KANCHIPURAM

Known reputation of this premier city, as recorded in the scriptures begins with an amorous quarrel between Adi dampathis - Uma and Maheswar When playing the game of dice as pasttime, Uma turned frivolous and insulted Maheswar. Despite known for his placability - the divine quality of forgiveness, he took the insult serious and cursed her to turn ugly and ungraceful. When she made a tearful appeal for mercy, he said that she would be given her rightful place only on doing penance under a single mango tree at Kanchi.  Leaving Kailas, Parvathi came down to Kanchi and started tapas to get reinstatement with her Lord.  

As directed, she prayed to Lord Vishnu first for grace.  Satisfied with herresolution, Maha Vishnu blessed her with former enhancing form together a pair of captivating broad, dark eyes that enhanced her beauty a million fold.  She then acquired the hallowed name of Kamakshi meaning there by, she bless her adorers, for fulfillment of desires by looking through her lovely eyes. Though she got the boons thus, she continued her meditation. Siva desiring to test her steadfastness, released and diverted the flow of Ganga waters to the place, where she was doing penance under the mango tree.  Frightened by the unexpected onrush of torrential floods, she clung to Siva's image and prayed soulfully for protection.

Pleased with her devotion, Siva admitted her back into Kailas and granted the boon of reunion.  At the request of Parvathi, he agreed to stay permanently with the name of Ekambaranath under mango tree, where she did penance. That sacred tree is found existing even today receiving due worship by theists and tourists too.  No visitor misses to include this in the itinerary list.

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]