Isn't it interesting to know how some legends are related to the creation of the temples? Here is one such legend which resulted in the construction of Jalakandeshwarar Temple in Vellore. 'Jalam' in Tamil language means water and 'eshwarar' means Lord Shiva and the name Jalakandeshwarar translates to Lord Shiva, who resides in water.
Jalakandeshwarar Temple
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Legend Of Jalakandeshwarar Temple
It is said the chieftain Chinna Bomma Nayaka had a dream about Lord Shiva asking him to build a temple at the anthill located in the Vellore Fort. The chieftain goes in search of the anthill and finds a Shiva Linga inside the anthill, immersed in water. As per the Lord's command, the chieftain demolishes the hill and builds a temple for Shiva. The deity came to be known as Jalakandeshwarar.
Entering the temple
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History Of Jalakandeshwarar Temple
The construction of Jalakandeshwarar Temple was commissioned during the time of Vijayanagara Empire. At that time, Chinna Bomma Nayaka was a chieftain who worked under the Vijayanagara rulers. Jalakandeshwarar Temple was built in the year 1550 AD.
Architecture Of Jalakandeshwarar Temple
The beautiful Jalakandeshwarar Temple exhibits Vijayanagara style of architecture. The huge gopura, kalyana mandapam and exquisite sculptures adorning the walls of the shrine gives a luxurious look to the temple.
Doors of the temple
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The main sanctum has the Shiva Lingam (Jalakandeshwarar) and outside there is another statue of his consort Sri Akhilandeshwari. Like all the Shiva shrines, Nandi statue can be seen facing the Shiva Lingam.
The devotees believe that the earthen lamp kept behind Nandi statue is said to revolve when some people keep their hands on it. This is indicative of the fact that their wishes are fulfilled by the Lord.
Mandapam
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Destruction And Revamp
Unfortunately some parts and statues at Jalakandeshwarar temple was ruined by a Muslim invasion. Hence, they had to stop all the rituals and worship. In fact, the main deity was also shifted to Jalakhanda Vinayakar Temple in Sathuvachari.
However, the temple was revamped after it came under the Archaeological Survey of India. Later, the original image of Lord Shiva was brought back and re-installed in the temple and it became a live temple again.
Carvings
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How To Reach Vellore
Vellore is around 138 km from Chennai. Jalakandeshwarar Temple is located inside the Vellore Fort.
Click - How To Reach Vellore