Sri Airavatesvarar Temple, Kanchipuram

 

Moolavar: Sri Airavatesvarar

Amman: Sri Kamakshi Ambal

A beautiful pallava period temple built by Pallava King Narasimha Varman II (700 – 729 CE), he is the same king who built the famous Mamallapuram Shore Temple. He was famously known as Rajasimha Pallava.

The legend has that Airavata, the white elephant, worshipped Lord Shiva here and received a boon which enabled the elephant to become famous elephant which carries Lord Indra. As the Airavatam worshipped the lord here he is called as Airavatesvarar.

The temple faces west and features a miniature three-tiered Rajagopuram adorned with a stucco image of Lord Shiva in its mid-tier. Upon entering, you'll notice Nandi and Balipeedam facing the sanctum. The Sanctum Sanctorum comprises the sanctum and Mukha Mandapam, with the latter supported by two Vyala pilasters. Dvarapalas guard the entrance to the Mukha Mandapam, accompanied by reliefs of Vinayaga above them and friezes of Bhootaganas on the lintel.

Urdhava Thandava Moorthy: Located on the south-facing interior wall of the Mukha Mandapam, this six-armed sculpture depicts Lord Shiva in a dynamic pose with Mother Parvathy by his side. Although damaged, the sculpture showcases intricate details, including Bhootha Ganas.

Chakra Dhana Moorthy: On the north-facing interior wall, this rare sculpture shows Lord Shiva in a sitting posture with Parvathy. Lord Vishnu is depicted in a worshipping posture, performing poojas to the Linga, and is also shown with folded arms, expressing gratitude for receiving the Chakra from Lord Shiva

Location: Sri Airavatesvarar Temple, Kanchipuram