Nava Kailasam Temples

How Was Kailasanthar Temple Built?

According to legend, the Swayambhu Shivling was worshipped by two sisters, and they intended to erect a Shivling temple. Thus, the sisters began to set aside funds. Lord Shiva wanted to check their dedication one day. He appeared as a common man and made a demand for food. Seeing the man, the two sisters happily consented to give him food. But the man was not prepared to have food without light. The sisters did not have light as they were destitute. One of them took a coconut, added ghee, placed a wick and lit a candle. In response to this worship of his devotee, Shiva revealed himself and gave them money. The sisters built a temple for him with that wealth. Later, the Chola kings modified the temple.

More Information About Kailasanathar Temple

Shiva is revered in this place as Kailasanathar or Ammainathar and Goddess Shakti as Oppilla Nayagi Ambal or Avudainayagi. The other deities worshipped here include Subrahmanyan, Vinayaka, Viswanatha, Nalvar, Nataraja, Karaikal Ammaiyar, Navagrahas and Nava Kanniar. The kailasanathar temple has the Murti Nandi, which is not found in front of the lingam.

History states that Lord Shiva requested Nandi move aside so his devoted follower, Nandhanar, could see him. Due to his low caste at birth, Nandanar was not allowed entry to the shrine. Shiva instructed Nandi to move to the side so that his devotee could see him because he used to pray from outside.