Sirukalathur Sri Parvatha Vardhini Sametha Sri Ramanatheeswarar Temple

Address

Sirukalathur Sri Parvatha Vardhini Sametha Sri Ramanatheeswarar Temple – Kanchipuram

Sirukalathur, Thirukavanur,

Kanchipuram district,

Tamil Nadu 600069

Ramanatheeswarar

Parvathavardhini (Visalakshi)

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.