- Shiva
Sri Asthrapureeswarar Temple
- Chengalpet,Tamil Nadu
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Overview
Astrapurisvara Temple is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva located in Aanur Village near Chengalpet in Kanchipuram District of Tamilnadu. This Temple is located at the entrance of Aanur village, has a rich past as well. Aanur has 3 ancient temples.
About The Temple
It is said that Arjunan got the Pasupatha Astram from Lord Shiva at this place and hence the Lord is called Asthrapureeswarar. The nearby hill is also called Asthra hill. Lord Shiva is facing East and Soundara valli Ambal is facing south; Ambal and Swamy can be worshipped from the artha mandapam at the same time. One time pooja is taking place daily. The Ambal is seen with her left leg in front as if ready to step out to the help of devotees. Although the deity in the Siva temple is now known as Astapurisvarar, inscriptions show that the original name was Vambankaattu Mahadevan. An inscription of the time of Raja Raja I, speaks of musical instruments used in the temple — Padagam, Thimilai, Karadigai, kaalam, sekandi. Inscriptions belonging to the 7-8 century Pallava period, 9th century Chola period and the 16th century Vijayanagara period are all can be seen in the same wall side by side, inferring that the stones were rearranged during the last renovation during the Vijayanagara period. Epigraphic evidence on the lintel over the entrance to this temple suggests that during Kulottunga Chola I’s reign, there was a sale of land by the village assembly of Adiyur (ancient name for Aanur) for a perpetual lamp and for offerings at the temple. Inscriptions indicated that this temple received patronage from Paranthaka Chola, Raja Raja Chola, Kulottunga Chola I and Raja Raja III. The front portion of this temple got extended during the Vijayanagar rule. During the Vijayanagar period, temple had a sculpture of the ruler in seated position in front of the main deity.
Legend and Stories
The temple was built by Vijaya Kamba Varma Pallavan during the 7th century whose son Aparajita Varma Pallavan was defeated by Adhithya Chola I that marked the end of Pallava regime and the beginning of Chola regime. The temple was patronized by the Chola Kings Paranthaka, Rajaraja and Kulothunga and the Nayakkars of the Vijayanagara period. The Rajaraja chola period inscription says that there were musical instruments of Padagam, Thimilai, Karadigai, Kalam and Sekandi were played during festivals in this Temple.
Significance
It is said that people will be freed from court cases and encumbrances by worshipping the Lord and Ambal here.
How to Reach
There are no regular flights from other major cities of the country to Chengalpattu. Nearest airport is Chennai Airport. Chengalpattu is well connected to other major cities of the country via regular trains. One can also get regular buses to Chengalpattu from other major cities of the country.
Temple Address
Astrapurisvara Temple,
Aanur, Chengalpet,
Kanchipuram District, India.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- People will be freed from court cases and encumbrances
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.
Timings
The temple is open from 6AM to 9PM.