Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is the principal Shiva temple of Kumbakonam. The town’s name is traditionally linked to this shrine and to the legend of the sacred pot (kumbha) of Lord Brahma, which is said to have held the seed of all life. Here, Shiva is worshipped as Adi Kumbeswarar in the form of a lingam.

The temple traces its origins to the Chola period, around the 9th century, and was later expanded and maintained by the Vijayanagara rulers and the Thanjavur Nayaks. It is praised in the Tevaram hymns of the Nayanmar saints and is counted among the Paadal Petra Sthalams. Five silver-plated chariots carry the temple deities during festivals.

Temple Timing

Six daily poojas are performed between about 5:30 AM and 9 PM. Timings may differ on festival days, so please check on the day of your visit.

Temple Festival

The grandest occasion is Masi Magam in February–March, when the Theerthavari rite is held at the Mahamaham tank; the Mahamaham itself comes once in twelve years. Other festivals include the Thirukalyanam (wedding festival) in Vaikasi (May–June), Thirumanjanam in Aani (June–July), Aadi Perukku and Aadi Pooram (July–August) and the Panguni festival (March–April).

Architecture

The complex has four gopurams, and the eastern tower, the tallest, rises eleven tiers to about 128 feet. The shrines of Kumbeswarar and Mangalambigai Amman are the most prominent. Among its many halls, the sixteen-pillared mandapam is the most celebrated, with the 27 stars and 12 zodiac signs carved from single stones.

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