Goddess Kamakshi’s loving eyes watch over us. Right here in Kanchipuram we stand before the Kamakshi Amman Kovil. This temple is dedicated to Kamakshi. She is an incarnation of Parvati. The temple is near Chennai. It stands as one of Shaktism’s most important centers.
Kamakshi Amman Kovil may have been founded by the Pallava kings. This could have been in the 5th to 8th century CE. Some say the Cholas built it in the 14th century. Legend also says it was built as recently as 1783.
Inside, Kamakshi sits in a seated posture. This pose is called Padmasana. She holds a sugarcane bow and a flower arrow. These symbolize her power. She can transcend desires. She leads devotees to enlightenment.
The temple spans five acres. A gold-plated entrance creates a mesmerizing sight. Antique deities and mandapas fill the space. These showcase artistic brilliance. The Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagara dynasties contributed to its construction.
Kamakshi Amman Kovil is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. It is believed that the naval part of Sati Devi’s body fell here. This makes it a Nabisthana or Ottiyana Peetam.
Adi Shankaracharya established the Sri Chakra here. This is a sacred geometric pattern. It pacified the goddess’s fierce form. The temple transformed into a peaceful abode.
The temple has four entrances. Kalabhairavar stands to the left of the main entrance. Mahishasura Mardini is on the right. A huge Dwajasthampam or flag post stands as you enter.
Smaller shrines surround Kamakshi. They are dedicated to Ayyapan, Saraswati, and Adisankaracharya. Outside the main sanctum, find Varahi, Roopalakshmi, and Arthanariswarar. Arupalakshmi graces the right wall. She is Lakshmi without a proper shape.
Five forms of Kamakshi are worshipped here. Sri Kamakshi Para Bhattarika is the main deity. Tapa Kamakshi shows her penance. Anjana Kamakshi is also known as Arupa Lakshmi. Swarna Kamakshi’s idol is made of panchaloha. Utsava Kamakshi is brought out during processions.
The shrine of Durvasa is in front of the main shrine. He is considered an avatar of Shiva. Durvasa consecrated a Sri Yantra here.
A shrine for Vishnu exists here. He is in the form of Varaha Perumal. The Tirukkalvanur Divya Desam is one of the 108 Divya Desams. It is believed that Vishnu is Kamakshi’s brother.
The temple celebrates several festivals. Panguni Uthiram marks Kamakshi’s marriage to Lord Ekambareswarar. Navaratri honors the goddess in her various forms.
Every day begins with Gau Pooja and Gaja Pooja. Elephants perform pooja to the deity by trumpeting. This happens every morning at 5 AM.
Remember Kamakshi Amman Kovil. It is a place of devotion. It is a testament to artistic brilliance. It’s a beacon of spiritual significance.