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Tamil Nadu Sri Aadhi Kamatchi Amman Temple
Goddess Parvathi has various incarnations and one of those is Kamakshi. In various areas of Tamilnadu, the worship of goddess Parvathi is done and one of them is Kanchipuram. This place is closer to state capital Chennai and also known because of association of Shankaracharya, the famous Dharma Guru of Hindu religion. Like the Kamakshi temple of Kanchipuram, Meenakshi Temple in Madurai and Akilandeswari Temple in Thiruvanaikaval are also has the same deity and worshipping process.
History
According to some fact relevant to the history, the construction of these temples dates back to 6th century C.E. In all of the above mentioned temples, Goddess Kamakshi has her seat on Padmasana posture. It is believed that this posture is a symbol of prosperity and the peace while conventional standing pose has some other symbolizing. Previously, the Kamakshi temple was known as Adi Peeteswari. During 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya, who was the most renowned Dharma Guru, had established a Star shaped formations, Shree Chakra. This place called Kamkoti Peetham. Another name of the original goddess Parvathi was also Kameshwari. New Kamakshi temple was constructed in 16th century, within the Sri chakra which was constructed earlier. In the Tirukkalavanur town of the state, another Kamakshi temple is located. This temple is also known with the name of Divya Deesam. This temple was too old and presently the ruins of the same are remaining while the deity of the temple has been shifted to the Kamakshi Amman Temple.
Architecture
This temple has solid and traditional temple architecture of south India. In nutshell, the constructional patter of this temple is very close to the temples constructed during Hoysala period. Though, the dating of Hoysala dynasty was later. But the same style has been followed in this temple. A Grand Gopuram with the finest carving ever is constructed over here. Every inch height of the tower is filled with idols of various gods and goddesses. Simultaneously a story has also been narrated through the sculptures on the tower. Entrance gate is too huge to allow passing an elephant easily. Rear portion of the temple has a vast corridor and supported with pillars. Central hall of the temple has sufficient enough space to host various religious activities. Head of the tower has a semi circle with the showering scene of sun rays and a decoration also on the top of semi circle. Thus the height of the tower touches the 59 ft on scale. Total four stories have been constructed in Gopuram. Inside the temple, goddess Parvathi is seated in Padmasana posture having a bunch of various flowers. In the city, this is only the temple dedicated to goddess Parvathi. Inside the temple, there are other idols pertaining to different gods and goddess. Surroundings of the temple are made of stone and fine carving. In Kamakshi Amman temple, some of the shrines have also been made over the Vimanam of the temple. Gopuram of the temple has similarity with Meenakshi temple of Madurai as the main deity of both the temple is same. Almost the constructional style also the same. In ancient era, constructional pattern was deeply related with story description on walls. Sculptures made inside the temple and also on the exteriors, are amazing. Overall, Kamakshi temple is balanced in architectural health.
Festivals
In this temple, every day four worship sessions are organised. In the month of spring, annual festival of this temple is conducted. This festival lasts till mid of the April. During the annual festival, Ther and Theppam are also conducted in this temple. Navarathri, Sankra Jayanthi and Vasant Utsawam are some of the major festivals organised here.
How to Reach
Kanchipuram can be reached by all the means of transportation.
By Air
Chennai International airport is the nearest one and located at 75 kilometers from this temple. Frequent bus services and taxi services are available from airport to reach this temple.
By Rail
Chennai is the nearest railway station to Kanchipuram located at 45 kilometers from the temple and well connected with road.
By Road
State transport and private taxi operators are providing better road connectivity to Kanchipuram from various cities of the state on affordable charges.
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