This temple, located along the route to the renowned Kailasa Nathar temple, is one of the five shrines revered in the Devaram hymns. Within the serene surroundings of this temple, the legendary Carnatic music vocalist, Naina Pillai, received his initial training in the nuances of rhythm from an unknown Yogi during his youth. Even in his later years, Naina Pillai continued to visit this temple regularly to practice and perform his Sadhakam.
Location
Located near the SSKV Boys Higher Secondary School, this temple is situated in a side lane on the right-hand side of the path leading to the Kailasa Nathar temple.
Inscription
Inscriptions can be found on the northern, southern, and western bases of this temple, all dating from the reign of Kulothunga I. Notably, this king paid special attention to donating lands to this temple, seemingly neglecting the nearby architectural marvel, the Kailasa Nathar temple. He even redirected the lands surrounding the Kailasa Nathar temple for the benefit of Aneka Thangapadam
Hymns
Saint Sundarar has praised the deity of this temple in his hymns, describing it as a favored and cherished place of Lord Shiva. He also notes that those who extol the God of this temple will enjoy a long life free from the fear of Yama.
Mythology
‘Anekatham’ translates to elephant, and ‘Kavatham’ means garden. In this context, the elephant-faced deity Vinayakar installed a Shiva Lingam named ‘Anekabechuran’ in his own honor. Through this form, Vinayakar offered praise to Lord Shiva. Impressed by his devotion, Shiva appeared before him and instructed him to go to Iraniyapuram to defeat the demons Kesi and others. He was also to extract the power known as ‘Vallabhai’ from their bodies and marry it. By fulfilling this task, Vinayakar would gain the power to protect his devotees. Following these instructions, Vinayakar successfully safeguards his devotees and their virtuous deeds without impediment.
Religion : Saivism
Deity : Aneka Thangapada Eswarar
Built By : Kulothungan I
Period : 11th Century
Sanctified By : Sundarar
Category : Temple