Indian Temples: Kailasanathar Temple Kanchipuram ,Tamilnadu- Highlights

 


The Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest structural temples in South India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built entirely of sandstone, it stands as a masterpiece of Pallava architecture and a landmark in early Dravidian temple design.

The temple is revered both as a historical monument and a powerful spiritual center, attracting devotees, historians, and art lovers worldwide.

2. History in Detail

Construction Era

  • Built during the reign of Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha)
    (circa 685–705 CE)
  • Later completed by his son Mahendravarman III.

Architectural Context

  • It is the first great structural temple of Tamil Nadu, marking a transition from:
    • Earlier rock-cut cave temples
    • To fully built structural temples made of sandstone
  • Laid the foundation for later Dravidian temples of Cholas and Nayaks.

Inscriptions

  • Contains extensive Pallava-era inscriptions in both Sanskrit and Tamil.
  • Some inscriptions describe Rajasimha’s devotion to Shiva and his contributions.

Historical Events

  • Survived invasions and weathering for over 1,300 years.
  • Renovated periodically by:
    • Cholas
    • Vijayanagara Dynasty
    • ASI (Archaeological Survey of India)

Religious Importance

  • One of the earliest temples dedicated to Kailasanatha (Lord of Mount Kailash).
  • Linked with various Saivite saints who visited Kanchipuram, including Thirugnanasambandar.

3. Significance

1. Oldest Surviving Structure in Kanchipuram

  • A vital milestone in Indian temple architecture.

2. Pioneer of Dravidian Architectural Style

  • Influenced later grand temples like:
    • Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur
    • Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram
    • Gangaikondacholapuram Temple

3. 58 Mini-Shrines

  • Surrounding the main temple, symbolizing Shiva in various forms (lingas & murtis).

4. Masterpiece of Sandstone Craftsmanship

  • Intricate carvings of:
    • Shiva tandava poses
    • Parvathi and Ganesha
    • Devas, ganas, mythical creatures

5. Spiritual Belief

  • The narrow escape passage around the sanctum is believed to represent:
    • Rebirth
    • Liberation from ego
    • Divine protection

6. Important Saivite Landmark

  • Recognized as one of the most sacred Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu.

4. Temple Details (Full Overview)

Main Deity

  • Moolavar: Kailasanathar (Shiva as Lord of Kailash)
  • Ambal (Goddess): None as a full separate shrine; though Parvati is depicted in sculptural panels.

Architecture

  • Fully sandstone structure.
  • Square sanctum with circumambulatory passage.
  • Majestic Vimana (tower) rising above the sanctum.
  • 58 sub-shrines around the central temple.
  • Beautiful sculptures depicting:
    • Shiva in 16 different dance postures
    • Shiva as Tripurantaka
    • Shiva with Nandi
    • Shiva-Parvati family scenes

Unique Features

  1. Pradakshina Tunnel:
    A narrow, secret passage allowing devotees to crawl in and walk out, symbolizing spiritual transformation.

  2. Lion Pillars:
    Iconic Pallava design seen throughout.

  3. Gajaprishtha Design:
    The back of the sanctum resembles the back of an elephant.

Temple Complex Includes

  • Mukha mandapam
  • Sanctum with Shiva Lingam
  • Open courtyard
  • Mandapams with Pallava murals
  • 58 sub-shrines
  • Nandi mandapam facing the sanctum

Festivals

  • Maha Shivaratri (grand celebration)
  • Panguni Uthiram
  • Margazhi month rituals
  • Pradosham
  • Karthigai Deepam

5. Temple Timings

Session Timing
Morning 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

(Hours may extend during festivals)

6. Connectivity

Location

  • Located in Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram.

By Road

  • Kanchipuram is well connected by:
    • Chennai (75 km)
    • Vellore (70 km)
    • Tiruvallur
    • Chengalpattu
  • Regular TNSTC buses and private vehicles available.

By Train

Nearest stations:

  • Kanchipuram Railway Station – 4 km
  • Kanchipuram East – 3 km

Connectivity to:

  • Chennai
  • Tirupati
  • Chengalpattu
  • Arakkonam

By Air

  • Chennai International Airport – 70–75 km (nearest)

7. Legacy

  • Stands as the crown jewel of Pallava architecture and one of India’s most important heritage temples.
  • Showcases the transition to structural Dravidian temples, influencing hundreds of later temples.
  • Preserves incredible sculptures representing Pallava artistic excellence.
  • Continues to be a spiritual beacon for Shaivites.
  • Recognized as one of the most stunning architectural landmarks in South India.

Its historical depth, artistic brilliance, and spiritual ambience make the Kailasanathar Temple a treasure of Indian civilization.



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