The five elements of nature – Pancha Maha Bhutas are not just the fundamental components of material world; they are the very essence of existence itself, intricately intertwined into the fabric of Human Life. These elements – Space (Akash), Air (Vayu), Fire (Agni), Water (Jal) and Earth (Prithvi), represents the foundational forces that governs both the universe and the human body. The creation of these elements is said to have emerged from the Space, the first and most subtle of the elements. According to Vedic Puranas, Space was the elemental force that existed before anything else. It was formless, infinite and boundless representing the vastness. It is from this infinite space that the other elements gradually emerged in a process of manifestation. The first element to emerge from Space was Air, the life-giving force that fills the vastness of space and thus representing movement, breath and life itself. From the interaction between the Space and Air, the Fire emerged, the element that represents transformation, energies and heat. Fire brought dynamism to the world by creating light and warmth and thus enabling transformation.
As the energies of Air and Fire interacted, the next element to emerge was the Water, the fluid and the fostering force that connects all things . The one that represents flow of emotions, intuition, adaptability, as it nurtures and sustains life all across the planets. Finally, from the interplay of all these elements, Earth came into being, solid and grounded. Earth is the element that provides stability, solidity, structure and nourishment. It is the foundation upon which all physical life is built and from which all life derives its sustenance. These elements, though diverse, are deeply interconnected and form the foundation of both the physical world and the energy within our bodies and minds. Understanding their origin and interaction is key to grasping their spiritual and metaphysical significance, which guides us toward balance, well-being, and enlightenment.
Consider, for a moment, how the five elements function within the body: Earth anchors us with stability and structure, Water rules our emotions and fluidity, Fire ignites our passions and powers digestion, Air moves within us, carrying the breath of life, and Space, the subtle element, provides space for consciousness to flow and expand. This elemental balance extends beyond the body to our environment, influencing natural landscapes, sacred spaces, and the places we live and work. By aligning with these forces, we can create spaces that nurture balance, clarity, and vitality in all aspects of our lives.
Just as our body relies on the balance of the five senses and their corresponding sense organs — sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell — our environment too flourishes on the harmonious interaction of the five elements. Each element, whether Earth, Water, Fire, Air, or Space, has a distinct role in creating balance, stability, and positive energy. When these elements are properly balanced in a space, they influence not only the physical comfort of those who live or work there but also their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Just as we use our five fingers, each representing an element, to channel energy through hand mudras, the Pancha Maha Bhutas shape our environment, influencing our well-being, spirituality, and architecture. These elements govern the doshas in Ayurveda and resonate through our Seven Chakras, impacting both our physical and spiritual balance. They form the foundation of existence, bringing harmony to the body and mind, and are integral to practices like Vastu Shastra.
In Vastu, the placement of elements within a space is designed to ensure the smooth flow of natural energies, promoting health, prosperity, and happiness. Just as the body requires balanced sensory input for optimal function, a space must align with the natural forces of the universe to nurture and elevate its occupants. Balancing the elements in any space is not just an aesthetic decision but a vital principle that influences health, productivity, relationships, and peace of mind.
In earlier times, people would move from one temple to another – especially the Pancha Maha Bhutas Temples to balance these elements through their sadhana, meditation or simply by being present in the sacred energy of these spaces.
Exploring deeper into Vastu Shastra, we find the central role of the Space element (Akash) as the core energy generator, aligned with the Brahmasthan in architecture. This reflects the intentional design of divine creation, with the core representing the cosmic essence of Lord Brahma, the Creator, who’s divine will manifests the sequential creation of Space, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth.
As we explore these elements, we will also uncover their significance in the architectural marvels of India’s Pancha Maha Bhuta Temples, where each element finds both artistic and spiritual expression. These sacred structures epitomize the balance and unity of the elements, providing a gateway to understanding how Vastu Shastra harmonizes the human habitat with the cosmic order.
These temples, dedicated to the five great elements – Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth are more than places of worship, they are reflective expressions of the interconnectedness between humanity, nature and the cosmos. From the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple in Tamil Nadu, symbolizing the element of Space with its celestial energy and intricate architecture, to the Srikalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh, representing Air with its symbolic designs that honour the unseen forces of life, the South Indian Pancha Maha Bhuta Temples beautifully illustrate the elements of nature. The Arunachaleswara Temple in Tiruvannamalai echoes the fiery essence of Fire, symbolizing transformation and spiritual illumination. The Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswarar Temple, near Trichy, is a serene sanctuary dedicated to the element of Water, while Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram celebrates the stability and nourishment of the Earth.
1. Space Element : Chidambaram Nataraja Temple
The Chidambaram Nataraja Temple in Tamil Nadu symbolizes the element of Space, one of the five elements in Hindu Cosmology. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, whose dance represents the creation, preservation and destruction of the universe. It is believed that Lord Shiva performed his Ananda Tandava in the sacred Thillai Vanam(forest), where the temple stands today.
The temple’s architecture, built during the Chola Dynasty features a unique design without a Shivalinga, focusing instead on the idol of Nataraja, symbolizing the cosmic order. The nine Gopurams in the temple are believed to represent the nine openings of the human body, symbolizing the connection between the inner and outer worlds as well as the channels through which individuals interact with the external environment. Similarly, the nine gopurams of the temple may be seen as representing the journey of devotee from external world to the inner sanctum, symbolizing the path towards spiritual enlightenment and unity with the divine.
In Vastu Shastra, space is divided into eight cardinal and intercardinal directions, with center representing the ninth direction. The number 9 is significant, symbolizing celestial influences and energy as seen in the Navagraha and sacred diagrams like Shri Yantra. Lord Shiva is also depicted in nine forms, representing the cycle of creation and dissolution. The nine entrances of Chidambaram Temple reflect these cosmic principles, symbolizing completion, interconnectedness and spiritual wholeness. The idol of Lord Nataraja’s in this temple is believed to be perfectly placed, with his big toe at the center of the Earth’s magnetic equator, where the magnetic field is balanced. This placement aligns with the principles of Vastu Shastra and symbolizes cosmic order and balance. Nataraja’s cosmic dance emphasizes equilibrium and rhythm, reflecting universal harmony.
The Nataraja form of Lord Shiva symbolizes the balance of creation and destruction. “Nat” (anger) and “Raj” (happiness) reflect his dual nature as the King of Dance. It is said that his joyful dance creates the universe, while the dance performed in anger destroys it, embodying the cosmic cycle. The statue’s elements have deep meant: the circle of fire represents the universe, his hands offer blessings and protection, his legs signify liberation and the crushing of ignorance, and his eyes reflect tranquillity.
The temple’s roof features 21,600 golden tiles, a number linked to the practice of Yoga and Spiritual Purification. In Yoga, 21,600 breaths represent the purification of nerves (Nadi Shuddhi), symbolizing balance, spiritual harmony and breath control. Gold, considered sacred in Hinduism, enhances wealth, purity and spiritual enlightenment. The use of 21,600 tiles, a multiple of the auspicious number 108, further reinforces cosmic harmony. This number also connects to the cosmic principles seen in the temple’s design, creating a sacred space for worship and spiritual contemplation. Together, the temple’s architectural elements, including number 9 and the golden tiles, align with universal principles of balance and cosmic order, making it a powerful representation of spiritual unity.
The Chidambaram temple also represents the connection between the nervous and cardiovascular systems, symbolized by the Ponnambalam, which is slightly tilted to the left, representing the heart. This innermost sanctum is dedicated to Lord Nataraja, reflecting the core of the human body and the soul’s connection with the divine. The temple, in its entirety, corresponds to the human body as a microcosm of the universe, reflecting the same cosmic principles. The Sivagangai Theertham, situated in the North direction, symbolizes prosperity, as according to Vastu this direction is associated with Kuber, the God of Wealth. The “A Thousand Pillar Hall” in the Northeast direction plays a crucial role, the arrangement of the such pillars within the temple complex is carefully designed to align with specific Vastu principles, optimizing the flow of positive energy. This creates a harmonious environment conducive to prayer, meditation, and spiritual practices, enhancing the overall spiritual experience for devotees. The temple complex also houses other shrines, including those dedicated to Goddess Parvati, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha, further strengthening the spiritual significance of the space.
The main entrance of the temple as per Vastu Shastra is the E4 Entrance, which is considered auspicious and governed by Devta Indra, the king of the Devas. Indra holds the power to associate and administer Swarga Loka, the celestial realm, ensuring harmony and prosperity. By placing an entrance in his domain, the temple is believed to attract powerful associations, enabling success, power, and abundance. Indra is considered the ruler of the heavens and the cosmic order, and it is said that by praying to Lord Indra, one can achieve health, prosperity, and even cure incurable diseases. This is also why the Lingam in the temple is referred to as Indra Lingam.
Remarkably, just as Indra is the king of heaven, Lord Nataraja is considered the king of dancers, embodying the rhythm and balance of the universe. His cosmic dance, the Ananda Tandava, is often associated with the creation, preservation, and destruction of the universe, much like how space is the element from which all other elements arise. In the Vastu Shastra framework, the Chidambaram Temple is closely aligned with the space element. The temple’s representation of Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance symbolizes the vastness of space, from which all elements of the universe emerge, establishing it as a central space in nature and Vastu Shastra. This connection with the space element creates a sense of boundlessness and the infinite, representing the cosmic order. The presence of the Nataraja idol at the Chidambaram Temple instead of the traditional Shiva Lingam can be understood as a thoughtful representation of the space element and its boundless nature. Lord Nataraja’s cosmic dance, the Ananda Tandava, embodies the rhythm and harmony of creation, preservation, and destruction, aligning seamlessly with the concept of Space element in Vastu Shastra. Space, as the origin of all elements, mirrors the infinite and unmanifest, much like Shiva’s dance reflects the cyclical and interconnected essence of the universe. Thus, the Nataraja idol becomes a perfect symbol for the temple, celebrating the boundless energy and cosmic balance that space signifies, and emphasizing the infinite order that sustains existence itself.
2. Air Element : Srikalahasti Temple
Shifting focus from the expansive space element, we move to the Srikalahasti Temple, which emphasizes the Air element, symbolized by the Vayu Lingam. This temple, deeply rooted in its connection to the wind and breath of life, offers a contrasting yet complementary energy. While Chidambaram embodies the infinite and vast, Srikalahasti channels the sustaining force of air, essential for life, bringing a balance of elements within the sacred landscape of Vastu Shastra. The Srikalahasteeswara Temple, located in Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh, is renowned as one of the Pancha Maha Bhuta Temples where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Vayu Lingam, representing the Air element.
According to Puranas, Vayu, the wind God, performed penance for the Karpoora Lingam, and in return Lord Shiva granted him three boons, to be omnipresent as air, to be part of all living beings as breath, and for the Lingam to be worshipped by all as the Vayu Lingam. Goddess Parvati, cursed by Shiva, undertook penance at Srikalahasti to regain her divine form, and Shiva granted her a more powerful celestial body.
The temple is also associated with legends of Mayura, Chandra, and Indra being freed from curses, and Vayu and Shesha’s celestial dispute, during which parts of Mount Kailash are said to have fallen into eight locations, including Srikalahasti, adding to the temple’s divine aura. This connection to Mount Kailash, along with its rich legends, has led to the temple being referred to as the “Kashi of the South,” a place of immense spiritual significance.
The name Srikalahasti represents Spider (Sri), Snake (Kala), and Elephant (Hasti), symbolizing their worship of Lord Shiva. The temple is also known as the Rahu temple due to its association with the Navagraha, particularly Rahu and Ketu. Devotees visit to perform rituals and seek remedies for the malefic effects of these celestial bodies, believing it brings positive change. Unlike many temples that close during lunar and solar eclipses, Srikalahasti remains open during these events, a tradition deeply rooted in the temple’s history and spiritual significance. The Srikalahasteeswara Temple is a prime example of Dravidian architecture, built with monolithic stones.
Surrounded by four significant hills in all the four directions – Durgambika (North), Kumaraswamy (East), Kalahasti (West), and Kannappaar (South)—the temple’s scenic surroundings hold religious and spiritual significance. The hills align with Vastu principles, with Durgambika Hill in the North being auspicious for prosperity. These hills act as natural protective barriers, protecting the temple from negative energies and contributing to a harmonious energy flow, enhancing the temple’s sacred and meditative ambiance.
The Srikalahasteeswara Temple has four entrances, each representing one of the four Purusharthas—Dharma (righteousness), Artha (prosperity), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation). According to Vastu Shastra, the four gopurams, situated in the cardinal directions, bring prosperity, harmony, abundance, and stability to the temple. The temple’s main gopuram is around 120 feet tall. Inside, there are two mandapams, Jalkoti and Sadyogi, used for rituals, and two sacred tanks—Chandra Pushkarani and Surya Pushkarani—named after the moon and sun. The temple is well-known for its various Shiva Lingams, each with unique significance. In Satya Yuga, the Lingam appeared as Vayu Swarupa (wind form), felt by yogis. In Tretha Yuga, it manifested as gold (Swarna Linga), silver (Rajatha Linga), and white stone (Swetha Sila Linga), symbolizing purity and prosperity. In Dvapara and Kali Yugas, the Lingam remains in its Swetha Sila form, but its essence as Vayu-tattva (air element) continues. The 100 Pillared Mandapam, built by Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century, houses 100 Lingams and is believed to fulfil devotees’ wishes.
The Lingam at Srikalahasti Temple is believed to exhibit three distinct shapes—serpent, spider, and elephant—visible from different viewpoints. In Vastu Shastra, the serpent symbolizes protection and prosperity, the spider represents thorough craftsmanship, and the elephant signifies wisdom, strength, and stability. These shapes align with the temple’s spiritual significance and the cosmic symbolism of the Lingam. The temple complex houses shrine for various deities, including Sad Ganapati, Annapurna, Subramanya, and others. The temple’s architectural layout follows Vastu principles, with extensions and cuts in specific directions promoting stability, financial growth, and spiritual well-being. The Bilva tree in the temple is sacred to Lord Shiva, with its leaves used in worship. According to Vastu, the tree enhances positive energy, removes negative vibrations, and brings divine blessings, adding both environmental and spiritual value to the temple.
Thus, Srikalahasteeswara Temple, dedicated to the Vayu Lingam, symbolizes the vital force of air and its omnipresence. With rich legends, unique traditions, and alignment with Vastu Shastra, its Dravidian architecture and cosmic symbolism create a serene space of spiritual and elemental harmony. Likewise, temples dedicated to other elements, like the Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara Temple, also embody the spiritual significance of these primal forces. The Arunachaleswara Temple, deeply associated with the Fire element, presents a striking contrast to Srikalahasti, where the focus is on the air.
3. Fire Element : Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara Temple
As we explore the Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara Temple, we can delve into how the element of fire is central to its symbolism and worship. The Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara Temple, located at the foothills of Arunachala Hill in Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a key site for devotees. Known as one of the Pancha Maha Bhuta Temple, which represents the element of fire.
According to legend, a competition between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma to find the end of a fiery pillar, which was Lord Shiva’s manifestation, ended with Vishnu acknowledging his inability and Brahma being cursed for his deceit. The temple also worships Lord Shiva in the form of Arthanareeswarar, symbolizing the union of masculine and feminine energies.
The Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, dating back to the Pallava dynasty, flourished under the Chola and Vijayanagar empires, leaving a lasting cultural legacy through its architectural splendour. Its spiritual significance is enriched by the hymns of the Nayanars (Appar, Sundarar, Sambandar, and Manikkavacakar) and honors Arunagirinathar, a devotee of Lord Murugan. The temple is deeply linked to the sacred Arunachala Hill, believed to represent Lord Shiva, and is a site for spiritual liberation, with devotees practicing Girivalam (circumambulation) for blessings.
The city’s layout, with Ashtalingams in all directions—Indra Lingam, Agni Lingam, Yama Lingam, Nriti Lingam, Vayu Lingam, Kubera Lingam, Varuna Lingam, and Ishanya Lingam—further amplifies its spiritual and cultural importance, making the temple a revered destination for devotion, enlightenment, and a rich cultural legacy.
This temple is enclosed by four high walls, spans 25 acres with nine prakarams and 56 courtyards for rituals and gatherings, creating a grand and spacious ambiance. Its Thousand Pillar Hall, located in Northeast direction, exemplifies Dravidian Architecture with intricately carved pillars and sculptures. It serves as a venue for ceremonies, cultural events, and meditation, harmonizing with Vastu Shastra to enhance spiritual energy. The temple’s East-facing Raja Gopuram, aligned with Vastu principles, stands as a main entrance situated between E5 and E6. Governed by Devtas Surya and Satya, it symbolizes light, strength, truth, and right thinking by guiding the devotees towards enlightenment and Moksha. The temple enshrines Lord Arunachaleswarar (Lord Shiva) in Lingam form, with a Lingodbhavar image symbolizing his omnipresence. The second precinct houses Goddess Unnamulai Amman (Goddess Parvati), representing divine femininity, nurturing and protection. These shrines highlight the balance of masculine and feminine energies in Hindu divinity. The Pathala Lingam or underground Lingam located in the East direction, is significant for its spiritual connection to Ramana Maharishi and self-discovery.
Its placement aligns with Vastu principles, enhancing harmony and cosmic energy within the temple. The “Tree of Happiness,” or Annamalai/Annabhisekam Tree, stands behind the Lord Ganesh shrine and is highly revered for its auspiciousness and spiritual significance. Uniquely, all nine temple gopurams are visible from beneath this tree, a view unavailable elsewhere in the complex. Ancient trees symbolize longevity, stability, and growth, aligning with Vastu principles that enhance energy, aesthetics, and spiritual ambiance. It is believed that the Arunachala hill upon which the temple is situated have transformed across different cosmic ages or yugas. In the Satya Yuga, the hill appeared as fire, representing transformation and purification, akin to the dynamic energy of Agni associated with the Southeast in Vastu Shastra. In the Treta Yuga, it became an emerald hill also known as “Manikkam”, symbolizing prosperity, fertility, and abundance, aligning with the East’s association with growth and new beginnings.During the Dwapara Yuga, it transformed into a golden hill, reflecting opulence and divine radiance, paralleling the Northeast’s attributes of prosperity and enlightenment. In the current Kali Yuga, it is a solid rock hill, symbolizing stability and endurance, resonating with the Southwest’s grounding and protective qualities. These transformations, while legendary, draw symbolic parallels to Vastu Shastra principles, reflecting harmonious alignment with cosmic energies to promote spiritual growth and balance.
The Temple houses two sacred theerthams: Brahma Theertham, located in the fourth prakaram near Puravi Mandapam, believed to be created by Lord Brahma to purify sins, and Sivagangai Theertham, near Periya Nandi, considered highly auspicious for spiritual benefits. Remarkably, these tanks are positioned between the Southeast and South directions, unlike the typical Northeast placement in most temples. In Vastu Shastra, the Southeast is ruled by Agni Devta, symbolizing vitality and transformation. Water, as a harmonizing element, balances the fire energy, promoting equilibrium. This placement may also enhance sunlight exposure for purification, support drainage, or align with natural geography. Given Lord Shiva’s strong fire symbolism, the tank placement reflects Vastu principles integrating practical, symbolic, and spiritual elements, optimizing the temple’s energetic balance and spiritual ambiance. The festival of Karthigai Deepam is celebrated at the Arunachaleswarar Temple to honor Lord Shiva’s appearance as the infinite Agni Lingam atop Arunachala Hill. During this festival, the Mahadeepam is lit using ghee-soaked wicks, symbolizing the divine presence and dispelling darkness, both physically and metaphorically. Aligned with the fire element in Vastu Shastra, the Mahadeepam atop the hill activates transformative energy, promoting purification and spiritual awakening. In conclusion, the Karthigai Deepam festival and the Arunachaleswarar Temple both embody the transformative essence of the fire element.
The Mahadeepam atop Arunachala Hill symbolizes the eternal light of Lord Shiva, dispelling darkness and igniting spiritual awakening. Aligned with Vastu principles, this celebration highlights the fire element’s purifying and energizing qualities, fostering balance, vitality, and spiritual harmony within the cosmic order. Similarly, in temples like the Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswarar Temple, the Water element plays a vital role, complementing the other elements of space, air, and fire.
4. Water Element : Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval
While fire is celebrated at Arunachaleswarar, water is revered in temples like Jambukeswarar, further demonstrating the harmonious integration of the five elements in temple architecture and spiritual practices, ensuring balance and spiritual harmony. The Jambukeswarar Temple, located in Thiruvanaikaval near Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, is one of the Pancha Maha Bhutas temples, representing the Water element. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with a subversive stream in the sanctum. The temple’s tradition is rooted in the story of Goddess Parvati, who, after playfully plunging the universe into darkness by closing Lord Shiva’s eyes, performed penance at this site under a Jambu tree. Pleased by her devotion, Lord Shiva forgave her and promised to stay in the form of a Lingam.
Another legend involves two devotees, an elephant and a spider, who both daily offered water from the Kaveri River to the Lingam. After the spider killed the elephant in frustration, Lord Shiva released them from their curse. The spider, reborn as King Kochengot Chola, later built 70 temples, including Jambukeswarar. Additionally, the temple is linked to the sage Jambu Munivar, who grew a tree on his head after swallowing the seed of a fruit offered to Lord Shiva. He prayed under the tree, and Lord Shiva took residence there, becoming known as Jambukeswar.The name “Jambukeswarar” comes from two Tamil words: “Jambu,” meaning the Jambu tree (Indian Java Plum), and “Eshwara,” meaning God. It signifies the Lord of the Jambu tree, reflecting the legends and divine events associated with the tree in the temple’s heritage. The Temple, built in the Dravidian style by the Chola Kings, spans 18 acres and features high roofs and five corridors. The square-shaped sanctum sanctorum symbolizes stability and balance. The Mukha Mandapam, located on the western side, offers a direct view of the deity and is adorned with intricately carved pillars. The entrance is enhanced by a large, ornate silver-gilded western door, adding grandeur to the temple. The temple entrance is aligned with the W4 direction, governed by Pushpdant, the Gandharva who created the “Shiv Mahim Stotram.” Pushpdant, also the vehicle of Kuber and associated with blooming growth, which is associated with continuous life expansion, as per Vastu Shastra.
Vastu Shastra links the Western direction to the power of Anjan, symbolized by an elephant, representing expansion and flourishing energy. Near the entrance, there is an elephant pond where an elephant is cared for, connecting to the temple’s legendary story of the elephant and spider. The Jambukeswarar Temple’s sanctum features a stream of water emerging from the Linga, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s purity and the sacredness of water. The pyramidal Vimana above represents the deity’s celestial abode. The sanctum, open on three sides, includes a stone window with nine holes, symbolizing spiritual balance. A bronze Nandi guards the sanctum, with the Linga’s upper part in copper and pedestal in black granite. The simple, unadorned space is illuminated by ghee lamps, enhancing its sacred atmosphere. Near the sanctum sanctorum, the white Jambuka tree reinforces the temple’s sacredness and contributes positive energy flow, in line with Vastu Shastra principles. The temple also houses Goddess Akilandeswari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, worshipped for strength, grace, and maternal love. The idols of Lord Jambukeswarar and Goddess Akilandeswari are placed opposite each other, symbolizing the relationship of Guru and student. The Sannidhi of both deities is shaped like the sacred Pranava mantra “Aum.” The temple derives its name from the “Akshyalinga,” a sacred lingam believed to be indestructible.
In conclusion, the Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswarar Temple stands as a reflective incarnation of the Water element among the Pancha Maha Bhutas temples. Its sacred stream within the sanctum, proximity to the Kaveri River, and the legends interwoven with water emphasize its deep spiritual connection with purity, life, and abundance. The temple’s harmonious integration of architectural grandeur, natural surroundings, and divine symbolism fosters a serene environment, enabling devotees to connect with the nurturing essence of water.
5. Earth Element : Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram
Through its enduring legacy, the Jambukeswarar Temple continues to inspire balance and spiritual harmony, reflecting the timeless relationship between humanity and the elemental forces of nature. This sets the step for the concluding temple, the Ekambareswarar Temple, located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu which represents the Earth element in the Pancha Maha Bhuta Temples.
According to legend, Goddess Parvati performed penance under a mango tree to win Shiva’s favour. Despite his tests of fire and floods, her unwavering devotion led to their union, earning Shiva the title “Ekambareswarar.” In another tale, Parvati embraced Shiva’s Lingam to protect it from the Vegavathi River, inspiring Shiva to marry her and be called “Tazhuva Kuzhainthaar.” The temple also honors Tirukuripputhonda Nayanar, a saint whose steadfast devotion brought Shiva’s divine grace. The Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram, built by the Pallavas in the 6th or 7th century CE, was expanded by the Cholas, Vijayanagar rulers, and others. The temple is a stunning example of Dravidian Architecture, spans 23 acres. Its 59-meter Raja Gopuram, among South India’s tallest, features shrines to Lord Ganesh and Lord Kartikeya at the base. Inside, visitors pass through the Vahana Mandapam and Sarabesa Mandapam (Navratri Hall) to the grand Aayiram Kaal Mandapam, a thousand-pillared hall with intricate carvings, built by the Vijayanagar kings.
The temple features two sacred ponds, Kambanadhi Kulam and Sivagangai Theertha Kulam, the latter located at the intersection of the temple’s North and East directions, symbolizes a union of auspicious energies. The East direction is associated with rising Sun and represents new beginnings and enlightenment, while the North signifies prosperity, wealth and opportunities. Together, they foster harmony, spiritual growth, progress and purification. The innermost precinct of the Ekambareswarar Temple houses the unique Sahasra Lingam, featuring 1008 smaller Lingams, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s divine energy in multitude forms. Worshipping it is believed to bring blessings and spiritual upliftment. From a Vastu viewpoint, it radiates positive energy and enhances the space’s aura. The temple’s flagstaff, aligned with the sanctum and main entrance, is surrounded by intricately sculpted pillars depicting Shiva’s legends, adding to the temple’s artistic and spiritual grandeur. The sanctum sanctorum of the Ekambareswarar Temple houses the main Lingam of Lord Shiva, facing East to align with Vastu principles for cosmic harmony and blessings. A plaque behind the Lingam depicts Shiva as “Tazhuva Kuzhainthaar” and Parvati as “Elavar Kuzhali,” symbolizing their divine union. Unlike other temples, there is no separate shrine for Parvati, as the nearby Kamakshi Amman Temple is considered her consort shrine. The temple complex includes notable shrines such as Nilathingal Thundam Perumal, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Vamana form and revered as one of the 108 Divya Desams.
The second precinct houses a Nataraja shrine, depicting Shiva’s cosmic dance, symbolizing creation and destruction. Nearby are Thirukachi Mayanam and Kalyana Mandapa, enriching the temple’s spiritual heritage. The Ekambareswarar Temple is well-known for its 3,500-year-old sacred mango tree, the “Stala Vriksham.” Considered divine, the tree symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and fertility, aligning with Vastu principles. It is said that its branches produce four types of mangoes, representing the four Vedas—Rigveda (purity and spirituality), Samaveda (harmony and rhythm), Yajurveda (discipline and action), and Atharvaveda (practicality and wisdom). These reflect the interconnectedness of existence and the spiritual path of dharma, karma, and moksha. The tree’s presence enhances the temple’s sacred ambiance, drawing devotees to experience its spiritual and cultural richness alongside the divinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Nataraja. The Ekambareswarar Temple is famous for its ten musical pillars, located in the inner corridor. Carved from granite, these pillars produce different musical notes when tapped, resembling instruments like the flute, drum, and veena. This architectural marvel highlights the expertise and engineering skills of ancient Indian artisans, adding to the temple’s mystique and attracting visitors with its unique musical properties. The Ekambareswarar Temple features depictions of all 12 zodiac signs on its roof, and it’s believed that praying here can alleviate horoscopic issues.
In conclusion, the temple’s association with the earth element, primarily due to Lord Shiva’s Prithvi Lingam and the mango tree, which symbolizes stability and abundance. Goddess Parvati’s creation of the Lingam from sand and the temple’s earthy architecture further emphasize the earth element. This connection underscores the spiritual significance of grounding, stability, and the harmony between nature, divinity, and human life in Hindu philosophy. In conclusion, the Pancha Maha Bhutas temples stand as deep reflections of the sacred balance between nature and the divine. Each temple, dedicated to one of the five elements— Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth, embodies not only spiritual significance but also architectural harmony, carefully designed according to the principles of Vastu Shastra. These temples serve as bridges between the material and spiritual worlds, guiding devotees toward a deeper understanding of the universe’s interconnected forces. By honoring the elements through these sacred spaces, we are reminded of the importance of balance in our own lives and the enduring wisdom that nature, when aligned with spiritual practices, can lead us to harmony, peace, and divine connection.
Dr Dinesh Soni