Kalahasteeswarar Temple Kumbakonam

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in the town of Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is one of the 12 Shiva temples connected with the Mahamaham festival, which takes place in Kumbakonam every 12 years.

The presiding deity of the temple is Kalahasteeswarar, a form of Shiva. The goddess Parvati is depicted as Gnanambigai or Gnanaprahalambigai. The temple is also known as Then Kalahasti, as it is considered to be the southern counterpart of the Kalahasti temple in Andhra Pradesh.

History of Kalahasteeswarar Temple Kumbakonam:

The history of the Kalahasteeswarar Temple in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India, dates back to the 11th century. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines in India. The temple is located on the banks of the Cauvery River and is a popular pilgrimage destination.

The temple was originally built by the Chola king Rajaraja Chola I in the 11th century. The temple was later expanded and renovated by the Nayak kings in the 17th century. The temple is a fine example of Chola and Nayak architecture.

The temple has a five-tiered rajagopuram (gateway tower) that is 100 feet tall. The temple complex has a number of shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and other Hindu deities. The main shrine of the temple houses a Shiva lingam that is believed to be self-manifested.

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Legend of Kalahasteeswarar Temple Kumbakonam:

The legend of the temple is associated with the god Shiva’s destruction of the demon Kalaasura. Kalaasura was a powerful demon who had gained control of the universe. He was invincible and could only be killed by Shiva.

The gods and goddesses of the universe were worried about the threat posed by Kalaasura. They approached Shiva for help. Shiva agreed to help and disguised himself as a hunter. He went to the demon’s kingdom and challenged him to a duel.

The demon was confident of his victory and accepted the challenge. The two fought for days, but neither one was able to defeat the other. Finally, Shiva shot an arrow that pierced the demon’s heart. The demon fell to the ground, dead.

With the demon’s death, the universe was restored to peace. The gods and goddesses were grateful to Shiva for saving them. They built a temple in his honor at the spot where the demon had been killed.

The temple is located on the banks of the Cauvery River. It is a large and complex temple complex with many shrines and temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses. The main shrine is dedicated to Shiva in the form of Kalahasteeswarar. The deity is depicted as a standing figure with four arms. He holds a trident, a drum, a snake, and a water pot in his hands.

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Significance of Kalahasteeswarar Temple Kumbakonam:

• It is one of the most important Shiva temples in India.
• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• It is believed to have been built in the 7th century by the Pallava king Mahendravarman I.
• The temple is laid out in the form of a square, with the sanctum sanctorum in the center.
• The sanctum sanctorum houses a lingam, or phallic symbol of Shiva.
• The lingam is made of black granite and is said to have been brought from the Himalayas by the sage Agastya.
• There are several other shrines around the sanctum sanctorum, including shrines to Ganesha, Murugan, Vishnu, and Parvati.
• There is also a shrine to Rahu, the shadow planet.
• The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over India.

Architecture of Kalahasteeswarar Temple Kumbakonam:

The temple complex is spread over a large area, and is surrounded by a moat. The main temple is a five-tiered gopuram, or gateway tower, that rises to a height of 100 feet. The gopuram is decorated with intricate carvings of Hindu deities, mythical creatures, and other religious motifs.

The inner sanctum of the temple houses a Shiva lingam, or a phallic symbol of Shiva. The lingam is made of black granite, and is enshrined in a square-shaped chamber.

The temple complex also houses a number of other shrines, dedicated to other Hindu deities, such as Vishnu, Parvati, and Murugan. There are also a number of mandapas, or pavilions, where pilgrims can rest and worship.

The architecture of Kalahasteeswarar Temple is a blend of Chola and Vijayanagara styles. The Chola style is characterized by its use of elaborate carvings, while the Vijayanagara style is characterized by its use of large, soaring gopurams.

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Kalahasteeswarar Temple Timing, Poojas & Festivals:

Timing:

The temple is open to the public from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

The main poojas performed at the temple are as follows:

• Abhishekam (sacred bath) is performed to the presiding deity, Kalahasteeswarar, at 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 6:00 PM.
• Aarti (waving of lamps) is performed to the deity at 7:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 6:30 PM, and 8:00 PM.
• Nitya Puja (daily worship) is performed to the deity at 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 8:00 PM.

Festivals:

Maha Shivaratri: This festival is celebrated on the 14th night of the dark fortnight of the month of Phalguna (February/March). It is considered to be the most important festival in the Hindu calendar and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. On this day, devotees from all over the world flock to the temple to worship Lord Shiva. The temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and special pujas are performed.

Aadi Pooram: This festival is celebrated on the first day of the month of Aadi (July/August). It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. On this day, a grand procession is held in which the deities of the temple are taken out of the temple and paraded through the streets of Kumbakonam. The procession is accompanied by music, dance, and fireworks.

Vaikunta Ekadasi: This festival is celebrated on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight of the month of Karthikai (November/December). It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On this day, devotees fast and pray to Lord Vishnu for moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and special pujas are performed.

Purattasi Brahmotsavam: This festival is celebrated for ten days in the month of Purattasi (September/October). It is one of the most important festivals in the temple’s calendar. The festival begins with flag hoisting and ends with a grand procession. During the festival, a variety of cultural events, including music, dance, and drama, are held.

Mrugasirsha Chaturthi: This festival is celebrated on the fourth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Margashirsha (November/December). It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

Mahanavami: This festival is celebrated on the ninth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Ashvin (September/October). It is dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Pongal: This festival is celebrated on the first day of the month of Thai (January/February). It is a harvest festival and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.

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Places to visit near Kalahasteeswarar Temple:

1. Sarangapani Temple: One of the Divya Desams, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a significant pilgrimage site.
2. Kumbakonam Mahamaham Tank: This sacred tank is associated with the Mahamaham festival and is considered auspicious for a ritual dip during certain astrological alignments.
3. Airavatesvara Temple: Located in Darasuram, a small town near Kumbakonam, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its beautiful Chola architecture.
4. Chakrapani Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is famous for its idol, which is in a standing posture holding the Sudarshana Chakra.
5. Nageswaran Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its architectural beauty.
6. Uppiliappan Temple: Also known as Thoopul Vilakoli Perumal Temple, it is a Vishnu temple located near Kumbakonam.
7. Sri Abathsahayeswarar Temple (Alangudi Guru Temple): This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is associated with the planet Jupiter (Guru) and is visited by devotees seeking astrological remedies.
8. Swamimalai Murugan Temple: Located in Swamimalai, it is one of the Arupadaiveedu dedicated to Lord Murugan.
9. Sri Kalyanasundara Perumal Temple: Another Vishnu temple in the vicinity, it is known for its beautiful deity of Lord Vishnu in a wedding posture.
10. Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the planet Rahu. It is believed to be beneficial for those seeking relief from Rahu dosha.

FAQ:

Where is the Kalahasteeswarar Temple located?

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple is located in the town of Kumbakonam in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is located on the banks of the Cauvery River, about 300 kilometers from Chennai.

What is the history of the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, or holy places of Vishnu. It is believed to have been built in the 8th century by the Pallava king Nandivarman II. The temple has been renovated and expanded over the centuries by various dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers.

What are the main features of the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple is a large and complex temple complex. The main temple is dedicated to Shiva, and it has a 12-tiered gopuram, or tower, at the entrance. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Vishnu, Lakshmi, Parvati, and other Hindu deities.

The temple is known for its beautiful sculptures and carvings. The walls and pillars of the temple are decorated with intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, as well as scenes from Hindu mythology.

What are the festivals celebrated at the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year. The most important festival is the Maha Shivaratri festival, which is celebrated in February or March. This festival is a time for devotees to gather at the temple to worship Shiva.

Other festivals celebrated at the temple include the Navaratri festival, the Karthigai Deepam festival, and the Panguni Uthiram festival.

How can I get to the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. By road, the temple is located about 300 kilometers from Chennai. By rail, the nearest railway station is Kumbakonam Junction. By air, the nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport.

What are the opening hours of the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

The Kalahasteeswarar Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The temple is closed on Mondays.

What are the entry fees for the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

The entry fee for the Kalahasteeswarar Temple is ₹5 for adults and ₹2 for children.

What are the dress codes for the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

Dress codes are strictly enforced at the Kalahasteeswarar Temple. Men must wear full-length pants and shirts with sleeves. Women must wear skirts or dresses that cover the knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple.

What are the things to keep in mind while visiting the Kalahasteeswarar Temple?

Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting the Kalahasteeswarar Temple:

• Dress modestly and respectfully.
• Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
• Be aware of your surroundings and do not leave your belongings unattended.
• Do not take photographs or videos of the interior of the temple without permission.

How to reach Kalahasteeswarar Temple Kumbakonam:

By Air: The nearest airport to Kumbakonam is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (IATA: TRZ), which is approximately 91 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other transportation options to reach Kumbakonam.

By Train: Kumbakonam has its own railway station, Kumbakonam Railway Station (Station code: KMU). It is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India. You can check train schedules and book tickets to Kumbakonam.

By Road:

• Kumbakonam is well-connected by road. You can reach the town by bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities and towns.
• If you are driving, Kumbakonam is accessible via major highways. Use a GPS navigation system or a map to guide you to the town.

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