Arulmigu Jambukeswarar Temple, located in Thiruvanaikaval, Tiruchirapalli district of Tamil Nadu, is one of the five major Shiva temples representing the Mahābhūta or five elements. This temple symbolizes the element of water (neer) and holds an underground stream in the sanctum, adding to its sacred importance. Built during the Chola period, it is also one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams with inscriptions reflecting its rich heritage.
According to legend, Parvati once mocked Shiva’s penance for the world’s betterment, prompting Shiva to send her to earth for penance. Taking the form of Akilandeswari, she created a lingam from the Cauvery River’s waters under a Venn Naaval tree in the Jambu forest (Thiruvanaikoil). Known as the Appu Lingam, this water-based lingam became the focus of her penance, with Shiva finally blessing and teaching her divine knowledge.
The temple’s lore includes two of Shiva’s disciples, Malyavan and Pushpadanta, who cursed each other to become an elephant and spider on earth. Both worshipped Shiva under the Jambu tree, with the elephant performing ablutions with Cauvery River water and the spider weaving a web to protect the lingam. A clash ensued, leading both creatures to sacrifice their lives, moving Shiva to relieve them from their curse.
As a result of his past life as a spider, King Kochengot Chola (meaning "red-eyed king") reincarnated and built 70 Shiva temples, including this one. Remembering his enmity with the elephant, he constructed the Jambukeswara sanctum’s entrance to be so small that even a small elephant could not enter. This distinct architectural choice has become a lasting feature of the temple, adding to its unique and sacred identity.