Sirukalathur Sri Parvatha Vardhini Sametha Sri Ramanatheeswarar Temple – Kanchipuram
Address
Sirukalathur Sri Parvatha Vardhini Sametha Sri Ramanatheeswarar Temple – Kanchipuram
Sirukalathur, Thirukavanur,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu 600069
Moolavar
Ramanatheeswarar
Amman
Parvathavardhini (Visalakshi)
Introduction
Location:
- The temple is located on a small hillock near the Chembarambakkam Lake.
- It is situated about 10 kilometers northwest of Pallavaram and 1.5 kilometers after Kundrathur, in Tamil Nadu.
History & Puranic Significance:
- The temple is estimated to date back to the 10th Century CE, based on its architectural style.
- It is believed that Lord Rama, after killing Ravana, visited many Shiva temples to rid himself of the sin of killing a Brahmin. Ramanatheeswarar Sirukalathur is considered one of these temples, and hence, the deity is named Ramanatheeswarar.
- Seetha is said to be present here as Goddess Vaibhavalakshmi, demonstrating that she is an incarnation of Goddess Mahalakshmi.
- Sekkizhar, a prominent figure associated with the temple, was said to have been told by the Lord to perform Girivalam around this hillock when he was unwell.
Deities and Features:
- The presiding deity is Ramanatheeswarar, and the Mother deity is Parvathavardhini (also called Visalakshi).
- A rare sight of Seetha as Vaibhavalakshmi is found in the temple.
- The temple faces east, with a Rishabam (bull) and balipedam (sacrificial altar) placed outside.
- There are Tamil inscriptions at the base of the sanctum.
- Ashta Lingam (eight Shiva Lingas) can be found around the temple.
- Lord Ganesha and Surya (Sun God) are also enshrined in the temple premises.
- All 63 Nayanmars (devotees of Lord Shiva) are depicted within the temple.
Special Features:
- The temple was previously damaged but has been recently renovated, restoring it to its former glory.
- The temple’s architecture and historical significance, as well as its connection to Lord Rama and Sekkizhar, make it a significant spiritual site.
Century/Period
10th Century CE
Managed By
Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)
Nearest Bus Station
Sirukalathur
Nearest Railway Station
Pallavaram Station
Nearest Airport
Chennai