Ekambareswarar Temple, located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, representing the element of earth. Shiva is worshiped as Ekambareswarar, represented by the Prithvi Lingam, while Parvati, his consort, is known as Elavarkuzhali. The temple holds great significance in Saivism, being mentioned in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva text, Tevaram, and classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam.
Spanning 25 acres, the temple complex is one of the largest in India. It features four grand gopurams, with the tallest southern tower standing at 192 feet, one of the tallest in the country. The temple’s Ekambareswarar and Nilathingal Thundam Perumal shrines are the most important. A thousand-pillared hall, built during the Vijayanagar period, adds to its architectural grandeur. The temple conducts six daily rituals and hosts twelve annual festivals, with the Panguni Uthiram festival being the most celebrated.
According to legend, Parvati performed penance under a mango tree near the Vegavati River to atone for her sins. Shiva tested her devotion by sending fire and floods, but Parvati’s faith prevailed, and Shiva appeared as Ekambareswarar. Another legend describes Parvati worshipping a sand Lingam, embracing it to protect it from a flood, moving Shiva to marry her in response to her devotion.
The temple has a rich history, with references in Sangam literature dating back to 300 BCE. Originally built by the Pallavas, the Chola dynasty reconstructed the temple in the 9th century. Contributions were made by the Vijayanagar kings in the 15th century and philanthropists like Pachiyappa Mudaliar. The temple is currently maintained by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Tamil Nadu, serving as a significant spiritual and cultural site.