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Kachi Anegathangavatham Shiva Temple

This is the 4th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam in Thondai Nadu. Saint Sundarar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva at this temple, located in Pillayar Palayam, a part of Kanchipuram. Since there are two Paadal Petra Sthalams with a similar name, this temple is referred to as Kachi Anekadhangavadeswarar to differentiate it from the other, which is located in North India on the Himalayan hills.

Timings

8 am to 11.00 am, 5 pm to night till 7 .00 p.m

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


  1. The temple dates back to the 7th–8th century CE, preceding the Sri Kailasanathar Temple built by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) during 698–728 CE.
  2. The Kumbhabhishekam (consecration ceremony) was performed.
  3. The Moolavar Vimanam, Naalvar Sannidhi, Ganapathi Sannidhi, and Sri Valli Devasena Subramaniar Sannidhi were constructed.
  4. An arch was built near the main road leading to the temple.
  5. The mini Rajagopuram at the entrance was retained in its original form.
  6. The 34th year of Kulothunga Chozha I’s reign records a gift of 2 veli of land at Kanchipuram, north of Rajasimeswaram.
  7. The 20th year of Kulothunga Chozha I’s reign records a gift of 3 veli of land in Thamar Village (now Damal), historically Niththavonothanallur.
  8. An inscription from the Nala year records a gift of 1400 Kuzhi of land to the Kaikolar (weaving) community by the temple’s official committee.


Puranic Significance :-



  1. According to legend, Vinayaka (Lord Ganesha), the son of Lord Shiva, established Anegabeswarar in the form of a Lingam (iconic representation of Lord Shiva).
  2. Anegabeswarar is believed to have killed the demon Kesi, the king of Iraniyapura, and arranged for the marriage of Kesi's daughter, Vallabai, with Vinayaka.
  3. Kubera, the king of wealth, is also said to have worshipped Anegabeswarar at this temple.
  4. There are two Anegathangavadham temples—one in the North and the other in the South. This temple is specifically referred to as Kachi Anegathangavadham to distinguish it from the northern shrine.
  5. The name "Anekapa" is believed to have originated from the word "elephant", as elephants drink water using both their trunk and mouth. It is also believed that an elephant worshipped the deity, adding to the temple's significance.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Structural Conservation: Regular maintenance and repairs, using appropriate restoration materials.
  2. Environmental Protection: Safeguard sacred trees, gardens, and water bodies, and practice sustainability.
  3. Cultural and Religious Practices: Continue traditional rituals, train priests, and document records.
  4. Legal and Community Support: Ensure legal protection and engage the community in preservation efforts.
  5. Awareness and Education: Raise awareness through programs and events.
  6. Use of Technology: Digitally archive the temple’s architecture and history.
  1. Avoid Modernization: Do not alter original structures or practices.
  2. Neglect Repairs: Don’t ignore maintenance issues.
  3. Don’t Commercialize: Keep sacred spaces free from commercial activities.
  4. Disrespect Rituals: Don’t change traditional rituals.
  5. Allow Pollution: Keep temple premises clean and free from litter.

Dress Code

Men:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a dhoti, lungi, or pajama with a shirt or an upper garment. In some temples, kurta-pajama is also acceptable.
  2. Avoid Shorts and Sleeveless Tops: It is considered disrespectful to wear shorts, tank tops, or sleeveless shirts.

Women:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a saree, salwar kameez, or lehenga. In some temples, chudidar is also allowed.
  2. Avoid Western Clothing: Skirts, dresses, and tight-fitting pants should be avoided.


How to reach

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  1. By Air: Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA), approximately 75 km from Kanchipuram. From the airport, take a taxi or hire a private vehicle to reach Kanchipuram.
  2. By Train: Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram Railway Station (5 km from the temple). Trains from Chennai and other nearby cities regularly connect to Kanchipuram. From the station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to the temple.
  3. By Bus: Bus Services: Kanchipuram is well connected by road to Chennai and other towns in Tamil Nadu. You can take a bus to Kanchipuram from the Koyambedu Bus Stand in Chennai. Once in Kanchipuram, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Palar River: Located to the north of Kanchipuram, it is the major river in the region.
  2. Vegavathi River: Flowing through Kanchipuram, it is another important river in the area.

Nearby Cities:

  1. Kanchipuram: The temple is located in the heart of Kanchipuram city, known for its rich historical and cultural significance.
  2. Chennai: Located about 75 km away, Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu and a major city in the region.
  3. Vellore: Situated around 120 km to the west, Vellore is an important city in Tamil Nadu.