The
horizon of faith !
Kanyakumari was once referred to as the Alexandria of the east. This place
has been a great center for art, culture, civilization, and pilgrimage for
years. It was also a famous center for commerce and trade. During the early
part of the eighth century AD Islam entered the southern part of India
through the sea route with traders and missionaries. Through St. Thomas, one
of the twelve Apostles of Christ, Christianity arrived in this area in AD
52. Islam, Christianity and Jainism have greatly contributed to the
architectural wealth and literary heritage of this place. Kanyakumari was
also under the control of the Cholas, the Cheras, the Pandyas and the Nayaks
who were great rulers of south India. The architectural beauty of the
temples is the work of these rulers.
Legend has it that Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, was to wed
Lord Shiva, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity. But he did not turn up at
the auspicious time and the wedding never took place. The rice and cereals
meant for the marriage remained uncooked. Even today, one can buy stones
there that look exactly like rice and cereals. Local folks believe that they
are the leftovers of the legendary marriage that could not be solemnized. As
for the princess Kanya Devi, she became a virgin goddess
» The Temple : The main entrance to the temple is through the
northern gate though the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance is kept
closed except on special occasions when the deity is taken out for
ceremonial bath.
Three
corridors surround the sanctum. The outer corridor has no special shrines,
but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam' and
a pathway leads to the second corridor encircling the shrine. There stands
the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. From here you can have a clear view of the
Goddess. A move further forward will take you in front of the sanctum.
» Main Festivals and Opening Times : The main festivals are
held in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May/June) and the Navarathri festival in
September/October.
The temple is open to the public from 4.30 AM to 11.45 AM and 5.30 PM to
8.45 PM. Male worshippers are required to remove their shirts before
entering the temple.
Kanyakumari
Temple
