Banapuriswarar Temple Kumbakonam
Banapuriswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva, located in the town of Kumbakonam in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 12 Shiva temples in Kumbakonam that are associated with the Mahamaham festival, which is held once in 12 years.
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History of Banapuriswarar Temple:
The exact date of construction of Banapuriswarar Temple is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the 8th or 9th century CE. The temple was renovated and expanded several times over the centuries, most recently in the 16th century CE.
Legend of Banapuriswarar Temple:
The legend of Banapuriswarar Temple in Kumbakonam is associated with the sage Kambatta Munivar. Kambatta Munivar was a great devotee of Vishnu and was said to have performed penance for many years in order to obtain a darshan, or vision, of the god.
One day, Vishnu appeared before Kambatta Munivar in the form of a dwarf. The dwarf asked Kambatta Munivar to build a temple for him in the town of Kumbakonam. Kambatta Munivar agreed, and he built the temple in a single night.
When the dwarf was satisfied with the temple, he revealed his true form as Vishnu. He blessed Kambatta Munivar and granted him his boon.
Legend of Banasur
Banasur was a powerful asura, or demon, who ruled the Banasurapuram kingdom. He was a devout worshipper of Shiva and had built a magnificent temple in his honor. However, he was also arrogant and cruel, and he often harassed the people of his kingdom.
One day, the god Vishnu decided to teach Banasur a lesson. He disguised himself as a beautiful woman and went to Banasur’s court. Banasur was immediately smitten with the woman and asked her to marry him. The woman agreed, but she had a condition. She said that Banasur would have to defeat her in a battle before they could be married.
Banasur was confident that he would defeat the woman, so he agreed to the battle. The two fought for many days, but neither of them could defeat the other. Finally, Vishnu revealed his true identity to Banasur and killed him.
After Banasur’s death, the Banasurapuram kingdom was destroyed. The temple that Banasur had built was also destroyed, but a new temple was built in its place. This new temple is the Banapuriswarar Temple that stands today.
Significance of Banapuriswarar Temple:
Banapuriswarar Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu. The temple is significant for several reasons.
First, the temple is associated with the legend of Banasur. This legend is a popular story in Hindu mythology and is often told to teach children about the importance of humility.
Second, the temple is said to be the place where the sage Agastya performed penance. Agastya is a revered sage in Hindu mythology and is said to have brought the Tamil language to India.
Third, the temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over India. The temple is also a popular tourist destination and is known for its beauty and historical significance.
Architecture
The main temple complex is built in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has a tall gopuram, or gateway tower, that is decorated with intricate carvings. The inner sanctum of the temple houses a murti, or image, of Shiva in the form of Banapuriswarar. The murti is said to be a swayambu, or self-manifested, image.
Temple Timing:
Opening Time: 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Closing Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Festivals
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the annual Brahmotsavam, or grand festival, which is held in the month of May. Other important festivals celebrated at the temple include the Maha Shivaratri, the Karthigai Deepam, and the Navaratri.
Places to visit near Banapuriswarar Temple:
Sarangapani Temple: This is one of the important temples in Kumbakonam dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s located not far from Banapuriswarar Temple.
Adi Kumbeswarar Temple: Another prominent Shiva temple in Kumbakonam, it’s known for its impressive architecture and spiritual significance.
Mahamaham Tank: Kumbakonam is famous for its tanks, and Mahamaham Tank is one of the largest. It is considered auspicious, and a festival called Mahamaham is celebrated here once in 12 years.
Nageswaran Temple: This temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s worth a visit for its intricate carvings.
Chakrapani Temple: A Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its unique idol of Chakrapani.
Kumbakonam Temples Circuit: Explore other temples in the vicinity, such as Ramaswamy Temple, Kasi Viswanathar Temple, and more, as Kumbakonam is home to numerous temples.
Uppiliappan Temple: Located in Thirunageswaram, a short drive from Kumbakonam, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
How to reach Banapuriswarar Temple:
By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), also known as Trichy Airport. From Trichy, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumbakonam.
By Train: Kumbakonam has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India. You can check train schedules and book tickets to Kumbakonam railway station.
By Road: Kumbakonam is well-connected by road, and you can reach it by bus or private vehicle. Several state and private buses operate to and from Kumbakonam. You can also hire a taxi or drive to Kumbakonam if you’re coming from nearby cities.