations and enshrined here for worship.

Festivals

The temple celebrates various festivals with enthusiasm:

• Vinayagar Chaturthi
• Murugan Sashti Tithi
• Maha Shivaratri:
  • The temple is illuminated with lights, and four special pujas are conducted throughout the night.
  • Surrounding villagers visit the temple during this auspicious occasion.
• Special abhishekams are performed on Fridays.

Century/Period

2000 Years Old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Pottaveli

Nearest Railway Station

Cuddalore

Nearest Airport

Puducherry

Location on Map

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