Kailasanathar Temple all Information

The Kailasanathar temple is the oldest temple built in the Tamil architectural style. The temple is located on the banks of the Vegavathy River at Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram is considered to be one of the seven sacred cities under Hinduism.

The Kailasanathar Temple, or “Lord of the Cosmic Mountain”, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. And it is built in the tradition of Smartha worship of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, Surya (Sun), Ganesha, and Kartikeya.

The temple is one of the most prominent tourist attractions of the city.

History

A ruler named Narasimhavarman II, who belonged to the Pallava Dynasty, built the Kailasanathar Temple. Later, his son named Mahendravarman III completed the front façade as well as the tower, Gopuram.

It is believed that the temple was a safe place for the rulers during the wars and battles. The kings had built a secret tunnel, and used the tunnel as the escape route, which is still visible.

According to the beliefs, Raja Raja Chola had visited the temple during his time period. He took inspiration from this temple and built the Brihadsshwara Temple in Tamil Nadu.

Currently, the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Architecture

● The temple is an excellent example of the Dravidian style of architecture. The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple is decorated with beautiful paintings and fantastic sculptures.
● The foundation of the temple is made up of granite.
● The outer structure and carvings are all made of sandstone.
● 58 small shrines are dedicated to various forms of Lord Shiva. An attractive feature of this temple is a sixteen Shiva lingam, made up of black granite at the main shrine.
● Both the inner and outer walls are carved with the images of many Gods and Goddesses such as Brahma, Vishnu, Nandi, Durga Maa, and Lord Shiva in the destructive dancing pose.
● A sculpture of Nandi can also be found guarding the entrance.
● Image of Lord Shiva in a seated posture is there, known as Dakshinamurti; while another image has Shiva in the form of Lingodhbav.
● A large number of carvings, including many half-animal deities which were prominent features of the Pallava architecture.
● Circumambulatory passage: The entry point for this passage is called the Gate of Death. It is believed that making the circumambulation around the various deities would give the same blessings as visiting paradise. Crawling, or coming out of the passage also presents as if you are coming out of the mother’s womb and this explains the Hindu’s belief of rebirth. Hence, the exit is called the Gate of Birth. There is another belief that by completing this circumambulatory passage is, you shall attain Moksha.