At Kanchi - 2

(Continued...)

Note - As per Hindu Mythology

The Second Day (14/02/2021)
The second day had begun with my visit to Ekambranathar Temple, the largest Shaiva temple of Kanchi. As per a belief, the Mango Tree under which Goddess Kamakshi performed a penance for Lord Shiva is located on the temple premises. This temple of Lord Shiva is associated with the element of Land among the Pancha Bhootha Sthalas. The large and ambient Pradakshina Patha with tall and aesthetic Pillars is the most distinguishing feature of this temple. There is a statue of Karikala Chola in the temple.

Me at Vaikuntha Perumal Temple

Later, I visited the Vaikuntha Perumal Temple. It's a historical temple. The sculptures and carvings of this temple builty by Pallava Nandivarman II are exquisite. One can have a glimpse of the entire history of Pallavas on the walls abutting the Pradakshina Patha - their reign and conquest, carved neatly. The Simple Lion motif Pillars of Pallavas can be found in this temple.  It was overwhelmed to watch the Mula Viraat - Vaikuntha Perumal in all his glory!

 

Pradakshina Patha at Ekambranathar Temple

The Legend of Kanchi

Then, it was the time to visit Kailasanathar temple, located far from the city centre. It's also historical temple and perhaps the high watermark of Pallava temple building activity! There are 58 shrines with special niches spread around the main temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's an adventure to make a round around the Pradakshina Patha surrounding the Sanctum Santorum!, because one has to crawl through a small hole! The niches carved at the base of the Vimana are terrific! Perhaps the greatest among them is the niche carving of Gangadhara Shiva. Finally, I have visited Pandava Doota Perumal temple located nearby, wherein Lord Krishna is worshipped as ambassador and negotiator of Pandavas along with Goddess Rukmini. Thus did end my trip to Kanchi. On the same day, I've returned to Chengalpattu and boarded the Circar Covid Special express.

 

Kailasanathar Temple - Lateral View

Gangadhara Shiva - Kailasanathar Temple

The Temples I've visited
1. Chitragupta Swamy
2. Karchapeeswarar
3. Varadaraja Perumal
4. Kanchi Kamakshi Amman
5. Ulagananda Perumal
6. Ekambranathar
7. Vaikuntha Perumal
8. Kailasanathar
9. Pandava Dootha Perumal       

Veluvali Maheeth
At Kanchi - 2 (13th & 14th February 2021)
19/02/2021, - Palakollu.