Onakantheshvara & Jalandareshvara Temple
Thirukkuripputh-tondar – The Washerman Devotee
Kanchipuram, known as “Nagareshu Kanchi,” once stood as a shining beacon of learning and spirituality in ancient India. Within this revered city, lies the Muktishvara Temple, a sacred abode that holds within its walls a tale of devotion and divine intervention. Join us as we unravel the captivating story of Thirukkuripputh-tondar, the washerman devotee whose unwavering service and unyielding faith earned him the blessings of Lord Shiva and the epithet Muktishvara.
Architecture and Surroundings
The Onakantheshvara & Jalandareshvara Temple greets visitors with a majestic three-tiered Rajagopuram, beckoning them into its divine embrace. The single prakara encompasses the temple complex, revealing the secrets it holds within. As we enter, we encounter the balipitha and the dhvajastambha, which add a touch of grandeur to the surroundings. The outer niches of the Garbhagrha feature sacred images of Dakshinamurti, Vinayaka, and Durga, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
The Three Shivalingas
At the heart of this temple lie the three revered Shivalingas: Oneshvara, Kanteshvara, and Jalandareshvara. Each of these lingas carries a unique tale of devotion and transformation. According to the Sthala Purana and the Tevaram songs of Sundarar, Onan and Kanthan, once powerful commanders in the army of the mighty demon king Banasura, stumbled upon these sacred lingas and were overcome by profound devotion. Let us explore their individual stories and the significance they hold within the temple complex.
The Devotion of Onan
Onan, a valiant demon, unexpectedly discovered a Svayambhu linga and experienced a surge of divine devotion. Despite his demonic nature, Onan worshipped the Shivalinga with utmost reverence, even performing abhisheka (ritual bathing) with his own blood. His dedication and transformation from a fierce warrior to a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva are commemorated through the presence of the Oneshvara linga within the temple.
The Piety of Kanthan
Similarly, Kanthan, another powerful demon, also encountered a Shivalinga and offered his sincere worship. Despite his demonic origins, Kanthan’s heart was touched by the divine, leading him to embrace a path of devotion and surrender. The Kanteshvara linga within the temple stands as a testament to Kanthan’s profound transformation and his eternal connection with Lord Shiva.
The Reverence of Jalandareshvara
Jalandareshvara, yet another formidable warrior in Banasura’s army, stumbled upon a sacred Shivalinga and felt an overwhelming sense of devotion. Like his companions, Jalandareshvara recognized the divine presence within the linga and dedicated himself to worshipping Lord Shiva. The Jalandareshvara linga in the temple complex serves as a symbol of Jalandareshvara’s unwavering faith and his eventual liberation through devotion.
Conclusion
As our journey through the Onakantheshvara & Jalandareshvara Temple comes to a close, we carry with us the profound tales of devotion and transformation exhibited by Onan, Kanthan, and Jalandareshvara. The intricate carvings, the sacred images, and the three revered Shivalingas within the temple complex offer a glimpse into a world where even the mightiest of demons can find redemption through devotion. Join us on this spiritual quest as we honor the legends and divine significance of this extraordinary temple.
