According to local lore, Amanakshi, originally from Puttur town in Andhra Pradesh, was captivated by the annual temple festival performances in her hometown, where musicians and dancers from Kanchipuram would visit. Enchanted by their artistry, she followed the troupe to Kanchipuram and settled in the area where the temple now stands. The entire street was alive with music and discussions, and Amanakshi spent the rest of her life there. Recognizing her deep passion for music, local artist families regarded her as a goddess and constructed the temple in her honor.
In those days, Kanchipuram’s musicians would honor her annually with musical performances at the temple. It was here, in 1927, that a seven-year-old Balasaraswati, a future Bharatanatyam legend, gave her debut performance. Her exceptional talent later took her around the world, but Amanakshi Temple remains a historic milestone in her dance journey. News of Balasaraswati’s Arangetram spread through Kanchipuram, and the esteemed Veenai Dhanammal, a revered figure in Carnatic music, was notably involved.
During the event, the temple was filled with artists and supporters, including the renowned ‘Laya wizard’ Kanchipuram Naina Pillai. At that time, Balasaraswati’s sisters, Brinda and Mukta, were studying classical music under him. A small platform inside the temple, still visible today, served as the stage for the performance. Balasaraswati received enthusiastic applause, including many “Besh, Besh” praises from Naina Pillai, who also gifted her a Sruti box. In the 1950s, when Balasaraswati received accolades from the President of India, she fondly recounted her debut in Kanchipuram and the first prize from Naina Pillai to a friend.
Location
Senkazhuneer Odai Street (Northern Rajaveedhi), directly across from PTVS Higher Secondary School.
Deity : Amanaskshi Amman
Category : Temple