Perumber Kandikai Thanthondreeswarar Temple, Kanchipuram
Address
Perumber Kandikai Thanthondreeswarar Temple, Perumber Kandikai, Kanchipuram district – 603201. Mobile: 99529 65215/ 99529 65215 / 97873 67657
Deity
Thanthondreeswarar Amman: Thaduthaatkonda Nayagi
Introduction
- Location: Thanthondreeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated in Perumber Kandikai Village, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu.
- Proximity: The temple is located 1 km from the Perumber Kandigai Murugan temple, along the Chennai-Trichy National Highway. Visitors need to turn left about 5 km after Achirappakkam and continue for 2 km.
- Transport Links: Nearby railway stations include Thozhuppedu and Achirappakkam. Chennai Airport is approximately 84 km away.
Puranic Significance
- Historical Importance: Thanthondreeswarar Temple is an ancient site, believed to be around 1000 years old, featuring numerous stone inscriptions that highlight the contributions of the Pallavas and Cholas.
- Divine Installations: A Kanagadurga idol was installed by the Pallavas, praying for everlasting victories.
- Legend of Chamundeswari: The temple is associated with Chamundeswari, who is believed to have defeated the two Asuras, Chandan and Mundan, at this location.
- Devotion of King Vikramaditya: The temple is noted for King Vikramaditya, a devoted follower of Chamundeswari, who is said to have prayed here.
- Unique Abishegam: The goddess is believed to perform Abishegam (ritual bathing) for Lord Shiva using a rare conch found in the temple.
- Tripura Legend: A notable legend involves Lord Shiva’s destruction of the Asura city of Tripura, during which he neglected to pay respect to Lord Ganesha, causing his chariot’s axle to break. This incident is said to have occurred at Acharapakkam (where “Achu” means axle in Tamil). The goddess revived Shiva and created a Lingam from mud for worship.
- Mud Lingam Worship: As the Lingam is made of mud, traditional ablutions are not performed here. The goddess is affectionately referred to as Thaduthu Aat Konda Nayaki (the one who stopped and revived him).
Festivals
- Celebrations: The temple celebrates all Shiva-related festivals, with Masi Magam being observed with great fanfare.
Century/Period/Age
1000 Years old
Managed By
Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)
Nearest Bus Station
Perumber Kandikai
Nearest Railway Station
Achirappakkam
Nearest Airport
Chennai