Sri Agneeswarar / Sukran Temple

Sri Agneeswarar Temple is also known as Sukran Temple. This temple is a very famous and holy Hindu temple which is located in Kanchipuram City. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Not only this but this temple is believed as one of the most important Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu. The temple was constructed during the rule of the Chola dynasty. Different types of festivals also happened throughout the year in this Temple. There is an annual festival which is known as Brahmotsavam. This annual festival is celebrated during Panguni month. Panguni month happens in Tamil during the time of March to April. In this festival, various devotees from all over the world come to seek the blessing of the God and goddess. The whole timeline for the festival is for 10 days. Sukra Pradushan is again a very famous festival that happens on the 13th day of the warning face of the moon. On this day, lord Shiva is worshipped by the devotees. History of Sri Agneeswarar Temple or Sukran Temple Sri Agneeswarar Temple is having very beautiful architecture and designs. The temple was constructed by king Kulothunga Chola 1. The king was a very famous king of the Chola dynasty. He built the temple during the 11th century at a place where Lord Shiva appeared in front of the Seven Sages. The Seven Seas are called Saptarishis. The temple has Navagraha Mandapam. The Navagraha Mandapam is known as the house of nine small shrines. These nine small shrines are dedicated to the nine planets. Architecture of the Sri Agneeswarar Temple The Sri Agneeswarar temple has a very impressive main entrance. At the main entrance of the temple, you will find a Gopuram or a tower. The Gopuram has a height of 80 feet. On the whole Gopuram, you will find very beautiful and intricate carvings of God, goddesses, and other celestial creatures. The Gopuram has different tiers and all the tiers have a set of carvings and cultures. There is a main Shrine in the center of the temple complex which is dedicated to Lord Agneeswarar. The sanctum sanctorum is a dark chamber. There is a main Mandapam that is present inside the temple called Ardha Mandapam. This Mandapam is a very special hall where different types of rituals and ceremonies are performed. Along with the main shrine that you will find in the temple, various other shrines are also. The other shrines that are present inside the temple are also having very intricate designs and architecture. A beautiful pond is also inside the temple complex. The Pond is known as Sukra Theertham. It is also believed that the pond has healing properties and whoever is having a dip in the pond will get rid of all the problems. Overall, Agneeswarar temple is a very beautiful and historic Temple in South India.