Panchabootham – Five Element Tour

Srikalahasti Temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, is renowned as one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of air (Vayu). This temple holds immense spiritual significance, as the Vayu Linga, enshrined in the sanctum, symbolizes the air element, making it unique among Shiva temples. Unlike other lingams, the Srikalahasti Linga is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu) and remains untouched by human hands, with a continuous natural flow of air around it, signifying its connection to the wind element. The temple’s architecture and sanctity draw millions of devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Srikalahasteeswara, the Lord of Vayu. The presence of this sacred temple emphasizes the ancient Hindu belief in the balance and significance of nature’s five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—each represented by a revered Shiva temple, with Srikalahasti embodying the life-giving force of air.

Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram

The Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram is a stunning testament to the magnificence of Dravidian architecture and the deep spiritual traditions of Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, symbolizing the element of earth (Prithvi), and is considered one of the most sacred sites in South India. Initially constructed by the Pallavas around 600 AD, the temple was later expanded by the Cholas and further embellished by the Vijayanagara rulers.

The temple’s grandeur is immediately striking, with its towering gopuram (entrance tower) standing at 59 meters, one of the tallest in South India. This impressive structure is adorned with intricate sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological scenes that seem to come to life as the light shifts throughout the day.

Upon entering through the massive wooden gates, you are greeted by the vastness of the temple complex, which spans over 20 acres. The air is filled with the sound of bells, chants of priests, and the fragrance of incense, creating a peaceful and devotional atmosphere that seems to transcend time.

One of the most remarkable features of the temple is its thousand-pillared hall, a breathtaking example of both art and engineering. Each pillar is intricately carved with scenes from Hindu mythology, their details illuminated by the flickering light of oil lamps, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient artisans.

At the heart of the temple is its most revered feature—a 3,500-year-old mango tree. According to legend, Goddess Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva under this tree, which miraculously bears four different types of mangoes, representing the four Vedas. The tree’s ancient trunk and wide canopy evoke a sense of timelessness and spiritual significance for the countless devotees who have sought refuge beneath its branches.

The main sanctum, which houses the earth lingam of Lord Shiva, is partially buried to signify its connection to the earth element. The gold-plated vimanam (tower) above the sanctum enhances the temple’s spiritual energy, creating a powerful sense of divine presence that resonates with every visitor.

As you explore the temple, you’ll encounter smaller shrines and mandapas, each rich in history and artistic beauty. The Soma Skanda shrine, depicting Lord Shiva with his family, and the intricate carvings in the Nilathingal Thundam Mandapam are particularly noteworthy for their fine craftsmanship.

The temple’s tank, Shivaganga, adds to the sacred experience. The crystal-clear waters are believed to have purifying powers, and the steps leading down to the tank are often lined with devotees engaging in rituals or quiet contemplation.

Visiting the Ekambareswarar Temple is more than just an architectural tour—it’s a spiritual journey. Every stone, every carving, and every ritual is steeped in centuries of faith and tradition. Whether you are drawn to the temple for spiritual reasons, historical interest, or a love of art, the Ekambareswarar Temple offers an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience, highlighting the enduring power of faith and human creativity.

Trichy – Thiruvanaikaval

The Jambukeswarar Temple, located in Thiruvanaikaval, is one of South India’s most esteemed and architecturally magnificent temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Constructed during the 2nd century AD by King Kochengat Chola, this temple is a prime example of Dravidian architectural brilliance. As one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, it represents the water element, with the Appu Lingam at its heart symbolizing this essential force of nature.

The temple’s mythology adds to its allure. According to legend, Goddess Parvati, as Akhilandeswari, meditated under a Jambu tree here to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. In response, Shiva appeared and imparted spiritual knowledge to her, manifesting as a Swayambhu (self-manifested) lingam beneath the tree. This lingam, partially submerged by water from an underground spring, embodies the temple’s elemental association with water, a feature still visible today as the sanctum remains surrounded by water.

The temple complex is a marvel of Dravidian design, enclosed by massive walls known as Thiruneetran thirumadhil, and consists of five prakarams (enclosures) adorned with intricately carved pillars and majestic gopurams. The sacred Appu Lingam in the central sanctum continually rests in water, reinforcing its connection to the water element. The towering gopurams, rich in detail, highlight the artistry of the Chola period.

Jambukeswarar Temple holds great spiritual significance, attracting devotees seeking health, wisdom, and prosperity. The temple’s famous noon pooja, where the priest reenacts Goddess Parvati’s penance by dressing as a woman, underscores its connection to the divine feminine. Steeped in history and devotion, this temple stands as a testament to Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, making it a significant destination for pilgrims and history lovers alike.

CHIDAMBARAM NATRAJA TEMPLE

The Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is a magnificent symbol of Tamil Nadu’s spiritual and architectural grandeur, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form, Nataraja. Rooted in antiquity, this ancient temple is believed to have been built during the Chola dynasty in the 10th century, with contributions from later dynasties like the Pallavas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagar rulers. The temple stands at the heart of Shaivism, representing not only religious devotion but also the union of art, spirituality, and science, with Lord Shiva depicted as the cosmic dancer who sustains the rhythm of the universe.

Chidambaram, meaning “stage of consciousness,” derives its name from the Tamil term Chitrambalam (or Chithambalam), translating to “wisdom atmosphere.” The word is rooted in citt or chitthu, meaning “consciousness” or “wisdom,” and ampalam, meaning “atmosphere.” Chidambaram is also known as Thillai, a name linked to the Thillaivanam mangrove forest, featuring Tillai trees (Excoecaria agallocha), which grow in the region and the nearby Pichavaram wetlands.

This name reflects the city’s spiritual significance, particularly its association with Shiva as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. The Nataraja temple complex spans 16 hectares (40 acres) in a near-square courtyard at the city’s center. Its architecture symbolizes the deep connection between the arts, spirituality, creative expression, and the divine. The temple’s carvings depict all 108 karanas—dance postures that form the foundation of Bharatanatyam, an ancient Indian classical dance.

Architecturally, the Nataraja Temple is a marvel of Dravidian style, spanning 40 acres. The temple’s towering gopurams (gateway towers) are adorned with intricate carvings that depict divine myths and historical events, each showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. One of its unique features is the Chit Sabha, or the hall of consciousness, where the iconic bronze idol of Nataraja performs the Ananda Tandava, the dance of bliss. The sanctum is enveloped in an aura of mysticism, with its bejeweled idol embodying the balance between creation and destruction, a key tenet of Hindu cosmology.

Although the current structure dates back to the 10th century, the temple has ancient roots. References to Chidambaram’s dancing deity, Shiva, can be found in pre-5th-century texts from the Sangam tradition, and in 6th- and 7th-century writings by poets Appar and Sambadar. The Suta Samhita, embedded in the Sri Kanda Puranam and dated between the 7th and 10th centuries, also mentions Shiva’s cosmic dance. The temple’s architectural style reflects the tradition of South Indian temple-building, which transitioned from wood and brick structures to more durable stone temples from the 5th century onward.

Beyond its artistic splendor, the temple holds immense spiritual significance, symbolizing the connection between the soul and the divine. It is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of space (Akasha), underscoring its cosmic relevance. The temple also hosts the annual Natyanjali festival, where dancers from across the world gather to perform, paying homage to Lord Nataraja. This fusion of architecture, mythology, and devotion makes the Nataraja Temple a profound spiritual hub and a testament to India’s cultural and religious heritage.

The Nataraja temple is a unique center where Shiva’s “dance of bliss” embodies ancient Hindu art concepts. Though Shiva as Nataraja is the main deity, the temple also pays homage to other important themes within Shaktism, Vaishnavism, and other Hindu traditions.

Fascinating Facts About Chidambaram Temple:

• The temple is located at the geographic center of the Earth’s magnetic equator.
• It features nine entrances, representing the nine openings in the human body.
• The roof is made of 21,600 gold sheets, symbolizing the 21,600 breaths a person takes each day (15 breaths per minute × 60 minutes × 24 hours).
• These gold sheets are affixed to the roof, or Vimanam, using 72,000 gold nails, representing the 72,000 nadis (energy channels) in the human body.
• The sacred Ponnambalam is slightly tilted to the left, symbolizing the human heart. To reach it, one ascends five steps, called Panchatshara padi, representing the five syllables of the mantra “Si, Va, Ya, Na, Ma.”
• The Kanagasabha, or golden hall, is supported by four pillars representing the four Vedas.
• Ponnambalam is held up by 28 pillars, signifying the 28 Agamas and the 28 forms of Shiva worship. The roof beams, 64+64 in total, represent the 64 traditional arts, with the cross beams symbolizing the body’s blood vessels.
• The roof’s Kalasas (ornamental pots) represent nine forms of Shakti (energy).
• Six pillars in the Artha Mantapa represent the six types of Shastras.
• The adjacent Mantapa has 18 pillars, signifying the 18 Puranas.