Anantapadmanabheshvara Temple

Explore the sacred Anantapadmanabheshvara Temple in Kanchipuram, where Lord Shiva is worshipped by Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Uncover the mystical legend behind the temple’s origin and its significance as a Ketu Dosha Parihara Sthala. Discover the divine connection between the deities and embrace the spiritual ambiance of this hidden gem in Kanchipuram.

THE SACRED STORY

Why Is Anantapadmanabheshvara Important ?

Rediscovered by the Mahaswamigal

For many years, the temple remained hidden until it was rediscovered through the efforts of Jagadguru Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Mahaswamigal of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham. Its restoration revived an important chapter of Kanchipuram's sacred heritage.

The Temple of Divine Reconciliation

Temple tradition recounts that Lord Vishnu journeyed to Kanchipuram seeking redemption after Goddess Parvati cursed him during a celestial game of dice. Here, accompanied by Ananta, he worshipped Lord Shiva and received divine grace, making the temple a profound symbol of humility and reconciliation.

Behind the Shivalinga, the rear wall features the extraordinary image of Lord Vishnu as Anantapadmanabha reclining upon Adishesha with Goddess Lakshmi, offering worship to Lord Shiva. This rare iconography beautifully expresses the harmony between Shaivism and Vaishnavism.

Ketu Dosha Parihara Sthala

The temple is revered as one of Kanchipuram's important Navagraha Parihara Sthalas associated with Ketu. Devotees pray here seeking relief from Ketu Dosha, Kala Sarpa Dosha, and obstacles affecting spiritual growth and inner peace.

WHY VISIT THIS TEMPLE

Believed to have Pallava origins and later rediscovered by Jagadguru Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Mahaswamigal.
Classical Pallava Dravidian architecture with a compact shrine layout.
Not individually inscribed; forms part of Kanchipuram's remarkable sacred heritage.
A rare shrine where Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi are depicted worshipping Lord Shiva.
Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham, and Ketu Parihara worship are observed with devotion.
October to March offers pleasant weather for pilgrimage and heritage exploration.

Bharat Ke Wow

Episode : 28 Anantapadmanabheshvara Temple

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Explore The Temple

The Sanctum of Anantapadmanabheshvara

Offer prayers before Lord Shiva in the form of Anantapadmanabheshvara, whose sanctum preserves one of Kanchipuram's most remarkable traditions of divine harmony.

The Unique Rear Wall Relief

Behind the Shivalinga, admire the rare sculpture of Lord Vishnu reclining on Adishesha with Goddess Lakshmi while worshipping Lord Shiva—a remarkable iconographic feature rarely found elsewhere.

Discover the fascinating legend in which Lord Vishnu, after being cursed by Goddess Parvati, travelled to Kanchipuram with Ananta to seek Lord Shiva's forgiveness and regain divine grace.

The Ketu Parihara Shrine

Learn why the temple is regarded as an important destination for devotees seeking relief from Ketu-related astrological afflictions and spiritual obstacles through prayer and worship.