Know about Ekambareswarar Temple where Lord Shiva tested Goddess Parvati, Shivling is worshipped as the earth element
Ekambareswarar Temple: One of India’s oldest temples, Ekambareswarar Temple, is particularly significant both historically and religiously. One of the Panchabhutha Sthalams, this temple is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. In this temple, Lord Shiva is revered as a representation of the element of earth.
In addition to being a place of worship for its followers, this temple is well-known for its historical tales and architectural design. The significance, background, design, and religious convictions of this temple will all be covered in depth in this essay.
Ekambareswarar Temple’s History
Ekambareswarar Temple’s history dates back thousands of years, and it was a significant holy site throughout the Chola, Pallava, and Vijayanagara empires. Among the locations where the Panchabhuthalinga of Lord Shiva is worshipped, this temple is particularly noteworthy.
The Tale of Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva
A well-known mythology states that Mother Parvati carried out Lord Shiva’s harsh penance. She made a Shivlinga out of sand and worshipped it while doing the penance. In order to test her devotion, Lord Shiva had the Ganges river flow more quickly, allowing the Shivling to drift away. Goddess Parvati covered the Shivling with her body as a sign of her love and commitment. Lord Shiva was happy to see her dedication and agreed to make her his better half.
The temple’s construction and architecture
Gopuram (the main door)
The Vijayanagara monarchs constructed the temple’s 58-meter-tall Raja Gopuram, which is its main draw. This gopuram is regarded as one of the tallest temple gopurams in South India and is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture.
Sanctum sanctorum and Shivling
Since the Shivling in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum is composed of clay, an earth element, it is specifically prohibited to anoint it with water since this might harm it. Here, Belpatra, flowers, and aroma are used to anoint the Shivling.
1000-pillared hall
This temple has a massive mandapam supported by a thousand pillars. This location is well-known for its elaborate carvings and decorative pillars.
Mango trees that are thousands of years old
On the temple grounds is a 3500-year-old mango tree that produces four different kinds of mango fruits. It is said that this tree represents the four Vedas. Under this tree, Mother Parvati worshiped the Shivalinga.
Ekambareswarar Temple’s significance in Pancha Bhoota Sthalam
The five Pancha Bhoota Lingams of Lord Shiva, which represent the five natural elements, are revered in South India:
Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram (Earth Element)
Arunachaleswara Temple in Tiruvannamalai (Fire Element)
Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram (Sky Element)
Kalahasteeswara Temple (Air Element) Srikalahasti
Jambukeshwar Temple in Trichy (Water Element)
Its spiritual importance is further enhanced by the fact that the Shivalinga in the Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram symbolizes the Earth Element.
Significant temple-related festivals and festivities
Panguni Utsav
Celebrated in March and April, this is one of the temple’s most significant feasts. The union of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati is portrayed in a magnificent way throughout this period.
Mahashivratri
On this day, special pujas and night vigils are held. On this day, the shrine receives thousands of visitors.
During Kartik month, Deepotsav
During this month, lights are used to illuminate the whole temple, adding to its heavenly appearance.
How can I go to the Temple of Ekambareswar?
The closest airport:
Airport at Chennai International (70 km distant)
The closest train station:
Railway Station in Kanchipuram (3 km distant)
By Road:
Chennai, Vellore, and other important cities are easily accessible from Kanchipuram.
In addition to being a site of worship, Ekambareswarar Temple is a hub of Indian history, culture, and religion. The dedication and affection of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati are shown in this temple. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Hinduism because of its magnificent architecture, the old mango tree, and its placement among the Panchabhuta components.
This temple’s divinity and breathtaking tranquility will provide you with a unique spiritual experience if you pay it a visit.
