- Shiva
Iravatanesvara Temple
- Big Kanchipuram,Tamil Nadu
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Overview
The Iravatanesvara Temple is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamilnadu. The temple was constructed around the early 8th Century CE, by the Pallava Rulers. It is especially renowned for its amazing vimana. The temple has been classified as a minor shrine in Kanchipuram. However, it has great historical significance and architectural value.
About the Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is built of stones and there are few beautiful idols in the temple. There are five windows in the sanctum sanctorum. The temple is a great example of Pallava architecture. It was built with sandstone and granite, and figures are engraved on them. Jurahareswarar in the temple is one of the 64 holy idols that are formless forms of Lord Shiva. There are two kinds of divine treasures in the temple. There is a statue of Lord Kubera (God of Wealth) in this temple. The temple tank is called ‘Vepperi Kulam’ and now is popularly known as ‘Upperi Kulam’ where the temple Theertham (Holy water) is sourced. This temple is famous for its splendid Vimana (deity's vehicle) Nandi (Bull). The temple is located next to Pandava Thootha Perumal temple to the south of Sannidhi Street of Sri Ekambareswarar temple, Kancheepuram
About the Deity
The main deity in this temple is Shiva. He is known to exist in the temple in the form of a linga, called Jurahareswarar. The temple also houses idols of Kuberan, Ganesha, and Subramanya.
Legend and Stories
Legend informs that Juraha, a demon, was killed by Lord Shiva at this temple. Consequently, he got the name Jurahareswarar in the temple. It is also believed that Shiva (Jurahareswarar) cures fever and heat related diseases of the devotees. Iravatanesvara temple was built by Pallava King Rajasimhan who is known as Narasimhavarman II during his reign between 700 and 728 AD. The temple is more famous for its Vimana or Gopuram which is an architectural wonder. As it was found in ruins, Archaeological Survey of India has undertaken its maintenance as a protected monument. They have also restored the original architectural splendor of the Vimanas built over the Sanctum Sanctorum. The temple is indeed an architectural marvel of the Pallava Kings. This temple was built by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (aka Rajasimhan) who ruled from 695.C.E-728.C.E. Apart from Iravatanesvara Temple, Narasimhavarman II was also instrumental in building the famous Kailasanathar Temple, Vaikuntha Perumal Temple at Kanchipuram, and Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram and the Talagirisvara Temple at Panamalai.
Accessibility
The temple is 75 kms from Chennai. The nearest Railway Station is Kanchipuram. There are also buses and taxis from Chennai. Chennai is the nearest airport. From Chennai the temple is located at a distance of 75 kms.
Temple Address
Iravatanesvara Temple,
Car Street,
Kanchipuram,
Tamil Nadu
Pincode - 631 502
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Salvation
- Wealth
- Relief from diseases
- Purchase of vehicles
- Gain Knowledge
Shlokas
Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree
Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.
Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.