Kanchi Kailasanathar temple at Kanchipuram is one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu. There are so many specialities in this temple. Be its construction or beliefs. The intricately carved galaxy of Hindu art which dates back to the 7th and 8th-century Tamil tradition is a speciality. Vineeth Sreenivasan has recently shared pictures of his visit to the temple on social media.
There are some adorable pictures with his children as well. Be it singing, acting, direction, scripting, or production, Vineeth has tried his hands at various fields in cinema. After a long hiatus, he is back with his next directorial, Hridayam, starring Pranav Mohanlal and Kalyani Priyadarshan. Looks like this was much-needed time with his family.
Fascinating construction
The temple is under the Archaeological Survey of India today. The temple is visited by believers and non-believers. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in the western part of the city on the banks of the river Vedavathi. Though most of the themes are linked to Shaivism, there are also ideas from Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Vedic deities. The murals found in this temple can be found in the Ajanta caves. The earliest example of the Pallava style of construction can be seen here. It is also a favourite destination for history buffs.
There won't be rebirth if you pray here
The temple is also the one with great religious significance. It is widely believed that if one prays in this temple, he/she won’t go through the process of rebirth. The area encircling the temple is also very special. The Shiva lingam has to be circled by a narrow path on the right side of the Shiva lingam.
The way out is similarly short. While doing pradakshinam (circling around the temple) one has to bend slightly to climb in, then walk around and finally come out the same way by bending slightly. This is considered to be the three stages of youth, adolescence, and old age. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva will not give torture them by offering them reincarnation if they go through this way.
Part of history
There is an ancient story behind this great temple, which was constructed following the order of Pallava king Narasimhan. This temple reflects the history of Kanchipuram. It is said that the construction of the temple which began during the reign of Narasimha, who was a devotee of Lord Siva, was completed by Mahendra Varman. Built after two centuries of hard work, the temple is famous for its sculptures. It is said that the temple was a safe refuge for the Pallava rulers during the war.
There are sculptures on the walls of the perimeter wall and on the sides of the shrine. The temple which was designed in the shape of a pyramid is constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. There is a gap as far as the door between the sculptures carved around the walls of the temple. The walkway leading from the stone steps to the temple courtyard and the idol of Nandi is outstanding.
