Ekambareshwar Temple is one of the largest temples in
Kanchipuram,
Tamil Nadu. It is bounded by a huge stonewall, which was built in the early 16th century during the period of
Vijayanagar Empire.
Spread over an area of 12 hectares, this ancient temple is dedicated to Sri Ekambareswara, who is worshipped in the form of Prithvi linga (the Earth representation of the five elements of nature). The linga is very differently shaped. The temple has numerous shrines, mandapams, shikhara and tanks.
It is said that Goddess Parvati, once in Kailash, mischievously closed the eyes of Lord Shiva, dropping the entire world in darkness. The angry Shiva cursed Parvati to turn dark like Kali. The Goddess came down to this place and did penance under a mango tree, making a lingam out of earth.
