Kamakshi Amman Temple - Kanchipuram Shakti Peetam

The Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram stands as one of the most sacred and powerful Shakti temples in South India. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi (a form of Goddess Parvati), is considered one of the most important Shakti Peethas and holds immense spiritual significance in the Hindu tradition.

Temple Architecture

The temple’s architecture follows the Dravidian style, featuring:

• A magnificent golden-plated main tower (Rajagopuram)
• Intricate carvings depicting various episodes from Hindu mythology
• Beautiful sculptures of deities and celestial beings
• The main sanctum houses the seated form of Goddess Kamakshi
• The temple complex includes the Adi Shankaracharya’s shrine
• The sacred Gayatri Mandapam with its unique architectural features

History and Special Significance

The temple’s history dates back to the 6th century CE during the Pallava period. According to legend, this is where Goddess Kamakshi performed penance to win Lord Shiva’s hand in marriage. The temple is also associated with Adi Shankaracharya, who established the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham here.

The temple holds special significance as:

• One of the most powerful Shakti Peethas
• The seat of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham
• A center of learning and spiritual wisdom
• A place where the divine feminine energy is particularly strong
• A site of numerous spiritual realizations and miracles

Mysteries of the Temple

The temple is shrouded in numerous mysteries and spiritual phenomena:

• The temple’s location is said to be at the intersection of powerful energy lines
• The main deity is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu)
• The temple’s architecture follows precise geometric patterns that align with cosmic energies
• Many saints and sages have experienced profound spiritual realizations here
• The temple’s sacred water is said to have healing properties
• The Gayatri Mandapam is believed to have unique energy patterns

Important Festivals and Rituals

Major Festivals

1. Navaratri (September-October)

   • Nine-day celebration of the divine feminine
   • Special abhishekams and pujas
   • Cultural programs and spiritual discourses
   • Grand processions of the deity

2. Aadi Pooram (July-August)

   • Celebration of the divine mother’s grace
   • Special decorations and lighting
   • Night-long prayers and cultural programs

3. Vasanta Navaratri (March-April)

   • Spring festival celebrating the divine feminine
   • Special pujas and homas
   • Cultural performances

Daily Rituals

• Early morning Suprabhatam
• Multiple abhishekams throughout the day
• Special pujas during Rahu Kaalam
• Evening aarti and closing ceremonies
• Monthly pradosham celebrations

Important Information for Visitors

Divine Experiences & Miracles