THE HIDDEN TEMPLE SERIES 1: Jurahareswarar (aka Iravanatheswara) Temple at Juragaresam

The main deity in this temple is Shiva in the form of linga known as Jurahareswarar.

Legend has that a demon called Juragan was destroyed here. Devas worshipped in this place to cure themselves from disease due to heat and they were cured. Therefore it is believed that those who worship Shiva here, is known to have been cured of ailments such as fever, relieving them from excessive body heat to maintain normal body temperature.

There are five windows in the sanctum sanctorum which in itself has a circular design. 

(a side view of the sanctorum)

(a view of the circular sanctorum)

(Intricate carvings on the main Gopuram)

(one of the 5 windows adorns the inner sanctum)

It is a magnificent example of Pallava architecture. The temple was built using both sandstone and granite and many figures are engraved on them.  The idol of Juvarahereswarar here is one of the 64 holy idols (formless form of Lord Shiva). There are two kinds of divine treasures in the temple. There is a statue of Lord Gubera (God of treasure) in this temple.

(Side view of the temple with the Nandi Sannidhi, Bali Peedam and the Upperi Kulam on the extreme right)

The temple tank is called ‘Vepperi Kulam’ and now is popularly known as ‘Upperi Kulam’ where the temple Theerthem (Holy water) is sourced.

This temple is famous for its splendid Vimana (deity's vehicle) Nandi (Bull). 

(the smiling Nandi)

This temple was built by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (aka Rajasimhan) who ruled from 695.C.E-728.C.E.

Apart from Jurageswarar Temple, Narashimhavarman II was also instrumental in building the famous Kailasanathar Temple,  Vaikuntha Perumal Temple at Kanchipuram,  Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram and the Talagirisvara Temple at Panamalai.

The temple is located next to Pandava Thootha Perumal temple to the south of Sannidhi street of Sri Ekambareswarar temple, Kancheepuram, TN.

Most people do give this temple a miss for other famous temples in Kancheepuram, not realizing both its spiritual and historical significance.

Do visit this temple for its architectural marvel when you are in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu.

Currently this temple comes under the purview of ASI (Archeological Survey India)

photo@ravienavarmman072014