Anekadhangavadeswarar Temple,
Kanchipuram – Legends
Anekadhangavadeswarar:
As per legend, Sage Marichi found a female child on the
lotus leaf, while bathing in a lotus tank. He took the child and brought
her up. He named her Vallaba. She was a staunch Shiva devotee from
her childhood. She was abducted by demon Kesi. She prayed to Lord
Shiva to come to her rescue. Lord Shiva wanted to send Vinayaka to protect
her. Mother Parvathi requested Lord Shiva to bless Vinayaka with victory
in the war against the demon.
Lord Shiva said that he would be victorious if he
worships him in this land. As advised, Lord Vinayaka came here, installed the
Linga and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva. As Vinayaga worshipped Lord
Shiva here, he came to be called as Anekadhangavadeswarar. After his worship,
Lord Vinayaga set out to the battle. Lord Vinayaga annihilated the demon and
rescued Vallaba. Lord Vinayaga married Vallaba at this
place. Lord Shiva and Mother performed the wedding of Vinayaka with
Vallaba here.
Kubera worshipped
Lord Shiva here:
Kubera is the god of wealth and the god-king of the
semi-divine Yakshas in Hindu culture. He is regarded as the
regent of the North (Dikpalaka), and a protector of the world (Lokapala).
He was ruling over Alagapuri. Shukra, the Guru of demons grew jealous of him
and began to create troubles. Kubera worshipped Lord Shiva seeking
protection from Shukra at this
temple. Lord Shiva swallowed Shukra and destroyed his pride.
Kachi
Anegathangavadham:
There are two Anegathangavadham temples, one
in the north on the slopes of the Himalayas and one
in the south in Kanchipuram. This
temple is referred as Kachi
Anegathangavadham to differentiate it from the northern shrine.